Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Reflecting

The end of another year cannot help but bring about some reflection on the year that is ending and hope and desires for the new year to come. While I have never been one to really make a New Year's Resolution I have felt some stirings in looking at how life has been going for me and how I would like for it to go. I think part of this is in light of Grandmother's passing as well as looking forward to starting my married life during this next year.
During the last couple of months I have realized more about my own personal limits. I know more of what I can and cannot handle and am getting better at not trying to load my plate down.
I have also realized how valuable my friends and family are to me. I would not be where I am AT ALL without them. They have been there in ways I cannot even begin to describe during this last year. They have helped to shape me into who I am today. Losing a loved one brought me to a place of cherishing those that I love! More than ever I want to make time for people. To actually call them and hang out instead of saying I'm going to do so. To travel to see friends that are far away.

Other "goals" for the year (hopefully longer) are to grow in my relationship with the Lord and with Aaron. And also to be more consistent with taking photographs and putting them to use instead of just on the computer. I would also like to get back to blogging and adding photos to the blog--feel free to hold me accountable to that!

love you all and thanks for checking in

Friday, December 26, 2008

Christmas wrap-up

This certainly was a Christmas I will never forget. Things have not been traditional in the slightest. Well....at least not most things. We did Christmas eve as usual at my grandparents; although that has changed a lot over the last couple of years as we have gotten older, some of us have married and others now have kids. Altogether the evening was wonderful as we simply enjoyed being around family. It was nice to see everyone, since it had been nearly six months since the last time I saw some of them. I really enjoyed being around family, I needed to be around family. I needed for some part of Christmas to be "normal".
After my grandparents we went back to my house instead of my parents to spend the night. Aaron and I decided not to go to Christmas eve service since we got about 3.5 hours of sleep the night before. My family allowed me to watch A Christmas Story one time as we played a few games before heading off to bed. I love that movie and could not imagine Christmas without it!
I slept in Christmas morning later than I have ever slept on Christmas before.
The rest of the day was interesting and in many ways very un Christmasy. We ate breakfast as a family (including Aaron!) and then got ready for playing games at Lynn's. We got to her house around 3 and played games until 12:30 that night. By the end of the day I was exhausted!
Today we have been at Aaron's parents, enjoying Christmas with his family. The day has been filled with great food, family, and fun.

More to come over the next couple of days and I promise that it will not be so boring and list like. And hopefully will include pictures!

Sunday, December 21, 2008

long awaited (maybe?) update

It has been quite awhile since I last posted. I have either been very busy or too tired to manage posting recently. Tomorrow is my last day of school until after Christmas break. This weekend has been wonderful since I have done nothing but relax and be with the ones that I love. I have played games, relaxed, finished reading my book, spent time with friends/family, and enjoyed a little Christmas baking. Now, because I don't have a lot of time and energy here are photo snapshots of the past few weeks.

Fun with friends at Dollywood :)




We graduated!!! Finally!!!

Cooper's baptism

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Thanksgiving thoughts

Today is Thanksgiving and I have been contemplating off and on all day what this holiday is about and trying to put into words all of the many things I have to be thankful for. I could in no way attempt to put them into words. Even through this difficult time in my life, God has been ever faithful to me, blessing me despite my flaws and unfaithfulness. I feel as if the last couple weeks I have been very withdrawn and selfish, hiding in my hole, unwilling to join in with the rest of the world. Things in my life have been very busy, but I have also been numb.
Today has been a wonderful day of family and food. Mom and I did a pretty good job of cooking for everyone (if I do say so myself). I really felt like Grandmother would have been proud of us. In fact I KNOW that she is proud of me!
Thank you so much (the few of you that do read this:)) for keeping me/us in your prayers these past few weeks. I am hoping that this continues to get easier, and that I will once again feel connected to the world around me. I would like to be blogging about "lighter" things and also have the time and energy to post some pictures as well.

Monday, November 17, 2008

She's with Jesus

Early this morning my grandmother went to be with Jesus.

Today has been very emotional and I know that the next few days will be even more so. Please continue to keep our family in your prayers. This is not easy.

Right now I am sitting on grandmother's couch kind of numb. Overall I am at peace. She lived a wonderful life and is finally free from all of the pain. Yes it hurts, and yes I have cried. I am sure my time for shedding tears is not over. But I know that Jesus is looking after my grandmother now and who could do a better job than that?

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Yesterday and today...

We went to the hospital again today. Even though Mom had called earlier in the day and given me a heads up I was amazed at the drastic difference from yesterday to today. Yesterday she was sitting up and talking, today she was sleeping and moaning/crying out. Yesterday she knew who each of us was and was able to tell us she loved us, today she was unaware we were even in the room. Yesterday she ate and drank, today she couldnt even swallow her pain meds (the only meds they are now giving).
Needless to say these are only a few of the changes we each witnessed today. Even though she was unable to talk with us or was even aware we were in the room we took turns going into her room and simply being with her. Some of us had things to say, others wanted to say goodbye. I found myself unable to leave her side. For the longest time I simply stood there and watched her. I was not exceptionally sad, I just needed to be there. I prayed, told her I loved her, and held her hand. After awhile I left only so that others could have their time with her. Wondering if I would get to see her again at all. Wondering if I would be ok if I didnt.
Yesterday I found myself at peace with the decisions being made and what they meant. Today I am not so sure.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Grief and prayers

Many of my posts from the last couple of weeks/months have mentioned my grandmother and how difficult life has become around here lately. After many, many years of sickness she has finally reaching the end of her time here on Earth. She is in an indescribable amount of pain and knows that there is nothing the doctors can do to heal her problems. Our family has watched her condition deteriorate over the last couple of months into areas we never thought we would have to go. This whole process has been so much harder than I ever thought it would be. My grandmother is probably the closest family member I have. While I have known for years that it would be difficult for me to process her passing I never imagined that things would be like this. It is so hard for me to watch her suffer and not be able to do anything about it. She is such a strong and independent person. Losing the ability to walk and care for herself has been very difficult.

Please be in prayer as our family works through these last few days my grandmother has to spend on Earth with us. Pray that we would do things honorably by her and not try to act selfishly out of our pain. Pray that we know what we need to do or say and that we can adjust to medical help coming in to help us during these last few days. Pray that when the time comes for her to pass that things go as smoothly and painlessly as possible. And pray also for our family as we look at facing the holidays without a very important and dear family member.

There is so much that I love about my grandmother! More to follow on that when time and energy allows.

I will try to post updates on her condition and how you can best pray as I am able. If you do not see a post from me know that it may be as much from exhaustion or lack of words than from something major happening.

Days of Gratitude revisited

I have not forgotten my goal of writing down the things I am thankful for--it just has become difficult for a variety of reasons. There are so many things that I am thankful for, and God is so faithful to bring them to me every day. Unfortunately life has dealt me other cards right now and it has become harder for me to find the time to sit down and blog or to try to put my thoughts into words when I do have the time. Often when I have "free" time, I am tired from all that life is bringing my way and end up falling asleep.

Since I have missed so many days in recording my grateful thoughts I am just going to list a few today. I am not sure if I will have time to come back and update or not. At this point I am not even sure if I will be able to post on Thanksgiving.
So for now here are my thankful and grateful thoughts:
*Rainbows--a visible reminder of God's promises
*Prayers--I cannot even begin to describe valuable these are to me right now
*Aaron--again...words cannot describe
*finally getting to sleep in
*bob's successful surgery
*memories
*getting to spend time with family and friends

I have many more...but yet again exhaustion is setting in.
Thanks for "listening" and being there. I hope that all of you take a little time to recognize all of the gifts God has given you. If you post any on your blog let me know as I would love share in them with you.

Monday, November 3, 2008

24) the little things...

The things that have touched my heart the most lately are the little things. The smiles from my tearbucket kid at school, my fiance thinking to bring me a cherry limeaide and rose at work just cause, happy hour at sonic, my j-bug, an extra hour's sleep, conversations with old friends, purple, a friendly word from a co-worker, favorite pair of jeans, plans with friends, new photos of those that i love, grandparents, getting to plan my wedding, Nicole C. Mullen!, etc.
I could be here for hours and not even touch the surface. God has been so good to me. Even with all that is going on in my life right now I am amazed by these little blessings He sends my way each and every day to remind me just how much He loves me.

Hopefully over the next couple of days I can do a better job of posting.

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Days of Gratitude

While I was blog surfing/stalking earlier tonight I found a post encouraging you to write a message or note of gratitude on the days leading up to Thanksgiving. So, starting tomorrow I will be attempting to record the things I am grateful for here on my blog. I know that anything I post will only be skimming the surface of the blessings God has poured out on my life.

rambling updates

I apologize for the long wait on whether or not I made it through my last week of utter chaos. I will try not to lose sleep over the severe lack of inquiry into my status :). After many (and often late) hours and an unplanned extra day off, I finished my thesis!!!!!
Life since then has not slowed down as much as I really would have liked. In fact, it took me a few days before I mentally felt like I was finished and could relax and enjoy things. Guess that just goes to show how stressed and consumed I was.
I have enjoyed a night or two of simply sitting and enjoying life. It is nice to know that I can do the things I need to do and still have some time left over for the things that I want to do. I have caught up on some cleaning, though I still have more to do. I have also had a chance to read for pleasure! What a strange concept that has been!
Life at work has been anything but dull lately. I have had some trouble recently with parents and cannot seem to be tough enough for some but yet others are saying I'm too tough. This past week alone had so many ups and downs that I began to even doubt why I am in teaching at all. Fortunately I left school Friday with things being as good as they can be for now and feeling like I could enjoy my weekend. Please be in prayer for things at work to start looking up consistently.
And for those of you who are wondering how the wedding planning is going..........I have my dress!!! Unfortunately I cannot post pictures on here b/c the dear fiance does check the blog occasionally. If you need to see a pic before the big day then email me and I will be sure to send you a pic. So right now I am working on selecting bridesmaids dresses, and trying to nail down catering, photographers, and florists. It is easy for me to see how people can get so consumed by their weddings and others simply choose to elope.
Hopefully since my paper is finished I can start to update on a more regular basis.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

one week down, one more to go!

Today is National Pregnancy and and Infant Loss Day. Take a moment to pray for all of the families that this impacts.

On a lighter note:
Today will be my last real shot to get my paper written. I will also be packing for the Chrysalis weekend and trying to get as much school stuff completed as possible. Keep me in your prayers friends. One week left until my crazy to do list must be completed! I am already beginning to feel the load lighten! Hopefully I can keep plugging along and get all of my work wrapped up. Back to work!

Saturday, October 11, 2008

two weeks

In two weeks I can breathe, relax, feel somewhat back to normal....or at least as normal as my life can get right now. Two weeks from now I will have finished my thesis (for better or worse), been head logistics on a Chrysalis Journey, put together report cards for my kids at school, completed parent-teacher conferences, gone to a bridal show only to get the $1500 free gift package, had a workshop at school, worked the fall festival and mega parties at school, been visited by the worlds most wonderful Turners, and anything else that the good Lord feels like throwing my way.
I am to say the least feeling overwhelmed. I have made lists on top of lists. Learned that I can live on little to no sleep without completely killing anyone, although I am sure I am not the world's most pleasant person to be around right now.
I am learning that my wants and desires are not what is facing me most on my to do list right now. I am struggling with how to deal with that.

For the most part I am venting. There really is nothing anyone can do for me right now except to pray. Pray that first that all of this pushes me into the loving and supportive arms of my loving God. Pray that not only do I finish this and feel the glorious thrills of completion but that somehow throughout all of it that God is magnified.

Two weeks...

Monday, October 6, 2008

Wonderful weekend in Winston!

My car can just about drive itself down to Winston without my help now. I have driven down there so many times since April. I am fortunate enough to have two very wonderful reasons to make the frequent trips. My sweet soon to be fam--the Gieses and my amazingly wonderful sister Abby!
This past weekend Aaron and I were able to split our weekend enjoying time with both the Gieses and Abby. We drove down Friday night to spend some time with our adorable nephew while his parents went out for the evening. It was wonderful to see all of the amazing ways in which he has grown and also to be able to allow Sean and Christal to go out and enjoy each other. Saturday we spent a bit more time with all of them before going to hang out with Abby and her new fella at the fair.


What a great kid!


Our evening Saturday night was filled with many firsts. First time meeting the leading man in Abby's life, Aaron's first time at the fair, etc. From the very beginning things just seemed to fit between the four of us. We walked around the fair, eating our way from place to place. Our evening at the fair was complete with exhibits, pig races and of course fair food! Needless to say we threw our point counting out the window that night! Overall the evening was wonderful and filled with great food, friends, and fun!


I greatly enjoyed getting to meet Abby's new guy and was more than excited to see how much he adores her. I look forward to many more opportunities to hang out with the two of them. I love you sister and am so excited for you!

Thursday, September 25, 2008

I dont know how...

I had a great time tonight with my mother. We got together this afternoon and went over to Asheville for the bridal show. It was fun going around and seeing all of the vendors and what was available. It was fun to be able to share it with my mother.
I came home bubbly and happy, wishing to share it with my grandmother, Lynn, and a few others who were at my house. In all of the fun I had all night I had managed to temporarily forget all of the troubles going on at home before I left. Grandmother tried to put on a smile for us as we came home and listened to a few of the "highlights" from our evening. And then she let loose...
With no warning at all I became the target. Most of the time I am able to deflect the pain from these jabs, knowing deep down that it is not her. But tonight it hit me, and it hit me hard. I came out of her room where she had told me to "back off" and began to cry. I came downstairs, fell to the floor beside my bed and sobbed.
Even as I sit here now the tears fall.
I dont know how to do this. I dont know how to sit back and watch her suffer. I dont know how to keep the jabs from hurting. I want to be able to share my life with her, to turn to her just like I always have been able to. To feel and not just know that she loves me. I dont know how to watch the person that I have been closest to my whole life die. And worst of all to die so slowly and painfully. My heart (and right now the rest of my physical body) hurt so very deeply.

Monday, September 22, 2008

whew!

I cannot believe that it has been so long since my last post. I am grateful for those of you who still take the time to try and check in on my life. It means so very much to me to see your sweet and encouraging comments.

Life has been very very busy lately. I have loved EVERY minute of having Aaron in Haywood County with me!!! I think I had forgotten how wonderful it was to have him around all the time. I have yet to tire of seeing his handsome face or wish that he had something else to do instead of come see me :). We are both looking forward to enjoying this new stage of life as we prepare for our next stage of life...marriage!
I am still not finished with my thesis:(. I did complete and present my final presentation, which went really well. Now to just force myself to sit down and work on that pesky paper. I have faith that God will see me through until the end. I cannot wait to report to all of you that I am finished!
My awesome bro-in-law to be is taking his turn as a patient in the hospital in Winston right now. While I have not been able to be with their sweet family physically I have spent many moments on my knees in prayer for his full and speedy recovery. Christal has been amazing at updating everyone on their family blog thegieses.blogspot.com I am continuing to pray for God's healing hands upon Sean!
My grandmother is holding steady right now. She is still in a lot of pain and has many ups and downs. We should find out in the next couple of days whether or not Hospice will be coming in to help. Please continue to keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as this is not an easy journey for any of us.

Well I'm sure that doesnt cover everything but I hope that it offers a bit of insight into what life is holding for me right now (and possibly excuses my lack of posts recently)

Friday, August 29, 2008

Thesis update

Not that anyone has asked (I'll try not to be offended) but I thought I would get on and post a quick thesis update. As of this afternoon I have completed two of the five required chapters. Hopefully the productivity will continue since I really need to have all chapters finished by Thursday. If I am able to finish by Thursday that gives me a week to make corrections and finalize my powerpoint presentation.
Please continue to pray!

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

squeeky clean!

I have discovered the secret to having squeeky clean teeth painfree!!! Since having braces nearly a decade ago I have developed some mild/moderate tooth sensitivities. Along with these new pains came a new dread of the dentist. Each visit seemed to be more painful than the last. Two visits ago my dentist mentioned that there was something they could do to help me with the pain. In my head I was wondering why they hadnt said something before--it had been very obvious that I was in pain during the cleanings. So for the last two visits they have rubbed some sort of numbing gel over my gums. This does not completely remove ALL of the pain, but man does it help! I can now enjoy my squeeky clean teeth in comfort :)

Sunday, August 24, 2008

wonderful week

Those two little words have been spoken several times today. Normally I would not have paid much attention to them and may have even shrugged them off. Today I really felt God speaking to me through those two little words. I felt like this week really would be different, that it really would be a better week, a wonderful week.
I am praying that this week is not only wonderful but productive. I also pray that this week is wonderful for all of you (my few but wonderful) friends who take time to read my thoughts.
God's blessings!!

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

steven curtis chapman & the biltmore house

Well I had hoped to write out a lovely post full of all sorts of information about my visit with Abby and our trip to see the Biltmore House and Steven Curtis Chapman however, I cannot seem to find time to do so. So for now my dear friends you will have to make do with some pictures from the day and the knowledge that life is still very busy for me. I would appreciate any and all prayers as I strive very hard to finish my thesis, start back to work, and be there for my grandmother and family. Only a few more weeks of this absolute craziness!

I had a lot of fun taking pictures of the flowers! The photo of me holding a flower was taken because "George" the bee was sitting inside of it. :)

After singing his first song, Steven gave us all "permission" to stand up and take pictures of the beautiful sunset God created that night. It truly was amazing to experience the first ever Christian concert there at the Biltmore House looking out over all of God's wonderful creation.

Monday, August 4, 2008

stress and hope...

The last few weeks have been very stressful to say the least. I have spent many hours stressing over my thesis (though few actually getting to work on it), many hours doing things for my grandmother or getting her to where she needs to be, as well as a fair amount of time finishing up my last real grad class and dealing with other various family issues. I still do not have any of my thesis written (I am working hard on that today!) but have looked into what my options are as far as finishing it with or soon after the rest of my cohort. More than anything I want it to be finished and over with so that the pressure and stress surrounding it can be relieved. I am ready to look forward to spending time planning a wedding and hanging out with my family and friends. I am ready to enjoy all of those parts of life I have put on hold until grad school is over.

As I sit and look at my to do list today and know all of the pressures that are on me I cannot help but feel hope. Hope has been one thing I have been lacking in recent weeks. At times things around me felt so heavy and dark that while I knew I would not be stuck in this place forever I could not seem to see for myself how to push forward and I did not like the options I saw in front of me. I don't know that I have ever felt so down and defeated, so hopeless and scared.

I do know that God has surrounded me with the most wonderful family and friends who have done nothing but offer many ways to support me and push/drag me through this time in my life. I know without a doubt that I would not be where I am with out you and am so very thankful for the role that each of you play in my life. Continue to pray for me and my family as we are not completely out of the dark yet. Even though it is a small thing to some, this new found hope and joy is a welcome comfort and motivator for me. It is a reminder that my God has a hold of me and my circumstances.


side note: I will post soon several pictures and also a bit about the Steven Curtis Chapman concert this past Friday night at the Biltmore House.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

thesis update (or lack there of)

Well guys and gals I had hoped by this point in the week that I would have grand and glorious progress to report to you about...however life has not ended up that way. I spent several hours going over the thesis template and have even begun to gather my thoughts on various chapters. But that's as far as it goes.
Don't get me wrong, I am anxious over its completion and almost constantly feel the stress stemming from its incompletion.
All of this said, I have factors that have brought me to where I am but I know deep down I am the one responsible.

Continue to be in prayer friends. I need it now as much as ever.

Saturday, July 19, 2008

thesis

Sorry for the lack of updates. I have been very busy since I got back into town earlier in the week. I will try to get pics up of both the beach and family reunion/stamp trip as soon as I can. Until then please be in prayer that I can finish my thesis in the next 19 days.

Monday, July 7, 2008

Big News!



After five and a half years Aaron popped the question!!


I was (still am) enjoying my beach vacation with Abby and her family when Abby started to get text messages from a source she would not divulge. After a bit of thinking I figured out it must be Aaron although I couldnt quite figure out why.

Now anyone who knows Aaron knows he loves surprises, even showing up when you're not expecting him. So it was not a huge surprise when he showed up at the front door a few hours later.

After a brownie and homemade ice cream Abby, Aaron and I went for a walk on the beach. We had a great time hanging out and talking and had walked quite a ways before we decided to turn around and head back. On the way back I went off to check the temperature of the water. Aaron took this opportunity to tell Abby that he was going to propose and that she could take pictures. I knew she was there but somehow in the moment I forgot where she was or what she was doing.

Aaron pulled a poem out of his pocket that he wrote for me and began to read it. It started all the way back with Chrysalis and the nerf darts from the night we really noticed each other and ended with him asking me to marry him. After he read the poem he pulled the box out of his back pocket, got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.


I am so thankful for the way God orchestrated everything. It fit us perfectly!

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

New look

Over the last little bit I have wanted to redo my look. I spent some time and have a slammin desktop! This morning I sat down to update my blog look and had too many problems to count. At one point when I signed on all I saw was my blank background--no words, nada! So after much ado I wind up with something I am semi happy with. I would like to personalize my header but that is going to have to be on another day. Unless I just can't stay away...haha.

oops

I tried to redo the look of my blog and now I can't find the rest of the blog :(

Saturday, June 21, 2008

quick pic



I thought that I would take a break from my recent attempts at graduate work and post a little fun from this past weekend. This pic was taken on Father's day while we were putt-putting with my family. Aaron and I played 3 games of putt-putt that weekend!

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Longing...

Aaron left this afternoon and even in the last few hours before he left I found myself longing. Longing for more time (despite the fact that I'd already been graced with one more day), longing for this leaving crud to be over, longing to have my thesis written and behind me, longing to be married and have kids. Longing for so many things. Things that I know are part of what God has planned for me, at some point. I guess the factor for me is that the time for those things is not now. I have no reason for being impatient with God. Who am I to think that I would want things any way other than the way He has planned for me? 90% of the time I understand why things are the way the are and know that deep down I would not want them any different. Lately it seems that I seem to be living in that other 10%. The 10% of the time where I am not satisfied with where I am, with who I am, the 10% of the time where I find myself longing to be someone else/to be doing something else.
It seems easier to wish that things could be some other way than to be satisfied with who/where I am in life right now. I am amazed at how much time I have wasted (in just these last few days even), time that I could have spent working on my thesis, one of any number of projects, etc. I spent time on my drive home tonight wondering and asking God for an explination as to why I seemed unsatisfied. In some ways I could just feel God staring back at me as if to say "You've got to be kidding, could you really not understand how you wound up here"? And yet in the next flash I could see His arms extending towards me begging me to come back into His security and comfort. God knows what's best for me and yet I, in my flesh, fight Him--wanting to do things on my own. What a stubborn and ungrateful child I am sometimes.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Aaron's coming!

Aaron's coming! Most of you who know me at all know that this alone makes me a very happy camper. :) That happiness is increased even more by the simple fact that I don't have to teach at all while he's here! Unfortunately I am going to have to do some research for my thesis across the several days. At this point I cannot afford to take a few days off of that project :(.
Hopefully I will be able to post more over the next few days. I'm really hoping that I will have some new pictures, esp. of the two of us!

Thursday, June 5, 2008

long time no blog


Whew!


That is how I feel after these last few weeks. There have been wonderful mountain tops and also snotty nose/teary eyed valleys. I would love to say that I had the time to catch you up on everything that's been going on but unfortunately I am in class and that might get a little suspicious if I'm typing that much. While I am often feeling overwhelmed I am also recognizing more and more that I am so very blessed. The end of school is finally in sight and I could not be happier! Don't get me wrong, I have loved my little kiddos (for the most part:)), I am just tired of having so much on my plate. I am looking forward to a few months where my primary focus will be graduate school and not balancing between both schools. Ok...enough of that.


Here are a few pictures for your viewing pleasure.

Two cutie pies!

Watch out! Aaron's got his game face on!


I love this little boy SO much!

Thursday, May 22, 2008

prayers

I dont have much time or energy left after the past few days. I would appreciate prayers on a few things right now.
*My sweet grandmother who yet once again is in the hospital.
*My thesis
*The end of the school year---there's so much to do in such a little bit of time
*Safe travels for Aaron as he comes up here for a whole week!!

Thanks to all! I will hopefully have more time to post soon.

Saturday, May 17, 2008

beautiful day!

I slept in a little bit today (not as late as I could have b/c I was stressin a bit). After waking up I went upstairs to check on the funny ladies and then came back downstairs to piddle around the apartment. Not too long after I hear this very pitiful crylike call come from Grandmother. It took me a second to track her down and after finding her on my front porch I went out to check what she needed. While all she said she wanted was a trash bag and some water for her plants I could tell that something was just not quite right. She seemed very down in the dumps and just not herself. My thoughts were confirmed when she broke down crying. I quickly hopped off the phone and got dressed so I could go out and help her. I ended up in the yard for several hours raking up leaves, twigs, and oak tree crud...cleaning off the driveway, sweeping both porches, and cleaning out the flower bed next to the stairs. Grandmother was so funny because she would talk to me about how I didnt need to spend my Saturday doing yard work for her, but then she'd turn right around and say how wonderful it was to have me around.
I will say that I am tired now. But it feels good to know that I've helped and made her smile. She has done so very much for me in my life and it was not too hard for me to give up a couple of hours on a Saturday to return the favor. I know that this is the time that God has given me with her and I do not want to take that for granted.

Just heard a crash upstairs......better get off of here and go see whats up.

Monday, May 12, 2008

a quick sleepy update

Please be in prayer friends for my allergies right now. My head feels as if it is swimming. The pressure is unreal. I wish I could take the day off tomorrow to rest up and get ready but my assistant's daughter is having fairly major surgery tomorrow and I don't feel that both of us can be out right now. At least not as unprepared for a sub as I currently am.


On other notes. I greatly appreciate the prayers of all for this past weekend. We had a good weekend with safe travels. It was wonderful to be able to celebrate Sean's graduation and spend time with everyone. I also had a wonderful Mother's Day with my own mother and grandmothers. Sometimes God just blesses my socks off. I wish I had great photos from Mother's day, but I was starting to struggle with my allergies at that point and was just not motivated. (Sorry this is so scattered...my head really is not on right tonight).





And what would a post be without a few pictures of my adorable nephew.



He holds a piece of my heart!

Such a beautiful family!

Christal, Sean, and Cooper

Brothers (and Cooper!)

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Pictures

Here are a few pictures of my last two weekends. More proof that I am blessed.


What a proud uncle!
What an amazing miracle...


"Aunt" Rachel and Uncle Aaron lovin him up

Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Garber

realizations

Overall the weekend turned out much better than previously anticipated. We went down to the wedding and had a fairly good time considering all of the family drama (a lot of which we managed to avoid). As we were riding back up the mountain this afternoon I couldn't help but wish there was more of the weekend left. I felt like yet again I had my weekend robbed from me. I had no time for myself or the things I wanted to do. I know that the world is not always going to work out my way and that things are not always going to be easy. For quite some time now I have been avoiding my thesis project and everything that that involves. That plan felt good at first, I was even able to convince myself that it was what was best for me for the time. Now that my school year is quickly coming to a close I am feeling the stress hanging over me on a daily basis. Those around me have indicated they are seeing the strain in me as well. I do not want to be stressed. I want to have the joy that knowing Christ brings. As a friend of mine was praying for me this afternoon I realized that I needed to seek God and ask him to bring my focus and commitment to this program back. I am hoping throughout this week to regain my relationship with God and my focus towards my graduate program.

I am looking forward to a great many things in my life right now. I want so very badly to be finished with this graduate program, finished with this school year, for Aaron to be living up here, and yes, to get married. In all of the searching I did today I realized (God's been whispering it for awhile) that I needed to allow those things to happen in their own time and refocus on the things I can take care of right now. I need to take care of this thesis, my grandmother, my kiddos at school, etc. I was also reminded of all of the wonderful blessings I am surrounded by everyday. The things that I dont ask for but He provides b/c He loves me. Friends that call me and notice when I'm not myself....beautiful sunny afternoons....mountains...smiles from my adorable cousin...a wonderful nephew I am allowed to love (even though i'm "technically" not his aunt yet)...an amazing boyfriend...a clean car thats mine...etc etc etc. I could go on and on but I'd be here for awhile.

I am blessed...despite all of my trials...I am blessed

Thursday, May 1, 2008

a pictureless update

Since I am at school I cannot post the pictures of the latest events in my world. Hopefully I will get a chance to post them soon.

The past few weeks have been full of many changes. Aaron arrived back in the country safely without many problems :). This past weekend I was able to see him and love on him. It was so wonderful to have my love back!! The only major problem was the weekend was too short! We were blessed with a wonderful visit down to Winston so that Aaron could meet his nephew. I will post pictures soon I promise.
As far as work goes I have not been very motivated to do ANYTHING in the past few days. I am not sure why I seem to have lost all motivation but I hope something returns soon. Since I have a feeling this thesis is not going to complete itself any and all prayers in this area would be appreciated.
This upcoming weekend should be interesting to say the least. Most of my family will be heading down to Charlotte to see one of my cousins get married. Normally I don't dread weddings...this one because of family dynamics and drama is an exception. In fact NONE of us want to go. Again, prayers would be appreciated.

Monday, April 21, 2008

almost there!

I have almost made it through the month long absence of my sweet boyfriend!! I am looking forward to so many things (hugs, snuggles, kisses, smelling him :), etc). And all of those things are just in the short term. I am very much looking forward to watching Aaron meet and hold his nephew on Saturday. I can't wait in fact!!
I am very grateful and blessed to have such wonderful friends and family. Each of you have played a part in sustaining me throughout this month and even more importantly through these past few years. I am so thankful that God has blessed my life in such amazing ways.

I would love to share more insights into my life but my bed is screaming my name!

Thursday, April 17, 2008

its good to be home

We arrived back home tonight after our lovely beach trip. As we were coming up the road and the mountains became visible I was once again amazed and comforted by the mountains God has placed all around me. How blessed I am to live in such a beautiful place!! How can life be anything but wonderful with such beauty surrounding you?
Don't get me wrong, my life here in these mountains is not all roses and sunny days. But it does help to have visible reminders of the love God has for me.
After some of the things I have felt this week it was nice to feel welcomed home. I am glad to be home, sleeping in my own bed, getting the opportunity to see friends again, getting caught up (maybe even ahead) on some school work, etc.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

beach trip

I set off on this beach trip with mixed emotions. I was excited about my new nephew, glad to finally have a couple of days to unwind/relax, and anxious about what all of this down time was going to do to my emotions. I knew that I had intentionally been very busy over the past several weeks. And while it was tiring at times it was also comforting to know that I was not a miserable wreck while Aaron was in Russia (to be honest I have been quite proud of myself in how well I've held up). I knew that while this beach trip would be nice, and free! it would also have LOTS of down time, even the alone times that I almost dreaded. I knew that if my mind was allowed to wonder and long for all that I could not have that I would become a very depressed individual. At the same time however I was trying to be optimistic and look forward to being able to read for pleasure, get my paper for grad school out of the way, play some Scrabble, walk along the beach, swim, etc.
Once I arrived I thought hey, this might not be so bad. We checked into our condo and then went right back out to eat. I went to bed that night reading and was able to sleep all the way through the night (only the second time since Aaron left). Sleeping in every day has also been very very wonderful. I have finished two books for pleasure and also spent many hours working on a special gift for my new nephew.
After several days of being down here I felt a nagging at my heart. I knew I needed to be working on my paper and my thesis project, after all we have had free Internet the entire time. Somehow I could not bring myself to be motivated to do anything that I should be doing. I wanted to lay around and be a bum. I couldn't bring myself to call any of the people I knew I should be or even wanted to. Even with others around I felt very lonely and withdrawn. My heart began to ache and the sadness started to seep in. Even now as I type this I know that I have not fully been able to climb out of the funk I found myself slipping into.
Please don't get me wrong. I am very grateful for this trip. Grateful for the rest and fellowship it has brought me. Glad that I was finally given the opportunity to do several things that I have been longing to do for some time. The weather has been nice, cool but still very pretty. And most importantly grateful and blessed for the opportunity to have at least one more trip with my grandmother.
I am somewhat disappointed in myself for not getting my schoolwork done, knowing the pressures that will leave me with when I return home. I am also frustrated with myself for falling into this funky emotional pit.
While I am sad that I have to return to the "real" world tomorrow I am also looking forward to the changes and productive busyness that it brings me.
Just to show you that the trip has not been all bad here are some pictures of our trip.

Gorgeous sunset on the way to dinner Saturday night!

The view from our condo!

Quick pic on the lower battery in Charleston

Friday, April 11, 2008

Welcoming the newest Giese...




I was blessed with the opportunity to take the day off and drive down to Winston to meet the newest member of the family. I had a wonderful drive down and arrived in time to see both sets of grandparents before they went off to rest for a bit. After some time in the newborn nursery Cooper made his grand appearance into the room. Sean and Christal allowed me the wonderful and awesome blessing of holding their new blessing as well as to taking some great photos. As I held him I was reminded of all of God's wonder and majesty. I spent time rocking him and praising God. I also was able to spend some time praying for Cooper and his wonderful parents! I was amazed at how alert and content he is. While his parents rested I was able to hold Cooper and marvel over him. He truly is fearfully and wonderfully made!

Here are a few pictures of my adorable nephew!!


off to see baby giese!!

I am off to meet my new niece or nephew! Say prayers for safe travels and a safe delivery!
Thank you God for all of our many blessings:)

Monday, April 7, 2008

oh how I love him

Aaron rocks my socks off!!!

I could go on but I will spare those few of you who care enough about my life to read this little blog. I was blessed with the opportunity to talk to him again tonight!! Oh how I love him!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sunday, April 6, 2008

updates

I will try to refrain from hassling any of you about not updating your blogs since I have not been the world's best about updating mine lately. That being said here are a few updates on what's been happening lately.

Aaron left for Russia on Friday, March 28th. Sad day.
Fortunately for me, I have a wonderful and loving God who is watching out for me and my needs. He knows that I need lots of loving and distractions to get myself through this month without my love. I have spent many days with Brandon, Jennifer and their girls as well as many calls/visits from my family. Some people have even come out of the woodwork so to speak and have offered their assistance. The surprising thing to me is that I have not really been dependent on all of this extra emotional support. I do not deal well with not being able to see and/or talk to my love and this trip is no exception. However I have done ok so far. I have only cried once (his birthday). He also brought the Turner kiddos up to help distract me this week!

I was blessed by a wonderful and unexpected phone call from Aaron yesterday. I was glad more than anything to hear his voice and also to hear that he has been doing well and having fun. I miss him SO very much!!!!

Other notes:
**This is my last week of teaching until Spring Break! Wahoo!!
**The Turner kiddos are up for the week! Hooray for some cool kiddo fun!
**Sometime soon God is gonna rock this world with a new Giese!

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Birthday and Easter rolled all in one...

What an amazing couple of days it has been! Friday was my 25th birthday and it was also Good Friday. I slept in, cleaned up for Grandmother, and then headed off to eat lunch with Brandon, Jennifer and my girls. On my way I thought that I could stop at the DMV and renew my license--an easier task if they were open! So with that task on hold I was off to a wonderful time of fun and fellowship. After eating we dyed eggs (a new one for me on my birthday!) and then went shopping before I went to meet Mom and Wanda for the Casting Crowns concert. I had a great time getting numerous messages and calls from friends and family and enjoying a wonderful night of worshiping my Lord!!
Saturday we continued the birthday celebration as Aaron's mom came over to meet us for lunch and gift exchange. We had a lovely time and each came away with several nice gifts. Aaron and I had a lot of fun playing Mario Party 8 (his birthday gift from me).
Sunday was a busy day. We got up early to go to church since I wanted to be able to attend service on Easter as well as help out in the nursery if needed. After church we went over to help Mom break her fast at Cracker Barrel. There was a short break where we were able to come home, pick up a bit, and visit with Matt, April and Justin before heading off to my grandparents to celebrate Easter and my grandfather's birthday. After hanging out with family for a couple of hours we headed up to my parents house to play Guilliotine.
Unfortunately I do not have any pictures from the weekend really. I was horrible about forgetting to carry my camera with me. Tomorrow I am going out to eat with my grandmother and Milner to celebrate my birthday. I love spreading out and extending the love!

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

baby giese is on the way!

For those of you who read this and dont know (I dont think there are many of you) my future brother and sister in law are expecting thier first baby any day now. While the baby is technically not due until April 7th, she has already begun to dialate and her cervix is changing. Exciting for those of us anxiously awaiting! It would be very exciting for the baby to come close to my birthday:)
So anyways, prayers would be appreciated first for the family and secondly for me as I try to get everything ready in preperation of going down to meet the little one!

Sunday, March 16, 2008

thesis day two and more

Well thesis day two turned out to be more productive than the first day. I got up pretty much when planned and got to work around the time I had planned. I did take a few short naps on the couch before really buckling down to work. I managed to make a plan for my research and hope to be able to stick to it over the next couple of weeks/months.
On other notes this weekend totally rocked and was full of rest and fun! I spent Saturday hanging out with my mom and Wanda. My "quick" trip to Target turned into an eight hour jaunt! Overall the afternoon and evening turned out to be very fun and relaxing. I really enjoyed getting to spend time with Wanda and my mom after several weeks of not seeing either one of them hardly at all.
Today was a beautiful day! Although it was chilly it was very sunny and beautiful. I went to church and then over to Brandon and Jennifers to eat and hang out. We ended up leaving the girls with other people and helping another family paint their house. After we painted we went to the lake and walked. Wow...it has been a LONG time since I've walked around the lake. Haha! But everyone should be proud. I made it around the lake with a child strapped on with only two little blisters on my feet.
Ok, as much as I'd love to offer up more of the juicy details of my life I must now leave you to go and get ready for the day back at school tomorrow.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

thesis day one

Well today has been a decent day. I woke up later than I needed to, said a quick prayer for my grandmother who was in surgery, ate some breakfast and then got started on my work. I would have gotten more done but stayed at home and ended up taking breaks to do other things and also watching some tv off and on. I did get some work done so I dont feel like beating myself up completely. It also helps that I have tomorrow off as well and can work all day tomorrow on getting work done.
On another note: I did manage to get my cell phone fixed so that I can send and receive text messages! They ended up giving me a new phone since they had NO idea what was wrong with my other one. Not very good since I'd only had that phone for about a week.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

A few of my favs!


A, moi, and J bug! Check out that sleep pose:)


Simply beautiful!


Feeding the ducks

my girls!

I have been so very blessed to have three of the sweetest girls in my life lately! This past weekend I was able to keep all three of them for the entire weekend. What a joy! I had such a great time hanging out and watching them.
We spent Friday night hanging out on the couch and just simply enjoying each other. Saturday was a very relaxing morning but also very enjoyable. D was feeling better after a bellyache Friday night and as a result was a lot more fun. After some time hanging out around the apartment I felt the desire to get out of the house and do something. Since it was not snowing like the weather people called for I decided we would drive to Fun Depot for a birthday party. All three of the girls fell asleep on the way over and let me tell you--they were sooooo cute!! I hated to wake them up but also didnt want D to miss out on the party. We unloaded and had a great time playing. The girls are so well behaved generally and Saturday was no different. After playing a couple of hours we came back, went by the grocery store, and then came back to my apartment to have a slumber party. We made pizza, watched another "Princess" movie and painted toenails.
Sunday was another great day of fun. I took the girls to church where I was able to drop them off and go to service. When we finished up we came back to the apartment, ate lunch, and then went down to feed the ducks. The girls were a hoot! It was so exciting to be a part of watching them experience something new. Every little piece of bread thrown was fun and exciting. Even after the last piece of bread was thrown the girls wanted to hang out and watch the ducks.
I was sad later that day to see them go home. And can honestly say I have missed them since!
Hopefully we will be able to spend some time together this week:)

Thursday, February 28, 2008

cell phone frustrations

I've noticed the past few days that my cell phone has been freezing and acting strangely. Tonight after the phone froze and gave me a new error message I decided to contact my cell phone provider and find out what my options were. I went online and I called the warranty people and basically discovered i'm s.o.l. My only options are to see how long my current phone will last or buy a new one.
Needless to say I am very irritated and upset.
Please pray that God will bless my cell phone and give me many more months of good usage out of my current phone. It has only been a little over a month since I got this new phone and I really do not want to shell out the money to buy a new one.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

My snuggly J bug!


Productivity

Today has been marked for nearly two weeks now as Thesis Day. I planned to take off from school (before I knew it was going to snow) and spend the day working on my thesis. While I have been avoiding my thesis for awhile I also knew that I really needed to get some work done b/c I was starting to get really stressed over not getting anything done.
Since the weather was snowy outside I decided that I would not drive anywhere to work. (1st mistake--esp. since the roads were not bad AT ALL).
I slept about an hour later than I planned, ate a leisurely breakfast, watched some tv, chatted on the phone, and THEN sat down to work on my thesis. Not a good start for my "work day".
Once I actually got to work I sat for what seemed like hours and had nothing to show for it. Many of the articles that looked like they would fit my topic but could not seem to be found on any database. I cannot express how very frustrating this was. At one point I called my parents and ended up talking to my brother who tried his best to help me and agreed to help me when I got to the writing phase of this project.
Overall I realized that I am tired of my thesis and I have hardly gotten started :-/

On other notes,
I am very thankful for the wonderful snow and supportive friends and family I have in my life. If it were not for those blessings I would not be able to do all that I do. In all of my frustrations earlier God convicted me of all the blessings I was ignoring. Probably the biggest one of all was the very thing I was complaining about--the opportunity to get an education, to further myself.

Monday, February 18, 2008

to do lists

I dont have long to post tonight b/c I am determined to get something accomplished. Today has been a Monday--nothing awful or amazing--just a Monday.
I have an enormous amount (or so it feels like) of stuff to do. Taxes, research, lesson plans, etc.

Say prayers friends for myself and all others feeling overwhelmed.

Friday, February 8, 2008

Relief!!

Last night brought many kinds of relief. Relief that the week was almost over. Relief that this next graduate class was not going to be an insane amount of work. And probably the biggest relief of all--insight into my thesis topic!!!!! I cannot tell you of the amazing rest, peace, and joy my body felt after talking with my professor and deciding upon a thesis topic (basically its a twist on my old one that I liked!). I very much feel like a huge weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. I am no longer dreading doing research and putting together a plan for weaving this into my instruction at school. Wow--God is good!!!
On other notes.
This afternoon is my friend D's 6th birthday. Through a mix of conversations and a new-found friendship I am going to go attend and probably help with her birthday. I am excited to help her celebrate and am looking forward to continuing to develop those friendships. Not to mention--kids just rock my socks!
At some point during the afternoon/evening my most wonderful friend and former roommate will be coming for a visit. While she is not coming entirely just to see me I am excited about getting to see her and spend time with her. At this point we have no real plans. All I have to say is watch out world because my sister and I are going to be on the loose together!

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

thoughts, ramblings, and a bit of conviction

While it is only Wednesday it has been a very long week all the same. I had a workshop and a somewhat productive day on Monday. That night I was able to spend some time with my sweet Espinosa girls. They were super fun to play with and behaved so much better than in other times I have been with them. After I put the girls to bed I received a phone call from my assistant letting me know that she was sick and would be out for at least two days! Not exactly what I wanted to hear. I quickly rearranged my plans to accomodate and went to bed in plenty of time to ensure that I could get to school on time and have enough energy to deal with my kiddos on my own. Tuesday went okay schoolwise and after tutoring I rushed home to rake leaves out of the ivy and flowerbeds for Grandmother. I only raked for an hour...but was very tired afterwards. Although I did not get even half of my to-do list completed I still felt okay with what I did manage to complete.
Today has not been such a wonderful day with my kiddos. They have tried everything they can to do anything but follow directions. I blame the weather!
This evening after tutoring I am hoping to head home and get to work on my overwhelming and unescapable to-do list. Hopefully I can get a good start on some housekeeping tasks and also on my work for both school and grad school.
As always prayers are appreciated!

As for convictions....while I am not the world's most consistent blogger I am a regular blog checker. I love to check on the blogs I read, many of whom I do not even know. In reading some of these blogs I have been convicted lately of my lack of blogging about the things that really matter the most. Far too often I feel like my blog has become an extention of my to-do list and/or a place to vent all of my frustrations. While neither of these two things are wrong I have come to realize that even they need to be done in moderation and along side with other elements of my life. I am not promising a complete change or overhaul of my blog. I do not know yet exactly where I want these thoughts to take me. I do however know that somehow and someway I need some change (for the better) in my life.

side note: I want to post more pictures....anyone wanna hold me to that?

Sunday, February 3, 2008

unsure

Well I received my answer from my principal this past Friday--no go on my thesis project. While I was relieved at the time to simply have an answer I have realized since then how frustrating it is to have to start the whole process over again. I have no clue honestly where to begin. This feeling of hopelessness leaves me with a lot of stress! I have noticed a constant nagging within my gut, a physical sign of this task looming over me. Please be in prayer friends. I want so desperately to pick something that I can feel confident about and even be excited about. This is something major I will have to work on for the next 7 months and I really need to get rid of this feeling of dread as I work on it.
Thats all for now... I need to run before the computer dies.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

My new beauty!


Ok, so this is not exactly the best picture. Hopefully I will get some better ones soon! After many months/weeks of deliberation and number crunching I went Monday evening and bought my first car! I am very excited by it, LOVE it, and find myself wishing I had more reasons to drive it. I know that there will be time enough to drive it--but that doesnt stop me from being excited by it :)
I do not have much time to spend blogging tonight (although I know it has been awhile since my last post). Hopefully I will be able to post more soon. I am anxious to post about our new wii--complete with pictures. Alas, another time...

Monday, January 21, 2008

:-/

Today has been neither horrible nor great. I had a very unproductive day at work (well until the very end of it), as well as a few other things. While talking to mom about some of the stuff that came up during the day I simply started to cry. I dont know if I was really feeling that overwhelmed or if something else was going on...afterwards I felt silly. Now my head hurts and I am still feeling very behind on work. I cannot wait to get out of grad school for that very reason. I cannot stand being behind or feeling like I am behind on my work. I am a list maker, a productive go to it kind of gal. I am going to need the prayers of all of my family and friends to get me through this last couple of months.
For now I am going to hop off of here and get to that enormous mound of a to do list!

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Snow blah

I'm not sure what happened with my last post. I am tired of all of the snow. At first I was looking forward to it and even excited about the possiblilties of being able to catch up and perhaps even get ahead on a few things. I took Thursday off and managed to get caught up on rest, Friday I had a super productive day at school, I was excited Saturday because Dad and I went to look at cars! Today has been a very anti climatic day in every way. I woke up SUPER late and then had no motivation to do anything. I crosstitched for several hours before forcing myself to sit down with my laptop and do some research for grad school. I am thinking I will work for about 30 min more on that and then spend some time working on things for school so that I can make tomorrow a super productive day at school again. I am ready to get out of the house and see other people. I hope that I get to babysit tomorrow so that I can spend time with little children and people who make my heart smile.
On a side note...Aaron is doing a Chrysalis flight near Raleigh this weekend. While I am used to not seeing him every weekend it is hard for me to give up a holiday weekend and not get to see him at all. As if not seeing him wouldnt be bad enough since he is on team this time I can't even talk to him. I realized how pathetic I am as I layed in bed last night wishing he would call so that I could talk to him as I fell asleep. I don't know how I'm going to handle when he goes to Russia (for 3+weeks).
Well enough procrastinating. I need to get back to my work and stop feeling blah.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

grad class

I am currently dreading going back to class tomorrow night. I have had the last two weeks off and will admit that while I needed to be working on my thesis I have not spent much time doing so. I plan on sitting down before the week is over and setting up a schedule for doing my work. Hopefully if I am able to develop a plan and stick to it so that the stress I was experiencing before Christmas does not return.
Well I must go for now...love to all

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

new look!

I am super excited about this new look for my blog! I dont have much time to write tonight b/c I'm extremely tired!! I wish I could say I have had two very productive days, but alas (my new fun word:)) I have been terribly unproductive the past few days. I'm blaming it on the workouts.
ok...i can hardly keep my eyes open...bedtime, more soon i hope
maybe i will even post some new pics of my haircut

Sunday, January 6, 2008

Happy Birthday!

Today was my mother's birthday! Fortunately for me I was able to get enough of my work done last week (with the help of 3 workdays) where I didnt have to spend today working on lesson plans. Since most of my work was finished I was able to sit back and enjoy the day. All except for the part where Aaron had to leave and go back to Fayetteville.
We started off the day at church. Today's message was really great. The church is starting a 21 day fast and while I've not really been a great fan of fasting in the past I can see the spiritual benefits of doing it and am seeking for God to tell me where I fit within this fast. More on this to come...
After church we decided to go eat lunch in Asheville and then go to a movie as further celebration of Mom's big day. Lunch at Olive Garden was yummy! It was so wonderful to sit around and enjoy family. We had some interesting conversations and laughed very hard several times! Once we got to the movie theater we split up and the guys went to see a guy movie while mom and I went to see PS I love you. I cried my way through a good portion of the movie (not like me usually--mom's the one that always cries). While the movie was great it probably was not the best one to see right before Aaron left town.
The rest of the evening has been rather anti-climatic. On the way out of Asheville we stopped and got ice cream at Marble Slab (yum again!). Since I've been home I have not done a thing. Sad since I have sooo much to do and know that tomorrow will hit with all of the power of a Monday!

Well I'm leaving it all for tomorrow. God's blessings to all and Happy Birthday MOM!

Friday, January 4, 2008

blogging

As I take a moment to reflect I realize that I am a stinky blogger! Although I read other's blogs very regularly I am awful about putting my own thoughts down. Somehow it seems to take more time to put together my own thoughts in a manner of satisfaction to me than it does to read what others have already written. Oh well...I would say I'm going to do better, but I just can't promise it.
Tonight will not be the night however as I am BEAT after only returning to work for two days (haha I know!)
Night!

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Many updates!

I cannot believe it has been nearly a month since I last posted. The last couple of weeks in December were very hectic and mentally draining. I was not sad to see them go at all--well that was until I realized Christmas was upon me and I had not even taken the time to enjoy the season. I am grateful that my next Christmas season will not be filled with enormous amounts of grad school homework. I may not be free of the hectic nature of an elementary classroom before Christmas but to be free of the added stress of my own homework will be wonderful!!!

Christmas went really well. I took the days between school and Christmas to mentally unwind--I could not believe how fried I was. Aaron and I spent time with both families over a time span of about 4 days. It was great seeing (nearly) everyone and being able to spend time hanging out. Over the break I spent a lot of time sleeping as well as playing games with family. Aaron and I have been able to spend a lot of time together which has been wonderful. It has been interesting to see how things will go when we are spending all of our time together. Overall I have realized how much I love spending time with him and how sad I am going to be in 5 days when he has to go back to Fayetteville.

Today I was blessed with an additional day off! It snowed last night and we were given a workday. Although I need to be working in my classroom in a major bad way I also needed to get things done around my apartment and wanted desperately to spend time with Aaron. I didn't feel too badly about taking the day off since it was about 15 degrees outside and the roads were not uncovered until nearly noon.

Alas, I am back to doing work and hanging out with my sweetie. Hopefully more to post later!