beach bum

Ah the beach. It's been extremely nice just lazing around. Today we took a couple of coolers w/ our lunches and stuff, 2 umbrellas, and all our toys (kayaks, boogie boards, and woofle ball stuff). We stayed from 11 to 4. GOod times. I've gotten a pretty kickin tan w/ VERY little burning (I'm a little pink around my lower back--oops!). Last night we went to Dairy Queen then watched some Shark week stuff (YAY SHARKS!!!). TOnight I think we eating seafood alfredo (per TIm) and then going Putt-putting. Sometime this week we're gonna try to make it to Southport and go eat some seafood at the Provincial Seafood company (if we can find it).

I'm at the flying pig right now. I just had THE BEST smoothie. It was called a Swamp Monkey. Basically it's a chocolate shake w/ bananas. MMMMmmmmm! Good stuff!

OH! And guess what???? DAVE GOT HIS HAIR CUT! It looks REALLY good, Eric did it for him. Anyways--hopefully we'll get a pic of his hair on here soon. Well, I'm out--need to get back to lazin' around. Peace!

Ouch

So, the waxing wasn't all that bad. It hurt at first, and then got gradually worse...but...I survived and no longer have to shave for the next 6 weeks. Good enough for me. Now I just need to be able to walk straight and hope the redness wears off sometime this week so I can actually wear a bathing suit at the beach, lol. We're leaving tomorrow!!!!! See ya at the beach guys! I'll update while I'm there hopefully...from my fave coffee shop The Flying Pig! Love you guys.

~waddle...ouch....waddle...ouch....waddle...ouch....~

2 more days!

2 more days till I leave for the beach!!! I'm SO excited to be going on a vacation! I can't wait to get onto the beach and jump into the ocean. Seriously, to be away from work will be a nice change. Plus, it'll be a great start to my school year, which is coming up very soon. My b. friend Tim decided he WAS coming to the beach w/ us, so I'm extremely happy about that! Yay Tim! :) Sarah's not coming though, unless I can talk her into it over the phone...she's still in Colorado right now for a Christian camp/retreat thing w/ her hubby.
I'm just rafting this afternoon w/ a great group from Charlotte. We had a blast w/ them on the Alpine Tower yesterday and they even came to the rope swing at the lake w/ us last night. It was hilarious, they really crack me up. The kids are a swim team from Charlotte and they all tend to be rather gullible, the leaders play on this quite a bit. Well, I'm off to finish cleaning the house before we leave (I call this the "mom" syndrome--Dave hates it but I just can't help it!...Love you Mom!).

Friday night I'm getting a bikini wax for the first time. I'm a little nervous but it beats having to shave at the beach! lol I'll tell ya how it goes!

Great group

Had an amazing group today. It was sort of a corporate group but they brought their families along w/ them. We had kids from 6 to 50. We played lots of games w/ them this morning and it was so fun to watch the parents and adults acting extremely goofy w/ their kids. We played this game called Egyptian Baseball.
How it works is one team "bats" w/ a broom. The other team pitches a beachball. When the team batting hits the ball they then run around their team members to get their "runs". The team in the outfield catches the ball and then has to get it through their legs. After they get it through their legs the other team has to stop running. It was hilarious...up until the end of the broom came off and flew right at me! It hit my arm--thank goodness--so it didn't hurt too bad. It was pretty funny watching these guys play though. They just kept falling down and sliding around in the woodchips! Then we went of the river w/ them and had a good time drenching everyone.

Dave left this morning for Chattanooga, TN to rock climb w/ Adam D and some friends. I'm having the girls over for dinner tonight. Girl time! I've been getting quite a bit of it lately, it's been nice.

Well, I'm out. I gotta pick up some things at the grocery store before dinner and I wanna pick up a movie as well. Ta ta!

P.S. I miss my friend Tim!!! But he probably doesn't miss me as he's in the Bahamas right now--:( ~very sad~

semi-exciting news

well, I recieved a letter from my school the other day telling me I have made the Dean's List! It was great but, since they don't reward you in any way, montary or otherwise, for that, it's not such a big deal to me. Definately encouraging though as that was my first semester back in 4 years! Hopefully the next one will go just as well.

Ok, I'm out to Asheville for some girl time on my day off! We're gonna do some shopping, not me honey-don't worry, and maybe go see and movie, and then go Contra dancing --sorta like square dancing--tonight.

P.S. HAPPY VERY BELATED B-DAY TO MY OLDER SIS SHANNON!!! I just want you to know you are the best Mom ever and I admmire you so much for how great you are! I only hope I can be half the mother you are --Super MOM! I love you Sis.

P.S.S---My spell check is down--so you'll just have to deal w/ my awful spelling --sorry!

update to my dull life

At the insistence of my older sister, who obviously is the ONLY one that reads this anymore, I am updating today. The only thing I've been doing since July 9th, the last time I update, is working though. Dave and I have been able to hang out a bit w/ friends and are longingly awaiting our beach trip in a week and a half. We're going w/ two couples who are in our church, plus --hopefully-- my best friend Tim and good friend Sarah Speier, and we ALL can't wait!

I've seen several movies since I've been home, one of which is definitely worth commenting on. I finally ordered Netflix for us since we had been seeing a couple of movie a week and got The Dead Poets Society first. I had never seen it, which Dave said was a crime, and I really enjoyed it. It was sad but really inspiring. I love those kinds of Robin Williams movies --the old kind not the new, weird movies he's done lately. I've also never seen, in one sitting, Good Morning Vietnam either--I REALLY need to see that one. I also went to the movies and saw You, Me, and Dupree. Pretty funny movie. Lots of guy humor as Owen Wilson is in it, but pretty hilarious anyway.

Dave's friend, and mine, Adam D. (other Adam in the wedding party) came over last weekend. He and Dave did some paddling and he tried to learn how to roll. He did get EXTREMELY burnt, sorry Julie, but I don't think managed to learn how to roll the kayaks. Saturday night the 3 of us went tubing in Deep Creek and that was loads of fun. I had to miss church on Sunday to deal w/ my group of 72 cheerleaders (oh yeah, that was a fun 3 days), but at least I was on the river w/ them that day.

It's been STINKIN hot up here lately and I almost passed out at work yesterday. I was on top of the tower, hooked in of course, and got really dizzy. I've been drinking gallons of water every day just to keep up with the sweat my body is putting out. It's been ridiculous! I'm on the course again today AND tomorrow and then get a break on Thursday to get on the river.

I went cliff jumping in the area the other day w/ some friends from NOC. Fun stuff! I hadn't done a rope swing that tall in quite awhile. Anything wet and cold is the thing to do after a VERY HOT day at work, so the swim was extremely refreshing.

Anyway, I'm at Sarah's house right now doing laundry--THANKS SARAH!--and getting my online gossip fill for the day. The laundry is almost done and I've gotta leave for work in about half an hour and need to eat and wash the dishes, so I better get off here. Miss all my commenters--where'd everyone go???? Love the few who still read this--and all you others too, but I'm still miffed at you.

back to the depths...yuck sneeze cough

So I'm home for the next couple of days to see the family. Dave couldn't come with me because he had to work...oh well, next time. We picked Bethany up from T.V.R. camp yesterday, she really didn't want to leave. I remember what that felt like when I was in highschool and went to camp. You make so many friends and get to be so independent when you're on your own working, then you come home and you're just "the child" again. It's hard.
Yesterday I went w/ the fam. to see Pirates of the Caribbean 2. It was pretty good, but a long, kinda drawn out movie. It was basically a movie to set up the next sequel. There was one pretty cool twist in it though. I won't give it away. After that I went and hung out w/ Jake & Heather, Jessi & Robert, and Jason & Becca. Good times. We watched Mall Rats (I came in in the last 30 mins). We had a good time but now I'm still getting over my HUGE allergic reaction to their cat and dog. Some dander must have gotten in my nose cause my head is COMPLETELY stuffed up and my throat is scratchy--sleep is sorta suckin right now.
This afternoon my nephew, Graham, had his 4th b-day party. It was cute. I got to see all the babies in the family and we just had a good time. Now I'm waiting for Blaire to call me back so we can hang out tonight. BLAIRE-----CALL ME!!!
Ok...now that you are updated on my weekend I'm gonna go catch up on some celeb gossip on trent.blogspot.com (awesome website if you're a Hollywood gossip hor like me....lol). Love you guys!

P.S. I miss you baby--thanks for calling me!

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

We're hangin out at the street fair and havin a BBQ tonight. Hope everyone is having a great 4th! See my family this weekend! I love you guys! I'll write more later.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

To my mom--I hope you had a wonderful birthday Momma. I wish I could have been there to celebrate it for you. Just wanted to tell you you have always tried to be the best mom you could to me and I love you so much for it. Sometimes that took hard love and hard times for you, I know I didn't make it easy. Thank you for all the talks we had laying on your bed. I remember the first on those talks. Daddy was teaching me Science and we got off subject somehow. We started talking about mine and yours relationship. He encouraged me to talk to you and I walked back to your room and flopped down on the bed. That was the first of many great conversations between us. Thank you for always being my advocate mom. Thank you for always believing in me and loving me and encouraging me no matter what. I love you! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

p.s. How old are you this year? lol

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!

To all the father's out there--happy father's day. Make the kids do the dishes today. We appreciate everything you do for us kids.

To my own Daddy:
I just wanted you to know some thing about my growing up times. As I was growing up I went through times when I made some pretty bad decisions. You never berated me about those times. You encouraged me to stand up again and dust myself off. I want you to know that because of your Godly example, I also WANTED to stand up and dust myself off. I always wanted what you had Daddy. I wanted that relationship you had with Christ. I saw you live it every day in your early morning devotions, in your work life, in the way you interacted with your friends, and in the way you loved your family. We always came first. I will ALWAYS cherish the hours and outings you spent with us. I loved the lunches we had at Morrow Mtn. I loved the times just you and I went off together. You were and still are good at giving your kids that special one on one time. Thank you for never giving up on me. Thank you for helping make me into the person I am today. I can confidently say my independence and love for Christ now is because of the way you lived. We disagreed at times, but my respect for your walk with Christ never wavered. I love you Daddy. Happy Father's Day. I wish I could be there with you to celebrate.

Love, Your curly-headed daughter.

The Power of caffeine

So I had a [good] day....

Currently listening to----"Good Day" by Jewel

This morning I decided to get up early and make breakfast for my wonderful hubby. It's my day off, but I never get up early with him, so I decided to today. It was really nice just to have some chill time with him this morning. Then he went off to work and I got to work on the house.

I paid the bills, vacuumed, swept, cleaned the shower & toilet, and mopped the floors. THEN, I went to our local Hallmark store. I got a 20% off coupon from them for my birthday (no you didn't miss it, it's coming up on the 28th!) and decided to buy ALL the cards I need for the rest of the year. So, I looked through my calendar for each month and wrote down all the birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries. I only saved about 5 bucks but at least I have all (calculated) cards I need for the rest of the year! It was a VERY productive day.

After all that I went to McDonald's and got my favorite (double cheeseburger and fries) and then headed to the library (current location). I've been here for a couple of hours reading celebrity gossip and checking e-mails and such. Now I'm headed home to possibly take a nap before I start makin dinner. OH! Our neighbors (the other side of our duplex) have disappeared and the landlord moved out their stuff today. SO if anyone is looking for an apartment and would like to be neighbors we have an opening!!! lol--but seriously! K-, I'm out of here! Love ya!

Fun pic of Michael and Bruce with an election sign from Bryson City!

How beautiful is this girl???? I love you B!

short hiatus

Sorry I've been gone for a couple of weeks guys--the beginning of the season at NOC is crazy! My boss calls every morning to make sure I know what to do for the day (you would think the title Lead Instructor would instill some confidence in my memory and leading skills, ah well, she's a bit overzealous). I worked 44 hours last week and had a few mornings off! This week is a little more relaxed. I have a college prep. group coming in. I think they'll be fun as the group is my favorite age group (16-18 yr olds). I had some great fun with the 7th graders we had in last week though. They were FULL of enthusiasm and energy and were up for whatever we threw at them--good stuff. The 6th grade group wasn't so good though. They were pretty timid and we had quite a few criers. I think 6th grade is a bit too young to be going down the river in a ducky by themselves. But, the school is the one that picked it! Anyway, enough with my boring work stuff.

Dave and I are now smack in the middle of wedding season. Last Saturday was our first one, then this Sat. and two Saturdays from now are 2 more. Of course we have Dee and Cam's wedding in September which will wrap up our "must see" weddings. It's too bad we couldn't make it over for Adam Nelson's wedding, we would have REALLY loved to be there. But, we'll be able to visit with him more at Christmas once they're both settled in, so that will be nice.

Well, it's laundry day. I've put it off for several days and we're both running out of underwear, lol. Better get to it! I'm gonna try to e-mail some of you guys that I haven't talked to in awhile too. It's coming Molly! Really! <3

An AMAZING feat

EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!!!!!

Dave has just changed his FIRST baby diaper! Yup, we are babysitting "baby Max" (or as I like to call him 'Maxipad'--lol) and Dave changed a diaper. He is now rocking Maxipad to sleep! Now maybe when we decide to have kids he'll at least know which end is up...lol. It's quite cute actually, Dave was very proud of himself when he changed the diaper. I think he thought it was going to be harder than that. Up next--poopy diapers--he says he's not quite ready for that yet :).

done with GAP!!!!!

I have finally broken loose from the GAP empire. I, in a moment of insanity, decided to get a GAP card one day. Ever since then all hell has broken loose. I got locked out of my account, I couldn't understand the people that were suppose to be able to help me, and I had 60 dollars in late fees add up while I was locked out of my account. Today, I called GAP up and I told them to take the late fees off my account so that I could pay the ORIGINAL amount and then cancel my card. IT worked! Now I have no GAP card and NO HASSLE!

I also ORDERED MY SHOES! You know THE SHOES. I'm SO PSYCHED!!!

K...gotta jet. Bye!

In Honor and Memory

Today is the day we here in the U.S. celebrate mother's day. Dave and I are home this weekend to celebrate with my mom and grandmother and all the other mom's in our family. I just want to say to all the moms I know and love--thank you. You are all an inspiration to me to be the best mother I can be some day. To my own Mother--I love you. Thank you for raising me to be an independent (albeit hard-headed) woman. Thank you for instilling in me strong moral values and showing me what a loving family I have. Thank you for being my rock when I was falling apart and always being a shoulder to cry on. I love you Mom.

This weekend Dave and I also found out that someone very dear to us passed away. Auntie Bet is in no more pain, but we feel a great loss without her. I had only known her for about 2 years now. She was an amazing woman and I will never forget her hugs and kisses every time I saw her. I had my first cup of "real" tea at Auntie Bet's house. I had it with milk and she made sure I had sugar too because I wasn't use to hot tea. She asked me lots of questions about my life back at home when I first met her and showed me such love and kindness. She made me feel accepted into the family even before Dave and I were married. Thank you Auntie Bet and Uncle Robin--you were the first of Dave's extended family that I met. You are sorely mised Auntie Bet, but you will always be in our hearts and memories.

Contentment

As I was having my devotions this morning I found the meaning of that word. I found that I can be content without having everything I want or desire. I'm using the Journey of Desire guidebook right now and it's amazing. This is what it said about contentment. "Contentment is not freedom from desire, but freedom of desire. Being content is not pretending that everything is the way you wish it would be; it is not acting as though you have no wishes. Rather, it is no longer being ruled by your desires." Once I read this it opened a window in my heart. My life does not have to be perfect right now. I do not have to kill myself to finish my degree in 2 years. I don't have to have the perfect job and a baby on the way in 4.5 years. I don't have to always have the house sparkling, food on the table promptly at 6:00 pm, and the bed made in the morning to be the "perfect wife." I, myself, ME,--I can be content with my life, my future, and my degree (if I ever get to that point).

I was talking to my grandmother the other day and she said something to me concerning schooling that really hit home. She said, "I had 3 kids when I went back to school to get my Masters. I was running myself ragged." One night granddaddy (she calls her husband granddaddy like everyone else when the grandkids are around) asked her, "Do you feel like you are learning anything that you didn't already know? Is this helping you become a better teacher?" "No," she said, "it's not." My grandmother wasn't too far away from getting her Masters, but because she felt it wasn't helping her family or herself she quit, just like that. She also told me that I didn't need to be in a hurry. I had a husband and other priorities in my life that most students didn't have to worry about. School wasn't the only thing needing my attention. I could slow it down and still enjoy life while I was in school.

School can be done with a family. Life WITH desires can be done at any stage. My grandmother already had her first degree, but she was wise enough to make the decision to quit the second one. I doubt she beat herself up for not getting her degree. She went on with her life and is now an amazing mom, grandmother, an extremely strong and courageous wife, and a wonderful GREAT grandmother.

My goal for this week: to live IN my desires and be content with not reaching them within MY deadline.

Good friends good food

I had an amazing weekend with friends and family. Friday night I surprised Sheena by showing up at her graduation. Originally I was supposed to have an exam during that time but my prof. loved me so much he changed the exam time so I could make it to Winston-Salem by 7.
Then, Saturday I drove to see B and David play soccer. They are REALLY amazing soccer players! I was SO impressed by how good they were. They play really well together too. Then I helped B get ready for her prom SUPER FAST--like 45 mins. It was fun but a bit hectic
Saturday night I got to hang out with Jake and Heather Almond and Jason. We had such a good time. It was REALLY nice to see those guys again. Dave and I might have the chance to see them again this weekend as I'll be returning to my parents house for mothers day (DON'T FORGET GUYS!!!).
Sunday I drove back to Winston-Salem and had lunch (sushi yummmm) w/ my friend Jeremy Bliss who I went to school with when I was going to school in Winston. It was SO good to hang out with him. I miss you Bliss! We'll have to do it again soon. Then Sheena and I went to see a movie. We saw Stick-It (chick gymnastics movie) and then decided to see RV too (it was really cute and funny). Then we went the Village Tavern (amazing food, cute waiters) and had dinner. THEN, we went back to her new apartment (which is SO nice) and hung out.

Amazing weekend! I had such a good time and saw so many people I never get to see. My friends make me feel so blessed to have so many good people in my life. Thanx guys!

Now I get to spend some much needed time with Dave. We've been SOOO busy lately that our time together has been scarce. I missed him quite badly this weekend even though I had lots of fun. Love you babe!

p.s. B you still haven't called me to tell me how the prom went--JEEZ!

In My defense

Yes mother, you have caught me. I haven't voted since I have gotten married. But, I just haven't been able to! Every time there was an election I have either been at school all day or at work all day. I know I could have voted early but when I registered to vote in Bryson they never sent me anything back, so I don't have any information on it. I will vote next time. Just please please PLEASE don't tell Grandmama that I didn't vote. I will NEVER hear the end of it! lol I love you!

Oh, and just so you know, I may be coming home this weekend??? :-D I thought I'd drop in to see Bethany's soccer game on Saturday and help her get ready for the prom since she only has an hour between the game and eating. Love you!

The shoes I am coveting...REALLY BADLY!!!

Molly has left the building

Well, I just got done with my Spanish exam---phew!!! I THINK I passed...but how much I couldn't tell ya. I had perfect attendance though, so the prof. gave out these little things she got in Mexico to those of us who had perfect attendance. I got a Christmas tree ornament. Yeah, she was a hard teacher, but I have learned alot this semester!

Cuando era nina, yo iba a la casa de abuela todos domingos y veia television
That's: when I was young, I went to my grandmothers house and watched television every Sunday.

I have one more exam today, but it's paper that I've already written and I just have to say a few words about it. Me and talking...we're all good. lol

In other news, Molly has gone home. ~sigh~ Dave and I tried (very hard) to convince her to stay for the summer, but due to NOC's small wages and not being able to start school in the fall at AB Tech, she went home to earn money and ponder her options. You are sorely missed Molly! This is an ode to Molly--

Who will do our dishes now?
Who will makes us laugh?
Who will embarrass Dave?
Who will occupy our couch and keep it company?
Who will make sure every Glamour and Rolling Stone magazine gets fully and faithfully read?
Who will call us to tell us our fridge is flooding our kitchen?
Who will go out with our weird friends and say good things about them all?
Who oh who, will play the "hide our dishes in a new place every day" game with us?
Will it be you Molly? No. no. Molly has gone home. S
These things and more will fall vacant because you are gone Molly. We miss you.

P.S.--Important Issue

I just wondered what everyone thought of the Immigration law that is trying to get passed right now. The Immigrant strike is today and it's estimated that several million will turn out to support it. Any takes?

One down...4 to Go!

Well, I copied your title Adam, although it seems you only had 2 final exams. I'm sure your two were harder than all 5 of mine put together though.

I had my Environmental Science exam this morning--the easiest of the lot for sure. It was all multiple choice and took all of 30 minutes. EZ breezy. I just wrote my paper for tomorrows exam/presentation and now I'm studying for my exam that is later on this afternoon. It shouldn't be too bad either. I've got it pretty much under control I think. Tomorrow is where it gets nerve wracking. Spanish final. EEK! I'm studying studying studying! Hopefully I can pull out a passing grade on it. That way I will have a C in the class. Anyways. After tomorrow I don't have another exam till Friday.

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings I'm going to be babysitting my pastor's kids. His adorable little boy Max and, possibly his daughter Maddie, and I will have LOTS of fun I'm sure. I'm looking forward to the down time of just hangin out with kids and not worrying about school. Then next week it's back to full-time work at NOC. Or maybe I'll take a few days break inbetween. dunno yet. I'll keep ya posted.

LDP visit NC pictures

1st day back

Today I once again started working on the alpine tower at NOC. It was a nice begining to summer work. Small group of 7 guys who were gang-ho about climbing--and they tipped! So, not a bad day at all!

Tomorrow is my last day of regular classes for this semester. Next week, of course, is exams. Not really looking forward to those, but I think I'll do ok on them.

Well, that's really all I had to say--I'm taking Molly out to dinner with my tip money! ~shhhh~ she doesn't know yet! :) See ya!

Paddler once again

The LDP have invaded Bryson City..and the surrounding areas!!!! lol The '05-'06 LDP were at our house for chili (thanx for the recipe mom) on Sunday night. We had a great time just chatting and getting to know them. Scott was there too and Molly, Dave, and I loved catching up with him. Then, on Monday I decided to skip school and go paddling with the LDP (thanx for convincing me Molly!!!). We had a blast! Best day of skipping yet! Monday night Molly and I went and picked Dave up and then went to dinner at McKinley's cabin w/ everyone. Then Tuesday, I went paddling again (don't worry Mom, it was reading day, so I didn't skip). Today I'm quite sore. I hadn't paddled since last August and my muscles (or what was left of them) are complaining today. I also got to use MY BOAT for the first time since I bought it this week. I hadn't tried it out since Dave and I bought boats at GAF. So, tonight, the LDP are coming over again just to cook their food and hang out with us, and eat the rest of the leftover chili (I made a bit too much). Well, I gotta go. 3 more class days!!! Then exam week...dun dun dun... lol

P.S. how has my blog become a message board for everyone to talk ABOUT me and not TO me????? I CAN SEE WHAT YOU'RE WRITING YOU KNOW!!!!

The Good Stuff

This week has been really amazing. Molly and I have had some really cool talks and walks and just had a great time hanging out.

Tuesday--Molly finally got her phone working, although she had to stay in the Verizon store for over an hour and a half (can we say S L O W ???).

Wednesday--Molly and I went out for ice cream after I got back from school. Then we went and did some laundry and watched "While You Were Out" (I love that show) while the clothes were drying! Then, that night, my small highschool girls small group went really well. Molly tagged along and really helped me out alot. It always helps to have exciting stories about traveling in other countries--thanx Mol!

Thursday--Molly came to school with me and hung out in the library and "hung out" on the internet while I went to my one class of the day. Then, ~drumrole please~ I FINALLY GOT MY FALL CLASSES ALL SORTED AND REGISTERED FOR AFTER A WEEK OF STRESS AND WORRY! YAY!
But most importantly, my grandfather had surgery. My grandmother and mom were pretty worried about the procedure. God really blessed it though and it went so smoothly. Granddaddy should recover very quickly and hopefully be working away in his garden very soon. Thanks God!

Friday--I am in class. He he--do we see a pattern here? Blogging in class really saves time, lol. Molly is leaving to visit her sister and bro-n-law who are in S.C. today. She'll be back though! In 2 days actually. We'll miss you Molly, lol.

So, that's the week's wrap up. I'm working most of the weekend for Spring Splash (NOC's season kick-off) and this years LDP will be at our house on Sunday night! YAY--WE GET TO SEE SCOTT, MICHAEL, BRUCE, and all the new peeps! See ya later!

Molly and Easter

On Thursday night Molly called a little after 9 to say "I'm lost somewhere in Cherokee." Cherokee is right down the road from us, so it wasn't too big of a deal. Then she called again to say she had driven up and down our road and just couldn't find house number 851. We're 251 I told her, there is no 851. Then I told her to stay there and Dave was coming to find her. So, Molly finally arrived at our house late Thursday night and we have had some good fun since then. Saturday we all went to my grandfathers 80th birthday party. All the kids were running around and screaming and it was a beautiful, steamy day (87' F). Sunday the three of us went to church and then had a church hotdog dinner while all the kids hunted for Easter eggs and jumped in one of those inflatable bouncy things. It was a good time. We then introduced Molly to the river and went down the Nantahala on duckies (inflatable kyaks). We had fun but got a little chilled (I was a chicken and wore a wet suit--and I'm glad of it!). So now that Easter break is over I'm back in Env. Health. Yeah yeah, this is the only class I can really bring my laptop to, the rest I have to be super involved in. So, I'm off. It's 10:21 and it's already 70 degrees! It's gonna be a scorcher!

Wonderful Weekend

Dave and I had a great weekend! We went to the aquarium on Saturday. It was a lot of fun and we took lots of cute pictures. Then we went to TGI Friday's to eat (love love love that place--too bad there's not one around here). Sunday we had a late breakfast then went to Rock City. I've always wanted to go there because there's signs for it everywhere! I'm a bit of a advertisers dream when it comes to those kinds of things. It was really cute actually, except what they did with the mass amounts of gnomes in the caves (it was a lil creepy). Then we went to an Indian place for lunch and met up with some of our friends from Chatt. Then we walked along the river (across from the aquarium) and went into some little shops (gear shops too, Dave needed his fix) and got some ice cream. Very pleasant weekend.

Also, on the way home, we saw a truck for sale! We think it is perfect for us and Dave is talking to the guy today. It is in our price range too so we may have a new truck soon (new to us not brand new). I love it except it's sort of an ugly color, lol. Well, I gotta get to class. Love you guys!

the big 1

Tomorrow is mine and Dave's FIRST anniversary guys! I can't believe it! It seems like yesterday, seriously. I remember getting my hair done and being very nervous before the wedding. I can also remember crying over the cake (if you saw it you would understand) and hearing Adam Nelson make an amazing toast to Dave after the wedding. The whole day was absolutely beautiful. I remember starting out that morning with going to breakfast with my 2 sisters and my mom. I could barely eat, but we had a good time together. I think we were all pretty nervous. Bethany held it together pretty well though, thanx B! lol Very good memories, our wedding was exactly what we wanted--totally perfect.

Tomorrow, for our anniversary, we are going to Chattanooga for the night. We're gonna hang out in that lovely city and then go to the aquarium which everyone says is the best they've ever been to. I'm excited just to get out of town for two days. I've even caught up on my homework (after much lapsing while watching Dawson's Creek, lol).

Have a great weekend everybody! I'll talk to ya when we get back!

answer to prayer

Just wanted to tell you all that I greatly felt your prayers yesterday! The surgery went so well and, by a miracle, I DIDN'T FEEL A THING!! I didn't even feel the numbing shots or anything! It was amazing and over very quickly. Dave was very supportive and sat by my side the whole time. I think he was even more nervous than I was! Thank you SO much honey, it meant so much to me for you to be there. After the surgery Dave drove me home and we picked up ~drumrole please~ THE 5TH SEASON OF DAWSON'S CREEK!!!! Yes folks, it HAS arrived. I then sat on the couch and watched it for the rest of the day (I even watched 2 episodes this morning before class....by skipping my first class of course, but I felt a little bad so sitting on the couch was nice, lol). Dave read his climbing magazines and endured the angst only Dawson's Creek could bring to going to school and dating and the normal events of life, lol

My older sister also did something very sweet for me yesterday! When I arrived home from the dr. there was a package waiting for me!!! She had a bucket of candy and my favorite drink (Coke!!!) waiting for me on the doorstep! Thanks so much Shannon, I LOVE getting packages!

Anyway, I'm feeling a bit grungy now w/ all the pain meds worn off but I'm still doing very well

Again, thanks for all your prayers!

prayer @ 1:45

Hi guys! Just wanted to ask you to pray for me about 1:45 today as I'll be having some minor invasive surgery. I'm a little worried cause I've never had ANY kind of surgery before. My stomach is in a bit of a knot. I know everything will be fine and Dave will be there with me, but I'm still not thrilled about it. If don't return Lydia gets my couch cause it goes w/ her chair, lol. I'll update you guys later (probably tomorrow) on how everything went. Thanks so much for praying, it means a lot.

P.S. Mom--thank you for calling this morning, it helped me feel better. Love you!

SUPRISE!!!...to us And to you

We have an announcement--we're PREGNANT!!!! I just found out a couple of weeks ago and wanted to tell everyone right away! Don't know the expected due date yet, but I'm going to the doctor next week so I should know then!!!! Yes, this came as a bit of a shock to Dave and I, as we didn't plan on having kids for quite awhile...but ~suprise~ we are! Dave is VERY VERY excited to be becoming a daddy as he won't just have the pastor's baby to play with before long. I'm excited as well, but am still getting over the shock (as you can imagine). I am going to finish out school through this semester and next semester and will probably take summer classes as well to get further along before the baby comes. Then I'll probably take a break for a semester and see if I can go back the semester AFTER that. Whew--that's alot of information. Anyway--we'll be around for the traditional congratulatory calls but you have to find somone that has our cell phone numbers (or you can e-mail me and I'll give them to you). We love you all...AND WE'RE HAVING A BABY!! ....i REALLY hope it has red curly hair---wouldn't that be cute!!!!! lol :-D



p.s. If you look at the date posted above you will realize it is April 1st. Being that April 1st is sometimes call "April Fools" I will let you make that connection. If you STILL don't get it----we're not pregnant---April Fool's!!!!!!! Sorry for the heart attacks but we ARE being smarter than that..come on people...give us some credit...lol.

Retraction

Ok, Chris has called me out. He didn't really lead me to believe that he and Emily would get engaged this summer. However, seeing as he said they would at least date a year...and the year would be up this summer...I concluded it might happen this summer through deductive reasoning. Pretty good for a non-scientific mind eh? LOL

I'm actually in science class right now! Hey, don't judge--I'm getting good grades too (Chris), for the most part (stupid Spanish). So I feel I can slack off sometimes in certain classes. Ok, I slack off all the time in this classes, but hey, I'm still going to have an "A" at the end of the semester, so who's gonna blame me?

I mean, if you KNOW a professor doesn't really expect anything but that you are in class on time, why exceed his expectations if you're getting a good grade?!? I'm no over-achiever. If I can ride under the radar and get good grades then why not?! I don't do this in every class. I'm the star of both my English classes and one of my education classes as well! And to say something for my science class, I do listen generally and comment if need be...and I'm ALWAYS early. So, my prof. likes me well enough, and I guess that's good enough for me! Anyway, I'm going to stop justifying my way of life to you all, I'm gonna start listening now! So there!

GOOD DAY TO YOU!

P.S.

For those of you who care--Chris Spicer has blogged!!! I know it's a miracle, and if you don't believe me you can check it out yourselves! (link to Chris's blog on right--->)

I have two papers to write today and a play to see tonight. The papers really aren't that bad though and I'm really looking forward to the play! It is Shakespeare's "Much ado about nothing"...or something (sorry I never read this play, so I forget the name...lol). I'm actually dragging Dave to the play too so you can ask him how he liked it.

I had the pleasure of talking to the one and only Daroline DaSilva today on the phone! She called me and we spent a wondrous 45 minutes talking of things that are going on in our lives. Thanks so much for calling Dee, it really meant alot to me.

Well, I'm off. I would love to get into the gym today at some point. I've been saying I'm going to start exercising all semester but I've only been to the gym twice so far. So, we'll try again today.

On an "up" note it stopped snowing and is getting back to "Spring-like" temperatures.

Chris

Spicer may have dropped out of our lives, but I learned this weekend that he has not forgotten us. I was privileged enough to catch Chris on IM and talked to him for bit. He is still in school and enjoying learning and looking forward to teaching. Of course you are all wondering if he is engaged yet...so I will post that part of the conversation.


myself--->stuffed up and running says: (4:41:37 PM)
so any proposals yet??? or up coming?

Spicer---->Hello End of the Term, Wasn't Expecting You So Soon says: (4:42:44 PM)
Business proposals? Hmmm. . . maybe I'll start up a deli shop

Hello End of the Term, Wasn't Expecting You So Soon says: (4:43:02 PM)
I could use the money for school but I doubt I have the capital to get it started

stuffed up and running says: (4:43:41 PM)
lol....that's Chris I miss...no no...ya know...the diamond ring kind...???

Hello End of the Term, Wasn't Expecting You So Soon says: (4:44:35 PM)
hahaha. . . it's been talked about but we sort of agreed at least a year of dating was a good thing

So, he's not engaged yet but after talking to him that may change in the summer? or later...not starting any rumors, but of course we all know Emily and Chris will be engaged eventually. ~sigh~ lovebirds.
Chris also sent me a recent pic. of himself and Emily and I told him I WOULD post it on my blog so people would know he's still alive but just love-struck.

Snow in the Spring

March the 20th was the first day of Spring. Today is the 25th...and it's snowing. Yes, you heard right, snowing. I am sitting in a coffee shop/book store in Asheville and watching the snowflakes fall outside the window. Granted, it's not a blizzard, but it is white. It's also pretty freakin cold! I am in thick jeans and a pretty thick hoodie and my teeth still chatter outside. Last week I was wearing tank tops and flip-flops! This week, Dave has once again donned his down jacket. Mother Nature is definitely getting a kick out of watching us get all ruffled over the weather. Well, I'm off to refill my coffee cup and indulge in some good ol' celebrity gossip. Thanks Pink is the New Blog!

IMPORTANT GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!!!!!!
If you also are a person who suffers from chronic celebrity gossip deficiency go to: www.trent.blogspot.com
**warning** this will not cure addiction and may cause it to get worse.

~brrrr~ toodles!

Here's the "buddies" aka my older sis's twins. finally figured out how to put larger pictures on. Don't ask me which one is which cause I have no clue unless they're wearing different things! Aren't they cute though! Gotta love the cheesy grins!
Gotta wash clothes then I think I'm gonna straighten my hair for the night. Peace!

the other side

I thought since I posted my brother's kid's pictures I should post my sister's as well! Here are her two oldest. I had pictures of her twins as well but they were too big to put on. I think that you can only have 140 kB's, Sis. Maybe i'll be able to post them later. I'm in class so I better start paying attention. Have a great day!

new table

Dave suprised me the other night with a new table! See, we had gotten our other table from my grandmother's basement. The old table was 50's style brown and metal. It did the job but it wasn't pretty. The new table is a gorgeous color of brown and it can even get bigger! I'm very excited about it. He didn't actually buy it but got it from one of our friends neighbors as they were getting a new one, or something like that. Either way, the table is beautiful and I love it! Thanks sweetie! I gotta go though. I'll post again soon.

HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY!

I have my "I ~clover~ Ireland" shirt on today--V. cute. I've got my green earrings and a green ring and even some green eye liner on! I'm ready yo! lol Dave and I are having a St. Patrick's Day party tomorrow night. It was a night when more of our friends could come over, so we're doing it then instead of today. I'm excited about buying decorations today! yay! Maybe someone that comes will have a digatal camera and I can post some pictures on here from it. Anyway, I gotta print this paper out and get to class. Here are some St. Patties Pix for ya! The green river is in Chicago! They actually dye it that color every year for St. Patties! gross looking huh? And the other one is what they do for St. Patties in Ireland--DRINK GUINNESS! Yes, that IS a Ken doll, but hey, they start young over there, lol.

New niece/nephew

I'm going to be an aunt AGAIN! I found out last night, via a REALLY cute picture through e-mail (the one I posted), that my brother and sister-n-law are having another baby! It's due in October! I started crying immediately in the middle of school! I'm sure everyone thought I was having a nervous breakdown or something. Anyway, I'm VERY excited for them. I called them immediately to say "congrats" and can't wait to find out what the baby will be (boy/girl).

To update you since Dave and I got back from the road trip, I'm in school again and trying to survive a few late midterms. Our road trip was amazing and we had a blast driving all over. We did run into a bit of weather while we were driving out of Arkansas and into Texas (hence the monsoon bit in the last blog). We did get through it unscathed though and hung out in the town of Texarkana (yes, that does border Texas AND Arkansas). It was a cool town, very windy, took some cool pictures on the border of the two states that runs through town. Then we spent the night in a the middle of nowhere in Louisiana and decided to drive all the way home the next day. So, we drove through most of Louisiana, the middle of Mississippi, Alabama, and the top of Georgia. Then we stopped in Chattanooga for coffee w/ Adam and his girlfriend Julie and then continued on home. We arrived home about 2 a.m., but it was worth it to sleep in our own bed that night. So, great trip. I think we've decided to make it an annual thing. Who knows where we'll end up next year!

Texas or bust

Enjoyed the hot springs in Hot Springs, Arkansas--stop Now in Texas in town of Texarkana--stop Survived flooding of tent, monsoon while driving, and tornado watch--stop Will continue into Louisiana tomorrow--stop Update you later--stop Texas is hot--stop

Alabama and beyond

So we didn't end up leaving Chattanooga until around 3 pm on Monday afternoon. Then we drove straight to Alabama to the little town of Gadsden. In Gadsden there is a campground that has a 90 ft. waterfall in it--very picturesque. This is where we camped for the evening. Took some pictures of the waterfall, we'll post them when we get home.

On Tuesday we drove out of Alabama and through the top corner of Mississippi into Memphis, TN. On the way to Memphis we stopped at "the longest Natural Bridge this side of the Rockies." It was an out-of-the-way-small-hike into some beautiful wooded areas. Then, there it was, this MASSIVE piece of rock bridging a fairly good size gap in the mountain. Definately the best stop we have made so far. Dave really wanted to climb it, but I told him if every person that saw it climbed it, it wouldn't be there in a few years. lol

After that we spent the afternoon and evening in Memphis and saw some pretty amazing things there. We have OFFICIALLY seen "Graceland." For all you non-Elvis fans that's the home of the artist formally known as Elvis, lol. Pretty sweet. Then we drove into the center of Memphis. Did you know there's a pyramid in TN? We also saw the Mississippi river during sunset and ate at a little pub where Justin Timberlake, U2, Santana, ZZ Top, along with every other famous guitarist/artist has played. It also had all these guys guitars hung all over the walls, all signed of course.

After Memphis we drove into Arkansas to a very remote campground (but pretty terrific if I do say so myself). We set up our tent by the light of the headlights (and our new Propane Lantern). This morning we cooked breakfast over the fire and are now heading to, you'll never guess......a HOT SPRING!!! We get to bathe in this hot spring this afternoon!!!!!

So, I'll get off of here so Dave can get on. We're currently in a cafe' on "Clinton Blvd" (lol) in Little Rock, AK. Tomorrow we're headed into Texas and then probably home through Louisiana. We'll keep you updated!

Chattanooga

Hello from the state of Tennesee! Dave and are I still in Chattanooga at the moment but are heading to Alabama (we think) tonight. We may try to go to Memphis, TN this afternoon before we head tl Alabama for the night, but aren't really sure yet. We left Adam D.'s house this morning and are now at Panera Bread Co. blogging to you! This weekend we just hung out in Chattanooga and Dave and Adam did some rock climbing yesterday. Don't know if I'll be able to post any other pictures for this week, but we took some with Adam's digital yesterday, so here are some of the highlights. Catch you guys later! We gotta get back on the road.

p.s. Shannon, you misspelled the word "hence" in your mass e-mail the other day. You spelled it "hince." Jeez, you woulda thought you were homeschooled or something!

First day of the rest of Spring Break

YAY! Today is the last day of classes for the next week! I don't even have any homework to do during the break. I'm pretty pysched. By the way I DIDN'T fail the Spanish test I had on Tuesday, but I'm pretty sure I DID fail the one I took on Thursday. Ah well, that's not gonna get me down today! I have 3 more classes and then a bit of homework to finish. Tonight we're having our small group over for some pizza and games. Should be a good time. Just thought I'd say hello and good-bye to you all for a few days. I may check in from time to time during Spring break if we find an internet cafe'. So, adios amigos! Here's some fun pictures to send you on your way. So THIS is what pets do when we're away huh?

a very ugh day

It's only 11:30 and I already feel depressed. I think I've failed another Spanish test. I don't think I would feel so bad if I didn't have ANOTHER one on Thursday. Midterms REALLY suck. I am currently working on a exam paper that has to be turned in tonight--Very nervous about that one. Then I have a paper due tomorrow and two on Friday. Fun stuff. Hopefully the week will pass quickly and SPRING BREAK will pass S L O W L Y. Speaking of Spring Break that's NEXT WEEK! Oh man, SOOO ready for that. I'm getting a "Road Trip America" book today and hopefully we'll "plan" our roadtrip tonight.

We have FINALLY gotten cell phones people! If you are someone that needs to have our phone numbers, or just wants them, then e-mail me and I will e-mail you the numbers. We are getting rid of our home phone line this week and getting internet when we get back from our road trip. So, love you guys lots, but I gotta finish some papers.

toodles!

SHOUT OUT AND LAUGH OUT LOUD

I want to give a shout out to my friend Adam Delezene as he has FINALLY replied to my comments on his blog. Thank you VERY much, it has been a long time in the making I'm sure, lol. Considering I am the one and only person who comments on your blog I feel privileged to be the one you replied to.

I also wanted to point out something else to all of you who also know my husband (yup, think that covers everybody).
Please note his last two blogs have included these sayings, and I quote, "I learnt to snowboard in West Virginia," and "we overhere this women." I seriously am NOT teaching him this stuff. He's gone country (as the country song says), but he doesn't have the boots yet. lol I'm trying to teach him how to speak regular English but I think he's learning it too quickly from his mountain buddies for my teaching to do any good. Just thought I'd point those things out. They sure made ME laugh!

Adios! I am off to study Spanish and write a science paper.

SINGING IN THE RAIN!

Well the snow melted and now it's hotter than 60 degrees here now. Ugh, I miss when winter was 4 months long. So the interview went very well and Dave is now a conditional permanent resident. YAY! This means that we can travel out of the country again! Well, I could before, but Dave can come with me now. So, for all of you Canadians we love so much, we'll hopefully be seeing you later this year! And, for our family in Ireland and other parts of the U.K. we'll be seeing you this Christmas! YAY YAY YAY!!! Traveling again! Speaking of traveling Dave and I have decided what to do with the time I have off for Spring Break. We're going on a ROAD TRIP!!! Wuhoo! I've actually never been on a proper road trip before. Sad huh? We haven't planned it out yet but it will be the March 4th through the 11th. Just in case you were wondering or were trying to find us during that time. HOPEFULLY by then we'll have cell phones, so we won't be COMPLETELY cut off from the world. Well, just thought I would give you an update. Gotta get home and work on my lesson for tonight's girl's small group. Love ya!

p.s. I'm wearing my KICKIN rain boots...oh yeah baby!

snow and Valentines day

Dave and I celebrated Valentines day last Saturday because we were both busy on Tuesday. When I woke up Dave handed me two strips of paper and told me to pick one. He said I could choose the one I picked or vito it and choose number two. I opened the first one and it said, "receive roses." I picked that one. Then he brought in a breakfast menu that he had typed up. I "ordered" pancakes and bacon with hot chocolate and whipped cream. Then he brought me another two slips of paper. One said "breakfast in bed." The other said, "breakfast by candlelight." I chose candlelight. We had an amazing breakfast and lounged around for a bit. Then we decided to go sledding! It snowed all weekend (Friday through Monday) and we had gotten quite a bit of snow. Well, we drove up to the church and decided to sled down the big hill behind it. Well, that would have been ok, except we really didn't look at the bottom of the hill before we got on the sled. Right before we got down the hill I noticed that there was a ditch at the bottom. I noticed this a few seconds before we hit it. It didn't feel good to me, but I wasn't badly hurt. However, Dave wasn't so lucky. He scared the living daylights out of me! So, Dave is quite sore. He compressed his spine pretty good when we hit the ditch. I think we'll be utilizing the chiropractic services here next week sometime. So, we didn't do all that much for the rest of the day. We stayed in and watched a movie and pumped Dave full of IB Profin. He was feeling a bit better that evening, I think the medication was helping, and we went out to dinner to the Italian restaurant in town. We had a great dinner, very nice.

For the rest of the weekend we played in the snow and babysat the Pastor's kids. Dave helped their lil girl build a snow fort while I entertained the baby. The baby wasn't too keen on eating his baby food, so I got to wear quite a bit of it, good stuff.

Yesterday Dave got his Valentines presents. When he woke up he had a scavenger hunt through the house to find all his cards. His cards had coupons for different things he likes in them. One of them was a long back rub, another his pick of the movie next time we go, and another his choice of home cooked meal, among other things. Then, when he came home from work he had a card and some slippers. He kept wearing my pink bunny slippers, so I thought he might want some more manly ones, lol.

Today we're heading back towards my parents for the weekend. Tomorrow is Dave's visa meeting in Charlotte. Please pray for a good outcome. We're quite nervous about it. It's 8:30 tomorrow morning, so remember us during that time.

Ok, I've got to start paying attention to my Environmental Health class. See ya later!

OH! One more set of good news. We're going to get rid of our home phone and get cell phones...FINALLY! We're also going to have internet through our cable company, so we'll be able to talk to our overseas family whenever they are on the internet through Skype (the internet will always be on since it's through cable). We'll start this process in the next couple of weeks, but we'll make sure all who need to know know our new phone numbers.

check these out!

Thought I'd post some pretty funky pictures that my lil sis sent me. The first one makes me dizzy just looking at it!

78

I MADE A 78 ON TUESDAY'S TEST!!!! That, is freakin awesome. We had the other part of the test today, dunno if I did as well, ugh. Guess we'll see next week! OH! It snowed like crazy here last night! We had a couple inches of snow on the ground when we woke up and all the schools were closed for the day. Schools not including universities that is, cause I'm at school now. But oh well. I gotta get home and study for my environmental health test tomorrow. Should be a breeze, it's ALL mutiple choice!!! Also, I'm starting to to get pysched up for Survivor tonight! Yes Candice, I AM watching it!!! WUHOO! Wouldn't miss it for a blizzard. toodaloo everyone!

This picture describes how I feel right now

p.s. I had amazing chicken and dumplins for lunch....good stuff

OH HAPPY DAY!!!!!!

I have FINALLY passed a Spanish test!!!!!! I'm SOOOOO EXCITED! Well, I THINK I've passed it anyway, I just took it about a half hour ago. I have such a good feeling about it though! It MAY even be "C" material!!!!! WUHOO! I know my grade expectations have fallen quite a bit, but it's only for Spanish, that's my only exception. The rest of my classes must be "A's," or very high "B's". Wow, I can't stop smiling! It's amazing what happens when you're not stressed anymore! Of course that's just for the moment, it'll return shortly I'm sure, but I'm savoring the happiness right now. I'm going to celebrate by going out to lunch!!!

~skips around sings~ "oh HAPPY daaay, Oh happy daaay, oh HAPPY HAPPY daaay"

It snowed last night! It was really beautiful. It actually lasted quite a while! But, it's too warm to stick much, so it's mostly gone now. Tonight it's supposed to snow again though, but we'll see. Well, I'm headin to lunch, maybe I'll even have sushi!

on the verge

I am on the verge of withdrawing from Spanish. I feel like nothing good can come out of me staying in the class. The only reason I am staying now is that IF, and it's a big if, I pass this class, I will get credit for Spanish 1 and 2, so I won't have to do another class. I'm even allowing myself to get a "D" in the class, I think it'll be great if I can just get that! However, I am thoroughly confused and behind most of the class. I'm hanging in there grade wise, but I feel like I'm a fake. If I REALLY wanted to learn the language, I'd go back to Spanish one I suppose. I hate quitting, but it really is making my life a living hell. I'm constantly stressed about Spanish. I haven't even started studying for the big teacher test I have to take yet, because I'm always bogged down with homework from Spanish! I heard our teacher is one of the hardest, how come I ended up with her? Oy vay. Help? Anyone have any suggestions? I have to go write a paper, then study for a spanish re-test, and finish my spanish homework. ugh. I have a great day ahead of me ~said in the most extreme sarcastic voice I can muster~

here I am

So here I am at school eating day old popcorn (which is the best kind by the way) and chilling for an hour for lunch. I refuse to do any homework in this hour, I'll be doing it for the rest of the day anyway. I finally went and worked out yesterday. I always say I'm going to, but then I just keep doing homework and fry my brain completely. I've got to stop taking everything so seriously. I know that sounds weird, but I'm gonna have a mental break down if I don't. I'm still going to study and do my homework and try hard, but I'm going to stop stressing. Well....I'm going to try anyway...it will probably be easier said than done.
Ok, I'm going to talk about a subject that just popped into my head. Being a teacher's pet. I like being a teacher's pet. I thrive on being the teacher's pet. Let me give you an example. The other day in class our teacher asked us to rate a short story on the amount of joy we had derived from the story. Several people said 5, some said 6, there was one 9, and then it came to me. Well, I thought, if I say 10 then he'll ask me why, and I'll get to talk in class. So, I did. And just as I thought, he asked why. So, I had lots of interesting details to list of to my professor. Now, don't judge me yet, I liked that poem alot! Maybe not a 10, but if I had said 9 he might not have asked me first! He's my favorite professor by the way, great class. So, how do you feel about being a teacher's pet? Do you think the smartest kids are the teacher's pet, or just the one's that suck up the most? I have to say he likes my writing as well, he always tells me so. I love it. Really, it's amazing how a compliment on something you've worked hard on can boost your ego! Course it doesn't take too much to boost mine, buying a new pair of sunglasses does the job just fine. Or maybe that has more to do with my confidence. OH well, what do you think?

for all who need to know

I know those of you who remember Christopher Spicer will be glad to hear this.....I HAVE MADE CONTACT! THAT'S RIGHT FOLKS, I HAVE TALKED TO HIM! I was just fortunate enough to be on messenger when he got on this morning. I just happened to be in science class, but a little thing like that couldn't stop me from talking to my long lost friend! Besides, our teacher forgot he had taught our class that lesson before and didn't realize it until almost halfway through, so I had the notes anyways. SO, yes, Chris is still alive and well and liking school. He and Emily are doing good also. So, that's about as much as I know. HE'S ALIVE! I suppose that is all that matters.
peace out, I have Spanish to study. not that it will help me any, but I'm willing to try.

just a quickie

I know I haven't been very studious in keeping up with my blog lately, very sorry. School has been a major undertaking and Spanish is about to take me 6 feet under, lol. I study all the time and still fail the tests. I'm gonna stick with it until after midterms, then, if my grades aren't hacking it, I'm gonna drop it and start again next semester in Spanish 1. Anyway, other than that class everything is going swell! I have quite a big test to take for my education major called The Praxis. Which, in wanna-be-teacher terms is basically the SAT all over again. Yes, that dreaded word in highschool is coming back to haunt me. But, I'm buying a book, I have online services, and I'm gonna study like crazy. The test costs $145 every time you take it, so I can't afford to fail, literally. Ok, I gotta eat quick and get to my night class. I hope it gets out early again! Love you all!

Here are some photos I thought would make you laugh. They are time savers and my dad sent them to me. Too bad I don't have one of those hats, I feel like sleeping standing up all the time now! The kid mop suit is a must for all moms! lol

Our new Couch!--finally

start at the very beginning..a very good place to start

I found out I definitely CANNOT transfer those credits to this university. So, I'm pretty much back at freshmen status when I was almost a senior, but that's how the cookie crumbles right? Ugh I did find out I can possibly test OUT of some of the classes I have already taken, but I really don't think that will work with my Biology class and lab. I barely passed them the first time, and I don't think I remember enough about 3 years ago to test of out that particular class. So I was pretty depressed, but I'm gonna keep pluggin' along and we'll see what becomes of it. Maybe by the time our kids are out of college I'll actually have my degree! (and we're not planning on starting a family for several more years now). I'm off to class! Keep us in your prayers

OH! For those of you wondering about Dave, he's in W. Virginia this week snowboarding! Lucky him eh? And for those of you from Canada who remember the LAST time he tried to snowboard (aka: the winter of the broken wrists), he is doing much better this time around.....so far. As of now I think he only complains of a sore bum, lol. I'll keep ya updated and in my prayers!

Crisis mode

I went to the office today to get copies of my transcripts. Well, it seems only the classes from Stanly Community College have transferred. That means only 18 of my 100 credit hours have transferred. They try to tell me Piedmont wasn't an accredited college, and I said OH YES IT IS! Why exactly would anyone go to a college that wasn't accredited and take anything that they wanted to be certified in!!!??!! Anyway, I have to go back to the office and HOPEFULLY work all this out in a few minutes. If they don't transfer I'm gonna have to take another science w/ lab, a speech class, all of my electives, a health class, a history class, and several literature classes. I can't imagine....I really don't want to think about it. I am clinging to my prayer of the week: "God cares for my heart, and knows what's in it, He will take care of me." Prayer would be GREATLY appreciated!

up and running

HI guys! Sorry I haven't been on for the past few days, we decided to cancel our internet at home so I can only get on at school. We are considering getting cells phones come the end of February, so I'm sure some of you will be very happy about that. On the cell phone note, how many of you use Verizon as your service provider, that will play a part in if we get them as well. Considering if we get Verizon we'll be able to talk free to other Verizon customers, we want lots of friends on our call list!

Anyway, school! I've been in classes for 2 days now and am taking a full course load. I don't have too many hard classes. The one I'm gonna have to work my butt off for is Spanish 2. Yes, I did say Spanish TWO. I tested into the second one because I got A's in highschool. The teacher seems really great and says if I work hard I won't have a problem. But, I'm not so sure. I remember VERY little Spanish, so I guess I'll just have to get some tutoring. She's a "sister" as well! She said she isn't a nun because nun's stay at the monestary all their lives and she goes out and teaches, so she's considered a "sister". She's REALLY nice and energetic! Literature classes are great too, and even my science teacher is amazing! He is REALLY cool and it seems that the class will be easy as well. He's from around the London area, so he has a great accent. He actually use to work for Scottland yard at one point. Very colorful personality; I think we'll get along fine.

Well, just thought i'd update on here since I hadn't in a few days. I've gotta go do homework! I'm actually excited about it this time around! Gotta head to lunch as well, my stomach doth rumble.

on with the saga

Well tomorrow is Orientation. Today I went and got a few things out of the way so I wouldn't have to stand in quite so many lines tomorrow. I got my student ID card made, and this time my picture isn't too hideous, and I got some shots that were way past due. Now, normally shots don't bother me at all, I even willingly give blood! But today, I had to get a Tetanus shot. I haven't had one since 1988, (so if you estimate my age, which is 22 and how long you're suppose to go till you get another one, 10 years, you'll know I was 7 years overdue for one) so I forgot how painful they are 3 hours after you get them. At the time they aren't so pleasant, they feel like the nurse is trying to put GLUE into your veins, but later....man, they feel like you've gotten SHOT! Course I've never been shot, and I'm probably exaggerating it (not getting shot that is, but getting A shot), but it hurts quite a bit. I can't even pick up something without feeling like I've been the punching bag for Mike Tyson's boxing practice! I guess I'm a bit of a baby about it, oh well. I'm just glad you only have to get one every 10 years, lol. So anyways, tomorrow I have to sign up for my classes and then I start them on Monday. Good stuff. Hope you guys had a great day and didn't have to get any Tetanus shots.

more good news!

IT FINALLY HAPPENED! Yes, folks, you are now reading about a future student of Western Carolina University! I was OFFICIALLY accepted on Monday, January the 2nd (Dave's b-day!). Now I am hurridly going through the registration process. We will be going to the school tomorrow to meet my advisor and so on. Then, I'll be starting school on MONDAY!!!! I'M SO EXCITED!!! I'm quite nervous as well, but that just adds to the experience I think. Just wanted to tell you guys the exciting news! WUHOOO!!!

LOTS of GREAT NEWS!!!

After 8 months of waiting to hear from the American government, we received a present from them right in time for Christmas! When we came home from my parents this week we had received a letter. I was SO excited, and Dave was skeptical, but hearing anything is better than hearing nothing I thought. Well.....we opened it and we have our first interview on FEB. 16th!!! So, thank you for all your prayers, God definitely answered ours to hear something by the new year! We'll keep you posted on the progress.
In other news....WE FINALLY BOUGHT A COUCH!!!! It's quite amazing, blue and green and aqua actually, sounds pretty loud huh? It's actually an antique and super cute! Hopefully we'll have a picture of it up here soon, but we haven't picked it up yet, gotta find a truck to borrow. We're both VERY excited about this purchase, although it took it's toll on Dave's stress gland. He doesn't really like to make purchases which push us further from the nomadic life he would prefer to live. If it were up to Dave we would own a tent, sleeping bags, and only the clothes we could cary on our back. But, he likes the couch alot and is
V E R Y slowly getting use to the fact that he's no longer single and could possibly take him longer than 24 hours to move country. lol
For the emotional news....I had a very real dream last night. I dreamt that Dave and I ended up hanging out at a camp that we had trained at some during LDP and then my parents drove up and Scott and Spicer got out of the car too! I ran up and hugged them and the 3 of us started crying (hey, it's a girls dream, we're very emotional creatures). Scott was also with some 80's Barbie looking girl, spandex and BIG blond hair! Hilarious! I miss those guys SOOOO much and haven't heard a peep from them in very very long time. Scott, Chris, we miss you dearly.....and mourn the loss of your blogs which are withering away in the dust you have left them in. Sniff...sniff....see you in my dreams guys.

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.