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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Groupon-alicious

So, I love Groupon, Eversave, and all the other "deal" websites.  I love them and at times, I get a bit addicted to them:)

Getting my nails done is a TREAT.  I am a once every 3 or 4 month mani/pedi girl and I usually go to nail places where there are 10 chairs, nothing swanky, and I'm reminded of Bon Qui Qui skits every time. 
 
So, today April and I enjoyed one of these deals to celebrate my birthday (back in May).  It was at the Spa at Willowbend in Plano.  There was a wreck on the interstate so we were late.  I called and told them we'd be late.  The woman who answered the phone told me if we were 10 minutes late it was fine but if we were more than that, our pedi/mani would be shortened.  Okay so we go there between 10 and 15 minutes late. We filled out our paperwork and the receptionist who had a very strong European accent informed us that because we were 15 minutes late, we would lose 15 minutes of our services.  April and I looked at each other with a confused expression.  April asked, "What does that mean exactly?" At this point, I'm thinking, "If 10 minutes was acceptable to be late but 15 minutes meant we lost some time, wouldn't we only lose 5 minutes? "  She explained that there was a client right after us and she couldn't make them be 15 minutes late. Okay so I understand and I think we lost a massage.  We got the pedi/mani with paraffin which was wonderful.  Our nail techs were fine but April and I both felt like we were inconveniencing them a bit.  As we sat and let our nails dry, we fully expected clients to fill our spots, no one.  We let our nails dry, paid, and left without any other clients filling our spots.  And as we were leaving and paying, the same receptionist tried to upsale us another mani/pedi for a great price of $55. No offense, I would not pay $55 for what I got today.  Doesn't she know we're Groupon-alicious?  We bought the 3 mani/pedis a month ago for $55!!

My review:
PROS:
  • my nails look great
  • the mani/pedi was very good 
  • I loved the paraffin treatment on my feet and hands.  It was great. 
CONS:
  • greeting from receptionist wasn't very understanding or forgiving
  • didn't feel welcomed or appreciated as a customer
Final Thoughts: I'll stick with my Bon qui qui nail salons and leave the swanky spas for those with more cash flow!

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Moved by Music

I'm getting a jump on my "thanks" for tomorrow. I was listening to our playlist for tomorrow and I was moved.  We're singing Revelation Song.   It is powerful but oh my gosh, I sat here and the tears just came, I mean like bitter beer face crying.  I needed to hear and be reminded of the power that God truly has.  I need to be reminded that He was and He is and He is to come.  The "is to come" is the one that trips me up. I worry and I get anxious and I stress.  This song was the perfect reminder with bitter beer face and all that HE IS TO COME with all power and glory and wisdom.  And when I even type that, I think, "who the heck do I think I am?"  Glad for the reminder as I sat in my room at my computer with hands lifted in the air singing at the top of my lungs tonight.  It was definitely a moment!! (I was kind of surprised my kids didn't run in to tell me to turn it down.)

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Thanks

I decided to do a thanks a day during November.  It's been really cool to reflect on all of the people that I am thankful for.  I've been blessed. 

As I was reading about the First Thanksgiving and why we celebrate that day, I was reminded that there are still people in our country who do not experience freedom and who are still oppressed.  That makes me so sad. I want my kids to understand and appreciate what we have but I also want them to be moved to action to help the oppressed.  I want to be a good example of that for my kids and I'm not sure I am.  Definitely need to do some more thinking and "acting" in that area.

that's it!

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

HELLO?

So, I was slightly offended (not really) when asked earlier this week if I was through with blogging.  I guess by behavior, all signs lead to that conclusion but not in in my heart.  I truly want to document and fill you all in ....because I know you are all so curious as to the happenings of my life.  I realized though at times, my blogging desire borders on a strange desire to complain, fuss, vent on the world wide web.  Although sometimes I find that appropriate, no with my motives or intentions.  I'm trying to tame my tongue and more so, my thoughts.  I've struggled the past month with negativity and criticism.  I am reading a book called, The Dance of Anger. It is fabulous.  I am trying to figure myself out which is not an easy task.  I'm trying to figure out what is it in me that causes such a strong reaction of negativity to certain situations. I don't have many answers but at least I'm connecting some dots for myself.

In other news, this week is crazy.  We've tried very successfully to reduce some schedule chaos.  This week, however, is a chaotic schedule week.  Monday night I had a Scentsy open house at a local high school, then an event at A's school.  Tonight we had K's end of season soccer pics & party.  Tomorrow night, we're going to celebrate Chick-fil-a's 5 year anniversary, Thursday, we've got a meeting, Friday, I have a Scentsy open house, Saturday we have a birthday party.  Isn't that wack-a-doodle??!!  My goal tomorrow is NOT to leave the house except to take & pick up A from school until dinner time.  I'm so doing it;)

Alrighty, that's an update.  You're all caught up on me!!!

Friday, July 22, 2011

The Wagon

I can't seem to stay on it.  I have jogged/walked 3 days this week so far and did some yoga one day.  I've got to be consistent, that's so hard for me.  I'm trying to eat better and I have done okay this week.  It's a battle for me. I'm really trying to remind myself that this is for my health.  UGH!!

In other news, I tried my hand at making pickles this week with my friend Lori. We had a lot of fun and they seem to have turned out pretty well.  It reminded me of my friend Michelle in North Carolina.  She was a master at canning, preserving, and just homemade stuff.  She knew it all.  We had so much fun with that.

That's all I've got today.  It's only 8am and I might be ready for a nap.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Running

So, I'm trying to be better to my body.  We're trying to cut out all foods with high fructose corn syrup & hydrogenated oils....do you know that's in a lot of what I like??? I actually feel better eating this way but I'm still craving dr. pepper & diet coke.  So, this week, in honor of my body, I started running again.  And I use the word "running" very loosely.  I think I'm going to have to start over with the couch to 5K program to build up my endurance.  I'm not super happy about this change. I like to eat and not exercise BUT I also like to live and be healthy. I want my kids to see my being healthy too.  They're worth it and so am I:)

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

So, at Catalyst Church we're doing a series on Revelation. I have really enjoyed it. If you want to catch up, watch it here.  It's been very thought provoking.  A few weeks ago the phrase said was something like this, "We may not have what we want but God provides all we need."  Honestly, I have really struggled with that ever since.  A friend and I even had a conversation about it after church this last Sunday because it was so powerful for her. My initial reaction to that is, we don't always have what we need.  There are Christ loving people who are hungry and poor and they don't have what they need.  And I hear people, mostly Christians (I hate to say it), say things like, "I'm blessed with this money or this thing or this job."  And I don't fault them for that but I'm just not sure how I feel about it.  When we first moved here and had 2 house payments for 14 months.  I was talking to some very well meaning people and they were talking about when they moved, their house sold in 2 weeks and how they felt so confirmed with their decision because God blessed them with a quick sell.  It bugged me because God still blessed us even paying double house payments. We were taken care of but I when I say we were blessed I mean in our relationship with Him. We drew closer than we ever had before because we were so desperate for Him and HIS provision.  And by provision, I don't mean money, I mean the provision that we were His.  We even had the conversation so what if we foreclose...well what if we do?  We're still His and He still loves us. 

So, when I hear people say God blessed them with this or that and God provides their material needs, it bugs me.  Sometimes, our basic needs are not provided for. Sometimes we're hungry and we're poor (truly).  What I've come to learn that the phrase means that regardless of our earthly state, God provides what we need and what we need is totally Him.  It isn't about our humanity, it's about our relationship with Him.  That's still a hard concept for me. 

Alright, that's my thought for today that started a few weeks ago...still working through that.

Well Hello there................

I know I've been MIA for awhile.  Summer has been awesome & crazy all at the same time. The kids and I spent two weeks in Florida.  The first week, I was with my YoYos and the second week with family.  It was absolutely incredible. I honestly had a really hard time coming back to reality.  Whenever I'm with my family, it takes me a little bit to reacclimate to life.  I get a bit resentful to be so far away and I kind of just want to stay in my shell and then I pop back out of  it.  I realize we are where we're supposed to be for now and that's okay with me.  I still get sad leaving..it was quite painful for all 3 of us this time.  This was K's first time to be so distraught about leaving Nana & Coachy.  A & I always cry and carry on when it's time to say goodbye.

But, we're back and we've enjoyed June and some of July now.  We stay busy with playdates and pools.  I have really enjoyed all the time we've spent together as a family.  Levi has been going to work SUPER early and getting a lot of his studying and prep work done before others are out and about.  We've done a lot of fun, family stuff and it's been great.

I'll write more...I've got one more blog topic in my brain so I'm going to go with it while I'm thinking about it.

Monday, May 30, 2011

Birthday

So...I had my birthday!  It was lots of fun.  I woke up that morning and my Dad called a few minutes later. I love that my parents try to call me FIRST thing in the morning on my birthday.  Lots of times, they even wake me up since they're an hour earlier. I love that!  Then, my mom called.  That night, a friend kept our kids so we could go on a date. We went out to eat with Jonathan & Meagan, that's our birthday tradition now and then we went to see The Fast Five. GREAT movie by the way:)  Then on Sat. morning, I went with April Wilson and we had manis & pedis.  We even splurged & did the gel coated thing...so far I love that too.  And then to top it off, last night we celebrated with the kiddos at Chilis with the Wilsons.  What a great birthday weekend.  Today we're cooking out with Xuan & Juan. It will be fabulous to catch up with them too.  Guess we left the big guys out...sorry guys;)


Thursday, May 26, 2011

Target, Oh how I have missed you!!

I love Target, I mean LOVE it!  I could go there probably every day (maybe every other) and just walk the aisles in search of nothing & everything at the same time.  I caught myself up on my coupon notebook so I was ready to get some good deals.  I didn't over due it. In fact, I only spent $12 but here's what I got::

6 sticks of men's deodorant
1 shampoo
1 conditioner
2 body washes
3/4 lb of deli ham
1 pint of coffee creamer
3 boxes of Morningside Prime Grillers
1 bottle of nail polish (electric blue)

Fun stuff!!  I love me some Target coupons:)

Typical Pastor's Wife

I read this blog today and it resonated with me.  I thought I'd share it. You can find the original posting here.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Don't freak out....

I'm blogging, don't freak out.  It's been almost a month.   I've been busy and overwhelmed and anxious...forgive me for not blogging.  I'm not even going to try to catch you up on the last month of my life.  I'll just start here.

Today is Sunday. Sundays are big days in our household.  We all look forward to them, which is cool.  My kids love Sundays, they get to see their friends, and go out to lunch with them.  I love that they love Sundays.  I love them too. I love to see what Levi has to say. I love the music.  I love hugging all my friends and meeting new people. I love hearing stories about how people end up at Catalyst.  That's probably my favorite actually.  Today, I talked to a couple of guys that have been coming for a few weeks but I haven't had the chance to really meet them. One of them shared how he found Catalyst and that he loved how laid back we are.  I love getting positive feedback.

Today Levi preached on a passage of scripture that has been used out of context.  It was really good. His point today was that how we live our lives matters.  It kind of hit me between the eyes.  I want my life to matter and I want my life to point back to God's grace and forgiveness and mercy. I don't think it always does and I'm ashamed of that.  Sometimes it's hard to balance that with human emotions and feelings.  I'm going to work on that.

We had two neighbors who showed up at church today...that was very cool.  We've become friends with some alley neighbors over the past few weeks.  While I was at a shower yesterday, Levi took the kids over to play in their yard.  Come to find out, A invited them to church and they came.  I'm not sure if they'll come back or how they even felt about it but I am stinkin' proud of A for telling others about our church.  We have another neighbor who just moved in a month or so ago and while we were rebuilding our fence, we talked to him for a good bit.  He was asking questions about the area and other things and church came up.  Levi was telling him about all the great churches in the area.  He showed up this morning too....and tonight for our Night of Worship. It was very cool!!

We ended our night with a group of friends at Sonic.  I feel very blessed and grateful!!  Thankful for that!!

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Sheesh

I've been absent from my blog lately....sorry, life has been crazy...that's kind of the norm around here and I usually cope pretty well.  We're all doing great just got lots happening.  I did want to pop in for a second and catch up. We had a fabulous Easter.  The Booth's invited us over and we spent Easter afternoon and evening with them playing games, eating, and hunting Easter eggs.  Lots of fun to be had by all.  I told them when we left how much it means to us to be with a family on holidays...it makes it easier to be away from our family.  I appreciate people thinking about us during the holidays, that's really thoughtful of them. Okay, that's all the nice things I"m saying about Doug Booth...I"ll continue about Lori...I'm teasing. 

Last night, we celebrated Sprangs 31st birthday.  We had a lot of fun. I'm really thankful for him. He's like a brother to Levi and that means so much to me too.  We ate at a Japanese hibachi grill place and the kiddos loved that!  Then we chilled at sbux and caught up with them. It was nice!!

This weekend, they are keeping our kids and we are using our 3 year old pastor appreciation gift certificates to a bed and breakfast.  We're looking forward to a great time of resting and relaxing.  Can't wait!!

That's about all the interesting-ness of my life.   Thanks for reading.

Friday, April 22, 2011

A pic

just because it's been forever since I've posted one.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Blessed

Can I just say that the highlight of my Sunday is standing outside the front doors of Catalyst talking to our people?!!  It is, I love it.  It is brief (for the most part) but I love touching base.  So, here are what some of my conversations were today....
"So, your Mom made it to New York,"...while this little girl gives me the best hug ever!!
"Let me see your tattoo....LOVE IT."  The tat said "And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us."
"How's the campaigning going?"
"How is your mom doing? She's living with you full time now."
"It's so good to see you, I know you have a lot of family stuff going on. So glad you're here."
And then I hear Levi talking to others about goatees and other manly stuff.

And then I hear stories about the kids at our church and how they LOVE the LAB.  I realized today how very blessed we are  (Levi & I) and how blessed Catalyst is to have the volunteers we have that give of their time every week or once a month to serve others.  It's amazing.  I don't ever want to take that for granted.  Sometimes I think of this as a job and it is but it is so much more than that and today I am so grateful for it.

We ended our night at Yogurtland and letting the kids play in the park while Levi and Blain threw a frisbee and while Connie, Sheila, and I talked it was a wonderful.  We truly are blessed!!

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

I love my C Group

Okay so I'm going to be honest here, a few weeks ago, I had the wind knocked out of my sails and being the re-run queen....it's kind of bugged me ever since....lesser degrees everyday which is a good thing.  I tend to harbor and then get angry and then feel sorry ; wash and repeat.  I'm also a blamer kind of person. If there is someone to blame then it makes sense to me but if there is injustice involved, wash & repeat...definitely a character flaw of mine.  I also realize that when I experience hurt I put my arms up to keep myself guarded, not only from the perpetrator but to everyone.  I kind of go into a little shell until I talk myself out;)  That sounds a lot more dramatic than it is....if you know me, I'm an open book and even at arm's length, you're pretty close:)  Anyway, tonight was c group.  The dvd we watched was called "Corner."  It talked about how we all have something that is our overflow that is someone else's necessity.  We talked about grace and how grace isn't fair, liberation isn't fair, God isn't fair.  We do questions at the end.  Rewind, we were 3 or 4 couples short tonight and I was kind of bummed BUT OH MY LANDS...I could have stayed in my living room with those other 10 people for hours.  It was a great conversation.  We had people open up about past hurts and how God has extended grace in those situations even through the unfairness of it.  I was able to share and be honest about my patterns of behavior and how I was feeling.  I love that I can be me.  That I can say I struggle with being critical and equity and injustice and that I act like a jerk at times and don't feel judged.  I love that.

Even after the "official" time was over, we sat there and continued to talk in mini groups...I mean really talk and share. It wasn't shallow or superficial, it was relational struggles and parenting hurts, I almost got teary eyed just watching it happen.  One of the guys that shared tonight made the statement while looking around our living room, "God gave me this family."  We are family, we are the body of Christ and it is so cool when it all works together to support and listen and love.

 Sometimes it's weird balancing being the pastor's wife with my friends but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else doing anything else....that's big for me!!

random

So yesterday, we were doing our Bible lesson at school and I was listening to my friend tell the story of Jesus being beat and whipped.  I got teary eyed. It made me so sad that He endured that pain. I listened as she told the kids that He did that for us.  I am so grateful for that sacrifice.  I can't imagine being Mary and knowing that her son was going to endure so much pain.  As a human and a mom, I couldn't do that.  And then I think about God watching, powerful enough to stop it but letting Jesus be our sacrifice.  It breaks my heart.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Menu

Monday- Homemade Pizza
Tuesday- Tilapia, green beans, salad
Wednesday- Chicken and pasta in a cream sauce with veggies
Thursday- Ribs, french fries, peas
Friday- band cookout
Saturday- cookout with friends

Weekend

This weekend was lots of fun.  Levi took Friday off and we really enjoyed it.  We were very productive which also feels GREAT!!  Saturday was fun filled. We had a soccer game, then a community fishing activity, then a birthday party with a petting zoo. We ended out night at Chickfila. While the kids and I were gone, Levi organized the garage and straightened it.  Sunday was church and on the mornings I sing, it's kind of crazy.  Feels a little like a whirlwind.  Lunch with friends and then Levi flew out to St. Louis for his stepgrandmother's funeral.  I had my first Scentsy party and it was a hit.  I had fun and sold a good amount.  Today, we didn't have school so we just ran a lot of errands to get ready for another jam packed week.

Friday, April 8, 2011

Scentsy

Hey peeps...okay I'm putting a  plug in for my Scentsy stuff.... Mother's Day is coming up and there are some super cute warmers & wonderful flavors.  They would make a wonderful gift for that special woman!!  Go to my website if you're interested!!  FYI...we can ship it straight to your mom...shipping is usually right around $5 extra;)
Baby's Breath - Celebrate the return of spring with Scentsy's newest warmer. Buy today and save 10% Thanks Mom! Shop for something she'll love!

Day Off

Levi took today off and we had such a great day.  We were very productive but balanced that with fun and it was great.  I really missed Adster today. It's not the same without her. I almost feel guilty doing fun things without her.  I have to remember, she had LOTS of fun Daddy/Addy dates before K Man knew what was going on...or cared:)  Thankful for my family and our time together!!

Monday, April 4, 2011

New Life

Okay so we have...correction....our church has been on a baby making roll....oh my lands, seriously, like 12 or so and another due this summer. It's been crazy and wonderful. I LOVE going to the hospital and holding the babies.  I don't know if it reminds me of the 2 most life changing moments in my life when I gave birth to my own kids or what but I love it.  So, today, I got to do that for Baby Adrian.  Let me tell you, what a sweetie!!  I had to share!

I also like the thought of new life.  I love the freshness that a baby brings (ha).  There's a joy and passion and intensity that I experienced as a new parent that I never knew existed as well as a depth of love that I never before understood.  It was a spiritual experience for me.  I love the perfection of newborns, even if they're not perfect.  That 2 human beings can create a new life is amazing to me, absolutely amazing.  So much in life is petty and I waste way too much time overthinking, worrying, controlling, planning, fussing, etc.  It gives perspective to sit in a hospital room with 2 new parents and relive those moments of pure joy and the surrealness of it all.  It definitely gives perspective.

So tonight, here's to my two angel babies!!  I am so stinkin' proud to be your MOM!!

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Update

We had a great day today.  Really, a great weekend.  I love it when we don't have a whole lot planned and we can just relax.  This afternoon, the kids and I finished Tangled and then we had a no electricity afternoon.  They drew and colored, and just played together. It was really nice!  Levi went biking with Blain...it was a win win for everyone.

Levi and I just had a conversation about prevenient grace.  It really intrigues me.  Basically it means grace that goes before our human decision.  What that means to me is that God is pursuing me before I know it or before I want it.  I love that.  I'm thankful that He loves me where I am without "cleaning" up.

Love it!!

Okay so this is a random post so while I'm at it...I'll post my menu too:)

Monday:  Levi has a meeting; Malibu Chicken & veggies

Tuesday: Soccer practice:  Lemon & Lager Chicken, corn, & rice

Wednesday: C Group:  Pecan Crusted Chicken, veggies, & orzo

Thursday:  Grilled chicken, corn, green beans

Friday: not sure

I'm trying to do better about eating at home....such a healthier alternative (and cheaper) :)

Have a great week!

Friday, April 1, 2011

My Boys

K man and I dropped A off at school and headed up to do some work at church. We decided to drop in on Daddy at Sbux and enjoy an iced coffee with him.  Now, back to the grind, paying bills, completing jury duty paperwork, and procrastinating on laundry. It will all be done and put away by tonight...ugh!  Ready for a laid back weekend enjoying the weather and being together.  Lots to be thankful for today.  Have a great weekend!

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Kroger Deal 3/31

So, I've been dragging my feet on getting diapers for a diaper cake that I'm making.  My coupons expired tonight so I had to go to Kroger to get them. Kroger is doing a deal, buy $25 in proctor & gamble baby stuff and get $5 off.  I also had 2- $2 off coupons and 1- $1.75 off. So, I paid $17 for 3 packs of diapers, making them $5.66 a pack.  Much better than the $8.99.

So....since I was there, I thought I'd grab some other coupon friendly items.  I did beat the Dollar Tree but did not do as well as my average of $0.66 per item a couple of weeks ago.

Here's a picture of my spoils:)  I had a coupon for everything except the grapes. They were $0.99 a lb.  My kids LOVE grapes.  So, 2 boxes of Honey Bunches of Oats cereal, 2 boxes of playtex tampons, 2 packages of Stayfree pantiliners, 1 package of wisp, 1 colgate sensitive, 1 bag of Kettle chips, 1 bag of Tostitos, 3 boxes of brown mix, 1 can of crossaints.  I always try to get the total before they scan my card.  I did the diapers in a separate transaction so he had my card.  My total was $31 before my coupons, after coupons it was $15.  Woohoo....

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

C Group

So my C group rocks!!  They amaze me.  I love their openness and vulnerability to share deep, personal things and feel super safe doing it.  Tonight, we talked about 1. being grateful for what we have , 2, being grateful that life is not fair, grace is not fair, God is not fair, and 3 living a life of generosity.

It really challenged me.  If I'm really honest, situations put me in a funk.  I get down and I worry.  One thing I LOVE about Levi is that he is level headed.  He prays for guidance and wisdom and does what he feels like is right even if it's not the most popular or easy choice.  He is good for me in that way.  I tend to be a coward and smile and agree even if I'm not agreeing on the inside.  So, our discussion tonight at C group really helped me.  In a different way, I had a realization that we have lots of friends who are going through major life and some major spiritual stuff.  They are growing and God is real in their lives. We are seeing change and God at work....it is awesome.  My mini epiphany tonight was that in the midst of seeing God doing all this cool stuff, I'm like the Israelites who saw miracles and still questioned God's power.  I've worried today about something I can't control.  I've let my joy be stolen.  I'M DONE!! I feel like using the next phrase on lots of other people but tonight I'm using on myself-  I'm pulling up my big girl pants and trusting that God is bigger than situations.  And knowing I'll always have situations as long as I'm alive, I need to deal with it.  I do not want to be distracted from the bigger picture.  I hear people say things like, "When God's working, the devil's going to be working hard too."  I've honestly kind of hated that because I do not want to give the devil any power.  BUT, in my experience, when "situations" occur, I'm distracted.  I lose focus of the good and concentrate on how powerless I am in the situation.  I give my own power away.  I want to trust God and know that when things aren't easy and when situations happen, I trust a God who is bigger than that.  I trust a God who has proven Himself.  I trust a God who loves me and the situations of my life and I give those to Him.  So tonight, I am glad that grace isn't fair, that life isn't fair, and that God isn't fair.  I am grateful for my friends!  And I truly want to live a life of generosity of not only possessions but also of my life, even when it puts me in situations.

QT

Got to spend some much needed time today with my friends Katy & Xuan. It took me back to our playgroup days and it was so nice!  Our conversation was MUCH different than a few years ago.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Traveling Pants

Random but I love those movies.  I love the friendships that are shared and I love that one pair of jeans fits all of those bodies...love it!!

This week I've connected with a lot of my friends, tried to connect with one in NC that I keep tagging to no avail and another from TN that keeps tagging me...to no avail.  It's felt good.  Monday I was able to catch up with Wendi and it has been WAY too long. I love that lady.  April also worked from home on Monday and we went to lunch. Oh my word, chatty Kathy she was and I belly laughed at the stories she shared with me.  Monday night we met as Fusion Band and shared a meal together.  It was so good to see Jono & Julie, again it's been way too long.  Tuesday night we shared a swanky meal with the Bloomers. I love them and I felt like I was 20 and carefree.  Today I met up with Meagan & Marilyn and shared breakfast with them. I miss my original accountability girls. It was so good just to catch up on life.  And tonight, I sat around a table with 20 of my closest friends, my small group (not so small).  It was so much fun laughing and eating and hearing joys & struggles in each other's lives.  I love having friends.  I need them.  I'm reminded of how the Body of Christ cannot function apart but only together.  I'm reminded that I NEED desperately community.  I'm also challenged to go beyond my community to always expand and grow it. I'm also reminded not to be satisfied with the interaction of only my community but that I also need to be interacting and engaging with the God who makes all of this possible.  I'm a lucky girl....feeling very thankful!

My K

Today started with a check up for K Man.  I knew he was going to have get a shot but didn't think it'd be 4.  That poor kid!  The nurse kind of did a sneak attach. I felt so bad when he looked at her and said, "You gave me a shot!"  Poor baby.  His legs have been really sore today.  It almost freaked me out.  I know there's lots of discussion about immunizations, etc. My kids have had low grade temps or have said the spot was sore but K was really complaining of his legs hurting.

It made me think about being a parent.  I do the best I can.  I am so not perfect and I fail a lot.  My kids trust me. They have an unconditional love for me and they forgive me so quickly.  I love that about them. I want to be more that way with them and with others, slow to anger and quick to forgive.  That's hard for me.  I am a score keeper and I build walls when I feel like I've been wronged or judged or if the relationship is too hard.  I'm working on it.

Okay, one more quick story.  We went out to eat with our small group tonight and it pays to know a Starbucks barista because after dinner (right next to a Sbux).  She ran over and got Levi a big ole' frap (low fat and decaf).  He split it with me but I drank it fast before we picked up our kids.  I was carrying K Man in and he gave me a kiss.  He stopped and got a weird look on his face and said, "Mommy, I smell a Starbucks drink in there."  SNAP, BUSTED!!  He's so stinkin' cute!!

Friday, March 18, 2011

VACAY

Hey friends!!  We just got back yesterday from our week in Utah. It was awesome. I can't even begin to describe the scenery. We had a blast with Aunt Connie & Uncle Everett.  I'll have to post pics and tell more about it later.  I just wanted to touch base.  We hit the ground running when we got back. Levi is officiating a wedding tonight and A is the flower girl so today is a busy day.  I'll write more later.  Hope y'all have had a great week!

Monday, March 14, 2011

Lent

Okay so I don't usually like to talk about Lent but I do want to share.  I am anticipating a great season of Lent.  I'm giving up coke for Lent....all soda actually.  I've definitely had caffeine headaches and I've wanted it. I realize it's not much of a sacrifice but it is a reminder for me to pray for others and to be thankful for Jesus dying on the cross.  But here's the other part for me...you know I have my YoYo girls.  There are 6 of us that have stayed in touch since college.  We meet every other year to vacation together and just enjoy a girl's weekend or week (Orlando this summer)!!  Anyway, one of those girls emailed last week and challenged us to take Lent to a different level. We all agreed and have committed to praying for each other.  So, I am anticipating God to work during this season of Lent in a different way. I am taking on prayer during this season, not just for my YoYo's but for a variety of things and people.  And already, I'm excited to see what God is going to do.  I've noticed my attitude changing and my focus shifting. Our c group is also doing some Lent sacrifice and that's been incredible for me to be apart of.  Wanted to share and blog while I had a second.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Vacation

I absolutely love vacation...who doesn't right?  Aunt Connie & Uncle Everett graciously invited us up to Utah for our spring break.  We have had an absolutely fabulous time.  It has been great to enjoy Levi and the kids as well as Connie & Everett.  They spoil us and it is so very fun!  And the scenery here...oh my gosh!!!  I've seen pictures of this part of the country but have never visited here. WOWSER!! It is crazy.  It's like someone has put a beautiful picture behind everywhere you look.  Remember the Coors beer commercials with the snow capped mountains? That's what we see everywhere we look.  We got out at TJ Maxx the other day and I got so tickled because we get out of the car and look out at these beautiful mountains...pumping gas, same thing.  It's breathtaking!!  So thankful to God for His creation.  It is amazing!!

We've stayed busy shopping, eating, playing!!  This week we're going to go to the zoo, Levi's going to ski, and we're going tubing!  It's been wonderful!!

Saturday, March 5, 2011

dinner

It has been a crazy weekend but good too.  We sang at the district women's retreat and that went really well. I love hearing women sing together, it's beautiful.  Left there and headed to Marilyn's baby shower. I had to leave there super early because the daddy/daughter dance was rescheduled for tonight and I wanted to help get Addy ready.  It was crazy.  So, after they left, K man and I met the Wilsons for dinner.  Then we headed to McDs to let the kiddos play.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

This week

has kicked my butt!!  Here's the low down or run down or a little of both:

Sunday- church, lunch, pot pie mass production, visited Xuan & Baby Sophia...so sweet!!

Monday- accountability (which turns into playdate with Katy & Jack), grocery shopping, wedding shower-fun!

Tuesday- work, dinner, soccer

Wednesday- errands, visit with Sheila (tonsils out-OUCH), organize all songs into hanging files, clean house, c group, planning/school work

Thursday- work, dinner, soccer, Scentsy party

Friday- cleaning, practice for ladies retreat, take food with Tiff to Sheila, CHILL at hotel

Saturday- Ladies Retreat, Mar's baby shower (YEAH!), Daddy/Daughter Dance

OH MY GOSH!!  Seriously this is ONE JAM PACKED week!!  it's crazy!  I'm tired and feeling  a bit overwhelmed and March is sneaking up on me....crazy!!

On a side note, we had a GREAT c group tonight.  Our sharing keeps going deeper and deeper. I love that all of my friends are being vulnerable and okay with that.  I LOVE IT!!!

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Catch Up Pics



So the news this week:  Addy lost her second tooth.  She got her ears pierced.  Keegan is just plain silly:)

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Baby Sophie


So, my friend Xuan had Baby Sophie this last week and we went over to meet her tonight. She is absolutely beautiful and perfect!!!

Humility vs Me

Okay so I'm just going to say it from the get go....I'm not bragging.  Yeah, keep reading;)  So today I led worship at our church. Levi & Jonathan went to a conference the beginning of this week and Jonathan had a lock in this weekend so he asked me to lead.  I'm not going to lie, I wasn't so impressed with myself the last time I led. I felt really nervous. I felt like I rushed through stuff.  Definitely didn't feel great about it.  Side note, I'm not a perfectionist in every area of my life but with my singing I am.  I don't want to mess up. I don't want to look stupid, etc etc etc.  I agreed to lead.  And then at our bi-monthly practice, I totally screwed up the keys so we couldn't really practice my songs like we should have.  I've got 2 strikes against me.  I've been reading through the Bible with my friend April and I've really been committed to do it.  I'm really trying to let the Holy Spirit speak through me and change me.  Moses comes to mind, he was imperfect but God used him.  Same with Joseph & David, God used the imperfect, the weak, the vulnerable.

Anyway, I got to church this morning and the first song we were singing is called "Freedom is Here." And for me, freedom means freedom from worry and imperfection and myself.  I really had to say that to myself.  and honestly, it felt great to just lead our people in worship without fear or worry if I was going to hit all the notes right or get all the words right or "do a good job."  I really tried to worship this morning as if it was just me in the room.  I'm thankful that God doesn't give up on me, that He still prompts my heart, that He takes my measly talent and can use that for His glory. I want that desire to stay fresh and new in me.  It was a great morning. I'm so thankful for our church and our people.  I'm not bragging on myself but more on God and the stuff He's doing in and for me and the people around me.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

C Group

Had a great time at Fuzzy's Taco Shop tonight for our C group social...thought I'd throw a picture of them in the mix.

My Friend, Husband, & M11

So every 4 years the Nazarene denomination does a conference called M (with a number based on the year).  Anyway, Levi and April are presenting right now as I type.  They are doing a seminar on social media and how churches can use social media to their advantage.  Social media meaning twitter, facebook, youtube, etc.  I am so excited for them.  I feel like this is pretty cutting edge stuff.  April is so funny. She is not a native nazarene.  She is newly Christian but she is using her talents and gifts. It has been so cool to walk this journey with her.  It has helped me with my faith. I realize I take a lot for granted and I don't question the way I should.  Anyway, I'm just so excited for them and can't wait to hear how it goes.  April taught a Web Analytics class that I took and learned a lot.  I hope to pick up some consulting work to be able to help churches better use social media to their advantage.  Here's a pic of April about ready to go:)  I'm also proud of Levi.  He has done church in a different way.  It's kind of a gamble sometimes.  He has done what he feels like God is calling him to do and it is cool to see people respond and feel loved by God and by the "church", people who have never felt that acceptance.  I love it!!

Monday, February 21, 2011

Blessed Beyond Measure

I just have to share some things.  Last week at band practice, as we were singing, I had this weird sense of thanks and that I should be praying for our people at our church. I kind of visualized where different people sat and how thankful I truly am for all of the wonderful people at Catalyst.  And it just kind of went on from there.  Wednesday night at C group, I picked a Rob Bell video on prayer.  And it was kind of depressing but elicited some great conversation.  I love that our C group is starting to hang out, outside of church & c group.  They're calling each other and meeting for lunch or dinner. I LOVE that!!!

Well, then Sunday rolls around.  And after church, a bunch of us eat lunch together, there are some regulars and we had some new people (to lunch-not church).  It was great.  All of a sudden, the conversation just got deep and vulnerable.  It was awesome.  And I just sat back and watched my friends turn into the hands and feet and ears of Christ.  They were bearing each other's burdens. It was so freakin' cool!  And last night, we had our second prayer service.  It was different than the first.  We had smores and hot dogs after and it was a great time.

This morning, I meet with 2 friends for life transformation group.  One couldn't come so the two of us met and talked.  I take for granted sometimes the openness and questions that others have about God, church, religion, etc.  I tend to be challenged by questions and I like it. I like that I'm embracing questions instead of being intimidated by them.  It was cool to talk through some things and then hours later to have my friend call back and talk about how she had "googled" some of the stuff we were talking about.  How she realized that we NEED Jesus because He is the only one without sin and how she kind of had this epiphany and she was so excited.  I love that.

I just seriously feel this overwhelming sense of thanks to God for all the blessings in my life through our church.  I never want to be stuck in that bubble of friends or familiarity.   I have seen such cool things happening in the lives of our people that I want to share that. I want that to catch and grow like wildfire.

I was telling Levi the other morning as we were talking that it'd be really interesting to see who we impact.  Are all of my friends churched people?  Do I pour my life into anyone other than those in my bubble or my family?  If so, shame on me.  I really feel that way and not so much in a judgmental way but a missional way.  My friend and I talked alot today about people that have never heard the Good News or that Jesus died for their sins.  And it struck me again, we have to be loving others and sharing with them why we have the faith and hope and joy that we have.  We have to love God and love others.  For me that means, reaching out.  I don't know, maybe this doesn't even make a lot of sense.  I just needed to get it out....no so poetic but pretty raw tonight.

Okay, that's all I've got....

Friday, February 18, 2011

Scentsy

Okay so today I bit the bullet and joined Scentsy. I love Scentsy products. I love the house and car smelling nice and fresh and clean. I love that!!  So, I joined.  Hopefully, I can make it work so I can earn a little bit and my habit:)

Thursday, February 17, 2011

February 17, 2011

My c group thinks they are so funny. I purchased two prelit evergreens to use as decoration on my front porch. One for each side of the door. My plan was/is to decorate them with season ribbon and leave them out all year and to buy 2 nice pots to put them in.  This is the note I found this morning (after C group last night).

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

My Biker Babe

So, Levi taught A to ride a bike (without training wheels) in like 2 days. She is rockin' in!! I love this girl. Sorry, there's no sound:)  Here is what she did today....day 2 of learning:)

Sunday, February 13, 2011

February 13, 2011

So, we threw a shower for my friend Xuan last week.  Today she gave me a gift for doing it.  It's a Mommy necklace and I LOVE it!!! So, it's my picture for today:)

Rebuttal from My Husband's Sermon

Okay so Levi talks about our family, me, Jonathan, and this morning, he threw Jacob in there.  I am so okay with that.  BUT, today, he crossed a line so I am here to set everyone straight.  He talked about our raised garden that we planted last spring.  (I'm really not upset but will set the record straight nonetheless). So, we actually spent around $60 on the raised bed materials.  Some of my plants went CRAZY (like the watermelon) and we actually had to pull it up because it was taking over the garden...the vines, we didn't see the first fruit of a watermelon.  My basil also went bonkers.  I made a bunch of fresh pesto and shared (Rachel Hieby-helped me make it and it was so yumolicious!!). We were able to give a lot of jalapenos away (Fred S. & Irene I particularly liked them).  And, I did water the plants...maybe not as frequently as I should have but I enjoyed pulling the weeds & taking care of it.

I realize my hubs took some pastoral leeway this morning with our story.  The point was made that our relationship with God is similar to a garden.  If we don't cultivate and dig and water, we will be barren in our lives. We will not experience the fruits of that relationship.  It was awesome. I love hearing Levi preach & teach. He is truly being used by God and I love that.  I love our church...last week Levi said something like this, "Left to myself, I am one angry and mean s.o.b."  He used the letters not the words. I love that. After church, a friend told me the scripture I read was kick ass.  Another friend that I'm reading the Bible with told me that Jesus was one bad ass.  I love that our people (and pastor) are just real.  They're not prettifying themselves for show.  They are just who they are.   I LOVE IT!!!

Saturday, February 12, 2011

February 12, 2011



We had a jam packed and wonderful day today.  Levi went one direction and went another so we're all pooped but we had so much fun. My kids went to our dear friend's birthday party at Shenaniganz and it was wonderful. A kept telling me she didn't want to bowl...once we got there, she was awesome.  She bowled and played laser tag. They had so much fun.  K-Man, April and I were on team and we did quite well too.  A had Steve with her for laser tag but once she got in there, she dropped him like a bad habit. She was so funny, running around by herself with her little gun. We ended our night at Paradise Burger and it was delicious!!  I love that family.  We always have tons of fun!!  Levi went with the men skeet shooting.  They had a great time too. We missed being with Levi today but glad all had fun!!  Here are some pics of the madness that was had:)

Friday, February 11, 2011

Neighbors

We have the best neighbors in the world. I am so very thankful for them.  Levi and I don't always get things right but in connecting with our neighbors we have.  We have been able to connect with them and develop a great friendship.  Last night, I got to hang out with some of them.  I went over to help with some math but ended up just talking about life and relationships and just life in general.  Anyway, my neighbor texted me last night and thanked me for "sharing life" with them.  I was reminded of Levi's sermon from Sunday.  He challenged us as a church to reach out to our community and live life with people without any ulterior motives or to try to "save" them.  Anyway, I love living life with people.

February 11, 2011 First Tooth

Guess who lost their first tooth???

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Bible Reading

My friend April and I are reading the Bible together.  We're doing the One Year Bible plan.  I am behind...partially because we started different plans and so I quit my first one and joined her plan.  I am not quite caught up but I should be in a few days. It's pretty interesting to hear insights about the Bible from different personalities.  And April's perspective is quite different than mine.  That's good and great.  I'm trying to read with new eyes and gain new insights.  I realize I'm pretty judgmental about somethings and I'm trying not to be that way.  It's definitely hard at times.
I also just read an article about Hillsong United.  It was pretty cool to read about their humility in worship. The article talked about the culture of Australia and how they call it tall poppy syndrome.   They basically knock down all the tall poppy to keep grounded.  This is crazy. I think it's the opposite here.  It's like we all think of ourselves better than others and are encouraged to do so.  And, it seems like there's a lot of two faced butt kissing....and then back stabbing.  It was a very interesting article about their humility and their focus and how they stay grounded.  Everything points back to the Holy Spirit and their encounter during worship with Him. One quote was that "worship is not a song, it's a devotion." I love that.  I want my life to be a devotion to God, one that flows into every facet of my life.  

February 8, 2011

So, every other Tuesday night, we have the Sprang boys over (while MeaMea works).  It's been great to get to love on that little one.  I gave him a diet dr. pepper last night and he loved it. Knew just what to do with it!! Sweet boy!!

February 7, 2011

Baby Sophie is on her way....cannot believe she's almost here. We had a great baby shower/ladies night out.  Johnny Carinos does a killer Monday night special.  We had so much fun!!  And, there is more baby news to share but....I'll keep you waiting...it's not me...let me kick that rumor right out of here:)

February 6, 2011 Poor Beck Beck

Our giant schnauzer is a crazy one!!!  He scratches himself like crazy.  I think it was our fault this time, usually we can blame allergies.  He had a spot that matted (we've got to brush him more-confession-sorry).  Anyway, we had to get him a collar-of-shame so he'd stop!! Poor thing!

February, 5, 2011 more snow fun

We have had lots of fun in the snow. Saturday we found a great hill and sledded our hearts out. We made a snowman, had a snowball fight, and lots of great memories were made!!

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Click for FLIP Camera

Okay so I'm trying to win a FLIP camera.  Click the link to the left, it's a chevy eco superbowl commercial.  If I'm one of the top 100 with the most views, I win a camera....click it for me;)  PLEASE!!

Snow Day #4

 We escaped to McDonalds after our predicted 1-3 inches of snow turned into 6-8 inches.  Then we went home and had lots of fun playing in the snow;)

Friday, February 4, 2011

Chemistry

So last night we had band practice.  About a year ago we went to 2 bands so we could a month on, month off rotation.  It's actually been really nice to be able to walk into church late and enjoy the service in that way.  I was off last month and I was really glad to get back at it. I'm glad I miss it.  I'm glad singing isn't a bore.  Jonathan and I have been singing together for the last 7 or 8 years...wow that's kind of crazy. There is definitely a chemistry and comfort that I have with him on stage.  A few years ago, I sang at a wedding with another guy and I realized how easy it was to sing with Jonathan and the things that you have to practice and work on, I really don't with him.  It's kind of like our voices know what the other's is going to do. Not saying I don't have to practice or it's always perfect but there is a comfort there.  I take that for granted so I thought I'd give him some props in my blog today.

I tease Levi and Jonathan and call Jonathan Levi's work wife.  I'm glad they have each other and it's been really cool to see their relationship grow and each of them stretch themselves.  This church planting stuff is pretty tough but they've definitely risen to the challenge.  They can admit mistakes, change their course, and learn.  I'm glad they have each other.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

February 3, 2011 Pickle-astrophe

Okay so I had to add a second picture today.  My favorite purchase today were jalapeno baby dills.  I joked as I got out of the car with my two jars that I didn't want to drop them and how unfortunate that would be.  I just got this picture from April.  The silver lining was that the jars were bogo...so this was the free jar.

Snow Day #3

Okay so day 3 of being iced in!  April came and got us and we ventured out to Tom Thumb, Walgreens, and Taco Bell.  This picture is very UNflattering but oh well...vanity is wrong so soak up my unflatteringness;)

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Monday, January 31, 2011

Day 100

I cannot believe that I have a kindergartener let alone that she has been in school 100 days.  We talked alot about her 100 day of school project.  She could collect and display 100 of anything.  We had a lot of suggestions.  She wanted to do 100 flip flops (she truly is my girl) but that would be pretty expensive.  So, she chose the next best thing.....100 sea shells.  She picked out the sand and ocean paper too.  Sweet girl:)

Boogers, breath, & other WAY too personal info

Got your attention didn't I?  Okay so what the heck does the title have to do with this blog?  FRIENDS!!!  What else?

I've had a couple of different situations with friends and I realize how wonderful my friends are.   Today, my two girlfriends and I started back at our life transformation group.  We've been inconsistent since Christmas so it's good to get back in the swing.  We meet at KW's house.  Our boys are quite the BFF's and it is super cute.  I was talking to her about a character flaw in myself.  I do not want to get taken advantage of or used. I'm really not sure where this comes from but it is a theme in my life.  Even with Levi in our marriage, I've struggled with that.  It's gotten better for me with him but I've noticed I do it with friends too.  And so KW and I were talking about this and she just looked me in the eye and said, "Get over it and let it go."  And she said it kind of sternly too.  We continued talking.  She said, "Heather, you have to blame." And I agreed, I do...it needs to be somebody's fault to make sense in my head.  I love that she knows me well enough to point out my faults so eloquently and that I really didn't get mad at her.  She was right and I am secure enough in her and her love for me that I was very okay with that.

Then, later today, my friend, Wonder Woman and I were chatting about some Bible reading and our response to that.  We don't see to eye on some of the stuff and definitely have strong opinions about it. I make it sound like we're constantly disagreeing...that's not it.   We don't see eye to eye on some stuff and it's great.  I can learn from her perspective and she can learn from mine.  She totally called me on one part and said, "Uhoh, did I hit the protect Levi button?" or some other fancy way of phrasing that.  And she kind of did but it was okay.  I don't have to defend him (to her at least) and she can have a differing opinion.  Again, I could talk through with her my stance and how and why I felt the way I did. She can do the same.  And it's all good.  I love that because I can gain some great insight.

I'm thankful for friends who can tell me when I have booger, when my breath stinks, and other way too personal info:)

Menu Monday

Monday: smothered (peppers, onions & mushrooms)  cheeseburgers, french fries, & salad
(April- real funny...I think as much chicken as we have, we could have it as a side for every meal.)

Tuesday- tilapia, brown rice, & green beans

Wednesday- roast with carrots, potatoes, & onions

Thursday- marinated pork chops with couscous & asian vegetables

Friday- chicken tenders, sweet potatoes, & salad

January 29, 2011

Sandbox fun with friends!!  We had an awesome weekend of weather.  This week it's supposed to get nasty. We enjoyed a lot of outside time!!

Friday, January 28, 2011

January 28, 2011


Can you say slack-o-licious??!!!  My pic of the day has fallen short this week.  I did post a ton on Monday. I've got 2 for yesterday:)  Levi's grandparents sent us some gift cards for Christmas so we went to our FAVORITE place to eat last night.  We did girls vs boys!! Enjoy;)

Thursday, January 27, 2011

300+

oh my lands....I just noticed my blog has been opened/read more than 300 times this month....woot woot!!!!

Thanks for reading!!

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

January 24, 2011


Had  a great time and learned a LOT at the Web Analytics Conference yesterday.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Fear Fret Freedom

were on my brain today. Levi is a doing a series called Viva La Corinth.  He's talking about the original sin city and how the church there fell prey to power, control, etc etc etc. It's been pretty interesting.  Today he was talking about how the people were arguing over who they were following. Some followed Paul, some Peter, some Christ, some Apollos.  Paul's point was that our salvation is through no man but only through Christ.  Levi's point was that their identity was wrapped up in other people, not Jesus Christ.  He challenged us to think about what our identity is in.  It really got my attention.  I've got to confess, I feel like I just get numb sometimes.  Nothing makes me super happy, nothing makes me super sad.....I kind of feel like there might be a mental condition associated with those symptoms...uh oh!   I do think my identity is wrapped up in the wrong things.  Okay so here goes more confession.  I care what people think. I try to say I don't and to an extent it's true, there are some things that I could care less what people think about but there are some things I care a great deal what others think.  If it happens to be something that I do care about, man I worry if someone is upset and I get kind of paranoid about thinking I did something to upset them. This sounds so silly even typing. I dwell on it and I make it a HUGE deal in my mind.  I have a hard time letting go.  I worry about things that 1. I have no control over and 2 shouldn't care a thing about. I realize I am pretty critical of others for no reason.  In my head, I think that if I do that, it lifts me up which is not the right attitude at all...I told you it was confession time.   I want to be the crowd favorite and the people pleaser. Sometimes I don't say what I really think or stand up for myself (not so much with my good friends but in group situations or when I feel insecure about my standings in a group).  I'll go with the flow or give a watered down version of what I think instead of standing firm and being bold in what I think.  I wish I could give a more specific example but I can't...don't ever want to incriminate;)  Anyway, in doing this, I get wrapped up in things that don't matter.  It wastes a lot of time and energy and brain power and I really need all of those things.  So, there you have it, that's my honesty for the day.  That's kind of where I am.  The freedom is because I don't want to be that way, I want to be okay with me and who I am without comparing myself to anyone or anyone's perception of what I should be, do, say, etc.  I guess all of that comes with spiritual maturity and growing in the Word.  Pruning is good, it hurts but the final product is well worth it.

Have a great week!

January 23, 2011



Blessed with wonderful friends!!  

Saturday, January 22, 2011

January 22, 2011

So I bit the bullet and went running tonight. Here is the after shot.