Hi Friend...

Life.....

2010-08-14T21:04:00.000-07:00

Our friends had a baby today. It brought back so many emotions for me that I fought tears almost the whole time we were visiting with them. I cant believe its been almost 5 months. Our baby, our tiny little 5lb 6oz baby, is 11 lbs now, rolls around, smiles and laughs and sleeps through the night. Life. It goes so fast.

I remember being so sad that I didnt feel this overwhelming sense of love for her. I felt love, just differently. Mostly I felt this overwhelming sense of protection. Thats probably what helped me for those middle of the night feedings and days of 3 hour sleep. I feel it now. Once I got that first little response from her I was flooded with Love. We were SO unprepared for her arrival. I told myself she wasnt coming for at least 4 weeks. Mostly I think I was still in denial that we were actually having a baby. For 8.5 months it was so surreal and now 5 months later I still say everyday, "shes really, really here and shes really, really ours". Well, mostly ours. Shes Gods gift to us for a while. That reality is the only thing that kept me from going crazy and thinking she died in her sleep everyday. 3 days in I said "I cant do this". and that night was the first night I prayed over her thanking God for her life so far and giving her back to Him fully. I still do it everyday but add a few other things in that prayer now.

I read a blog that makes me cry everytime I read her posts. Angie lost her husband in a racing accident. Her blog is such raw emotions written for the world to read. She speaks truthfully and boldly about her journey through grief. I just read one of her posts and it brought me to tears. This to me, is the best part.

the hopes we had once

not too long before

shared.

hopes that

then

and now

belong just to me.

all your hopes

now fulfilled

and here i am

wondering what to do next.

life. I cannot imagine not having the Hope in Christ to keep me grounded and remind me that...There. Is. More. To. This. Life. His hopes are now fulfilled because he is with Christ for eternity. But she still wants him back and misses him everyday. I dont know what I would do without Mike in this world my heart would be forever torn.

If you think about it say a prayer for her. Shes been through a lot.

we've been a little busy....

2010-08-01T22:58:00.000-07:00

Its been a while to say the least. These last 4 months since K was born have flown by. I find myself saying "when she was little" but shes only 4months now! :) In my own defense she was TINY for so long. She has really started to grow and gain good weight now. Up to about 11 lbs, and long, shes gonna be tall. When its Mikes turn to watch her, I generally come home to find them asleep in all sorts of places and positions. These are some of my favorites.

We've traveled with her and done all sorts of fun things. We went to Hawaii at the end of June to see Mikes family then K and I stayed until July 22nd on Maui with my brother and his family.

This is at Sharks Cove on the North Shore. It was a first for both K and I. Her Daddy is SO happy that she LOVES the water.

I cannot believe we have a kid. I look at her everyday and think..."she's really ours". Thank you Jesus for dreams come true and many, many, many prayers answered. :)

Keona Uluwehi Evangeline HePing

2010-04-03T13:23:00.000-07:00

"God's gracious gift growing in beauty bringing good news of peace"
Yes, we know. Its a big name for a little girl.
Keona was born Friday March 26th, 2010 at 1:40pm
She weighed 6lbs 3oz and is 19 inches.
She is lovely and we are in love. Even one week later it is still so surreal. We have a kid. A real live human being we are charged with raising. It is exciting and scary all at the same time.

I developed pre eclampsia and went in for a non-stress test on Thursday and they wouldnt let us leave. :( She was 3 weeks early but perfect. Labor was different than I expected but so worth it in the end. There are no words to explain the flood of emotions when she was born. My hubby was unbelievably amazing the whole time. He prayed over me and reminded me so many times how he believed in me and that he knew I could do this. My body was designed to give birth. He was a rock and still is. Watching him father our baby girl makes me cry with delight and pure joy.

We had a rough start with feeding and jaundice but things are looking up today. I dont know how we would've made it without all our friends and family supporting us. They have been wonderful. Food, cleaning, sleep help. We are blessed.

Thank you Jesus for this gift. Thank you for this time of remembering what you did for our souls. Thank you for the cross and for sacrificing your life for ours. I am just now beginning to understand the love you have for me as your daughter and why you would do such a thing to save me from evil. Thank you for letting me see you in my daughters eyes and cry and smiles and when she is sleeping.

Blast from the past

2010-03-03T10:29:00.000-08:00

I was putting some things away this weekend and found a box of old childrens books my mom gave me. In the box was my baby book. Its old and seriously 70's, but full of sweet things. I sat down and looked through it and got all emotional. My mom had saved cards from when I was born and from a few early birthdays. They were so sweet. Sweet notes from my grandparents who are no longer living and lists of gifts and people who came to visit my parents in the hospital. It really made the fact that I am going to have a baby in 6 weeks so REAL. The cards had "congratulations on your new baby girl" and "Welcome baby girl" written on them and it just hit home. We are having a girl, a daughter, a family.
I also found a box I had saved of my own baby clothes my Mom gave me to use for dolls when I was little. It was so fun to see pictures of me in them and have the actual dress right in front of me.
People have been SO generous. Gifts and hand me downs have been pouring in, she will want for nothing. I think my favorite gift is a photo album Mike's mom sent me of when he was born. Its so sweet. All black and white photos and old, old, old medical equipment. The best are the photos of Mikes Dad suited head to toe in scrubs and masks and gloves. My how things have changed. We are really missing him right now. He would have loved to meet his Granddaughter.
33weeks and 6days. She'll be here soon!

Coupons have changed my life

2010-01-05T23:50:00.000-08:00

i have been wanting to post this for a little while. I didnt want to share with the world my secret, sorta wanted to bask in it for a while, but really EVERYONE needs this one.
In an effort to make some long term goals and to save some $ in preparation for this baby's birth I went to a class on coupons. At first I thought "oh, great, what is she going to teach me about using coupons". Seriously, whats so hard, you see the stuff you want, you cut them out you take them to the store that week and use them. BAM, 45cents off a $5 product. Saving money right?
No sir-ee.
2.5 hours later my mind was spinning. Honestly, I was more ashamed at how much money I was wasting, and shocked at how often I was getting ripped off by simple mistakes.

I know what your thinking..."I use coupons sometimes", "I shop at a place that is already low priced without coupons" or my favorite, "I dont have time for that". Trust me friends YOU have time. If you care about your family or wanting to save $ you will find time. Just get off Facebook for an hour. :)

So, here's my 1st tid bit of the secret life of couponing....I follow a blog that tells me what to do. That blog right now is....www.hip2save.com

I went to the class in December and can tell you it helped save me $100's of dollars at Christmas. I'm stockpiling diapers.....8 packs (30-45diapers each) of organic, chlorine free diapers and 4 tubs of wipes for $32 TOTAL! Now, tell me you dont have time.

Check back soon for a fun post of one of my shopping trips....but mostly CHECK OUT THAT site. I promise you will be inspired.

Confessions from a sick pregnant lady

2009-12-07T20:47:00.000-08:00

I'm sick. I'm sick of being sick. Had the flu in November and now a nasty cold. As if I couldnt sleep already, now I can't breathe either. ugh. Though it is a perfect day to stay home, cozy and resting. All this rain is no reason to leave the house.
It certainly feels like Christmas is coming now though. Sadly, I havent cracked open a box of my decorations. Not one.
Confession #1
Our neighbors had lights up the day after Thanksgiving. Today, December 7th, I STILL have pumpkins on my porch (leftovers from Halloween that I turned around and put fake flowers in)

Confession #2
Thanksgiving is still lingering on my back porch. I had planned on putting it all away on Friday (black Friday) but was so pooped from Thanksgiving itself that we slept in til 10 and then went shopping and then came home and napped and then went to the Mission Inn Festival of Lights. Now, I'm sick and its been a week and half and there it sits. Dont worry, all the dishes are done.

Confession #3
I put dishes in the sink, like someone else is going to wash them. We (I) purposely bought a HUGE single bowl, deep sink, so I could hide my dirty little secret until I get enough energy to wash them. See, you can't even see dinner leftovers in there. amazing. But you can see my unfinished backsplash, dead plant and guests forgotten thanksgiving dishes.

Confession #4
I'm SO over Jon and Kate. but not the way everyone else is. Yes, I think its sad, yes I think the kids are suffering but I'm sick of hearing everyone judge Kate. She freely admits that she over-reacted a lot and that the stress of having 8 kids was a huge part of it, which is more than Jon has said. All he's done is bashed the mother of his 8 kids and paraded his girlfriends around in the lime light. All I'm sayin is....film my life and chop it up into 28minute segments and I'd look like her too. (well not physically, but you get the point) Thank goodness Tiger's dirty little secrets are overshadowing the Gosselins, poor lady needs a break.

You can chalk #4 up to being sick and watching a lot of Tivo'd shows.

Confession #5
I feel like I've been very negative lately. My love language is words of affirmation. One of the traits is that I know everything wrong with me before anyone has to say anything. But really, since I've been pregnant I just have no tolerance. I have so much more to worry about and care about that I just say what I think so I dont waste anymore time. So, If I've offended you or sounded way too negative I'm sorry. Its being worked on. You can pray for me.

Lastly...confession #6
With a brief stint in the kitchen to make dinner and wash infamous dishes I've been on the couch since I came home from work at 1pm. I can just hear myself getting fatter. :)

I wish I could chalk the confessions up to being drugged and sick, but I cannot take anything to make myself feel better except sudefed and tylenol which does nothing. So, take #5 and apply here.

Happy thanksgiving and happy beginning of Christmas! :)

The Verdict is in.....

2009-11-23T13:15:00.000-08:00

19.3 week Sweet baby.....GIRL!
The poll was 76% girl. They were right. We are having a daughter. We are still in shock a little but excited. Its becoming so real now. I can hardly believe it. She's kicking an moving tons. It mostly feels like pressure changes but now that I know what it is I can tell its HER! She likes to kick my bladder a lot. During the ultrasound she had both feet on and kicking away. only 20 more weeks to go until we get to meet her face to face.
oh boy...er I mean girl! :)

Snips and Snails or Sugar and Spice?

2009-11-18T16:17:00.000-08:00

We go on Monday to find out if we are having a boy or girl.
Mike is pulling for a boy...you know all that coaching sports thing.
I really think its a girl.
What do you think???? Take our poll below.

What I am looking forward to

2009-11-10T13:35:00.001-08:00

A friend asked me today what I am looking forward to about this baby.
I am a planner and Mike is sure it is a boy so we are going to find out the sex. I am convinced we are having a girl. It really doesnt matter to us we are just so happy to have this family, even for the weeks we already have! So here's my list.

~I look forward to seeing what this baby looks like, the face and the hair and all the things that make my hubby and I unique put together perfectly in another person God formed.
~I look forward to knowing his or her personality and the traits that they pick up from us.
~I look forward to seeing my husband be a father. Something he desires more than I do for him.
~I look forward to having to be selfless for someone else everyday because there are children that dont get to experience the joy of being wanted, desparately.

God is teaching me to be obedient. I know that sounds weird but its true. Be obedient in talking with and spending time with Him even when I dont feel good and want to just veg-out in bed all day. To rely on Him to change my heart and teach me patience so that the enemy has no place to hold on to.

I'm tired and nothing fits right, I have terrible skin, my nose is stuffy and bleeding, i'm starving and my tailbone hurts. Its hard growing a human, harder than I thought but its a joy everyday to be reminded of this miracle. I think I feel him or her moving every once in a while and those few seconds make it all worth it.

This morning I was brushing my teeth and thanking God for running water. When things are hard what can you find to be happy about? If you are down financially, do you have food to eat? Do you have 1 warm sweater or jacket? There is a person that asked for some help because he is sleeping under the trees. He made me be grateful for the gas in my car, shoes on my feet, flannel sheets on my bed and WARM water in my home. Nicole Nordeman sings a song called "Gratitude" makes me cry everytime, this is my favorite part.....

"Daily bread, give us daily bread
Bless our bodies, keep our children fed
Fill our cups, then fill them up again tonight
Wrap us up and warm us through
Tucked away beneath our sturdy roofs
Let us slumber safe from danger's view this time

Or maybe not, not today
Maybe You'll provide in other ways
And if that's the case . . .

We'll give thanks to You
With gratitude
A lesson learned to hunger after You
That a starry sky offers a better view if no roof is overhead And if we never taste that bread..."

Life...

2009-10-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

I stole this from a friends blog. She was such a big encouragement to me when we were going through fertility testing. I find it quite fitting and will surely read it time and time again in the coming year.

Most people miss their whole lives, you know. Listen, life isn't when you are standing on top of a mountain looking at the sunset. Life isn't waiting at the altar or the moment your child is born or that time you were swimming in deep water and a dolphin came up alongside you. These are fragments. 10 or 12 grains of sand spread throughout your entire existence. These are not life. Life is brushing your teeth or making a sandwich or watching the news or waiting for the bus. Or walking. Every day, thousands of tiny events happen and if you're not watching, if you're not careful, if you don't capture them and make them count, you could miss it. You could miss your whole life." Addition by Toni Jordan

So true. Lately my hubby and I have tried to pray prayers of praise instead of asking. I feel so light after I spend time thanking God for all He has given us and not complaining about the little things. What can you thank God for today?
"Thank you God for heartburn and ever-growing body parts. Thank you for bad skin and weird pains. Thank you for tiredness, dry skin and food cravings. They all remind me of the miracle you are knitting inside me. Thank you for these daily reminders"

The Peach

2009-10-13T14:47:00.001-07:00

We had a fun ultrasound yesterday. They were measuring the neck and checking out the growth. It was just a nice reassurance from God. The baby is about the size of a peach this week. 2.5 to 3 inches from the top of his head to the tailbone (not including legs). Since the books refer to him as a peach I say we should name him James, as in "James and the Giant Peach". No, we do not know if we are being blessed with a boy or girl yet but we both feel strongly that its a boy. A few more weeks and we will know for sure. until then....

30 years of healing

2009-09-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

Today I turn 30. THIRTY! 30 years old. It seemed my twenties would never end and now they have. Its wierd to actually say, "I'm 30" not twenty-something.
My 20's were quite eventful. I got married just shy of 21, moved 10 times (including a brief stint in Maui) and was divorced by the time I was 26, bought and sold 2 houses then bought and kept 2 more. God called me to serve him at a church full time where I met the love of my life at 27 . The last 2 years of my 20's seemed relatively un-eventful considering the rest. Though not easy by any means they were more stable than the rest. God brought me through so much healing in the last ten years I wouldnt be the woman I am today without it all. He showed me how to forgive people even if they never ask. That forgiveness is His glory not ours, His grace not our revenge. He touched my heart and broke down the wall of hardness and protection that I had worked so hard to build. He asked me to pray blessings on the people who hurt me so badly. He took my pain and softened it so I could share it with others and ease theirs. He gave me a voice.

Perhaps the biggest lessens in healing came this summer. I havent shared this story yet because it wasnt time. The more I thought about sharing the harder it became to find the right "title". Today it seemed the most fitting. Healing. Sometimes you have to endure immense pain to see all that God has to offer, NOT that He at all causes the pain, but simply doesnt butt in and allows us to go through it. In June after months and months of anguish, anger and sadness I learned that for the 1st time I was pregnant. That little blue plus sign was the most amazing thing I'd ever seen. Upon seeing it appear I immediately fell on the floor in praise and prayer. I'm still astonished to this day. I truly believed I would never in my life see a positive pregnancy test, without the help of a Doctor. Although I had prayed and begged and pleaded and yelled for it I could not believe it was actually true. I told my dear husband that night and he too was in utter amazement. You see, we were about to head for a much needed vacation to Hawaii the next week. We had been putting off our 1st fertility treatment because of the vacation. We needed to devot an entire month to this process and werent quite ready for all it would bring. We decided to go in July when we were rested and ready. This took us by complete surprise. Though the same day we confirmed it at the hospital our dear friends lost their baby. It was joy and utter sorrow all at the same time.
1 week later, the day we were set to leave for Hawaii I woke up with signs of a distressed pregnancy. I told my husband and called our hospital. They asked us to come in right away. The next 24hours I remember but seem more like a dream. The ultrasound showed nothing but the blood test was a confident positive. I didnt know what to think. I didnt know what to feel. "How could this be happening", "what if this is our only chance", "why". We did go to Hawaii but it was certainly not vacation. I spent the whole week in bed and at the Dr. There were a few happy moments but mostly I felt like I was in a steel bubble all alone. I questioned God more in that month than ever before in my life. "Why would He give me something just to take it away, thats so wrong". "Why couldnt I just be able to be happy and not have sorrow". WHY!!!

What happened next is nothing short of a miracle. Slowly through other parts that needed healing God softened my heart once again and began to show me a glimmer of His plan. Our church was going through a series on miracles and healing at the exact time I needed it. Brilliant. I shared with you that He sent me an angel I had no idea then what He was about to do. Our pastors asked us to stand if we needed healing and to consider praying for healing for others. I stood that Sunday in desperation for Him to heal my heart, it was broken in a million ways. That week I got the 1st email from that angel also praying for healing. I had NEVER before even thought that I needed physical healing. I had lived in this body my whole life and just accepted that this was the way I was made. He slowly began to change my heart and through many conversations with dear friends moved me into a place where I could take a literal leap of faith. My struggle was no longer a struggle it was a journey of faith. A path that I had been specially chosen to walk because God knew me and knew I could handle it. I prayed and asked "God, I believe you can and you will heal me. I believe that you will give us a child, I'm asking you for this with all that I am and am leaping into faith. I also believe that you will again heal my heart if you chose not to heal my body. We will love a child however you give it to us". I also took on a new daily prayer, "God, I'm doing my part, you do the rest" which has become so much more to me now.
We decided that through this new found faith we would again wait to go back to fertility treatments, friends, this was a VERY personal decision and it was what God asked US to do. We still are very grateful for every opportunity those Dr's gave us. My angel wrote the last email to me on August 3rd. She told me of her journey of faith and healing and how God had used me to help her. His plan is ALWAYS better. On August 5th I again had a positive pregnancy test. This one was a little less exciting. The joyful innocence I once had was now gone, yet it was exciting still. I think until about 2 weeks ago I was almost in denial. Just waiting for the other shoe to drop. My prayer is the only thing holding me together, "God, I'm doing my part, you do the rest". Today I am 11 weeks pregnant. We've seen the heartbeat twice, heard it once and pray for it everyday. I am far from being totally healed and I'm sure there are many more years of Gods healing. Its a journey, not a struggle but I am "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." ~Phil 1:6

30 years of healing. Thank you God for thirty years of healing. Please continue to heal me. Thank you for beating hearts and Dr's and ultrasounds. Thank you God for heartburn, stretchmarks and nausea. Thank you God for weight gain, tight pants and large blue veins. Thank you God for exhaustion and hunger. Thank you God for healing me today, please heal me tomorrow. amen. New little angel coming in April.

update....

2009-08-06T18:50:00.000-07:00

Update #1
Sorry for leaving you in suspense. My new friend did end up miscarrying. Although very sad her words are simply amazing...here's a sneak at them "this whole thing has really brought me closer to him than i have ever been before because i have learned how to be honest in my relationship with him and how to let him love me where Im at. I learned that i cant get any place else, until I feel loved and accepted right where Im at."

What wisdom! loved and accepted right where I'm at! If only we all could experience this.

Update #2
We MOVED IN! Finally! Although definitely NOT ideal we did get moved into the new house. Theres still SO much to do at both places but I can say at this point we are making progress. We overlooked 1 small, tiny, miniscule thing in the renovations....a pantry. We re-worked the layout of the original kitchen and had intended to build a pantry in the laundry room but with everything else taking priority we forgot to measure.
Before...

After...

Our laundry machines are able to stack but I prefer them side by side. So with the machines and water heater we have a whopping 24 inches wide left for pantry shelves. So this is our make shift pantry for now!

I'm grateful for anything and it just makes me pull out my creativity! I know we have so much to be grateful for. Thank you Lord for the food that fills these shelves!
More to come later!!

Childlike faith

2009-07-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

One little part of my job is to stand at a table on Sunday and answer questions about our church. I usually meet very interesting people but I enjoy getting to greet them and give them just a little glimpse of God's love. This Sunday was really unique. The 1st person I spoke with was a young girl, she made eye contact with me and walked straight from the exit doors to me. The words that came next continue to amaze me. She said, "is there someone who can pray with me", I said sure, I can do that whats going on? She continued, "I am pregnant and had my 1st Dr's appt last week. They told me my baby didnt have a heartbeat, but I havent yet begun to miscarry".
Through the course of our conversation I realized how much God wanted us to meet. The odds are unquestionable that it was God. I am continuing to communicate with her as she sees her Dr. this week to determine what to do. She has chosen to wait and see what God will do, there are lots of tests her Dr. is running but it seems like an eternal wait to me. She's had at least 2 ultrasounds on different days and both show no heartbeat. I dont know that I could wait like her.

What I am learning through her is childlike faith. She said she has seen her 7mo pregnant friend be told that her baby had died and when she went in the next day (after much prayer) to deliver, the baby was alive again. She believes that God can do that with her tiny baby. She just keeps saying how much more faith she has because of this. Her Dr. even told her that she can keep waiting and that he has seen "bigger miracles than this". I have had so many disappointments that it is hard for me to believe like she is. God is slowly changing this in me, shaping me into the daughter He wants me to be. A friend told me yesterday how we say we are "trusting God" but that we need to remember He is trustworthy. That shook me hard. Am I just saying I'm trusting God or am I truly believing He is trustworthy? That I should believe like her, not remembering disappointment but believing in His power that He will NOT disappoint me. And remembering when it doesnt go the way I pleaded that it is simply because He knows the future and whats best and will answer in love. THESE sermon messages have come at a desperate time for me. Listen to them, they will change you. (6/28 through 7/19)

So, if you think of her or me would you join us in praying for this miracle? Please pray for Baby G and his mama, and for faith like a child for me.

An angel

2009-07-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

God sent me an angel today. The last month has been nothing short of unbelievable in good and bad. I have seen and felt and heard God's goodness and today he sent me an email from an angel. This is some of what it said....

" I have been thinking about the two of you more and more. I'm not sure if your physical body needs healing but I know that if you are anything like me, the struggle to get pregnant has taken a toll on your mental health. For the next 28 days, I will be fervently praying for you instead of myself. Every time I begin to think about how I would decorate the empty room in my house, or what names I like, I will be praying that God give you the desires of your heart. I will be praying for your marriage; that it continues to strengthen and that you will continue to fall in love with your husband more and more each day. I pray that you will let all unforgiveness and guilt and anger go. If your body needs healing, I pray that God bring that to you. I pray that you find peace. I don't know if I am the one designed to pray for you but it can't hurt. I no longer want to be selfish in my prayers".

The last few weeks have been filled with utter joy and totally devastation. I dont think I've ever in my life felt so many conflicting emotions. Today was the first day I realized I actually felt normal again and then I received this email. I sit with tears flowing and heart absolutely amazed and filled with love.
So sweet angel, I will pay it forward and do the same for someone else.You have challenged me to think outside my own box. Thank you for showing me God's goodness today. Thank you for living our vision of being real. Thank you for stepping out in faith and sharing with me how God has spoken to you. I know that through your love and obedience you will be blessed. My dear sweet friend, I bless you with truth and the ability to feel hope as you trudge through the unknown future.
We know the ending of the story, God wins everytime.

P.s. The definition of "trudge" is...

trudge
   n : a long difficult walk
   v 1: walk heavily and firmly

Firmly. Set on the firm foundation of our great savior. Heavily, knowing 
that the ground you are firmly walking on is supported by Christ.

Hope

2009-06-19T12:37:00.001-07:00

Today I needed hope. I spent a good amount of time in prayer last night and Hope was what God needed me to have. Today I read about it and hope it gives you hope too. I have meditated on these verses for months and they mean so much more to me today. I was reminded that I already have hope, I just forgot I had it and forgot to see it.

~Romans 5:3,4&5 (NLT)

We can rejoice too when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this HOPE will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly GOD LOVES US, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.

Hawaii

2009-06-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

in T minus 5 days. woot.
We go to Hawaii at least twice a year. My hubby grew up on Oahu and much of his family is still there. This trip is special though. We get to take a few friends with us this time. My brother, sister-in-law and niece live on Maui and we are going to stay with them a few days too. The irony is that Mikes mom has been staying with us for a week here in Cali and she's flying back with us next week, but she has some work to do on other islands so we wont even see her until late in the week. Of all the times I've been to Hawaii there is still so much I haven't done. Eat shave ice for one. Never had it in HI ever. Thats on my list to do this time. Since we are avid followers of LOST
we will be trying to drive and see some of the "islands secrets" or places they film! :)
I always worry about posting TOO much info just in case some crazy is reading, but robbers beware we already have a house guest/sitter for the week and our neighbors keep watch for us too.
Maybe when we get back we can move into our new house???? ugg...the joys of home ownership. Carpet is getting installed tomorrow which is helping me feel very accomplished these days. Now if only the kitchen was put back together.....one can only hope.

Boots with the fur.

2009-06-01T15:27:00.000-07:00

This made me giggle A LOT. Everyone needs a good chuckle on Monday. Enjoy.

My favorite free stuff add in craigs list

2009-05-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

Seriously people, just throw it away or take it to Goodwill.

FREE STUFF (rialto)

I HAVE ABOUT 5 CHRISTMAS TAPES AND THE BEACHES SOUND TRACK, OLIVA NEWTON-JOHN GREATEST HITS AND GLORIA ESTEFAN'S REACH SINGLE. I ALSO HAVE SOME SIZE 2 BLUES CLUES SLIPPERS AND SOME SOFT BLUE SHOES WITH SOCCAR BALLS ON THEM, A PAIR OF SIZE 10 IN LITTLE GIRLS LIGHT BROWN CAPRIS. THE SANDLES IN THE PICTURE ARE FOR SALE *NOT FREE*

CASSETTE TAPES AND LITTLE GIRL CAPRIS (PENDING PICK UP TOMARROW 5/19/09)

Location: rialto
it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests

"...my achy breaky heart"

2009-05-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

Oh my heart, my pitiful broken heart. When will I feel the healing hand of my God?
I Spent 2 days at monastery this week seeking healing and direction from God. I heard a lot from him and cried the hardest I've cried in a long time. Came home to the surprise of a new home and still can't get passed one small thing...I have no children to fill either house. Its just us. Even now, writing this my eyes are welling with tears. Oh how I long for kids to hear cry and snuggle with and let run in the yard with nothing but a diaper on. It was the only thing I wanted to talk to God about on my retreat and the only thing he didn't speak about.
One of the hardest parts with being open and honest about our struggle with fertility is that people start to become afraid to tell you they are pregnant. And then when my genuine joy for them is expressed the phrase I hear time and time again is "thank you for being happy for us". As if I wouldn't join them in sharing their joy. And then the great accuser sends lies to attack and all I hear is "they are all looking at you and thinking, poor Amanda she can't conceive. It will NEVER happen for you."
Anyone wanna drop off a kid on my doorstop?
This sucks.

Our House is a very, very, very fine house.

2009-05-15T07:46:00.001-07:00

We bought our 1st house in August and 2nd in May. Okay, I know what your thinking....2nd house??? When we bought the house we are currently living in we bought it as an investment. It isn't perfect but worked for us. 3 bedrooms 2 baths 1200square feet. Mostly we love our neighborhood.We have been planning since we moved in to add on a master bath and bonus room but with the economy I never felt quite right about it. Last week I was driving down our street and low and behold my FAVORITE house was for sale. You know you have one too. That house! You know the one that you drive just a little out of the way to see every time you are close, the "one day could be mine" house and "If I lived there" house. EVERY time we drive down our street I tell my sweet hubby "I love that house, its my favorite" so you can imagine my surprise when I found it for sale. It was the "right" price and we decided to take a risk. We called all our peeps and did some research and decided it was a good move for us. The irony is that I had already planned on going on a retreat the day that we bought it. My sweet hubby bought it with the help of dear friends and surprised me last night when I got home. It needs a little TLC on the inside but will be cute as a button when we are done. No construction for us now all we have to do is rent our current house. Anyone need a home???

This picture doesn't do it justice I'll post more later.

I should have written this!

2009-03-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

Stole this from my good friend Summer. Hope you enjoy.

I am loved!

2009-03-10T16:39:00.001-07:00

This is my car, Lexi. She is 10 years old. She had a little "mishap" in 2004. A gate hit her! Its very expensive to fix the mirror and so I just haven't done it. Plus, I'm so used to having one mirror I haven't noticed or needed it and really it keeps me humble. I say she had a "stroke" that affected her right side. (for some reason the picture flipped, this is actually the passenger side NOT the drivers side, THAT I would have noticed)

This weekend, while on vacation in Florida, my good friend Eddie called and said he was at pick-a-part and found me a mirror!.....anyone else hear angels singing?

So, my sweet Lexi, you will be whole again soon. Just in time for us to trade you in! :) AND all for the low price of $22.00. amazing.

Vacation

2009-03-09T22:00:00.000-07:00

I've wanted to go to Florida for a really long time. My hubby was woo'd by THIS company to come and check out what they offer. We were woo'd.
They wined and dined us on all things Disney and even took us to a Blue Man Group show. It was fantastic! As are all vacations it was too short but we really enjoyed ourselves. What a blessing it was to get away and just be together. It was a kind of 2nd honey moon but this time we didn't pay for it. One of my favorites was eating lunch at the "Sci-fi Dine in" a restaurant in D's Hollywood studios. I wish we had more time to hang out in the studios but we had a flight to catch. The lunch was fun, you sit in old cars and watch clips of classic horror films.
yay for vacations!

Sunday Laundry Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-03-09T17:22:00.000-07:00

Saw this on a blog and I want it. so here it is.

Sunday Laundry Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY!!!!

How to pray for us

2009-03-01T23:42:00.000-08:00

I didn't forget about this blog. I've been contemplating telling a story and just didn't have the guts for it yet. Plus I have a short attention span and usually forget all those "I should blog about this" stories when i get a chance to sit and do it. So i guess here goes.

Since forever, or as long as I can remember, I've wanted to be a parent. Until now I never cared if I actually gave birth to my children or if we bought them or someone just randomly gave us some kids. We are in a place where its actually possible and becoming more of a reality everyday to REALLY become parents. As the saying goes, you have to start somewhere, so thats where we are. We are trying to conceive. God bless the people who can conceive one drunken night but for us, It is not going well. I have a really amazing husband. He has been so supportive, loving and definitely wins the husband of the year award. We had a couple of "tests" done this week, he was happy to learn that he is a "real man" or as our friend so kindly dubbed him a "potent polynesian" (el potante for short).

My hubby always makes me laugh and through the last month and a half of tests he has definitely helped me see the sunshine through his jokes. I have lived with the fear of not being able to conceive for 9 years now and because my God loves me so much he has given us true friends to go through this with. I used to be very scared and ashamed to tell anyone what was going on but the truth is it actually is easier to let people know then to hold it all in.
I really had a hard time understanding how to "give this to God" as everyone will tell you to do when you are in a tough situation. It wasn't until we decided to seek medical help that this became reality for me. I'm in a really good place with God right now. I feel peaceful and quite relieved actually. I think because it is completely out of my hands at this point. I had no choice but to ask for help and give it away. If you would, please pray for us. I figure its like writing a letter to the governor, the more people you have writing, the better response you might get. Here's how to pray for us:

~That we would remain peaceful and relieved
~That God would use our Dr's to speak wisdom and knowledge to us
~That regardless of the outcome, God would be praised and His presence and hope for eternity known.
~We would be a light to others and give them the only hope that is 100% guaranteed

thanks.

Are you there God? its me.....Amanda

2009-02-10T19:46:00.000-08:00

I prayed for something very small and very specific the other day. I don't know why I don't have more faith that God will answer my prayers. I think most of the time I pray because I know its important to have a relationship with God, but rarely expect results from my requests. But this time, He answered and FAST! Within 10 minutes of my shout out I found out it was answered about the time I was asking for it. God never ceases to amaze me. The best part was that I was reminded that if He can answer even the simplest of my requests, how much more can/will He answer the big ones. I have been learning, painstakingly, how selfish I really am. Lately I've been trying to figure out what dying to myself and letting God truly have control really means. For now, it means simply believing that He will answer me, it just may not be what I want to hear.
Do you hear from God?

one of "those" days

2009-01-21T22:03:00.000-08:00

you ever have one? you know one of those days where you feel like you need a few "little blue pills" just to get through it. I had such a terrible day recently that it was still lingering days later. Just a crappy day that left me totally drained in every way. (Please, for my sake, don't ask why)
Thankfully I believe in God. Seriously, I don't know what I'd do if I had only myself or a few friends to rely on. I had a great time with God today. He met me for a few minutes and reminded me that even when I feel so alone He's there holding me, comforting me and caring for me. He never makes me feel embarrassed or intimidated or, true to my personality, exposed. He just allows me to cry and cry and get it all out. Side Note: Did you know that emotional tears are actually healthy for you? I wish I could really put into words what I learned today. It was more a picture and its exactly what I needed.

I've been going through a study by Beth Moore called "John". Its on the person, not the book but oh so wonderful. She really is a gifted writer and knows how to challenge a person. It made today's realization make so much sense.
That was a random thought.

I hope your week is so much better.

Going Green

2009-01-07T15:03:00.000-08:00

We didn't send a memo but this is what 7 of us wore to work today.

Happy Christmas

2008-12-26T01:44:00.000-08:00

Apparantly to say "happy" is British or something. I didn't know, I just like to say happy instead of merry. I sure hope yours was full of happy and a lot of merry. Here's what we did...
Group shot after gifts

Me and my loot from Mikey. A friend gave me the GREATEST idea ever. She goes to her favorite shop and puts a cart of goods on hold for her husband to come and pick out of. BRILLIANT I tell ya. I pick out what I want, including stuff I wouldn't get for myself and take the guess work out of shopping for him. Worked like a charm. You should try it. It was great.

We spent our day lounging by the pool. And you?

rain, rain are you here to stay?

2008-12-15T21:54:00.000-08:00

It rained so much today. It was amazing really. All I wanted to do was lie in bed with a warm drink and watch sappy movies on Lifetime. In my old life I would have gladly called in sick and enjoyed a quiet, cozy day in my pj's. I don't have that liberty anymore. Instead of "calling in", I'm "in my calling". That puts a damper on my damp day plans. Today I traded in my cozy bed and recorded t.v. for 10 hours of ministry. Some of which was ministering to people Ive never met and may never meet. So now here I sit, on my couch, glasses on, heat on, laziness....on. TV on, blog stalking on, Brain...OFF. Won't you join me? He did....

Family Fun

2008-12-12T12:48:00.000-08:00

My oldest brother and his wife were visiting for Thanksgiving. Since our family has grown A LOT in the past few years we thought it would be a "great" idea to take family pictures. Have you ever tried to take pictures with 1-3yr old, 2-2yr olds, 1-almost 1yr old and a newborn??? Our great idea turned into a "quick they are almost all in one place snap it" night. Here are some from that day. Mind you, mike and I had just flown in from Georgia that afternoon. Oh well, we'll try again next year!

Coffee...good for the soul

2008-11-20T13:22:00.000-08:00

I'm a coffee lover through and through. When God chooses to bless us with pregnancy, I really don't know what I will do. I've tried to cut out the coffee before and my friends it isn't pretty. I don't mind decaf but really, what's the point. A very good friend of ours loves to roast his own coffee beans, let me tell you this stuff will put hair on your chest, but it certainly is delicious. He opened my eyes to "green beans". No, not the string vegetable kind but raw coffee beans. I didn't even know you could buy those. I'm a fan of organic and fair trade. Fair trade means the companies pay the workers fair wages, not slave labor. A company I've grown to love is Pura Vida.
Ive ordered green beans from them and we use them commercially at our coffee cart at church. It's very yummy and they support other great companies like Sojourners. So, if your in the mood for coffee and want to make sure your supporting good causes check em out. They deliver straight to your door in less than a week!

My buddy and me

2008-11-14T15:19:00.001-08:00

My buddy Evan came to visit me today. His mommy had a meeting so he came over to play at my house. Having no children of my own gives me freedom to give moms a break, which I just love. There have been SO many babies this year. It's so much fun. Evan is a little extra special. I found out he was going to be born when he was just 5 weeks alive inside his mom's tummy. Since we work together I got to watch them both grow throughout pregnancy and experience almost everyday changes. He was such a good baby even then. Didn't make his mommy sick or anything.

He was a little fussy so I pulled him out of his chair and fell right asleep in my lap. He's so yummy.

Top 5 Things I've failed at.....

2008-11-11T19:25:00.000-08:00

1.Blogging
How terrible of me to have blogged last over A MONTH ago. So much has happened and yet I haven't posted a thing.

2. Seeing clearly
took 29 years for my eyes to start failing. They sure did a good job on it. They are supposed to only be for reading but I can see so much better all the time with them on. I'm used to squinting to see not so much used to wearing glasses so I forget them often.

3. Running.
I have expensive, really good running shoes and haven't actually gone for a run in them once. I've walked a lot and thought about running but have yet to do it.

4. Waking up early
I end each day with prayer begging God to help me rise early to spend time with him and get a walk or jog in. Its not working. I'm actually more tired than when I went to bed.

5. Calling my phone company to figure out why I can't send picture messages.
it's been over a year and I've switched service companies and still nothing.

Micah James Daniel

2008-10-07T18:46:00.001-07:00

My precious nephew Micah was born last night at 9:30pm. He weighed in at 8lbs 6 oz and 20in long. He is cute and loving and a miracle.

I was honored to be a part of the "care team" for my sister Bethany during birth. She knows how obsessed I am with pregnancy and the birth process and asked if I would be there with her during his birth. It was awesome. Awkward at times to see her laid out like a garage sale and enduring pain only a mother could know. She was trooper and pushed through with only minimal pain meds. (She opted for a low dose of pain killer instead of an epidural).
It was all wonderful, but the funniest part(s) were hearing her tell us "you.just.don't.understand." and just after birth in a clearly lucid moment "i want pickles, bad". Watching the nurses scurry when she said "I can't hold it anymore, I'm pushing" was truly humorous, especially since there was no Doctor in sight. His head popped out just in time for the Dr. to catch him. literally catch him. And then the sweet cries from this new life. An overwhelmingly amazing moment that words cannot do justice.
We have generational birth defects and God spared this little boy from all of them. Then came our cries of relief and joy.

My sweet little brother, an amazing father and doting husband. If you know him you know he doesnt say much but the care he gave his wife was beautiful. He knew exactly what was happening at each moment and was right there for her every need. (even when she yelled at him!). His face of joy and excitement when Micah was born are precious memories. Watching and taking pictures of him cutting his sons cord to give him independance and to bond with him as his father are amongst my favorites.
Congrats Daniel and Bethany!

God bless you and keep you, God smile on you and gift you, God look you full in the face and make you prosper
~Num 6:24-26

"Hey baby, I found a drawer"

2008-10-01T23:05:00.000-07:00

When you buy a house sometimes you find things you missed in the walkthru's. Wierd things.

1972 bundt cake pan-still in box...check
old doors and standing fan in garage attic...check

but this one takes the cake. My hubby came home last night and these are the words I hear from the bathroom..."hey baby, I found a drawer". Thinking to myself, what? I unpacked and put away everything in that bathroom, what is he talking about.
I walk in to find this...

My response? "wow, you sure did find a drawer".
Who knew? There it was a very large drawer underneath the sink. I have no idea what what we will put in it but I'm sure we'll find something.
random I know.

We are so lucky...

2008-09-22T12:24:00.001-07:00

This is Eddie. He comes to Sandals. He approached me at a Sandals Night Out last year asking if he could help out in the office. He comes consistently 3-4 days a weeks to do data entry or make phone calls or study for school. He is talking to his professor in this picture. At Sandals Eddie is what we call a "full time volunteer". Eddie is so thoughtful. He always brings us treats and little notes telling us we are doing a good job. Today he brought us ice cream cake from Cold Stone. yum. Some of the staff have milk allergies and he even thought enough to bring us dark chocolate so everyone could eat it. So, if you see Eddie, tell him thanks. He is making Riverside and Sandals church an awesome place.

The wonders of this world

2008-09-08T22:26:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of things I don't totally understand in life but accept them and move on. Most things are explainable but pregnancy and babies are a mystery to me. The whole concept of getting pregnant and staying pregnant and giving birth is just a crazy miracle. The miraculousness of it (is that a word?) is what gets me everytime. Which is also what makes me sad and angry all at the same time. I think that women/girls dont really understand what it takes to just get pregnant, let alone stay pregnant and give birth to a healthy, functioning human being. With the abortion rates and teen pregnancies and abuse cases its enough to depress anyone who reads up on it. Thats what gets me. I know God allows us to make choices but why does He allow pregnancy? Why does a 14 year old get blessed with pregnancy the first time she has sex and aborts the baby, but a 30 year old who desperately wants to have a child can't get pregnant? It makes me teary just thinking of it. I keep trying to understand why some people get it and others dont and the only thing that makes sense to me is that we get a choice. But that doesn't even make sense. Its the 1 thing that perplexes me the most about God. You'd think it was philosophy or the trinity or is heaven and hell real but I get all that. That all makes perfect sense to me and I don't question it. There are some things a person just knows. I just know it and believe it and thats that. But the pregnancy thing leaves me bewilderd. How? Why? Why not? When? How??? uggh. I'm frustrated just thinking about it. Read a book on pregnancy and tell me if you get it. I don't.
The pictures are of my nephew Micah, coming soon.

Extreme Makeover...

2008-09-04T23:06:00.000-07:00

Scraped ceilings, 12 gallons of paint, refinished hardwood, new window shades, rugs and outdoor furniture and here we are 3 weeks later. We still have a long way to go but it is much more live-able now. You can see our friend Chris laying tile at the bottom. Also in the picture is the freshly painted wainscoting and walls. SOOOO much better!

Whats happened Since July 25

2008-08-22T11:13:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. I hate posting with no pictures and my husband has all the pictures.
Here's our life since the last one...

August 1& 2-coordinated a wedding in Newport
August 4-9-Youth Camp @ jeness park
August 15th-Beach baptism @ Corona Del Mar
August 16th-family dinner with all the out of towners for Aunt Sally's b-day
August 18th- CLOSED escrow! :)
August 19-now-working on house

The house looks unbelievably awesome. It is amazing what paint and carpet can do. We've scraped the ceilings and painted them and today the rest of the house is being painted. Tomorrow we are laying tile and moving partially.

If you are available, have a truck or just wanna come take a peak, we are moving next weekend the 29&30th and would love to have your help!

We're in escrow!!!

2008-07-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

Yes my friends its true. An offer, a counter offer, 3 weeks of waiting, over 100 pages of documents to be signed, an inspection and few faxes and we are in escrow. Officially today.
Mike and I are so excited but it truely feels too good to be true. This is such a wierd market and we have definitely hit some bumps but we are on our way to being homeowners.
We'll see how the next few weeks playout. I'll keep ya posted. These pics will also serve as our "befores". lots of paint and some ripping out of carpet and it will be a whole new place. Looks like we will have a room for you after all Alyssa! :)

The living/dining room.

the kitchen (laundry and bathroom too!)

perhaps our favorite, the enclosed patio

Family Ties

2008-07-16T22:49:00.000-07:00

Parts of my family are out of state right now including my Mom who is in Michigan. My bro and SIL had a birthing class so Dad and I took Trinity to a movie. We ate tacos at Chipotle
and headed to Journey to the Center of the Earth. It was great. I got suckered into a $6 bucket of popcorn that all 3 of us split and we settled into our seats. Trinity was great. I was ansy but she did fabulous. Sat eating popcorn and drinking her sippy cup on Grandpa's lap the whole movie. She was so cute, when she was done with the popcorn she laid back with her hands behind her head and watched the rest of the movie. What 1.5 year old does that! I hope my kids are that great. I'll admit I was nervous taking her but she did great, not even a peep until the end when she pointed and said "wow". Wish I had a pic, but I don't know how to get them off my phone.

Paradigm Shift

2008-07-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

A few years ago I studied the "5 love languages" which opened my eyes to a whole new side of myself. One thing I discovered is that I hate being told I've done something wrong or that I should change. Not because I dont want to change but because chances are I already know and have been working on it. So, to be told I need some work hurts. The flip side is that I'm always aware of what I say and do. I was recently pondering why I comment negatively on a subject and wondered if God was trying to change my heart or if the circumstance regarding the negativity needed to change. Still wondering but I find it interesting. I know its vague but I'm a privacy person so I'll never divulge too much info about me. I do find life interesting when I have something to pray about beyond the normal "thanks, praise, please help and keep safe" prayers. Is God changing you? Are you experiencing a paradigm shift? Its wierd but awkwardly interesting, at least I think so.

Thursday=Fun Day

2008-06-20T00:17:00.000-07:00

I got spoiled today, not everyone can say that about their job but I GET to! Every year the Powers that Be (PTB) take us on "refuel" days and this year our theme is "roadtrip". Today was super fun, we went to the El Capitan and saw the fabulous "narnia:Prince Caspian". It truly was great. Then headed to Universal City Walk and had yummy dinner at Bucca di Beppo. I am so blessed to get to work with such an amazing crew of not only co-workers but dear friends and family. The PTB are so loving and generous when it comes to the staff. They know how hard we all work at making the world (or at least a small part of SoCal) better and shower us with love. I was really re-evaluating where God wanted me and everyday I am reassured He wants me here. My life would have been so drastically different had I taken the path I thought I should be on instead of where God wanted me. The power of community is so much stronger than I knew, but I'm grateful to know it now. don't get me wrong, they exhaust my little introvert heart but I love em' all dearly. Love, love, love to all my peeps! :)

Having some fun on City Walk

In front of Mann's Chinese theater with Shirley Temples' hands and feet.

For all my sista's

2008-06-19T22:28:00.000-07:00

Best Website I've run across today.

http://www.exboyfriendjewelry.com/

NIB New in Box

2008-06-18T23:01:00.000-07:00

I got a new phone. I have no idea how to use it. I couldn't even figure out how to change the ring tone and its stuck on vibrate. Sad.
After 4 blessed years with TMobile I had to say goodbye and hello to Sprint. Not my choice the hubby said I had too. One more thing of my past gone. But for good not bad. He at least got me the plan so I can access my calendar and send emails from it. Now, if I could only figure out how.......

Makes me cry everytime. Could be the weather

2008-05-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

We were blessed to have Becca sing this at our wedding.

Can anyone tell me how to upload a youtube video?

I'm home

2008-05-17T21:29:00.000-07:00

Shakes from "SteakNshake" at 11:30pm. We got into more trouble later but I don't have the pics yet. Stay tuned

Oh yeah. What would traveling be with out the Waffle House. I had indegestion for days after, but it was fun. We also ate at Cracker barrel later that day. Oh and we went to a conference to learn how to use a database.

Deep in the heart of Texas

2008-05-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

I will be in Texas for a few days. Its not the first time nor will it be the last I'm sure. This time it is for a database conference for my church. Can I get more nerdy please. In fact, thats what I said to the very nice lady from the baseball park who gave us GREAT seats when I explained to here why I would be coming. Sadly I really am excited to go. Sad to leave my hubby for the 1st time but I love traveling. I used to do it so much more in my past job and I have missed it. Send good thoughts my hubby's way as he (the extrovert) will be lonely without me. :) I'm sure he'll find a way to fill up his time. I even had to remind him that he couldn't bring anyone with him to pick us up from the airport as the minivan only holds 7. He was devastated thinking that he would be alone for a whole 30 minutes on the drive. I wish I had his energy. If only it could be bottled and sold, I'd be rich and could nap cuz I wouldn't have a job! Well, hopefully there won't be a cricket infestation in Texas this time. Let me tell you it wasn't pretty. See you soon, all ready to enter junk in a database! :)

Viva Las Vegas!

2008-05-02T11:48:00.001-07:00

We got into our room and there was splooge on the window. My hubby has "woo" and got her to give us VIP tickets and a new room, or as the case may be.....a PENTHOUSE! Complete with a jacuzzi tub.

This is Becca at the buffet. the bread pudding was really good.

FREE STUFF

2008-04-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

I have a set of dishes that I just cant bare to throw away or give to goodwill. We got a whole new set for our wedding and I dont have a use for these any more. The set serves 4 and I bought a set of glasses that mostly matches it from Southern Living. The dishes are from Ballard Designs.
Let me know if you want em.

mi esposo...

2008-04-29T23:05:00.000-07:00

At least thats how I think you spell it.
My Husband.I know I talk about him often, but he's the best. Well, this week is really about him. He is graduating on Friday as a "Master of Science in Kinesiology". I'm so proud. My hero. This is definitely an accomplishment for him he has been working on it for quite some time. He has been a busy studying bee since last year and all his hard work has finally paid off. His mom is flying in to see him walk which we are so excited for. Joni Erickson-Tada is speaking at the commencement. She is quite the speaker and person. I'm so happy for my hubby. If you see him tell him congrats, he's earned it!

We're old (part2)

2008-04-22T21:35:00.001-07:00

Tonight was "date night". We both had pretty exhausting days so we wanted a "slow down and chill out but still go" out kind of night. So, we drove through Wendy's (smuggled in my purse) and we went to the movies. Hooray for gift cards. It was actually a pretty good flick, "Smart People". the humor was dry, just our type. If you know anything about my husband you know he enjoys discount cards and free stuff. So he signed up for the "AMC watchers card" and we got a whooping .50 cents off our TEN DOLLAR coke and popcorn (again, hooray for gift cards). Best kept secret at the movies is that if you buy a large they give you free refills. We won a box of gummi bears off the coke cup and while redeeming it got our popcorn refill and gave it to the couple behind us in line. We had already seen our movie and were headed home. they were greatful. Then, because of the aforementioned Wendy's, there was a slight "gas leak" if you get my drift, and very childish giggling the entire drive home. To which we both held hands and said, "we're old".
I'll take old and in love anyday.

Thanks Eddie

2008-04-22T21:34:00.003-07:00

for putting a cool picture and music on my site. Now if I could only get a cool layout.

Freedom

2008-04-17T21:32:00.000-07:00

This story has been told to many people over the last few days but here it is, modified, for you in the internet world. I had one of the best experiences of my life and the single best spiritual experience ever. Over the last few years a million things have changed for me but the one constant has always been God. I work for Him, serve Him, worship Him, pray to Him and seek Him but never have I connected with Him in such a dynamic way before. I had the most amazing chance to "go back" over my life and remind myself how much God has been there for me and loving me always. Never again will I let the enemy lie to me about God's power & authority or that I am worthless. There were so many lies I believed for so long and I am finally free from them. I really don't know how to put into words the way I feel everyday. The only word is free. My prayer for you is that you experience God in a dynamic way every day for all of your life. I hope He is your constant too.

I'm old

2008-04-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

Old enough.

I am married to an extreme extrovert. Don't get me wrong most of the time its fun living with him. We do lots of fun things and hang out with some pretty fun people. Being an introvert it gets hard on me to be going, going, going all the time. He has been pretty loving and allowed me to say when its too much and we have developed an amazing core group of friends. Tonight we had dinner with another couple in our apartment complex and a good friend who's wife was busy with church stuff. We made yummy burritos/tacos and this is what happened after dinner...

My hubby on the phone with a telemarketer, he thinks its funny to leave them on hold for like 45 minutes. I don't get it but it makes him happy.

The rest of us. Right to left, Andrew is watching LOST with headphones because he didn't want to spoil it for the others, kim is eating cake, Derek is doing something on the computer and grading papers all while some soothing jazz is playing in the background. And yes, we all own MAC's.

It is Friday for us b/c we work Sunday through Thursday. What a lively Friday it is. I giggled a little taking these pictures. What do you do for fun?

WARNING! This is controversial

2008-04-03T20:49:00.000-07:00

So, my good friend told me she was reading in a magazine about a man who is pregnant. Yes you read that right. Apparently he is a transgender, takes hormones to help the physical appearance and had his natural breasts surgically removed but never got rid of the inside girly parts. Highly confusing yet quite interesting. He is married, to a woman, and legally recognized as a man. The couple was on Oprah this week, and even aired an ultrasound. The article is so interesting to me mainly because I have several pregnant friends. He says that he has always felt more masculine and it was just more natural for him to dress and live like a man. Yet, he wanted the experience of having a child. He has a valid point saying "It's not a male or female desire to want to have a child…it's a human desire." I guess I just wonder how you feel more like a man and still have a monthly friend and all the hormones of being pregnant. Even my most tomboy friend that is preggo is a sap these days. Very strange. I also am so sad that he never loved himself as the person God made him, a woman. Thats the controversy. But that's what I believe. Even with all my issues of self image and esteem I never once was not happy with the gender I was born. I never questioned it. BUT.....I did not live his life growing up and could not know the experiences he had, nor he mine. I'm sure it's not the 1st, just the 1st publicly announced and it surely won't be the last.

leaving on a jet plane

2008-03-25T23:11:00.000-07:00

Our dearest friends departed early this morning for Atlanta, indefinitely. We've know it was coming for a while but I guess we were in denial that this day would really come. James and Mike have been best friends for almost 12 years now and it was heartbreaking to watch my beloved hug his friend turned brother goodbye last night. They have been a support to us and our "Mordecai" friends. They are never slow to speak truth and always willing to love. They opened their home to us and welcomed us anytime. Generously shared food, clothes, tools , cars, games and faith. Words cannot describe our sadness today. The bright side is that we love the south and can't wait to visit. The boys were so funny to watch as the nerds in them came out during their "very last game ever" of Settlers of Catan. We are our own version of Friends, which we used to watch religiously with them. I was searching and couldn't find a picture of all 6 but here is one from our wedding. I prayed for true friends for years. Friends that were more than friends. Friends to walk through life together with. I truely hope you find the friends you have prayed for.

The moment you've all been waiting for

2008-03-24T16:17:00.000-07:00

I have been working on this a while. It was supposed to have music to it but it disappeared in the loading process. Hope you enjoy.
12.29.2007
The Tonggs

my new favorite past time

2008-03-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

Seriously you should try it. I think I'm getting carpal tunnel from the controller.

Petition for Patty

2008-03-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

PattyB! is still technically a "temporary" employee. None of us know why exactly but we are glad she's here. She is a ray of sunshine, controls the gushers supply and has a steady BINGO group on Wednesday nights (she's 20 not 70). So wont you join me in the petition for Patty?
1. Amanda
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My Crazy week...

2008-03-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

I work Sunday through Thursday so that's where I'll begin. Alarm at 6am in the car by 6:55. 2200 people, 4 services, 5 teams and 1 training to lead then a blessed nap. That's my Sunday.
My brother and sister in law and niece are visiting from Hawaii so we spent Monday and Tuesday working our paid jobs then working at home to turn our dump into a blissful retreat (aka...finally unpacking ALL of our boxes 3 months after we moved in)
Wednesday is when the family arrived and I was too excited all day to truely focus on work, however I managed to get a lot of work done, thank God for laptops. We had dinner with our cousin who had a 2nd baby in January. I tried to capture some fun family moments but the babies are all getting so big this is all I could get of them. Abby is playing the piano and Caron is "sharing" with Trinity. Kids are funny, share really means "give it to me now". Today is Thursday, my Friday, I have to prep for Sunday, meet with some people and then of course LOST is tonight. We have a weekly dinner date and LOST watching party. Friday is girls day. We are taking the babies to Gymboree for a playdate while the boys wander in Best buy. Saturday we have a family lunch then wedding that night. The boys decided they wanted to go "shoot things" at Uncle Tom's ranch so they are heading up early Saturday morning while the women prepare lunch. You'd think we were living in the 1800's. Well that's about it. Just thought I'd get you up to speed. There's been lots of exciting things but I had a camera malfunction so this is all you get.

Chicken and God

2008-03-03T21:18:00.000-08:00

I'm not a huge fan of fast food. Let's face it most of it is just crap. A few years ago I watched the infamous "Supersize me" and well it's had a lasting effect on me ever since. There is one thing I will ALWAYS stop for. Chicken. Not just any chicken though, Chick-fil-A chicken. Or as my good friend Kim and I kindly refer to it as simply "chicken". We eat it at least 2x a week, sometimes 2x a day if I'm lucky. I may be a little bias as I did work there and enjoyed every minute of it. Besides eating a lot, and I mean A LOT of good chicken, I learned so much in my short time with the company but mostly grace. God showed His mercy and grace in abundance. I firmly believe that God was preparing me for my current journey through my job at the good ol' CFA. Somehow I even managed to find a way to merge both chicken and my new job into an event once a month. I met some fun friends and slowly God shaped me into the person I am today. I was so broken when I came to work there I really had no where to go but up. God brought an amazing family to model true love, compassion, humor and to slowly help build my confidence and character. I got to travel and work hard and share God with so many. There were many angels there and I am so grateful for each one. What better place could one work than where the corporate mission statement is "To glorify God by being good stewards of all that has been entrusted to us. To have a positive influence on all who come in contact with Chick-fil-A". Maybe that should be our own personal mission statements.

There's a 1st time for everything

2008-02-29T22:14:00.000-08:00

Hello World!
This blog comes life because of my ill attempt to load pictures and write what I wanted to about them. I've done the myspace thing and various other online "communication" tools and well now I'm apparently a "blogger" (at least for now). I'm not huge on following my blogging friends but I do enjoy catching up with them via the internet at the wee hours of the night or morning. I asked a friend what is the first thing that comes to mind when she thinks of me and she said "friend", hence the my title. Whether I've known you for 2 days or 2 years your are known to me as friend, probably because I can't remember your name. So for you my friends here's a little about me...
I am:
in my late 20's (omg)
a SoCal lifer, so far
married to the love of my life
working in a divinely ordained career that challenges me and grows me everyday
not a mother yet
a true introvert, despite what you might think
and eager to get to know you