Christmas candy is a big deal in my family and I grew up making it every Christmas. It used to be a big family afair, when all of the aunts and girl cousins went to Grandma's house and would make candy all day. Normally us little girls stuck to creatively decorating the sugar cookies, I suppose we were best "helping" yet "out of the way" with that job. I miss those days, spending time with family and making yummy candy. Those times are some of my most cherished Christmas memories.
At my house, we would make Christmas candy to give as gifts. We made all sorts of goodies, from candy to cookies to cinnamon roll wreathes. Since I love to bake and be in the kitchen, I decided I would carry on this tradition in our home. I realized I couldn't make all of the candy I grew up making on my own, so I chose some of my favorites. On Monday I began my endeavor of making Christmas candy to give as gifts....
I began with...
15 pounds of sugar...
10 pounds of chocolate....
2 pounds of caramel
Lots nuts pecans and peanuts...
Cream Cheese...
White corn syrup...
Candy Canes...
Oreos...
I ended up with...
20 pounds of three chocolate and dark chocolate fudge...
100ish peanut clusters...
80ish turtles...
60ish oreo truffles...
50ish divinity...
2 pounds of peppermint bark...
and a ton of cinnamon candy!!!!
It provided to be a lot of fun, work, and dishes, but I loved every minute of it. I am blessed to have a husband who was willing to lend a hand--he even became pretty good at making the fudge! I took fudge to both nights of the living Nativity, and it disappeared in 20 minutes or less!Today we took big trays to the other 4 ministers on staff, the church secretary, and my aunt and uncle who live in town. Tomorrow we're delivering another one to Becca--weather permitting! And of course, I saved some for our family Christmas with Matt's family this weekend!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
A Few Things...
1. Friday I went shopping all day with my mom. It was the first time I have spent that much one on one time with my mom in forever!! It was great! Except for the part where we saw triplets.... probably toddlers, they were in a train of plasitc wagons, three of them all hooked together, two boys and one girl...and so cute. I managed to keep it all together until bedtime when I was telling Matt about it and I totally lost it. But all in all, a great day with mom!
2. Saturday I got even more girl time with one of my best friends, Becca. We met in the cutest little German town to go to their Kriskindlmarkt (Christmas Market). Even though we spent most of our time sitting in the coffee shop chatting, it was so good to really talk with her. By the time we left the coffee shop the market was closed down, so we browsed a purse shop. We both bought cute purses, hers plain jane and mine super colorful and bright, of course, which finished out our perfect day!
3. Saturday night was the living nativity at our church. It was advertised on the local Christian radio station and they even broadcasted live from the event. Matt and I turned down the star roles of Mary and Joseph, but I volunteered to bring a snack instead! I made fudge because every time I have been to one of these types of things there has always been fudge. Needless to say, all SIX pounds of my fudge was gone in 20 minutes. Amazing. We had an incredible turn out, with 300ish cars--and that was just the first night! I wanted to take pictures, but I forgot my camera--story of the weekend.
4. Today was obviously church...which is always good. The church is all decked out with its christmas decor, and I love it! Lunch with friends, a lazy afternoon, making more fudge, and then living nativity again tonight.
5. We did go to NYC Dec. 3-6. Dec. 6 was our due date, so we knew we'd need a huge distraction, and we thought a huge city might do the trick. It did an okay job, but needless to say, its been a really hard few weeks, and I imagine its going to continue to be hard through the holidays. But I don't want to depress you with my depressing thoughts, so back to the city! We went with no plan (I know--so not me) but we managed to happen upon many great things! Including the tree lighting ceremony at Rockefellar Center Wednesday night. Other than that, my most favorite part was all of the window displays, they were amazing! Plus we did the usual tourist things, Empire State Building, Times Square, Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island, Macy's, Tiffany's, Carriage Ride through Central Park (Third Favorite), Dylan's Candy Bar (Fourth Fav), shopping, great food and lots of walking!
Monday, December 1, 2008
T-Day
I cannot believe Thanksgiving has come and gone, and December is here! Time has flown! We had a great Thanksgiving with Matt's family. They came to our house, so it was nice not having to drive anywhere! I cooked the entire Thanksgiving dinner by myself, and had a blast doing it!
I fixed a sweet potato souffle, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade stuffing, homemade rolls, corn and green beans. I found the recipe for the turkey, but Matt did all of the work with that. We soaked it in a cider based marinade all night and then grilled, yes grilled, our turkey using indirect heat to free up my oven. The turkey was amazing, very moist and delicious! All in all, we had a yummy Thanksgiving feast.
Friday we did some black Friday shopping. Thankfully Matt convinced them to leave around 7:30 instead of the crack of dawn! I didn't really buy much, although we got some great steals on dvds! Saturday, some went to a St. Louis Blues game, while Matt, his mom and I stayed home. I put up my Christmas tree and started decorating the rest of the house too!
Sunday after everyone left we got the house back in order, other than sweeping, mopping and finishing up some laundry. I am off work today (thankfully) so I am hoping to finish up the cleaning...in which I'd better get started...Happy December!
I fixed a sweet potato souffle, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade stuffing, homemade rolls, corn and green beans. I found the recipe for the turkey, but Matt did all of the work with that. We soaked it in a cider based marinade all night and then grilled, yes grilled, our turkey using indirect heat to free up my oven. The turkey was amazing, very moist and delicious! All in all, we had a yummy Thanksgiving feast.
Friday we did some black Friday shopping. Thankfully Matt convinced them to leave around 7:30 instead of the crack of dawn! I didn't really buy much, although we got some great steals on dvds! Saturday, some went to a St. Louis Blues game, while Matt, his mom and I stayed home. I put up my Christmas tree and started decorating the rest of the house too!
Sunday after everyone left we got the house back in order, other than sweeping, mopping and finishing up some laundry. I am off work today (thankfully) so I am hoping to finish up the cleaning...in which I'd better get started...Happy December!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Random
As of today, it has been four months since meeting and saying good bye to our babies. Some days it feels like it was just yesterday, while other days it seems like it was a looong time ago.
I have been teaching the women's Sunday school class at church for the past few months now. Today a new gal came to class, and I was in awe when I asked her if she had any kids, and she said yes, "Eli, Micah and Isaac." I was like "those are the same names of my three!" Then I had to explain everything to her, but I still can't believe it! Her Micah was even a little girl too! Although her Eli was an Elijah, not Elisha. Wierd.
One of the first ladies I met at church lost a granddaughter around 5 months as well. Her daughter was later able to have two healthy boys and last week her two grandsons were at church with Grandma. She introduced me..."This is Stephanie, she has three babies in heaven with our precious girl too." The youngest boy said ya, our sister would be 13. It touched my heart in so many ways to hear these boys talking about their older sister. Eli, Isaac and Micah will always be a part of our family, they will always be our firstborns, and someday I hope to hear their brothers and sisters talk about them in the same ways.
I have been teaching the women's Sunday school class at church for the past few months now. Today a new gal came to class, and I was in awe when I asked her if she had any kids, and she said yes, "Eli, Micah and Isaac." I was like "those are the same names of my three!" Then I had to explain everything to her, but I still can't believe it! Her Micah was even a little girl too! Although her Eli was an Elijah, not Elisha. Wierd.
One of the first ladies I met at church lost a granddaughter around 5 months as well. Her daughter was later able to have two healthy boys and last week her two grandsons were at church with Grandma. She introduced me..."This is Stephanie, she has three babies in heaven with our precious girl too." The youngest boy said ya, our sister would be 13. It touched my heart in so many ways to hear these boys talking about their older sister. Eli, Isaac and Micah will always be a part of our family, they will always be our firstborns, and someday I hope to hear their brothers and sisters talk about them in the same ways.
Monday, November 17, 2008
What's Going On...
Since I am home from work--sick, I thought I'd update while I'm snuggled on the couch, covered in blankets. I think I just have a common cold along with exhaustion from not sleeping at night. So sleeping until 11 today was great, although I feel like I could go right back to bed and sleep all day!
I have really been enjoying the cooler weather while Matt has not. Saturday on the way to a family get-together we drove through all kinds of sleet and snow! I love it!
We are doing well, still gradually unpacking things and buying things that we need. A lot of things are needed in order to set up house! We're fighting time now to get it all done as Matt's family is coming for Thanksgiving. We were really hoping to have our basement finished, but thats far from happening. So we've been trying to creatively make room for 5 extra people! Yesterday we tackled the living room, rearranging it to add more seating. I don't love the end result, but its practical. Now we're trying to figure out where to put them all to sleep....lol. Regardless, we are really excited to get to spend time with Matt's family, and we know it will be tons of fun!
Matt is gearing up to make a bunch of changes, really an overhall, in the children's ministry in January. He has been recruiting volunteers through videos and whatnot, and now he needs to train them and get them into place before the new curriculum kicks off in January. So he's been busy and I help where I can. We are still meeting people, trying to get to know people, and make new friends. We have really enjoyed getting to know the people in our church better, they have some amazing stories. We are also throwing around the idea of starting up a young peoples group. There are a ton of young people in our church, so I think it would be a huge ministry. We'll see where God takes it.
Tonight if I am feeling up to it, we are shopping to fill three christmas boxes. Our church is active in Operation Christmas Child, the world's largest Christmas project. As it states on their website, "Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God’s love. Since 1993, more than 61 million shoe boxes have been packed, shipped, and delivered across the globe. People of all ages can be involved in this simple, hands-on missions project while focusing on the true meaning of Christmas—Jesus Christ." We have decided to do three boxes every year, in honor of our babies. It is a great way for us to remember our babies and to do something for them. It will also be something fun we can do with our future children to help them remember their brothers and sister. 
Friday, November 7, 2008
Revelation
You may have heard this song playing while visiting our blog. It has quickly become one of our favorites. As we are transitioning into a new phase of our lives, we are seeking out God's will for us here, and this song, revelation, has become a prayer for our hearts. Anyways, I wanted to share the lyrics with you because they are so powerful.
Revelation----by-Third Day
My life has led me down the road that’s so uncertain
And now I am left alone and I am broken,
Tryin’ to find my way, tryin’ to find the faith that’s gone
This time, I know that you are holding all the answers
I’m tired of losing hope and taking chances,
On roads that never seem,To be the ones that bring me home
Give me a revelation, Show me what to do
Cause I’ve been tryin’ to find my way, I haven’t got a clue
Tell me should I stay here, Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
My life has led me down this path that’s ever winding
Through every twist and turn I’m always finding,
That I am lost again (I am lost again)
Tell me when this road will ever end
Give me a revelation, Show me what to do
Cause I’ve been tryin’ to find my way, I haven’t got a clue
Tell me should I stay here, Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
I don’t know where I can turn
Tell me when will I learn
Won’t You show me where I need to go
Let me follow Your lead, I know that it’s the only way that I can get back home
Give me a revelation, Show me what to do
Cause I’ve been trying to find my way, I haven’t got a clue
Tell me should I stay here, Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
Oh, give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
Revelation----by-Third Day
My life has led me down the road that’s so uncertain
And now I am left alone and I am broken,
Tryin’ to find my way, tryin’ to find the faith that’s gone
This time, I know that you are holding all the answers
I’m tired of losing hope and taking chances,
On roads that never seem,To be the ones that bring me home
Give me a revelation, Show me what to do
Cause I’ve been tryin’ to find my way, I haven’t got a clue
Tell me should I stay here, Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
My life has led me down this path that’s ever winding
Through every twist and turn I’m always finding,
That I am lost again (I am lost again)
Tell me when this road will ever end
Give me a revelation, Show me what to do
Cause I’ve been tryin’ to find my way, I haven’t got a clue
Tell me should I stay here, Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
I don’t know where I can turn
Tell me when will I learn
Won’t You show me where I need to go
Let me follow Your lead, I know that it’s the only way that I can get back home
Give me a revelation, Show me what to do
Cause I’ve been trying to find my way, I haven’t got a clue
Tell me should I stay here, Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
Oh, give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without You, I’ve got nothing without You
When
We had no idea how hard the past few weeks ended up being for us. This morning when I got up and looked in the mirror, it was the first time my eyes weren't encircled with bruises and swollen from tears.
You see, last week would have been 35 weeks for us, the week we had prayed for, hoped for, and dreamed of meeting our babies within.
Thorughout the past few weeks I have once again fought the battle of "what ifs." Not just the what ifs of the pregnancy, but the what ifs of now and then. I do not fight it because I feel at fault, I fight it because I cannot comprehend why, I am not capable of understanding God's hand in this.
Life is full of reminders. I hate it--and I hate that I hate it. It hurts to see pregnant women. It hurts to see babies. It hurts to see baby things. It hurts to hear proud mothers talk about their babies. I love, have always loved, the beauty of pregnancy, the gift of life, and the precious gift of loving a baby. But now, I cannot look, I cannot hold, I cannot hear. The pain is too much.
A previous Sunday in church, a friend who has also lost, gently told me she was now expecting.
Sunday in church, a proud daddy showed a video clip of their newborn boy, Trey. As most of the crowd cooed and gently laughed at his antics, tears rolled down my face and I fought for control.
One day a young lady named Micah came into work.
One day a proud mom told me how her little boy was beginning to crawl.
The list goes on, as lifes joys are reminders of our pain.
I have no idea how we'll make it through the holiday season, normally my favorite time of the year. We should be brainstorming creative gifts to get our precious babies. But instead, we are brainstorming something we can do in honor of Eli, Isaac and Micah. Something to remember them and keep them close to our hearts, not just now, but always.
We are trying to keep our heads above the waters of grief, we are trying to survive. Were it not for God's mighty grip, we would be sinking, drowning in our grief. We know we cannot survive this alone, so we continue to cry out daily for God's help. When we ask, He is there, always, surrounding us with his love, filling us with his strength and peace. The key is when we ask, when we cry out for His help.
You see, last week would have been 35 weeks for us, the week we had prayed for, hoped for, and dreamed of meeting our babies within.
Thorughout the past few weeks I have once again fought the battle of "what ifs." Not just the what ifs of the pregnancy, but the what ifs of now and then. I do not fight it because I feel at fault, I fight it because I cannot comprehend why, I am not capable of understanding God's hand in this.
Life is full of reminders. I hate it--and I hate that I hate it. It hurts to see pregnant women. It hurts to see babies. It hurts to see baby things. It hurts to hear proud mothers talk about their babies. I love, have always loved, the beauty of pregnancy, the gift of life, and the precious gift of loving a baby. But now, I cannot look, I cannot hold, I cannot hear. The pain is too much.
A previous Sunday in church, a friend who has also lost, gently told me she was now expecting.
Sunday in church, a proud daddy showed a video clip of their newborn boy, Trey. As most of the crowd cooed and gently laughed at his antics, tears rolled down my face and I fought for control.
One day a young lady named Micah came into work.
One day a proud mom told me how her little boy was beginning to crawl.
The list goes on, as lifes joys are reminders of our pain.
I have no idea how we'll make it through the holiday season, normally my favorite time of the year. We should be brainstorming creative gifts to get our precious babies. But instead, we are brainstorming something we can do in honor of Eli, Isaac and Micah. Something to remember them and keep them close to our hearts, not just now, but always.
We are trying to keep our heads above the waters of grief, we are trying to survive. Were it not for God's mighty grip, we would be sinking, drowning in our grief. We know we cannot survive this alone, so we continue to cry out daily for God's help. When we ask, He is there, always, surrounding us with his love, filling us with his strength and peace. The key is when we ask, when we cry out for His help.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
New York City
We knew we would need a major distraction on the babies due date, so we're heading to the biggest city in the U.S. hoping it will be a big enough distraction. Obviously this will still be a very difficult week for us, but we're hoping the distraction will help some.
So the question is, where should we stay? Any recommendations?!?
So the question is, where should we stay? Any recommendations?!?
Friday, October 24, 2008
Another new favorite song...
I have finally gotten around to adding music on our blog! I have wanted to do it for quite some time now, but never have had the time, well, taken the time to do it! The following is another one of my new favorite songs. I added it to my playlist, but wanted to share the lyrics with you as well. The lyrics are so true of my life, which make them powerful words to/from my heart. Anyways, I hope this song will encourage you as it has encouraged me these last few months.
Whatever You're Doing (Something Heavenly) by Sanctus Real
It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender
[Chorus]
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
but I'm giving in to something heavenly
Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Revaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow your will or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender...To...
[Chorus]
Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to to release all my held back tears
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Something heavenly
It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything out
Sunday, October 19, 2008
A Fun Filled Weekend
This past weekend we got to watch our niece and nephew, from Thursday until Sunday afternoon! We kept busy and had a lot of fun! They are such cuties, Grace is so much like me it makes me laugh, and Samuel, well, he's just trouble!
Their favorite thing to do at our house was play on the air mattress we blew up for them to sleep on. It provided good entertainment for them and some laughs for us! I am sad we didn't get any pictures of it!
Friday we went to the St. Louis Zoo....
Saturday we went to the pumpkin patch...
This picture is perfect, because its so true! Grace is too good at being the big sister!
Sunday we went to church and then had to take them home. I'd say we had a great weekend! Now the weekend is over and its back to work, which I am not looking foward to!Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Not Much is New...
I don't really have much to write about, but its been a while, so I figured a post was in order. Friday night we drove to Columbia to hang out with Becca and friends. We went out to eat at a yummy restaurant and then hung out as the house and played Settlers of Catan. It seems the people who know how and want to play this game in Columbia are limited, so whenever we're in town, we get together to play. For those of you who don't know me well, I am very competitive and I am a horrible loser. Yet I continue to play this game and lose every time, and I don't get upset about it. Needless to say, Matt loves this game because he normally gets the brunt of my bad attitude after losing. Obviously I like it as well, because I keep coming back for more!
After our 3 hour game of Settler's we drove on to my brother and sister's house to spend the night. Saturday morning/early afternoon we celebrated my niece's 4th birthday. Her birthday list make me laugh, as she wanted things to go hunting with her daddy (camo hat, gun, gun bag, camo clothes...) yet she is such a priss! She also requested to get lots of presents, so I ended up buying her 5 smaller things and wrapping them all individually in cute princess paper.
The birthday party was fun of course, and it was great to see family and friends, but it was also really hard on Matt and I. Its just one more thing we won't get to do with our babies, so it was a bittersweet day for us.
After the birthday party we met Becca (friend-sis was already with us) at a pumpkin festival. It was beautiful weather and turned out to be a great afternoon activity! Becca joined us for dinner and hung out with us for the rest of the evening. It was great to spend two days in a row with Becca!
Sunday was church, and turned out to be a not so good day for both Matt and I. After losing the babies we received a ton of support and encouragement. But now, two months later, the month we should be welcoming our babies, we are grieving alone. It bothers me that immediately after a tragedy people are so supportive, but the support gradually ceases, and when you need it most, you're alone. In our experience of losing our babies, the first few weeks were "easy" because we were overwhelmed with love and support. As the love and support gradually faded, our grief has become harder, because we are baring it alone. So Sunday was the beginning of a valley, and today I am trying to find the strength to climb out of it.
After our 3 hour game of Settler's we drove on to my brother and sister's house to spend the night. Saturday morning/early afternoon we celebrated my niece's 4th birthday. Her birthday list make me laugh, as she wanted things to go hunting with her daddy (camo hat, gun, gun bag, camo clothes...) yet she is such a priss! She also requested to get lots of presents, so I ended up buying her 5 smaller things and wrapping them all individually in cute princess paper.
The birthday party was fun of course, and it was great to see family and friends, but it was also really hard on Matt and I. Its just one more thing we won't get to do with our babies, so it was a bittersweet day for us.
After the birthday party we met Becca (friend-sis was already with us) at a pumpkin festival. It was beautiful weather and turned out to be a great afternoon activity! Becca joined us for dinner and hung out with us for the rest of the evening. It was great to spend two days in a row with Becca!
Sunday was church, and turned out to be a not so good day for both Matt and I. After losing the babies we received a ton of support and encouragement. But now, two months later, the month we should be welcoming our babies, we are grieving alone. It bothers me that immediately after a tragedy people are so supportive, but the support gradually ceases, and when you need it most, you're alone. In our experience of losing our babies, the first few weeks were "easy" because we were overwhelmed with love and support. As the love and support gradually faded, our grief has become harder, because we are baring it alone. So Sunday was the beginning of a valley, and today I am trying to find the strength to climb out of it.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
While I'm Waiting
I love this song written by John Waller because I can totally relate to it, plus its a beautiful song. He truly wrote the words of my heart.
John Waller"The explanation for this song is simple, I was waiting on God and I was hurting when I wrote the lyrics. I probably wouldn’t have written a song if my friend, Mike, hadn’t encouraged me to document what I was going through during that time. I’m sure there are few people who can’t relate to this song, but the important thing to remember while we’re waiting on God is to not just wait but to actively wait. Serve, worship and be faithful with what you have, where you are… “even while (you) wait.”
While I’m Waiting
Psalm 5:3, 27:14, 33:20, 37:7, 38:15, 40:1, Isaiah 30:18, Lamentations 3:24
Psalm 5:3, 27:14, 33:20, 37:7, 38:15, 40:1, Isaiah 30:18, Lamentations 3:24
John Waller"The explanation for this song is simple, I was waiting on God and I was hurting when I wrote the lyrics. I probably wouldn’t have written a song if my friend, Mike, hadn’t encouraged me to document what I was going through during that time. I’m sure there are few people who can’t relate to this song, but the important thing to remember while we’re waiting on God is to not just wait but to actively wait. Serve, worship and be faithful with what you have, where you are… “even while (you) wait.”
I’m waiting
I’m waiting on You, Lord, And I am hopeful
I’m waiting on You, Lord, And I am hopeful
I’m waiting on You, Lord, Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait
I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I’m waiting, I will serve You
While I’m waiting, I will worship
While I’m waiting, I will not faint
I’ll be running the race, Even while I wait
I’m waiting
I’m waiting on You, Lord, And I am peaceful
I’m waiting on You, Lord, Though it’s not easy
But faithfully, I will wait, Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I’m waiting
I will worship while I’m waiting on You, Lord
© 2007 Travelin’ Zoo Music (ASCAP) (admin. by EMI CMG Publishing)
Busy Weekend!
Friday morning we got up at 4:30 am to get ready and leave for Southeast Missouri. We took my youngest sister on a college visit to SEMO. There were a lot of hills on the campus, but it was fun to help my sister prepare for her future!
After the college visit we headed on to my Gram's house. One of my cousins got married on Saturday so there was a lot of family there! Although it was hard to see everyone and answer their questions, it was good to see everyone.
Friday night after the rehearsal dinner Matt got sick. He managed to make it to the wedding, but didn't go to the reception. I felt so bad for him.
I have never seen decorations/flowers like they had, and they fit the couple so perfectly. They both have an agriculture degree, and love farming. Their wedding invitations were printed on backgrounds of cotton, soy bean, and corn fields. Her wedding boquet had puffs of cotton among the flowers and was stunning. Their decorations at the reception followed a fall theme. The tables were decorated with canning jars full of soy beans or corn with little candles. Their favors were little cow bells, and when the guests rang them, they kissed. They had straw bails, bundles of dried corn, and lots of mums. I absolutely loved all of their fall decor! It was so creative! All this to say, I think my cousin is one lucky man- his wife is a beautiful woman, on the inside and out, loves to farm, and for some reason, loves him!
I ended up driving home Saturday night, as Matt was still feeling dizzy and light headed. As much as I have been missing Vienna and VCS, it was so good to be home this weekend, amongst family and friends.
After the college visit we headed on to my Gram's house. One of my cousins got married on Saturday so there was a lot of family there! Although it was hard to see everyone and answer their questions, it was good to see everyone.
Friday night after the rehearsal dinner Matt got sick. He managed to make it to the wedding, but didn't go to the reception. I felt so bad for him.
I have never seen decorations/flowers like they had, and they fit the couple so perfectly. They both have an agriculture degree, and love farming. Their wedding invitations were printed on backgrounds of cotton, soy bean, and corn fields. Her wedding boquet had puffs of cotton among the flowers and was stunning. Their decorations at the reception followed a fall theme. The tables were decorated with canning jars full of soy beans or corn with little candles. Their favors were little cow bells, and when the guests rang them, they kissed. They had straw bails, bundles of dried corn, and lots of mums. I absolutely loved all of their fall decor! It was so creative! All this to say, I think my cousin is one lucky man- his wife is a beautiful woman, on the inside and out, loves to farm, and for some reason, loves him!
I ended up driving home Saturday night, as Matt was still feeling dizzy and light headed. As much as I have been missing Vienna and VCS, it was so good to be home this weekend, amongst family and friends.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
Church Fall Picnic
From 4-8 yesterday was the church's fall picnic. It was complete with blow up games, tons of great food--including delicious desserts--and a great band. We had a good time and it gave us a chance to meet more people and get to know those we have already met even better. We are so blessed to be a part of a great church community! I was going to post some pictures of some of the adorable kiddos, and actually tried to several times, but blogger wouldn't let me upload them. Its definitely disappointing as that was pretty well the point of this post! Oh well, some other time then!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Moving and Update on Life
Over the weekend we moved into our first home! After three months "moving", of living with family and out of suitcases, it feels so good to finally be home! We are so thankful God has blessed us with a great place to live. Since moving in we've been busy unpacking, which has been a long process. Since all of our stuff has been in storage for two yeards or shipped across an ocean and then in storage for three months, everything has to be washed. Needless to say, its a long process.
Matt is loving his job at the church, and is busy meeting people, evaluating, and making plans for the future. There is so much room for growth in the children's ministry since WCC is full of young families. We are both super excited to see how God will use us as WCC.
I am still looking for a job, slowly but surely. It is so hard for me to look for a job because it is a constant reminder of the job I wanted so badly, and almost had (being a mom). I have a phone interview for the only job that I found that I really want, tomorrow morning at 10 am. Please pray for me and for this interview! I will keep you posted.
Sunday night we went to a small group, which we really enjoyed and are excited to be a part of. While sharing prayer requests, another girl in the group shared that it had been a year since she lost her baby. That of course started an emotional break down for myself. Although some in the group knew of our loss, not all did, so the associate minister shared with the group about the loss of our three babies in July. Although it is so hard to talk about, it is a tremendous help to share our burden of grief, and to be lifted up in the prayers of others.
Sunday night, topped with moving into our home without three of everything for the babies, made for a really hard Monday by myself. I am sure this will be only one of thousands of emotional meltdowns. But sometimes the grief and my empty heart are so overwhelming I am unsure of how I will go on. I try to pray, desperately needing God's help and strength, but no words will come. Yet I know Romans 8:28 is true, and the Spirit within me has been speaking with God on my hearts behalf. Although I am unable to utter a single word, I am surrounded with God's peace, my heart is filled with the love of my Savior, and I am able to once again put my trust in God's plan for my life.
On a not so depressing note...as some of you may or may not know, I went to Haiti with a medical missionary for 2-3 weeks both the summers of my junior and senior year of high school. It just so happens that the guy I went with attends WCC-our new church. It is so good to see him and his wife every week! But anyways, his son is the youth minister, and is planning a mission trip for the youth group to go to Haiti with his dad next summer. Haiti has always been a dangerous country, some times more than others, but its not really a place most parents want their teenagers going. So the youth minister decided not only would I be a good resource for the parents to talk to about the safety of their teenager, but that I would also be a great person to have along as the female sponsor. It really didn't take any convincing on my part, as I am thrilled to have the opportunity to go back!
So-thats about all the news in our lives. Please be in prayer as Matt and I continue grieve, and continue to trust in God's plan for our family. We are currently seeking out His will for our next step, so please pray that we will clearly see His plan.
Matt is loving his job at the church, and is busy meeting people, evaluating, and making plans for the future. There is so much room for growth in the children's ministry since WCC is full of young families. We are both super excited to see how God will use us as WCC.
I am still looking for a job, slowly but surely. It is so hard for me to look for a job because it is a constant reminder of the job I wanted so badly, and almost had (being a mom). I have a phone interview for the only job that I found that I really want, tomorrow morning at 10 am. Please pray for me and for this interview! I will keep you posted.
Sunday night we went to a small group, which we really enjoyed and are excited to be a part of. While sharing prayer requests, another girl in the group shared that it had been a year since she lost her baby. That of course started an emotional break down for myself. Although some in the group knew of our loss, not all did, so the associate minister shared with the group about the loss of our three babies in July. Although it is so hard to talk about, it is a tremendous help to share our burden of grief, and to be lifted up in the prayers of others.
Sunday night, topped with moving into our home without three of everything for the babies, made for a really hard Monday by myself. I am sure this will be only one of thousands of emotional meltdowns. But sometimes the grief and my empty heart are so overwhelming I am unsure of how I will go on. I try to pray, desperately needing God's help and strength, but no words will come. Yet I know Romans 8:28 is true, and the Spirit within me has been speaking with God on my hearts behalf. Although I am unable to utter a single word, I am surrounded with God's peace, my heart is filled with the love of my Savior, and I am able to once again put my trust in God's plan for my life.
On a not so depressing note...as some of you may or may not know, I went to Haiti with a medical missionary for 2-3 weeks both the summers of my junior and senior year of high school. It just so happens that the guy I went with attends WCC-our new church. It is so good to see him and his wife every week! But anyways, his son is the youth minister, and is planning a mission trip for the youth group to go to Haiti with his dad next summer. Haiti has always been a dangerous country, some times more than others, but its not really a place most parents want their teenagers going. So the youth minister decided not only would I be a good resource for the parents to talk to about the safety of their teenager, but that I would also be a great person to have along as the female sponsor. It really didn't take any convincing on my part, as I am thrilled to have the opportunity to go back!
So-thats about all the news in our lives. Please be in prayer as Matt and I continue grieve, and continue to trust in God's plan for our family. We are currently seeking out His will for our next step, so please pray that we will clearly see His plan.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Baseball and Closing Day!
Last night we went to the big rivalry game, Cardinals vs. Cubs, here in St. Louis. Our family had gotten my Grandma G, whose been an avid Cardinal fan for years, tickets for her birthday. We had really good seats--only 16 rows back--a first for us, normally we're stuck in the clouds! So Matt and I along with my grandparents headed downtown for the last game between the Cards and Cubs. From the time they met, my Grandma and Matt (a loyal Cubs fan) have always given each other a hard time. I myself am a Cardinals fan, so there were three of us sporting red while Matt was one of the few in blue. The Cards ended up losing, 3-2, but it was a great game, going all the way through the bottom of the ninth. Although it was a super late night, we enjoyed hanging out with Grandpa and Grandma G and had a great time.
So this morning after dragging ourselves out of bed with little sleep, Matt and I signed our names like we were famous! We are now the proud owners of our first home!! We are so excited! After closing this morning we treated ourselves to Cracker Barrell (it was close and we were waiting on keys--not our top choice!). After that we were still waiting on keys so we did a little shopping for the house--cleaning supplies, bath towels, shower curtain rod, toaster--all the not so exciting things!
At one point Matt and I saw an older couple, one in red and the other in blue. After spotting them I told Matt we have hope for our marriage to survive even though we're rivals in most sports! Ha!
So this morning after dragging ourselves out of bed with little sleep, Matt and I signed our names like we were famous! We are now the proud owners of our first home!! We are so excited! After closing this morning we treated ourselves to Cracker Barrell (it was close and we were waiting on keys--not our top choice!). After that we were still waiting on keys so we did a little shopping for the house--cleaning supplies, bath towels, shower curtain rod, toaster--all the not so exciting things!Anyways, tomorrow we're moving all of our stuff in, so it will be another big day! Please pray for safe travels and no injuries as we move stuff in! Also-please pray for me as I seem to be getting sick with either a cold or allergies...either way its not much fun! 
I managed to get a picture of Matt as he was chowing down on his celebration meal!
Monday, September 8, 2008
What an Exhausting Sunday!
Yesterday was such a long and exhausting day!
Church: Yesterday was Matt's (and I's) first Sunday to check out the goings on of the children. We pretty well sat back and observed, although we did have to help with crowd control. There are so many 4-6 year olds it is unreal! We'll definitely have to work on a great K/1 program. Overall, there is a lot of change to be made, and a lot of work to do. We are excited and ready to get started--as soon as we figure out where to start!
Sidenote: Children's ministry is my passion as well, so we really work as a team even though its Matt's job. Normally, I provide the big idea's and Matt figures out how to make them happen. =)So when talking about church, I will typically use the phrase "we" because thats just the way it is.
So after Church we went to pick up a truck we were borrowing and drove to the Sears Outlet. There we picked out a refrigerator, although we pretty well knew which one we were getting because it was on sale! After purchasing the refrigerator, we headed to another outlet store to hopefully buy some pots and pans. I have been looking for some good pots and pans for a while now, and everything I have found that I like and want, has been way out of our price range! But much to our delight, we found some that we really like at a good price! I bought 5 different ones!
After roaming a few other outlet stores to kill time, we headed to St. Louis (the actual city) to look at some mattresses we had found on Craig's List (great website! its like an online garage sale!). Thankfully they were nice enough for the money, and we bought them, loaded them up and headed back to church!
Back at the church we attended a "Get Connected" event for the small groups. We found a small group we're going to join while we get settled, but eventually we are going to start one of our own.
We finally made it "home," ate dinner at 9:00 and then went to bed exhausted.
So it was a very long, but very successful Sunday! I think we now have everything we NEED to move in on Friday!
Church: Yesterday was Matt's (and I's) first Sunday to check out the goings on of the children. We pretty well sat back and observed, although we did have to help with crowd control. There are so many 4-6 year olds it is unreal! We'll definitely have to work on a great K/1 program. Overall, there is a lot of change to be made, and a lot of work to do. We are excited and ready to get started--as soon as we figure out where to start!
Sidenote: Children's ministry is my passion as well, so we really work as a team even though its Matt's job. Normally, I provide the big idea's and Matt figures out how to make them happen. =)So when talking about church, I will typically use the phrase "we" because thats just the way it is.
So after Church we went to pick up a truck we were borrowing and drove to the Sears Outlet. There we picked out a refrigerator, although we pretty well knew which one we were getting because it was on sale! After purchasing the refrigerator, we headed to another outlet store to hopefully buy some pots and pans. I have been looking for some good pots and pans for a while now, and everything I have found that I like and want, has been way out of our price range! But much to our delight, we found some that we really like at a good price! I bought 5 different ones!
After roaming a few other outlet stores to kill time, we headed to St. Louis (the actual city) to look at some mattresses we had found on Craig's List (great website! its like an online garage sale!). Thankfully they were nice enough for the money, and we bought them, loaded them up and headed back to church!
Back at the church we attended a "Get Connected" event for the small groups. We found a small group we're going to join while we get settled, but eventually we are going to start one of our own.
We finally made it "home," ate dinner at 9:00 and then went to bed exhausted.
So it was a very long, but very successful Sunday! I think we now have everything we NEED to move in on Friday!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Suitcase Life is Coming to a Close...
Our original closing date was September 19, but we have been hoping and praying to get it moved up. Our real estate agent called us today to tell us that our closing date has been moved to September 12! A whole week earlier! We are so excited to finally complete our crazy move from Vienna to our new home. Needless to say, we are tired of living out of suitcases and only having a small room to call our "own." I am so excited to have a kitchen again too! I have really missed cooking and baking!
So we are really excited to know the end of our move is in sight! Please keep us in your prayers as we have so much stuff to get done in this next week!
So we are really excited to know the end of our move is in sight! Please keep us in your prayers as we have so much stuff to get done in this next week!
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Moving Day...Kind of...
Since Matt starts work on Tuesday, we're "moving" from the room in my parents house to a room in my aunt and uncle's house in the St. Louis area. So we've spent the morning packing up what clothes we'll need for the next three weeks to take with us, and everything else in boxes to store. It is amazing how much stuff we have aquired over the past few months. We finally have everything packed up and ready to go, now we just have to fit it all in our little car!
Tomorrow, Sunday morning we are being introduced at the church, and so begins our new life. We are nervous, but very excited. Here are a few prayer requests for us...
1. For Matt as he begins his new job at the church, that God will guide and direct him in all things.
2. For me as I begin looking for a job. This is a really hard thing for me to do, as its a constant reminder of the job I am no longer able to do but wanted to do with all my heart.
3. That we can get our closing date moved up!! Right now its set for Sept. 19, but we're really hoping to get it moved up so we can move in sooner! We are really tired of packing and unpacking and living out of suitcases!
4. For both Matt and I and our families as we continue to miss our babies.
Tomorrow, Sunday morning we are being introduced at the church, and so begins our new life. We are nervous, but very excited. Here are a few prayer requests for us...
1. For Matt as he begins his new job at the church, that God will guide and direct him in all things.
2. For me as I begin looking for a job. This is a really hard thing for me to do, as its a constant reminder of the job I am no longer able to do but wanted to do with all my heart.
3. That we can get our closing date moved up!! Right now its set for Sept. 19, but we're really hoping to get it moved up so we can move in sooner! We are really tired of packing and unpacking and living out of suitcases!
4. For both Matt and I and our families as we continue to miss our babies.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Retreat to Cancun
Matt and I spent the past Saturday through Wednesday in Cancun on our retreat. You may be thinking, well, it was just a vacation, but it was so much more for us. We purposely planned this trip to be the week before Matt started work at the church and almost a month after losing the babies. Our few days in Cancun were the first and only days we have spent alone since we were in Vienna, the beginning of June. Unless you count the hospital stay where we spent the days with visitors and of course the docs and nurses, and the nights with regular two hour check ups with the nurses.
The time alone was HUGE for us. The first part of the trip, we naturally talked about the past, leaving Vienna, wondering at God's hand in that, and losing our precious Eli, Isaac and Micah. Matt and I are so very different, and likewise, we are grieving completely different as well, which makes it important for us to be able to talk to each other about it all. God really blessed us with our conversation in this area. We really feel like God has given us closure with this chapter of our lives, which we feel we needed before moving on.
Naturally after feeling closure on the past chapter of our lives, we began talking about our future. From everything such as how we want to paint and decorate our house, to getting to know people at the church and making new friends, to new jobs, to what we want to do for Thanksgiving! Lol.
Anyways, it was so good for us to spend time together, just the two of us. We spent most of our time at the pool or beach, which was so relaxing. The sun simply felt amazing. On Monday we took a day trip to Chichen Itza where we saw ancient Mayan ruins. It was really cool. Here are some pics from our trip...
Above: This is the face of one of their rain gods...can you see it?
Below Left and Right: The ball field...the goal was to put the ball through your ring (they were on the side walls, vertical)...without using your hands. It was a large field.
Below Middle: This is a picture of their observatory. It is amazing the knowledge they had to build this and be able to see the constellations and planets.
This is the sinkhole where they got all of their fresh water, and where we swam! The hole is about 50 feet below the ground, and the water itself is 150 feet deep. It was beautiful.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
There's No Place Like Home!!
Yeseterday afternoon we found out we have a house! We sent in a contract on Tuesday afternoon, and weren't expecting to hear anything until Friday afternoon. The house is basically brand new, it was lived in for a short time, and we had asked for the company (who built it) to do some things before we moved in. We knew they'd agree to all but one thing, and that was our request for them to replace the black appliances with white appliances. I really don't like black appliances. But lo and behold, they agreed to everything we asked--even the appliances! God is so good! Right now our closing date is set for Sept. 19, but we're hoping to get it moved up! We'll keep you posted!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
-Bittersweet-
After some looking, and realizing what we really wanted in a house, showing my parents and getting advice, we picked one. Today, we put a bid on it. We will know by the end of the day Friday (hopefully) if the house is ours or not. We are praying it is!
The whole buying a house thing has been really bittersweet for us. On one hand, it is very exciting to be purchasing our first home! But at the same time, its depressing and a reminder of all we've lost. As we looked at each house, and as we think about the house we're hoping to buy, we can't help but think of how empty it will be without Eli, Isaac and Micah. So although this process is very exciting for us, it also brings a completely different set of emotions along with it.
Please continue to pray for us as we take steps foward that are nothing like we had hoped and dreamed of.
The whole buying a house thing has been really bittersweet for us. On one hand, it is very exciting to be purchasing our first home! But at the same time, its depressing and a reminder of all we've lost. As we looked at each house, and as we think about the house we're hoping to buy, we can't help but think of how empty it will be without Eli, Isaac and Micah. So although this process is very exciting for us, it also brings a completely different set of emotions along with it.
Please continue to pray for us as we take steps foward that are nothing like we had hoped and dreamed of.
Names
This is something we have been asked, but since its too hard for us to talk about my babies, I am going to write about it instead.
As we sat holding and admiring the miracles our three babies were, we realized the names we had picked didn't fit, they weren't special enough. As we spent time with our babies, we asked God to give us the perfect names, and He did. Here's why we chose the names we did.
Elisha James
We picked the name Elisha because one, his life as a prophet has always fascinated me. He is often overlooked as a prophet since he followed in the steps of Elijah, but his life is definitely not one to be overlooked. It is full of testimonies of faith and the power of God.
But the main reason we chose this name, is because of its meaning. Elisha is from the Old Testament, a Hebrew name which means "God is my Salvation." When my water broke on Elisha, the doctors were sure I would lose him that day. Yet my labor stopped and even though he had no fluid surrounding him, his heartbeat remained strong. He, like Elisha, was a testimony to faith, and the power of God. From the beginning to the end of Eli's short life, God was his salvation.
James. Not only a great book in the Bible, but the name of a dear friend, who was like a little brother to me. He also lived a short life, 16 years, before meeting his Savior.
Isaac is also from the OT and a Hebrew name which means "He will Laugh." Isaac was the long awaited baby of Abraham and Sarah. Although we didn't have to wait quite as long as Abe and Sarah, Isaac was our long awaited baby. Our reaction when we found out we were finally pregnant was one of much joyful laughter.
Matthew means "Gift of God." Need we say more?
Micah is also a Hebrew name which means, "Who is Like God." This name seemed very fitting for our pixie faced little girl. Micah is also another one of my favorite prophets, and my life verse, since high school, is Micah 6:8.
We chose "Ray" and spelled it the "boy" way because it was my Grandpa Tuley's middle name. My grandpa passed away while I was in high school, but the impact he made on my life is far from small, and will always be a part of who I am.
As we sat holding and admiring the miracles our three babies were, we realized the names we had picked didn't fit, they weren't special enough. As we spent time with our babies, we asked God to give us the perfect names, and He did. Here's why we chose the names we did.
Elisha James
We picked the name Elisha because one, his life as a prophet has always fascinated me. He is often overlooked as a prophet since he followed in the steps of Elijah, but his life is definitely not one to be overlooked. It is full of testimonies of faith and the power of God.
But the main reason we chose this name, is because of its meaning. Elisha is from the Old Testament, a Hebrew name which means "God is my Salvation." When my water broke on Elisha, the doctors were sure I would lose him that day. Yet my labor stopped and even though he had no fluid surrounding him, his heartbeat remained strong. He, like Elisha, was a testimony to faith, and the power of God. From the beginning to the end of Eli's short life, God was his salvation.
James. Not only a great book in the Bible, but the name of a dear friend, who was like a little brother to me. He also lived a short life, 16 years, before meeting his Savior.
Isaac Matthew
Isaac is also from the OT and a Hebrew name which means "He will Laugh." Isaac was the long awaited baby of Abraham and Sarah. Although we didn't have to wait quite as long as Abe and Sarah, Isaac was our long awaited baby. Our reaction when we found out we were finally pregnant was one of much joyful laughter.
Matthew means "Gift of God." Need we say more?
Micah Ray
Micah is also a Hebrew name which means, "Who is Like God." This name seemed very fitting for our pixie faced little girl. Micah is also another one of my favorite prophets, and my life verse, since high school, is Micah 6:8.
We chose "Ray" and spelled it the "boy" way because it was my Grandpa Tuley's middle name. My grandpa passed away while I was in high school, but the impact he made on my life is far from small, and will always be a part of who I am.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
House Hunting
Thursday we spent the morning getting approved for a mortgage, and the afternoon meeting with a realtor and looking at houses online. Housing in the Wentzville area is quite expensive so finding something nice on our budget will be a miracle!
After living with family since the middle of June, as much as we love them and have enjoyed our time with them, we are ready to be in a place of our own. This makes looking for the perfect house with little patience, difficult to say the least.
Please pray for us as we finally conclude our move from Vienna to our new home. Pray we will have patience, and for God to show us the perfect house soon!!
After living with family since the middle of June, as much as we love them and have enjoyed our time with them, we are ready to be in a place of our own. This makes looking for the perfect house with little patience, difficult to say the least.
Please pray for us as we finally conclude our move from Vienna to our new home. Pray we will have patience, and for God to show us the perfect house soon!!
Floating!
We left Conway on Tuesday afternoon, after DK assured us he would be okay without us. Imagine that! We drove up to the boothill of Missouri to my Gram's house for a short visit. My parents and sistes were already there. They were already planning on going floating Wednesday afternoon, so we decided to join them.We did a little less than a two hour float, in canoes, down the Current River. It was a lot of fun, as my sisters had never been floating before, or had too much experience with rowing, creating some hilarious events. All in all, lots of fun in the sun.
At Last...A Job
Believe it or not, throughout the chaos of us returning to the States and loosing the babies, Matt did interview for three different jobs. Resume's were sent in before July 13 when I was admitted into the hospital. First interviews were done at the end of that week, while things were "calm."
Second interviews were offered on all three jobs, but Matt only took the second interview with one job. Brave...I know. The second interview was done the first weekend of August, a week after I had been released from the hospital. Then finally, Monday, August 11, around 9:30pm, Matt was offered the job, and he accepted.
Curious?
Matt will be the children's minister at Wentzville Christian Church, starting September 2. So we will be moving to Wentzville soon, which is in the northwest Saint Louis area.
You may be wondering about the switch of "occupations" from teaching to being a children's minister. Both Matt and I have a passion for children, and ministering to them. For the past 5 years that is exactly what we have done, through church and through teaching. We are honored to serve God by loving and teaching his children, no matter where and how it takes place. On a side note, Matt is very excited about working in the church and is ready to take on the challenge!
Second interviews were offered on all three jobs, but Matt only took the second interview with one job. Brave...I know. The second interview was done the first weekend of August, a week after I had been released from the hospital. Then finally, Monday, August 11, around 9:30pm, Matt was offered the job, and he accepted.
Curious?
Matt will be the children's minister at Wentzville Christian Church, starting September 2. So we will be moving to Wentzville soon, which is in the northwest Saint Louis area.
You may be wondering about the switch of "occupations" from teaching to being a children's minister. Both Matt and I have a passion for children, and ministering to them. For the past 5 years that is exactly what we have done, through church and through teaching. We are honored to serve God by loving and teaching his children, no matter where and how it takes place. On a side note, Matt is very excited about working in the church and is ready to take on the challenge!
Really?
The other side of this sign said "This church is prayer conditioned." Love it.
This one is in honor of "Mustasche Week" at VCS and Householder.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Toad Suck--Arkansas
We travelled to Conway, Arkansas on Sunday to take DK to college at University of Central Arkansas. We expected to get DK settled in and everything set up for his apartment, but we didn't expect to have so much fun!The previous weekend Matt's dad was telling us about some of the wierd places some of his coworkers were from. We laughed as he told us the names of these crazy towns, but didn't think much else about it. 
UNTIL...Monday afternoon we were driving through Conway bored (DK was in meetings) heading to Sonic for happy hour (gotta love that!). On our way there I spotted a sign that said "Toad Suck" with an arrow pointing left. I screamed in excitement and told Matt to turn left! We weren't sure how far it'd be, but we thought we'd drive a ways and see.
That's when we came upon...
Legends of Toad Suck:1. There was a big spring that kept water on the surrounding ground most of the time, attracting toads to set up camp around it. Then every now and then, the spring would suck in all the water, and the toads.
2. Long ago, steamboats traveled the Arkansas River when the 
water was at the right depth. When it wasn't, the captains and their crew tied up to wait where the Toad Suck Lock and Dam now spans the river. While they waited, they refreshed themselves at the local tavern there, to the dismay of the folks living nearby, who said: "They suck on the bottle 'til they swell up like toads." Hence, the name Toad Suck. The tavern is long gone, but the legend and fun live on at Toad Suck Daze.
water was at the right depth. When it wasn't, the captains and their crew tied up to wait where the Toad Suck Lock and Dam now spans the river. While they waited, they refreshed themselves at the local tavern there, to the dismay of the folks living nearby, who said: "They suck on the bottle 'til they swell up like toads." Hence, the name Toad Suck. The tavern is long gone, but the legend and fun live on at Toad Suck Daze.
Toad Suck is only a town of 230 people, so there's not much to see other than the pics above. However, the first weekend in May, every year, is when they host the "Laid Back Weekend." The weekend is full of hillbilly games, but the best of all, are the annual toad races. Due to flooding in Toad Suck a few years back, the weekend festivities are now held in Toad Suck Square in downtown Conway. For more information, you can check out their website at http://www.toadsuck.org/Needless to say, what we thought would be a boring afternoon while DK was in meetings, turned out to be lots of fun! 
Monday, August 11, 2008
Really? 5 Years?!?
Although it is hard for us to believe, Saturday was our five year anniversary. We spent a lot of time on Saturday talking about the past five years, and how they didn't in the least bit, match up to what we had imagined on August 9, 2003. Imagine that. It was fun to compare our dreams for life in 2003, to what really happened, to what our dreams are now in 2008.
As many of you know, Matt isn't the most romantic of guys, MOST of the time, but he can be romantic! He planned a whole evening, refusing to tell me anything except what I needed to wear. We ate dinner at a really nice Italian restaurant, which had yummy food! Then he surprised me with tickets to see Disney's musical, Beauty and the Beast, which is my favorite Disney movie! All in all, it was much better than McDonalds!! Lol.
Now we're hanging out in Conway, Arkansas getting DK settled into college here. As I am typing this blog the poor guy is getting immunizations! We have met the other three freshmen recruits for the golf team, (they are all international students as well--England-Chili-and Cananda) and they are really nice guys. So I won't have to worry as much about leaving DK here all alone! But it sure is completely different getting DK as an international student settled than it was for either of us. So much more paperwork, orientation, more to buy and more to do. Speaking of, we're going to go look for some tableware while DK gets his shots!
As many of you know, Matt isn't the most romantic of guys, MOST of the time, but he can be romantic! He planned a whole evening, refusing to tell me anything except what I needed to wear. We ate dinner at a really nice Italian restaurant, which had yummy food! Then he surprised me with tickets to see Disney's musical, Beauty and the Beast, which is my favorite Disney movie! All in all, it was much better than McDonalds!! Lol.
Now we're hanging out in Conway, Arkansas getting DK settled into college here. As I am typing this blog the poor guy is getting immunizations! We have met the other three freshmen recruits for the golf team, (they are all international students as well--England-Chili-and Cananda) and they are really nice guys. So I won't have to worry as much about leaving DK here all alone! But it sure is completely different getting DK as an international student settled than it was for either of us. So much more paperwork, orientation, more to buy and more to do. Speaking of, we're going to go look for some tableware while DK gets his shots!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Funny how things happen...
A friend said the following passage out of 2 Corinthians helped them through some hard times, so we went over and looked it up. Ha! It was the paragraph right above the passage that we've been clinging to over the past few weeks. We had read it, but it hadn't reached out to us at that time. I love how God touches us with different passages of Scripture throughout the various seasons of life, or even different days of the week. God is good.
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
2 Corinthians 1:3-7
We are doing okay, and still taking life a day at a time. Our family and friends have been so good to us, we have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and we have felt covered in prayer. There are still a lot of tears, but God has been our strength and will continue to carry us through.
DK flew in this past Sunday and we've spent the week with him, which has been a tremendous blessing to us, and just what we needed. This weekend we will take him to college at the University of Central Arkansas where he received a golf scholarship.
Its looking like Matt has found a job, but its not official yet. He has went through all of the interviews and now we're just waiting to hear. We will find out for sure the beginning of next week, and then we'll post the details. Until then...
Friday, August 1, 2008
One more thing...
We realize you have also been grieving the loss of our babies with us, so we wanted to share a few verses that have been our lifeline over the past week.
"We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11as you help us by your prayers."
"We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11as you help us by your prayers."
2 Corinthians 1:8b-11a
Indeed, our hope is in God, for only He can deliver us.
Just an Update...
We have been overwhelmed (in a good way) with the love, encouragement and prayers we have received from so many. It is hard to believe that yesterday was one week. It feels like it has been a year, a year of riding what we like to call, the grieving rollercoaster. It is funny the times that we feel the loss in unbearable ways. Yesterday we went to see the latest Batman movie with our dear friend Becca, and at the end of the movie we were overcome with emotion, wondering how can life go on as normal when we are missing three very important parts of it?
Although we miss our babies sooo much, we know they are with Jesus, being loved in a way we never could have loved them. A friend sent us this poem, and we have read it many times, as its a good reminder of that perfect place, and the perfect, unconditional love our babies have.
Although we miss our babies sooo much, we know they are with Jesus, being loved in a way we never could have loved them. A friend sent us this poem, and we have read it many times, as its a good reminder of that perfect place, and the perfect, unconditional love our babies have.
Nestled in God's Arms
The Lord loves little ones
And keeps them safe and warm
In a special place in Heaven
Nestled in his arms.
The Lord placed the tiny babes
To grow in a mother's womb
And if he calls them home before their birth
He must have them a special room.
I have not yet seen Heaven
But I know our God above
Will take special care of the tiny ones
And surround them with his love.
So do not fret or mourn
For the tiny soul set free
But look forward to a reunion
That will last eternally.
-Thena Smith
Thanks again for all of your love and support, knowing we are loved by so many, and have the support of so many, helps us get through the hard days like yesterday.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Meeting our Babies
On Tuesday night, July 22, Stephanie began to have contractions and run a fever. Wednesday morning they drew blood work and her white blood cell count was high. This left us with no choice, we had to deliver Baby A to get rid of the infection. They induced Stephanie more to make it go faster as the sooner they got the infection under control, the better for Stephanie.
Elisha James was born July 23 at 3:26, weighing 12 ounces, and was 10 inches long.
After Eli was born they stopped the medicine, and Stephanie's contractions stopped. The other two babies sacs were still intact and their heartbeats strong. We thought we were in the clear. Then all of a sudden Stephanie's temperature spiked out of control into very dangerous territory. The doctors tried everything to break the fever, but nothing was breaking it. They told us we would have to deliver the other two babies, or Stephanie's uterus and life would be on the line. They left us for five minutes to take it all in, and in the process, Steph's contractions started again. They came back in and started the medicine to speed up the process again.
Isaac Matthew was born July 23 at 8:46, weighing 13 ounces, and was 10 and 1/4 inches long.
Micah Ray (our little tomboy) was born July 23 at 8:50, weighing 11 ounces, and was 10 inches long.
They were all three beautiful babies. The boys looked like me, with long everything, especially fingers and toes. Micah looked like Steph, with the cutest little pixie face ever. It all happened so fast, we are still in shock, and of course our hearts are broken.
However we have hope. As parents, our greatest goal was to raise our babies to love and serve Jesus with their whole hearts. Although it didn't happen as we had planned, that is exactly what our babies are doing, loving and serving Jesus.
Please pray for us as we have so much to deal with, and so much to do. God has been our stronghold and given us great peace, but it doesn't heal our broken hearts.
Thank you for your prayers throughout this process, and for your prayers as we try and move foward. God bless.
Elisha James was born July 23 at 3:26, weighing 12 ounces, and was 10 inches long.
After Eli was born they stopped the medicine, and Stephanie's contractions stopped. The other two babies sacs were still intact and their heartbeats strong. We thought we were in the clear. Then all of a sudden Stephanie's temperature spiked out of control into very dangerous territory. The doctors tried everything to break the fever, but nothing was breaking it. They told us we would have to deliver the other two babies, or Stephanie's uterus and life would be on the line. They left us for five minutes to take it all in, and in the process, Steph's contractions started again. They came back in and started the medicine to speed up the process again.
Isaac Matthew was born July 23 at 8:46, weighing 13 ounces, and was 10 and 1/4 inches long.
Micah Ray (our little tomboy) was born July 23 at 8:50, weighing 11 ounces, and was 10 inches long.
They were all three beautiful babies. The boys looked like me, with long everything, especially fingers and toes. Micah looked like Steph, with the cutest little pixie face ever. It all happened so fast, we are still in shock, and of course our hearts are broken.
However we have hope. As parents, our greatest goal was to raise our babies to love and serve Jesus with their whole hearts. Although it didn't happen as we had planned, that is exactly what our babies are doing, loving and serving Jesus.
Please pray for us as we have so much to deal with, and so much to do. God has been our stronghold and given us great peace, but it doesn't heal our broken hearts.
Thank you for your prayers throughout this process, and for your prayers as we try and move foward. God bless.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Monday -- Ultrasound Day
Well we went downstairs for our weekly ultrasound. Everything was as was expected. The babies heart rates were all good and everything was normal except for the amount of fluid around baby A. Last week there was no fluid around that baby at all, but today there was about 2cm surrounding him. They also told us that they don't like it to get below 5cm. We realize that we won't get to that 5cm mark, but at least there is some fluid now. We will continue to pray for more fluid to surround Baby A.
The exciting news of the day was that Dr. Floyd told Steph she could take a shower as long as she sat in the shower on the stool. This got her pretty excited. However, when we went down to the ultrasound, instead of trying to cram the bed into the little room, she had to walk about 4 steps from the bed to the ultrasound table. It was the first time she has even sat up since last Sunday. Needless to say, she got very light headed when she sat up. And the total of 8 steps to and from wore her out so bad that she decided that her legs hurt too much to take a shower today. I think she was also super nervous to see how her body would respond to this, but other than a few cramps she is feeling fine. Its amazing the amount of muscle atrophy that takes place in just one week. I can't imagine how week her legs will be when this is all said and done.
Please continue to pray for Steph and the babies, especially Baby A. We need to make it at least another 4 weeks for the babies to have a chance at surviving, and we'd love to make it longer.
The exciting news of the day was that Dr. Floyd told Steph she could take a shower as long as she sat in the shower on the stool. This got her pretty excited. However, when we went down to the ultrasound, instead of trying to cram the bed into the little room, she had to walk about 4 steps from the bed to the ultrasound table. It was the first time she has even sat up since last Sunday. Needless to say, she got very light headed when she sat up. And the total of 8 steps to and from wore her out so bad that she decided that her legs hurt too much to take a shower today. I think she was also super nervous to see how her body would respond to this, but other than a few cramps she is feeling fine. Its amazing the amount of muscle atrophy that takes place in just one week. I can't imagine how week her legs will be when this is all said and done.
Please continue to pray for Steph and the babies, especially Baby A. We need to make it at least another 4 weeks for the babies to have a chance at surviving, and we'd love to make it longer.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
"Take a Deep Breath and Relax"
Those are the words our doctor told us this morning. He said we are not "safe" with a capital S and never will be but that we could take a deep breath and relax. It was great to hear those words and know that things are going pretty good considering all the circumstances. Thank you for all your prayers and future prayers, we really appreciate all that you guys have done for us.
The night doctor came in this evening, the same one that was here when we came in on Sunday. He was so excited that we have proved him wrong by still having 3 babies. He was pretty sure we had lost the one and was great to hear about the miracle that is taking place.
Please just continue to pray for us and communicate with us in whatever way works best for you! We really appreciate all the words of support and love we have received.
The night doctor came in this evening, the same one that was here when we came in on Sunday. He was so excited that we have proved him wrong by still having 3 babies. He was pretty sure we had lost the one and was great to hear about the miracle that is taking place.
Please just continue to pray for us and communicate with us in whatever way works best for you! We really appreciate all the words of support and love we have received.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Wednesday
Hello again. I just thought I would tell you guys that we will be trying to update this blog every 2 days or so and let everyone know what is going on with the 5 of us.
Yesterday's blood test showed no sign of an infection, so that is GREAT news. When the doctor came in this morning, he said now its just a waiting game pretty much. We are going to have Steph sit here "until she hatches" three beautiful babies.
If we can get to the 23/24 week mark, the babies have a better chance at survival due to their lung functions getting better around then. Currently we are sitting on the 19/20 week mark. Ideally, the longer they are in there the better. We are praying to lay around until the 30 week mark which would put us at the end of Sept.
I also had a local company call me this afternoon wanting to set up an interview for next week. It is with a company that works with online student portfolios. I am going to watch some of their online demos this evening to find out even more about them. I also have an interview tomorrow with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Columbia.
I want to encourage you to call or even to stop by the Columbia Regional Hospital. I sent out my phone number in an email today, but if you didn't get that email, just let me know and I will get you that number. Anyways, we would love to hear from you and help break up our boring days and evenings.
I would show a picture of Steph in our new "apartment" but as you probably know, she has refused that one.
Thanks for all the prayers. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Yesterday's blood test showed no sign of an infection, so that is GREAT news. When the doctor came in this morning, he said now its just a waiting game pretty much. We are going to have Steph sit here "until she hatches" three beautiful babies.
If we can get to the 23/24 week mark, the babies have a better chance at survival due to their lung functions getting better around then. Currently we are sitting on the 19/20 week mark. Ideally, the longer they are in there the better. We are praying to lay around until the 30 week mark which would put us at the end of Sept.
I also had a local company call me this afternoon wanting to set up an interview for next week. It is with a company that works with online student portfolios. I am going to watch some of their online demos this evening to find out even more about them. I also have an interview tomorrow with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Columbia.
I want to encourage you to call or even to stop by the Columbia Regional Hospital. I sent out my phone number in an email today, but if you didn't get that email, just let me know and I will get you that number. Anyways, we would love to hear from you and help break up our boring days and evenings.
I would show a picture of Steph in our new "apartment" but as you probably know, she has refused that one.
Thanks for all the prayers. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
What's Happening
Hello everybody. I just wanted to update you on what is currently happening with us and the babies.
Sunday evening, Steph's water broke on one of the babies so we took her to the hospital. Since that point, we have stopped the contractions and we still have three strong heart beats. Things are still very critical. If an infection forms in the uterus then we will most likely loose all three. However there is still a chance that the infection will not form and we will have 3 small babies in about 6 weeks.
Yesterday, the two boys measured at about 12 ounces and the girl at 11. We had previously thought they would be about 8 or 9 ounces, so they are growing at a very good rate.
Please keep us in your prayers as we go through this really critical week. If you have any questions, you can email us.
matt
Sunday evening, Steph's water broke on one of the babies so we took her to the hospital. Since that point, we have stopped the contractions and we still have three strong heart beats. Things are still very critical. If an infection forms in the uterus then we will most likely loose all three. However there is still a chance that the infection will not form and we will have 3 small babies in about 6 weeks.
Yesterday, the two boys measured at about 12 ounces and the girl at 11. We had previously thought they would be about 8 or 9 ounces, so they are growing at a very good rate.
Please keep us in your prayers as we go through this really critical week. If you have any questions, you can email us.
matt
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Love and Hate Relationship
One of the things I was looking foward to most about moving back to Missouri, was the summer thunderstorms. I love them and I love curling up with a good book and reading during one.
However, since we've been back, there have been way too many thunderstorms! I had heard and kept up with the flooding in the midwest, but didn't realize it was affecting the area where my parents live. I've found myself praying for no more thunderstorms, something I normally love. I just want to see the sun!
This past Tuesday, Matt and I along with my mom ran to town to get groceries, about a 40 minute drive from home. Although we drove through very little rain, in the course of about 40 minutes, they had over 3 inches of rain at home.
My parents house is an underground, with only one side open and not in the ground. Well, apparently getting so much rain in such a short amount of time was too much. So half of my parents home flooded. This includes both of my sisters bedrooms, a storage closet, two bathrooms, my parents room and the living room. They tried vaccuuming out the water, but there was just too much of it, and it was beginning to stink! Finally we tore out all of the carpet on Wednesday.
Apparently carpet layers are booked like crazy, so for the last part of this week and all of next week, we're living on concrete floors and chaos. This doesn't work so well for my mom who likes the house to be spotless and everything in place, all of the time.
Please pray for my family as we work on putting everything back together, and also pray for the farmers in the Midwest. Many of their fields have been wiped out due to flooding, and because it hasn't stopped raining and flooding, they can't really replant. I believe this will affect the US as a whole come sooner or later.
Anyways, this is what we've been up to the past week!
However, since we've been back, there have been way too many thunderstorms! I had heard and kept up with the flooding in the midwest, but didn't realize it was affecting the area where my parents live. I've found myself praying for no more thunderstorms, something I normally love. I just want to see the sun!
This past Tuesday, Matt and I along with my mom ran to town to get groceries, about a 40 minute drive from home. Although we drove through very little rain, in the course of about 40 minutes, they had over 3 inches of rain at home.
My parents house is an underground, with only one side open and not in the ground. Well, apparently getting so much rain in such a short amount of time was too much. So half of my parents home flooded. This includes both of my sisters bedrooms, a storage closet, two bathrooms, my parents room and the living room. They tried vaccuuming out the water, but there was just too much of it, and it was beginning to stink! Finally we tore out all of the carpet on Wednesday.
Apparently carpet layers are booked like crazy, so for the last part of this week and all of next week, we're living on concrete floors and chaos. This doesn't work so well for my mom who likes the house to be spotless and everything in place, all of the time.
Please pray for my family as we work on putting everything back together, and also pray for the farmers in the Midwest. Many of their fields have been wiped out due to flooding, and because it hasn't stopped raining and flooding, they can't really replant. I believe this will affect the US as a whole come sooner or later.
Anyways, this is what we've been up to the past week!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Safely "Home"
We arrived just fine on Thursday evening into St. Louis. I (Stephanie) was pretty sore from the long flight, and poor little Gideon (our cat) got sick. The flight was quite a bit more bumpy than usual. Anyways, no big problems, and for that, we're super thankful.
Since then we have been enjoying time with family and trying to recuperate. Normally, jet lag isn't so bad coming this way. However, for me its been quite the experience. The thought never crossed my mind that the babies would have jet lag to. I have been waking up in the morning starving, so hungry my stomach hurts. I guess they will have to adjust to their new feeding hours!
Today started the job search for Matt. We are praying it won't be a long process because so much is hanging in the balance that depends on the job he gets. Please continue to pray for Matt as he searches and interviews, which can be exhausting. Also, please pray for me as I begin the search for a new doctor. I think it will be hard to find one I will like as much and feel as "safe" with as my doctor in Austria, but I trust God will provide the perfect one.
Since then we have been enjoying time with family and trying to recuperate. Normally, jet lag isn't so bad coming this way. However, for me its been quite the experience. The thought never crossed my mind that the babies would have jet lag to. I have been waking up in the morning starving, so hungry my stomach hurts. I guess they will have to adjust to their new feeding hours!
Today started the job search for Matt. We are praying it won't be a long process because so much is hanging in the balance that depends on the job he gets. Please continue to pray for Matt as he searches and interviews, which can be exhausting. Also, please pray for me as I begin the search for a new doctor. I think it will be hard to find one I will like as much and feel as "safe" with as my doctor in Austria, but I trust God will provide the perfect one.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Saying Good Bye
There are so many things and events that have taken place in our last few weeks in Vienna that I want to write about on here! I am hoping I will have time to catch up on our blogging once we get back to the States.
We fly out tomorrow, Thursday, June 19, morning to head back to the States. Everything in our apartment is done, everything is packed, we are unregistered with the Austrian government and all accounts are closed. We are ready to go. Now all we have to do is say good bye.
The past week has been filled with good byes, none of them easy. It is hard to say good bye to people you love, who you have close relationships with, not knowing if you'll see them again until heaven. Although we can keep in touch via internet, which we are super thankful for, it will never be the same.
The whole leaving VCS and Vienna process has been super hard on us. Especially on me, with my preggo hormones surging! Anyways, please be in prayer for us as we leave the school for the last time, go downtown for the last time, hang out with friends here at a favorite restaurant for the last time, and most importantly, say good bye. Please also pray for us to have a safe flight and for me (Steph) to not be horribly uncomfortable during the almost 12 hours of flying we have to do.
Auf Wiedersehen (Goodbye)!
We fly out tomorrow, Thursday, June 19, morning to head back to the States. Everything in our apartment is done, everything is packed, we are unregistered with the Austrian government and all accounts are closed. We are ready to go. Now all we have to do is say good bye.
The past week has been filled with good byes, none of them easy. It is hard to say good bye to people you love, who you have close relationships with, not knowing if you'll see them again until heaven. Although we can keep in touch via internet, which we are super thankful for, it will never be the same.
The whole leaving VCS and Vienna process has been super hard on us. Especially on me, with my preggo hormones surging! Anyways, please be in prayer for us as we leave the school for the last time, go downtown for the last time, hang out with friends here at a favorite restaurant for the last time, and most importantly, say good bye. Please also pray for us to have a safe flight and for me (Steph) to not be horribly uncomfortable during the almost 12 hours of flying we have to do.
Auf Wiedersehen (Goodbye)!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Let the Craziness Begin...
We had a wonderful time on the senior trip, in Mallorca, Spain. the resort we stayed at was really nice, and with lots of sunshine and pools and beaches to sit at, it was a very relaxing time hanging out with the kids. We really feel like God blessed this time for the seniors and they were able to spend quality time together as a class before departing ways.
Its official, the 2007-2008 school year is over. I cannot believe the year has already ended. It literally flew by. Saying good bye to these kids has been and will continue to be one of the hardest things either of us have ever done. The kids at VCS are unique, creative, talented, caring, and amazing in every way. We have become so close to many of our students, and saying good bye has not been and will not be easy. Its not like we will see each other in a few years. Realistically, the next time we will see many of our students will be in heaven.
Please continue to be in prayer for Matt and I as we continue to say good bye to students and dear friends and close out our two years in Vienna. Pray that we can get everything packed and shipped with little stress, and our apartment cleaned and checked out. We'll keep you updated as much as possible as the process continues!
Thank you so much for your prayers, encouragement and support. This morning I woke up with a crystal clear image in my mind. One of my favorite chapters is Isaiah 40, and I have been thriving on verses 30-31 throughout the craziness. "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." This morning, the strength of my precious Savior, and your prayers were the wings I was soaring on. Just know we wouldn't be thriving admist the craziness without your prayers.
Its official, the 2007-2008 school year is over. I cannot believe the year has already ended. It literally flew by. Saying good bye to these kids has been and will continue to be one of the hardest things either of us have ever done. The kids at VCS are unique, creative, talented, caring, and amazing in every way. We have become so close to many of our students, and saying good bye has not been and will not be easy. Its not like we will see each other in a few years. Realistically, the next time we will see many of our students will be in heaven.
Please continue to be in prayer for Matt and I as we continue to say good bye to students and dear friends and close out our two years in Vienna. Pray that we can get everything packed and shipped with little stress, and our apartment cleaned and checked out. We'll keep you updated as much as possible as the process continues!
Thank you so much for your prayers, encouragement and support. This morning I woke up with a crystal clear image in my mind. One of my favorite chapters is Isaiah 40, and I have been thriving on verses 30-31 throughout the craziness. "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." This morning, the strength of my precious Savior, and your prayers were the wings I was soaring on. Just know we wouldn't be thriving admist the craziness without your prayers.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Senior Trip
Starting their freshman year, each class begins doing fundraisers to raise money for their senior trip. Its a lot of work, but a nice trip at the end is a luring incentive. Unfortunately for our seniors, their trip has been a rollercoaster ride.
In the February we booked a Medeiterranean Cruise for our senior trip. It was going to be an amazing trip and everyone (us sponsors included) was very excited about it! However, the day before we were supposed to fly out (Tuesday), the cruise line cancelled on us. Thankfully they were willing to refund the money we paid for the cruise, as well as our flights and hotels.
So began the chaos of looking for a new senior trip, at the last minute. First we found some more amazing cruise options (Wednesday-Friday morning). One major problem, we couldn't find flights. Thanks to the Eurocup beginning this weekend, every flight is completely full, going to and from everywhere! Finally, one of our parents called up one of his connections in Germany, a last minute travel agency. At this point Matt and I began talking with this travel agency about trip options. By six o'clock Friday night, we had a trip we could book to Rhodes, Greece. However, by the time we were able to call and book the trip, the company was closed. We called back Saturday morning to hear the usual, the flights are no longer available.
We asked the travel agent if he could look for more trip options and he kindly agreed to do so. Around two Saturday afternoon, he called back with another trip option to Majorca, Spain. We didn't waste any time, and booked the trip before we lost the airfare. Finally, we have a senior trip! Mind you, this is with us splitting up for our flights returning to Vienna!
All this to say, please be in prayer for the senior trip. This is the last time many of these kids will have to hang out with their friends. After graduation on June 11, they will scatter all across the world. So this time for them to say good bye is very important. So just pray that God will do amazing things this week, and provide the seniors with overflowing hearts, full of cherished memories.
In the February we booked a Medeiterranean Cruise for our senior trip. It was going to be an amazing trip and everyone (us sponsors included) was very excited about it! However, the day before we were supposed to fly out (Tuesday), the cruise line cancelled on us. Thankfully they were willing to refund the money we paid for the cruise, as well as our flights and hotels.
So began the chaos of looking for a new senior trip, at the last minute. First we found some more amazing cruise options (Wednesday-Friday morning). One major problem, we couldn't find flights. Thanks to the Eurocup beginning this weekend, every flight is completely full, going to and from everywhere! Finally, one of our parents called up one of his connections in Germany, a last minute travel agency. At this point Matt and I began talking with this travel agency about trip options. By six o'clock Friday night, we had a trip we could book to Rhodes, Greece. However, by the time we were able to call and book the trip, the company was closed. We called back Saturday morning to hear the usual, the flights are no longer available.
We asked the travel agent if he could look for more trip options and he kindly agreed to do so. Around two Saturday afternoon, he called back with another trip option to Majorca, Spain. We didn't waste any time, and booked the trip before we lost the airfare. Finally, we have a senior trip! Mind you, this is with us splitting up for our flights returning to Vienna!
All this to say, please be in prayer for the senior trip. This is the last time many of these kids will have to hang out with their friends. After graduation on June 11, they will scatter all across the world. So this time for them to say good bye is very important. So just pray that God will do amazing things this week, and provide the seniors with overflowing hearts, full of cherished memories.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
12 Weeks Down...23 to Go!
It is true, I am 12 weeks today. Everyday we get more and more excited about this tremendous blessing God is giving us. Yes, its going to be a LOT of hard work, but its also going to be a lot of fun!
The scary part for us, is the 23 weeks to go. There is so much we need to do in this short amount of time, our list is endless. Moving countries, finding Matt a job, finding a place to live, buying a car (hopefully two), and somewhere in the midst of that, get ready to become the parents of three!! Its slightly stressful to think about!
For those wondering, I am showing. I haven't decided yet how I feel about posting pictures of me, so for now, you'll just have to imagine! I am feeling great! I lost about 5 pounds during the first 6 weeks, probably because no food sounded appetizing in the least bit! Since then, I haven't gained any, but I also haven't had a huge increase in appetite yet. For those of you wondering, my doctor assures me this is great, because I need to gain the least amount of weight possible to protect me from preeclampsia, which is a greater risk for me than a normal pregnancy.
Things that are Absolutely Disgusting:
-Chocolate ( This is so sad to me, and I'm hoping it will stop making me feel sick very soon!)
-Sweets (I can eat sweets in small portions, but if I eat more than that, they make me sick)
-Garlic (I can now tolerate garlic in small portions, but some things are still too garlicy)
Cravings:
-My biggest one: Popsicles! Yum!
-Anything made of potatoes, probably because they are so bland!
-Fruit!
Pregnancy Prayer Requests:
-That all three babies will continue to grow equally, strong, and healthy.
-That my body will continue to handle this pregnancy well.
-That I can carry the babies for 35 weeks. Most mother's of triplets don't make it this far, but this is our goal so our babies can spend no time, if little time in the NICU.
The scary part for us, is the 23 weeks to go. There is so much we need to do in this short amount of time, our list is endless. Moving countries, finding Matt a job, finding a place to live, buying a car (hopefully two), and somewhere in the midst of that, get ready to become the parents of three!! Its slightly stressful to think about!
For those wondering, I am showing. I haven't decided yet how I feel about posting pictures of me, so for now, you'll just have to imagine! I am feeling great! I lost about 5 pounds during the first 6 weeks, probably because no food sounded appetizing in the least bit! Since then, I haven't gained any, but I also haven't had a huge increase in appetite yet. For those of you wondering, my doctor assures me this is great, because I need to gain the least amount of weight possible to protect me from preeclampsia, which is a greater risk for me than a normal pregnancy.
Things that are Absolutely Disgusting:
-Chocolate ( This is so sad to me, and I'm hoping it will stop making me feel sick very soon!)
-Sweets (I can eat sweets in small portions, but if I eat more than that, they make me sick)
-Garlic (I can now tolerate garlic in small portions, but some things are still too garlicy)
Cravings:
-My biggest one: Popsicles! Yum!
-Anything made of potatoes, probably because they are so bland!
-Fruit!
Pregnancy Prayer Requests:
-That all three babies will continue to grow equally, strong, and healthy.
-That my body will continue to handle this pregnancy well.
-That I can carry the babies for 35 weeks. Most mother's of triplets don't make it this far, but this is our goal so our babies can spend no time, if little time in the NICU.
Budapest
Matt and I along with our good friend Becca have been to Budapest so many times for soccer and basketball trips. Matt and I for coaching, and Becca always being our number one fan, who also drove us! So although we have been to Budapest more times than we can remember, and we have actually never seen downtown Budapest. We only made it to the outskirts where the two different schools we played were.
This is St. Stephens Cathedral. It was HUGE and beautiful. 
We didn't plan on seeing this. We were just walking along the Danube River and came upon it. It was a communist revolution memorial, to remember those shot into the river. The shoes were made out of metal, and there were all kinds, including children's. 
This is one view of the Rathaus, the city hall. It used to be on of the world's largest. 
This is the famous chain-link bridge, and Matt and I in front of it.
When all three of us found out we were leaving, our goal became to actually see Budapest before we leave. Finally, last Sunday we were able to go! We borrowed a car, and took a day trip (its a two hour drive, one way) to Budapest.
It was very interesting to see a town that used to be part of the Austrian-Hungarian empire along with Vienna. A lot of the architecture was very similar to that in Vienna, and very beautiful! Here are a few shots of our favorites...
This is St. Stephens Cathedral. It was HUGE and beautiful. We didn't plan on seeing this. We were just walking along the Danube River and came upon it. It was a communist revolution memorial, to remember those shot into the river. The shoes were made out of metal, and there were all kinds, including children's. This is one view of the Rathaus, the city hall. It used to be on of the world's largest. This is the famous chain-link bridge, and Matt and I in front of it. We ended the day with my favorite part, PIZZA HUT!!!! We don't have these in Vienna, and the pizza we have is good, but there is definitely no pan pizza. The pizza was super cheap and amazing. Definitely the perfect end to a good day!
Monday, May 12, 2008
Junior Formal
Most of the senior girls and Jon!
Saturday evening was the junior formal. This is an event planned by the junior class to honor the senior class. At six they began taking pictures across from the hotel in Stadtpark, which was beautiful! At seven we walked over to the hotel and ate a nice dinner, followed by a program put on by the juniors to honor the seniors. This included a slide show with their senior pictures and childhood pictures, a song sung by two juniors, and individual senior awards. Finally the evening concluded with two hours of dancing by all, staff and students.
DK, Toni, Suraj, Dong, and David (Senior Boys)
All but 5 of the Senior Class
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