IT's snowing everywhere else around us, but NOT here. Dave and his friends almost got snowed in in TN. Our friends DID get snowed in in Asheville (only an hour away) and do we get ANY snow here???? Yeah, about 5 flakes total. It's freezing but NO SNOW! That's all I have to say about that.
This is going to be a busy week for me. Dave and I won't have a night alone until Friday (hopefully we'll get Friday). I have something either at school or at church every night--ugh. Gotta jet-gotta grap dinner and then head to my film class--toodles!
P.S. Dave and were in Asheville on Saturday and went to Barnes & Nobles. Oh I love that place. I immediately found 3 books I wanted. I orded one off of Ebay, but I keep telling myself that I'm not allowed to buy the other ones yet--but I really want to! One is: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants: Forever in Blue (i know, lil girl book, but I read the 1st 3 so I really want to read the last one) and the other is: Round Ireland with a Fridge (which is a travel book about-you guessed it, a guy traveling round Ireland with a fridge-Dave and I want to read it together). Anyway-that's my book fav's for the moment...that is, until the 7th Harry Potter book comes out this year!!! Woot woot! :)--k-I'm REALLY off this time.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Friday, January 26, 2007
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Bizarre
So, I had this dream last night. I dreamed that I was pregnant with 5 babies--but they weren't quintupets. The nurse was all upset with me that I was pregnant with so many babies and I yelled at her that it wasn't my fault, I had been on birthcontrol the whole time! The doctor told the nurse, yes, that was likely, as birthcontrol had a 3% failure rate.
I had the babies all on one day, yet some of them were several years old by the time I had the last one. Before the last one was born, I insisted that the nurse that had yelled at me be replaced with another one and that I wasn't going to push until she was replaced. The blond girl from Grey's Anatomy replaced the mean nurse. I was 11 1/2 inches dilated when I started having my last baby (it practically fell out of my womb-as would be expected if one could dialate 11 1/2 inches-or can they?).
I had 3 girls and 2 boys. The last baby was a boy. However, my son, the last baby, died soon after birth. I remember that the mean nurse blamed me for the last baby dying. She felt that it was my fault cause I was pregnant with some many babies at one time and that I shouldn't have done that (like one can PREVENT having multiple babies or something).
WEIRD--I'm really hoping I NEVER get pregnat with that many babies at a time-and actually I don't want that many kids period, so I'm hoping I don't get pregnant with that many kids TOTAL.
Right. I'm going to start writing my paper now. I've procrastinated enough. Maybe I'll amuse you with another disturbing dream tomorrow! But hopefully it won't be about me being pregnant, cause I really don't want to start thinking this is a sign that I'm going to get pregnant soon.
Luvs!
I had the babies all on one day, yet some of them were several years old by the time I had the last one. Before the last one was born, I insisted that the nurse that had yelled at me be replaced with another one and that I wasn't going to push until she was replaced. The blond girl from Grey's Anatomy replaced the mean nurse. I was 11 1/2 inches dilated when I started having my last baby (it practically fell out of my womb-as would be expected if one could dialate 11 1/2 inches-or can they?).
I had 3 girls and 2 boys. The last baby was a boy. However, my son, the last baby, died soon after birth. I remember that the mean nurse blamed me for the last baby dying. She felt that it was my fault cause I was pregnant with some many babies at one time and that I shouldn't have done that (like one can PREVENT having multiple babies or something).
WEIRD--I'm really hoping I NEVER get pregnat with that many babies at a time-and actually I don't want that many kids period, so I'm hoping I don't get pregnant with that many kids TOTAL.
Right. I'm going to start writing my paper now. I've procrastinated enough. Maybe I'll amuse you with another disturbing dream tomorrow! But hopefully it won't be about me being pregnant, cause I really don't want to start thinking this is a sign that I'm going to get pregnant soon.
Luvs!
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
New Book
Today I started reading a new book during my devotions. Donald Miller's "Searching for God know's what." I just wanted to share my journal entree with you today after I read the first chapter of that book.
My search for the perfect relationship with God has always been step based. Step 1: Read Bible daily. Step 2: Pray continuously. Step 3: Listen to His guiding 'words'. If I do this I achieve the optimum God relationship. But what about the seeking part? And how many times have I finished reading my Bible and then wondered what I had just read? It's like letting your mind wander throughout the entire sermon on Sunday morning and snapping out of it during the last prayer. Can you still say you were at church? Can I still smile, puff out my chest, tick the little box on my day planner that says "Quiet Time" and say I sought to know God better today?
I want to seek Him through whatever means necessary. Saying I can find God in those 3 steps could happen--but like Miller says, God is not a formula or a genie. He does not turn into our best friend if we tap our head and rub our stomach at the same time. He works in the lives of his children in new ways every day--I can expect to put God into the "formula" box and therefore undersstand God's workings in my life and the lives of others.
Goal-to seek Him today in a new way-through people, song, dance-always seeking th relationship with Him and not the "wishes" I want to come true
Prayer-Lead me, in new ways, to worship You each day.
My search for the perfect relationship with God has always been step based. Step 1: Read Bible daily. Step 2: Pray continuously. Step 3: Listen to His guiding 'words'. If I do this I achieve the optimum God relationship. But what about the seeking part? And how many times have I finished reading my Bible and then wondered what I had just read? It's like letting your mind wander throughout the entire sermon on Sunday morning and snapping out of it during the last prayer. Can you still say you were at church? Can I still smile, puff out my chest, tick the little box on my day planner that says "Quiet Time" and say I sought to know God better today?
I want to seek Him through whatever means necessary. Saying I can find God in those 3 steps could happen--but like Miller says, God is not a formula or a genie. He does not turn into our best friend if we tap our head and rub our stomach at the same time. He works in the lives of his children in new ways every day--I can expect to put God into the "formula" box and therefore undersstand God's workings in my life and the lives of others.
Goal-to seek Him today in a new way-through people, song, dance-always seeking th relationship with Him and not the "wishes" I want to come true
Prayer-Lead me, in new ways, to worship You each day.
Monday, January 15, 2007
What do YOU think?
The other day, my nine year old son wanted to know why we were at war. My husband looked at our son and then looked at me. My husband and I were in the Army during the Gulf War and we would be honored to serve and defend our Country again today. I knew that my husband would give him a good explanation. My husband thought for a few minutes and then told my son to go stand in our front living room window.
He said "Son, stand there and tell me what you see?"
"I see trees and cars and our neighbor's houses." he replied.
"OK, now I want you to pretend that our house and our yard is the United States of America and you are President Bush."
Our son giggled and said "OK."
"Now son, I want you to look out the window and pretend that every house and yard on this block is a different country" my husband said.
"OK Dad, I'm pretending."
"Now I want you to stand there and look out the window and pretend you see Saddam come out of his house with his wife, he has her by the hair and is hitting her. You see her bleeding and crying. He hits her in the face, he throws her on the ground, then he starts to kick her to death. Their children run out and are afraid to stop him, they are screaming and crying, they are watching this but do nothing because they are kids and they are afraid of their father. You see all of this, son....what do you do?"
"Dad?"
" What do you do son?"
"I'd call the police, Dad."
"OK. Pretend that the police are the United Nations. They take your call. They listen to what you know and saw but they refuse to help. What do you do then son?"
"Dad.......... But the police are supposed to help!" My son starts to whine.
"They don't want to son, because they say that it is not their place or your place to get involved and that you should stay out of it," my husband says.
"But Dad...he killed her!!" my son exclaims.
"I know he did...but the police tell you to stay out of it. Now I want you to look out that window and pretend you see our neighbor who you're pretending is Saddam turn around and do the same thing to his children."
"Daddy...he kills them?"
"Yes son, he does. What do you do?"
"Well, if the police don't want to help, I will go and ask my next door neighbor to help me stop him." our son says.
"Son, our next door neighbor sees what is happening and refuses to get involved as well. He refuses to open the door and help you stop him," my husband says.
"But Dad, I NEED help!!! I can't stop him by myself!!"
"WHAT DO YOU DO SON?" Our son starts to cry.
"OK, no one wants to help you, the man across the street saw you ask for help and saw that no one would help you stop him. He stands taller and puffs out his chest. Guess what he does next son?"
"What Daddy?"
"He walks across the street to the old ladies house and breaks down her door and drags her out, steals all her stuff and sets her house on fire and then...he kills her. He turns around and sees you standing in the window and laughs at you. WHAT DO YOU DO?"
"Daddy..."
"WHAT DO YOU DO?" Our son is crying and he looks down and he whispers, "I'd close the blinds, Daddy."
My husband looks at our son with tears in his eyes and asks him. "Why?"
"Because Daddy.....the police are supposed to help people who needs them...and they won't help.... You always say that neighbors are supposed to
HELP neighbors, but they won't help either...they won't help me stop him...I'm afraid....I can't do it by myself Daddy.....I can't look out my window and just watch him do all these terrible things and...and.....do nothing...so....I'm just going to close the blinds.... so I can't see what he's doing........and I'm going to pretend that it is not happening."
I start to cry. My husband looks at our nine year old son standing in the window, looking pitiful and ashamed at his answers to my husband's questions and he says...
"Son"
"Yes, Daddy."
"Open the blinds because that man.... he's at your front door... "WHAT DO YOU DO?"
My son looks at his father, anger and defiance in his eyes. He balls up his tiny fists and looks his father square in the eyes, without hesitation he says: " I DEFEND MY FAMILY DAD!! I'M NOT GONNA LET HIM HURT MOMMY OR MY SISTER, DAD!!! I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM, DAD, I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM!!!!!"
I see a tear roll down my husband's cheek and he grabs our son to his chest and hugs him tight, and says... “It’s too late to fight him, he's too strong and he's already at YOUR front door son.....you should have stopped him BEFORE he killed his wife, and his children and the old lady across the way. You have to do what's right, even if you have to do it alone, before it’s too late." my husband whispers. THAT scenario I just gave you is WHY we are at war with Iraq. When good men stand by and let evil happen son THAT is the greatest atrocity in the world. "YOU MUST NEVER BE AFRAID TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO DO IT ALONE!" BE PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN! BE PROUD OF OUR TROOPS!! SUPPORT THEM!!! SUPPORT AMERICA SO THAT IN THE FUTURE OUR CHILDREN WILL NEVER HAVE TO CLOSE THEIR BLINDS..."
This should be printed in every newspaper and posted in every school in America. Of course that won't happen so we'll use the Internet. If your blinds are closed do nothing with this email. If they are open I do not need to tell you what to do.
He said "Son, stand there and tell me what you see?"
"I see trees and cars and our neighbor's houses." he replied.
"OK, now I want you to pretend that our house and our yard is the United States of America and you are President Bush."
Our son giggled and said "OK."
"Now son, I want you to look out the window and pretend that every house and yard on this block is a different country" my husband said.
"OK Dad, I'm pretending."
"Now I want you to stand there and look out the window and pretend you see Saddam come out of his house with his wife, he has her by the hair and is hitting her. You see her bleeding and crying. He hits her in the face, he throws her on the ground, then he starts to kick her to death. Their children run out and are afraid to stop him, they are screaming and crying, they are watching this but do nothing because they are kids and they are afraid of their father. You see all of this, son....what do you do?"
"Dad?"
" What do you do son?"
"I'd call the police, Dad."
"OK. Pretend that the police are the United Nations. They take your call. They listen to what you know and saw but they refuse to help. What do you do then son?"
"Dad.......... But the police are supposed to help!" My son starts to whine.
"They don't want to son, because they say that it is not their place or your place to get involved and that you should stay out of it," my husband says.
"But Dad...he killed her!!" my son exclaims.
"I know he did...but the police tell you to stay out of it. Now I want you to look out that window and pretend you see our neighbor who you're pretending is Saddam turn around and do the same thing to his children."
"Daddy...he kills them?"
"Yes son, he does. What do you do?"
"Well, if the police don't want to help, I will go and ask my next door neighbor to help me stop him." our son says.
"Son, our next door neighbor sees what is happening and refuses to get involved as well. He refuses to open the door and help you stop him," my husband says.
"But Dad, I NEED help!!! I can't stop him by myself!!"
"WHAT DO YOU DO SON?" Our son starts to cry.
"OK, no one wants to help you, the man across the street saw you ask for help and saw that no one would help you stop him. He stands taller and puffs out his chest. Guess what he does next son?"
"What Daddy?"
"He walks across the street to the old ladies house and breaks down her door and drags her out, steals all her stuff and sets her house on fire and then...he kills her. He turns around and sees you standing in the window and laughs at you. WHAT DO YOU DO?"
"Daddy..."
"WHAT DO YOU DO?" Our son is crying and he looks down and he whispers, "I'd close the blinds, Daddy."
My husband looks at our son with tears in his eyes and asks him. "Why?"
"Because Daddy.....the police are supposed to help people who needs them...and they won't help.... You always say that neighbors are supposed to
HELP neighbors, but they won't help either...they won't help me stop him...I'm afraid....I can't do it by myself Daddy.....I can't look out my window and just watch him do all these terrible things and...and.....do nothing...so....I'm just going to close the blinds.... so I can't see what he's doing........and I'm going to pretend that it is not happening."
I start to cry. My husband looks at our nine year old son standing in the window, looking pitiful and ashamed at his answers to my husband's questions and he says...
"Son"
"Yes, Daddy."
"Open the blinds because that man.... he's at your front door... "WHAT DO YOU DO?"
My son looks at his father, anger and defiance in his eyes. He balls up his tiny fists and looks his father square in the eyes, without hesitation he says: " I DEFEND MY FAMILY DAD!! I'M NOT GONNA LET HIM HURT MOMMY OR MY SISTER, DAD!!! I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM, DAD, I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM!!!!!"
I see a tear roll down my husband's cheek and he grabs our son to his chest and hugs him tight, and says... “It’s too late to fight him, he's too strong and he's already at YOUR front door son.....you should have stopped him BEFORE he killed his wife, and his children and the old lady across the way. You have to do what's right, even if you have to do it alone, before it’s too late." my husband whispers. THAT scenario I just gave you is WHY we are at war with Iraq. When good men stand by and let evil happen son THAT is the greatest atrocity in the world. "YOU MUST NEVER BE AFRAID TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO DO IT ALONE!" BE PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN! BE PROUD OF OUR TROOPS!! SUPPORT THEM!!! SUPPORT AMERICA SO THAT IN THE FUTURE OUR CHILDREN WILL NEVER HAVE TO CLOSE THEIR BLINDS..."
This should be printed in every newspaper and posted in every school in America. Of course that won't happen so we'll use the Internet. If your blinds are closed do nothing with this email. If they are open I do not need to tell you what to do.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Dread the next 4 weeks
I finally took my Praxis teacher test today, since last time i got sick and couldn't go. I just got done. I really have no clue how i did-i ran out of time and ...i just don't want to think about it. there nothing i can do now anyway. if i failed it ill just have to take it again---PRAY that i passed.
peace out-i headin to Asheville for the rest of the day to chill w/ my friend Tim.
luvs!
peace out-i headin to Asheville for the rest of the day to chill w/ my friend Tim.
luvs!
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Back on track
It's snowing outside!!!! It's been coming down since I left for school this morning at 9:45! It's not really sticking though since it's above freezing at the moment. The snow isn't supposed to stop all night though-so maybe we'll have enough to sled on by tomorrow morning (keeping my fingers crossed).
I'm back at school now-currently taking 5 classes and in high hopes to add another one to it as of this afternoon. I have to say though, this is NOT my favorite semester so far. I have AT LEAST 2 classes I already don't enjoy and another is a probability. But, the english classes I'm taking are really good--and that's 3 of them. I'm taking Intro to Art (which I'm thinking isn't going to enlighten me very much--our teacher seems to be a bit of a slacker) and Intro to Film Studies (which orginally I thought would be fun, but I found out loads of the movies we have to watch are probably going to be quite offensive to me). So, that's my schedule so far.
I'm still looking for a part time job-on or off campus at the moment-so hopefully that will pan out. It seems like Tuesdays and Thursdays are going to be really long days for me as I'll have classes from 11 to 5 (straight through w/ no breaks). Plus-I used to go to Mountain Perks and have coffee and see Sophie every Thursday, but since the coffee shop closes at 5 every day I'm not going to be able to do that--that is VERY sad. I'll miss those visits-but I might be able to work going in the morning every once in awhile-before school.
Well-I'm outta here, I have one more class (the one I'm trying to get into) so I'm gonna start walking. It's great to be back and see all our friends. Sarah got everyone together Sunday night as a 'Welcome Back' party for us--it was REALLY sweet and we had a blast. Luvs!
I'm back at school now-currently taking 5 classes and in high hopes to add another one to it as of this afternoon. I have to say though, this is NOT my favorite semester so far. I have AT LEAST 2 classes I already don't enjoy and another is a probability. But, the english classes I'm taking are really good--and that's 3 of them. I'm taking Intro to Art (which I'm thinking isn't going to enlighten me very much--our teacher seems to be a bit of a slacker) and Intro to Film Studies (which orginally I thought would be fun, but I found out loads of the movies we have to watch are probably going to be quite offensive to me). So, that's my schedule so far.
I'm still looking for a part time job-on or off campus at the moment-so hopefully that will pan out. It seems like Tuesdays and Thursdays are going to be really long days for me as I'll have classes from 11 to 5 (straight through w/ no breaks). Plus-I used to go to Mountain Perks and have coffee and see Sophie every Thursday, but since the coffee shop closes at 5 every day I'm not going to be able to do that--that is VERY sad. I'll miss those visits-but I might be able to work going in the morning every once in awhile-before school.
Well-I'm outta here, I have one more class (the one I'm trying to get into) so I'm gonna start walking. It's great to be back and see all our friends. Sarah got everyone together Sunday night as a 'Welcome Back' party for us--it was REALLY sweet and we had a blast. Luvs!
Friday, January 05, 2007
Homeward
Well-today we're heading towards home. I say "towards" because we're stoping over in London for the night and then heading out early the next morning for Charlotte. The rest of the pictures from Belfast will go up today for you all to see. We've had an amazing visit here and gotten to see so many sights and spend quality time with Dave's friends and family. We'll be sad to go, but, if you can believe it, Dave misses work and I am actually looking forward to my new set of classes for the Spring semester at WCU.
We will be arriving back in Charlotte for Saturday evening and we'll spend the night at my parent's house. Then we'll head back to Bryson City on Sunday. We miss our B.C. family! I'm looking forward to getting back into Grey's Anatomy and the NEW season of Survivor watching w/ Sarah and Lydia. We've also REALLY REALLY missed our small group and church--can't wait to get back to those things. Plus, it'll be nice to get back to some decent weather as well, lol. No offense to the Irish-but rain 90% of the time and sun 10% (and that's being optimistic) is really depressing--or at least does not suit me. Well-WE'LL SEE YOU BACK IN THE STATES SOON! Love you guys!
We will be arriving back in Charlotte for Saturday evening and we'll spend the night at my parent's house. Then we'll head back to Bryson City on Sunday. We miss our B.C. family! I'm looking forward to getting back into Grey's Anatomy and the NEW season of Survivor watching w/ Sarah and Lydia. We've also REALLY REALLY missed our small group and church--can't wait to get back to those things. Plus, it'll be nice to get back to some decent weather as well, lol. No offense to the Irish-but rain 90% of the time and sun 10% (and that's being optimistic) is really depressing--or at least does not suit me. Well-WE'LL SEE YOU BACK IN THE STATES SOON! Love you guys!
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Mourne Moutain hike pictures
This started out ot be a great hike-beautiful weather-but ended in snow, sleet, and then bucket loads of rain, drenching us to the bone. However, we got some great pictures and it was great exercise!
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Sunday, December 31, 2006
The New Year
Paris was amazing! We'll show you pictures soon, but we haven't gotten them developed yet (since I left the digital camera we had to use ghetto cameras with film-jeez, lol). So, I'll explain the rest of our Paris trip when I post the pictures.
I want to talk about the New Year though. I was on this train of thought when I e-mailed Molly earlier and thought I'd continue it on in my blog. New Year's Eve always inspires people to take a look at their lives and their personal adventures and advancements they have made. They ask themselves-what are my goals for this year? Did I accomplish or advance any of my goals for last year? I used to think New Years Resolutions were rediculous, but why do we think that? Maybe because we make them without real thought or we set our goals too high. Maybe we say we want to lose weight but we really hate exercising and don't expect that we'll ever do anything about it. But past the "I want to lose weight" stuff do we ever REALLY evaluate ourselves over the last year and think, "I need to make some changes," and set those changes in motion? After February, or the first 2 weeks of January for some, do we even remember what our goals were in the first place?
I was reading an article in the UK Glamour yesterday on the plane (don't laugh, they have some good advice sometimes) and all these rich women were giving advice for how to make a butt-load of money. I didn't think of their advice in terms of making money, but in terms of advancing one's life to the stage you want it to be in. All these women said basically the same thing--make daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, five-year, and ten-year plans for you life and FOLLOW THROUGH. Don't write you goals down in some notebook never to be found again, but look back to them DAILY and see if you are pushing yourself to get there.
Now-having said all that-what am I going to do about it? Well, I actually don't have any New Year's Resolutions yet-but I will before the end of the day and I'll pass them on to you so you can ask me-what are you doing about that goal?
And as for last year's goals-I can't remember very many, but one was to yell less. I think I have done better with that, but you'd have to ask Dave if he's seen any real improvement.
This year I want to make goals that not only improve myself in terms of advancement in life, but in Spiritual walk and personality changes as well. I want to be the kind of person that CAN and DOES make changes for the better in themselves and never gets stuck in that rut of "the norm." I want to think more and have more meaningful conversations, to discuss rather than argue, to love openly, to talk about my faith openly, to be less scared and fearful of things, to be passionate and indepent, but know when to lean on others. I want to stop this viscious cycle of reading my Bible every morning for a few weeks and putting it down for a month. I want to talk to God non-stop, and know we're close enough so that I can grow and change with His correction. Maybe these are my New Year's resolutions-but I think they need to be a bit more specific to be of any use to be daily, weekly, & yearly.
I hope this made you think about your goals for your life.
May you walk away from this screen today and purposely take steps to improve yourself and let God mold you. May you live life on the upward path of discovery and not on the treadmill of downfalls. May you love--with open arms and and open heart-without thought for who or what but only that God loves all things and so should you and I.
Happy New Year.
I want to talk about the New Year though. I was on this train of thought when I e-mailed Molly earlier and thought I'd continue it on in my blog. New Year's Eve always inspires people to take a look at their lives and their personal adventures and advancements they have made. They ask themselves-what are my goals for this year? Did I accomplish or advance any of my goals for last year? I used to think New Years Resolutions were rediculous, but why do we think that? Maybe because we make them without real thought or we set our goals too high. Maybe we say we want to lose weight but we really hate exercising and don't expect that we'll ever do anything about it. But past the "I want to lose weight" stuff do we ever REALLY evaluate ourselves over the last year and think, "I need to make some changes," and set those changes in motion? After February, or the first 2 weeks of January for some, do we even remember what our goals were in the first place?
I was reading an article in the UK Glamour yesterday on the plane (don't laugh, they have some good advice sometimes) and all these rich women were giving advice for how to make a butt-load of money. I didn't think of their advice in terms of making money, but in terms of advancing one's life to the stage you want it to be in. All these women said basically the same thing--make daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, five-year, and ten-year plans for you life and FOLLOW THROUGH. Don't write you goals down in some notebook never to be found again, but look back to them DAILY and see if you are pushing yourself to get there.
Now-having said all that-what am I going to do about it? Well, I actually don't have any New Year's Resolutions yet-but I will before the end of the day and I'll pass them on to you so you can ask me-what are you doing about that goal?
And as for last year's goals-I can't remember very many, but one was to yell less. I think I have done better with that, but you'd have to ask Dave if he's seen any real improvement.
This year I want to make goals that not only improve myself in terms of advancement in life, but in Spiritual walk and personality changes as well. I want to be the kind of person that CAN and DOES make changes for the better in themselves and never gets stuck in that rut of "the norm." I want to think more and have more meaningful conversations, to discuss rather than argue, to love openly, to talk about my faith openly, to be less scared and fearful of things, to be passionate and indepent, but know when to lean on others. I want to stop this viscious cycle of reading my Bible every morning for a few weeks and putting it down for a month. I want to talk to God non-stop, and know we're close enough so that I can grow and change with His correction. Maybe these are my New Year's resolutions-but I think they need to be a bit more specific to be of any use to be daily, weekly, & yearly.
I hope this made you think about your goals for your life.
May you walk away from this screen today and purposely take steps to improve yourself and let God mold you. May you live life on the upward path of discovery and not on the treadmill of downfalls. May you love--with open arms and and open heart-without thought for who or what but only that God loves all things and so should you and I.
Happy New Year.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
To the Airport--again
We're leaving for Paris today!!!! We'll be arrving there about 9:30 pm--4:30 pm for you guys in the US and Canada. We're going to be seeing Versailles tomorrow (YAY!) and then the Louvre and Notre Dame on Friday. I can't wait!!! We'll take lots of pictures-on our regular film camera-and you'll be able to see them when we get them developed and scan them into the computer.
Today is a typical rainy day in Ireland, but I'm starting not to mind as much, just expecting it I guess. It's actually really beautiful when it rains here-everything looks greener. It's still cold-obviously, but I'm getting use to it I think-wearing more layers than I usually do helps keep warm and moving from radiator to radiator helps as well (or standing in front of the fireplace).
I'm off-we're watching the original Herby movie. It's really good!
Today is a typical rainy day in Ireland, but I'm starting not to mind as much, just expecting it I guess. It's actually really beautiful when it rains here-everything looks greener. It's still cold-obviously, but I'm getting use to it I think-wearing more layers than I usually do helps keep warm and moving from radiator to radiator helps as well (or standing in front of the fireplace).
I'm off-we're watching the original Herby movie. It's really good!
Monday, December 25, 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006
International holiday wishes
Happy Christmas Eve,
i am now preparing to head out to the christmas eve service at about 11:30. Last time i was here for the christmas eve service it was snowing when we came out. I won't keep my hopes up for that this year as it is too warm. Before we go we'll have friends over for mulled wine, which i won't partake in, since i don't like it much. It tastes something like what i would imagine liquified, boiled cranberry sauce to taste like--but to each their own.
I would be posting loads of beautiful Edinbugh photos, however, as i was mugged on the street and my purse stolen with the camera in it i shan't be able to do that. Don't be alarmed, i am safe and well...ACTUALLY, I left my purse (with camera inside) in the airport resturant before we went through security. They did find it and put it in lost and found, so we'll get a friend from there to mail it back shortly-though the uploading of pictures will probably be delayed until we get back to the U.S. I'm always leaving things places--I know Mom.
Merry Christmas to all my family (that includes you Soph). I am dearly missing you all, today especially. I miss the tranditions we have on Christmas Eve at Grandmama's house, and I missed seeing the Eddy side of the family at Aunt Cathy's. To all my B.C. (Bryson City) family--Dave and I have already started talking about starting a new Christmas tradition there next year with a Christmas weekend (a few weeks before Christmas-or before people start heading places) with a big turkey dinner w/ everyone and maybe a ski trip to Cattaloochi (no idea how that's spelled) for the day. We love all our B.C. family so much-we miss you guys loads!
Remember to spend as much time with your loved ones this holiday and listen to your grandparents/friends retell the stories you've heard a hundred times (don't forget to laugh even if its a joke you've heard before). Hug everyone twice and make sure they know they are loved and hold a special place in your heart.
Special Messages:
To my two younger sisters (Bethany and Sophie)--I miss you guys especially right now. I've gotten to know you both so much better these last couple of months and have had some wonderful conversations. I've gotten to spend time (both on the phone and in person) with you that has really meant the world to me. You've been there for me through some really emotional times this year, and I just wanted to thank you so much--I'm almost crying just typing this-yeesh. Merry Christmas ladies-I love you SO SO much.
Bethany-you are an amazing woman. You hold to your values and know what you believe-I respect and look up to you in that-I'm so proud that you're my sister! Thank you for valuing my opinion-I don't deserve it, but it makes me feel so extremely worthwhile-you have no idea. I love you.
Sophie-you are a talented, beautiful, smart woman-don't you EVER doubt that. Be strong in who God made you. KNOW that you were created with a purpose and don't let the world or doubts ever tell you otherwise. You have been such a friend and sister to me this year. You have let me cry on you and vis versa. Thank you for being there for me-for loving me and for letting me love you-you are trully a part of my family-don't ever forget that.
To David-my little bro-you are growing up so fast! I can't believe you can drive now! I just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you. You are growing into an amazing christian guy who really stands up for what he believes. You inspire me to keep doing the same. Some of the conversations we had this year, especially when I was home just a few weeks ago for fall break, have really shown me you're not afraid to stand up for what's right, even against the hardest people-your friends. I love you and the man you're turning into-thank you for following what you know is right, I know it's not easy, but God will help you continue on!
To my Older brother and sister: Thanks for never giving up on me. I know I worried you a lot in highschool and the first couple of years after. Even though you always listened to my latest problems you never judged me. Thanks for believing that I could be a better person and make better decisions. I love talking to you both so much. I still look up to you. You and your families are a very important part of my life.
Shannon-our weekly conversations are something I look forward to so much. I know I can always pick up the phone and you'll have a few minutes to talk. You make me feel like I really am important to you and you care about my life and love me-thank you for always being there to do the same thing for me in highschool.
Shaun-thanks for talking to me whenever we do actually talk on the phone. The fact that you're interested in my life and that you really DO want to talk to me really is important to me. I love your hugs and your sincerity. I love your Godly character and the way you lead your family-you have always been a role model to me, thank you so much for that.
To my parents: Thank you for your support of Dave and I this past year and half. It's meant the world to me. You love him and accept him into our family and respect him as a Godly leader, and that just really...I can't tell you what that means to me. Thank you for always keeping the lines of communication open between you and I--for praying for me when I feel my prayers aren't strong enough, for always having time to talk, for loving me no matter what. I feel more blessed every day to have the family that I do.
To my husband: This time two years ago you had no clue what you were getting yourself into by marrying me. You have gotten to know all my quirks and emotional ups and downs. You hold me when I cry, even if you have absolutely no clue why I'm doing so. You've stopped trying to fix everything when I'm upset and you just hold me until I tell you what I DO want you to do. You make me breakfast on the weekends and you try to match your clothes as best you can, just so you don't embaress me (I really do appreciate that). You are always telling me things that build me up and feel like a wonderfully loveable, unique, loved individual. You are patient and soft spoken. You've helped me learn that I don't REALLY need to yell to express myself. Thank you for being such a Godly leader in our home. Thank you for taking time to learn my "love language" and trying your best to communicate regularly with it. Thank you for always loving me with passion and tenderness and never being afraid to tell me what you think. I love you baby, you are my best friend and soul-mate. I can honstely say I love you more today than the day we were married.
Have a Merry Christmas everyone--make the most of your time this Christmas. Spend extra times talking to the ones you care about and that YOU mean a lot to this Christmas. Thank God for His blessings and your time here on earth. Give of yourself, it is the best Christmas gift you can get-the feeling that you have helped another person this Christmas. I love you!
i am now preparing to head out to the christmas eve service at about 11:30. Last time i was here for the christmas eve service it was snowing when we came out. I won't keep my hopes up for that this year as it is too warm. Before we go we'll have friends over for mulled wine, which i won't partake in, since i don't like it much. It tastes something like what i would imagine liquified, boiled cranberry sauce to taste like--but to each their own.
I would be posting loads of beautiful Edinbugh photos, however, as i was mugged on the street and my purse stolen with the camera in it i shan't be able to do that. Don't be alarmed, i am safe and well...ACTUALLY, I left my purse (with camera inside) in the airport resturant before we went through security. They did find it and put it in lost and found, so we'll get a friend from there to mail it back shortly-though the uploading of pictures will probably be delayed until we get back to the U.S. I'm always leaving things places--I know Mom.
Merry Christmas to all my family (that includes you Soph). I am dearly missing you all, today especially. I miss the tranditions we have on Christmas Eve at Grandmama's house, and I missed seeing the Eddy side of the family at Aunt Cathy's. To all my B.C. (Bryson City) family--Dave and I have already started talking about starting a new Christmas tradition there next year with a Christmas weekend (a few weeks before Christmas-or before people start heading places) with a big turkey dinner w/ everyone and maybe a ski trip to Cattaloochi (no idea how that's spelled) for the day. We love all our B.C. family so much-we miss you guys loads!
Remember to spend as much time with your loved ones this holiday and listen to your grandparents/friends retell the stories you've heard a hundred times (don't forget to laugh even if its a joke you've heard before). Hug everyone twice and make sure they know they are loved and hold a special place in your heart.
Special Messages:
To my two younger sisters (Bethany and Sophie)--I miss you guys especially right now. I've gotten to know you both so much better these last couple of months and have had some wonderful conversations. I've gotten to spend time (both on the phone and in person) with you that has really meant the world to me. You've been there for me through some really emotional times this year, and I just wanted to thank you so much--I'm almost crying just typing this-yeesh. Merry Christmas ladies-I love you SO SO much.
Bethany-you are an amazing woman. You hold to your values and know what you believe-I respect and look up to you in that-I'm so proud that you're my sister! Thank you for valuing my opinion-I don't deserve it, but it makes me feel so extremely worthwhile-you have no idea. I love you.
Sophie-you are a talented, beautiful, smart woman-don't you EVER doubt that. Be strong in who God made you. KNOW that you were created with a purpose and don't let the world or doubts ever tell you otherwise. You have been such a friend and sister to me this year. You have let me cry on you and vis versa. Thank you for being there for me-for loving me and for letting me love you-you are trully a part of my family-don't ever forget that.
To David-my little bro-you are growing up so fast! I can't believe you can drive now! I just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you. You are growing into an amazing christian guy who really stands up for what he believes. You inspire me to keep doing the same. Some of the conversations we had this year, especially when I was home just a few weeks ago for fall break, have really shown me you're not afraid to stand up for what's right, even against the hardest people-your friends. I love you and the man you're turning into-thank you for following what you know is right, I know it's not easy, but God will help you continue on!
To my Older brother and sister: Thanks for never giving up on me. I know I worried you a lot in highschool and the first couple of years after. Even though you always listened to my latest problems you never judged me. Thanks for believing that I could be a better person and make better decisions. I love talking to you both so much. I still look up to you. You and your families are a very important part of my life.
Shannon-our weekly conversations are something I look forward to so much. I know I can always pick up the phone and you'll have a few minutes to talk. You make me feel like I really am important to you and you care about my life and love me-thank you for always being there to do the same thing for me in highschool.
Shaun-thanks for talking to me whenever we do actually talk on the phone. The fact that you're interested in my life and that you really DO want to talk to me really is important to me. I love your hugs and your sincerity. I love your Godly character and the way you lead your family-you have always been a role model to me, thank you so much for that.
To my parents: Thank you for your support of Dave and I this past year and half. It's meant the world to me. You love him and accept him into our family and respect him as a Godly leader, and that just really...I can't tell you what that means to me. Thank you for always keeping the lines of communication open between you and I--for praying for me when I feel my prayers aren't strong enough, for always having time to talk, for loving me no matter what. I feel more blessed every day to have the family that I do.
To my husband: This time two years ago you had no clue what you were getting yourself into by marrying me. You have gotten to know all my quirks and emotional ups and downs. You hold me when I cry, even if you have absolutely no clue why I'm doing so. You've stopped trying to fix everything when I'm upset and you just hold me until I tell you what I DO want you to do. You make me breakfast on the weekends and you try to match your clothes as best you can, just so you don't embaress me (I really do appreciate that). You are always telling me things that build me up and feel like a wonderfully loveable, unique, loved individual. You are patient and soft spoken. You've helped me learn that I don't REALLY need to yell to express myself. Thank you for being such a Godly leader in our home. Thank you for taking time to learn my "love language" and trying your best to communicate regularly with it. Thank you for always loving me with passion and tenderness and never being afraid to tell me what you think. I love you baby, you are my best friend and soul-mate. I can honstely say I love you more today than the day we were married.
Have a Merry Christmas everyone--make the most of your time this Christmas. Spend extra times talking to the ones you care about and that YOU mean a lot to this Christmas. Thank God for His blessings and your time here on earth. Give of yourself, it is the best Christmas gift you can get-the feeling that you have helped another person this Christmas. I love you!
Friday, December 22, 2006
Edinburgh, Scottland
We're in Edinburgh now and have seen three of Dave's old school mates now. We're staying over with one of them tonight and tomorrow night. Tomorrow afternoon we're heading to a wedding in a castle just outside the city. It's beautiful here--the skyline is amazing! I will post pictures once we're back in Ireland--hopefully I'll have them up before Christmas but don't know for sure. We walked all around the city today and did a little shopping. I GOT SOME RED BOOTS! They are VERY cute-maybe I'll post a pic of them too! You could see Edinburgh Castle from about anywhere in town today-it looked even better as the lights came on around it once the evening hit.
P.S. Posted two pictures of Ediburgh Castle I got off Google--they don't do it justice though. If you click on the first one it enlarges and you can see it better.
P.S. Posted two pictures of Ediburgh Castle I got off Google--they don't do it justice though. If you click on the first one it enlarges and you can see it better.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Unusual Day
It's a very scarce day in N. Ireland today--it's bright and sunny-although, mind you, not warm. It's about 33' here at the moment-great for wearing my big coat. We were going to go climbing in the climbing gym here in Belfast today-but found out it's closed until January for repairs-very sad. So, we're off for a walk around Stormont (the parliament building in town-very old and beautiful) and then to have tea with Uncle Doug and Aunt Mercil (i love them). Doug is very interactive and kind of hyper actually (Helen-don't you tell him I said any of that). I like the way he talks, very fast and he uses his hands. He's loud but extremely nice and welcoming.
Yesterday we went to lunch with Dave's cousing Adam and his wife Frances. Frances is another quite lively one-I like her a lot. I wish we could spend more time with them, but they are both going to be doctors and their time is already pretty limited. We had a great time with them yesterday chatting during lunch though.
Well-I'm off to take a walk. Talk to you soon!
P.S. Picture at the bottom is of Stormont. The long stretch below it is the hill we walk up to get there. Then the walk bends off to the left and you continue around the block. I haven't ever been inside though-but I've heard it's beautiful.
Yesterday we went to lunch with Dave's cousing Adam and his wife Frances. Frances is another quite lively one-I like her a lot. I wish we could spend more time with them, but they are both going to be doctors and their time is already pretty limited. We had a great time with them yesterday chatting during lunch though.
Well-I'm off to take a walk. Talk to you soon!
P.S. Picture at the bottom is of Stormont. The long stretch below it is the hill we walk up to get there. Then the walk bends off to the left and you continue around the block. I haven't ever been inside though-but I've heard it's beautiful.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
London sights
Cute pic of Dave and I on a bridge in London
Church where an Eddy ancester was vicar until 1616
The Ritz (obviously)
National Art Museum
The Palace
Big Ben & Westminister Abbey
Church where an Eddy ancester was vicar until 1616
The Ritz (obviously)
National Art Museum
The Palace
Big Ben & Westminister Abbey
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