Our Maagnificent Life

Family Picture

2011-12-21T21:04:00.000-08:00

We got some pictures done for our Christmas cards and to mark Connor's 1st birthday! Our favorites will soon be available on Facebook but my favorite family one is below. Next week I'll have pictures and videos to share from his first Christmas and birthday! Meanwhile I've finished up my third term of classes and am enjoying a 3 week break. I have a list of movies I'm determined to make it through haha

Busy Baby Boy!

2011-09-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

Connor is already 8 months old!! It doesn't seem possible he's so close to his first birthday. In the mean time he's more and more active, full of giggles and ready for fun. I've hit up some JBF sales and picked up a couple fun toys, one of which he *loves* although he's not *quite* big enough for it just yet. He's a little short yet to stay on the seat *and* play he does try! He's figured out he can stand and play and gets all bouncy and excited :)

He's working very diligently on crawling but so far has only conquered the tummy-army-crawl hehe He gets on his hands and knees and rocks but goes down before goes forward! Silly boy :)

We took him to the pool for the first time last week. I realize it's late in the season but he's so little and it's been a really busy summer! Well he wasn't really in love with the pool... Turns out he was ready for a nap (who knew?) so he didn't last long. Thanks to Aunt Linda he got his nap while Jon and I played in the pool haha! We're hoping to try again next week. Until then, a couple of pictures...

Time Flies!

2011-08-06T20:11:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I last posted. Although I've spent the past few weeks back in school, hence my posting absence :) I'm still at it but thought I'd take a moment to update for those who actually do read this haha

After four ear infections, including one perforated ear drum, we decided to have tubes put in Connor's ears. So last month he went in for both his ears to get tubes. It was hardest seeing him come out of the anesthetic honestly. The procedure itself was so short we hardly got the chance to worry! We really like his Dr so that helped. For those who haven't had their child go through this type of thing, a little one coming out of anesthetic is *not* a good time for anyone involved. Their little bodies don't know what's going on and whatever it makes them feel like brings lots of crying, lots of tears, and more than enough time inconsolable. Connor has a high pain tolerance (we know this from finding he had a perforated ear drum and not even knowing he had an infection!!) so we know he was feeling pretty awful to be that upset. He settled eventually and we took him home in about an hour. They had said by that afternoon we wouldn't know he'd even been through anything. Well it was even earlier for our boy! I had class that afternoon so he went to grandma's to get cuddles and love but when I dropped him off he was all grins and giggles and bouncing. We all shook our heads in amazement and relief!

The latest, and most exciting I think, thing to happen is after *months* of teething he finally has teeth popping through! First we thought it was just one on his bottom but we can see and feel the one next to it coming through too. We'll soon have a lil pumpkin baby! He's also hit that "separation anxiety" stage which, not gonna lie, super sucks timing wise considering he's teething on top of it. All things considered though I think he's doing well. It's just hard for me when I *have* to study and just get anything done for him to want me right there. Alas, I know we'll go through this phase over and over in the next few years. Right now he goes to a friend's house 2 1/2 days a week and Jon's parents house 1 day a week while I'm either in clinicals or class. It's gone well so far and I'm grateful for people who love him to take care of him instead of a daycare! Come September I'll have a break from clinicals and then a break from class so he'll have me for a good portion of that month. Hopefully that helps his anxiety :)

As for Jon, his position with Gladstone is going so well and we're really very grateful for the change from KCPD. Gladstone is a smaller community, around 27,000 people, much quieter and a better place to get your feet wet. Plus, and possibly most important, the department itself is *so* much better. They're more family oriented so we know if something happens with either Connor or me and Jon's working it won't be the end of the world for him to leave his shift early. That makes me feel so much better especially since he works nights! Come January he'll go back to the day shift for 6 months. At that point he's supposed to be able to request a shift but there has to be an opening on that particular shift so we'll see what happens. As always, we're just rolling with it!

6 months & Colorado

2011-06-30T05:48:00.000-07:00

Connor, my Aunt Linda & I flew out to see my parents and celebrate my Mom's 65th birthday last week. Connor was *amazing* on all the flights-I was SO grateful! The trip was great and Connor was perfect all week. He had SO many people holding him, playing with him and in his face and even without his normal naps he was an angel. There have been a couple of times in his short life I wished he was older simply because I wanted him to be able to understand how great he did at something and that was definitely one of them! My nephews, Jonah and Mason, have been so excited to see Connor. And he didn't disappoint! Connor was lovin' on both of the boys and we have the pictures to prove it (should we need them later haha). Here are a few from the trip:

We also got 6 month pictures taken of Connor with the same girls who did our maternity and newborn pictures. I'm so glad, too, because we got some *great* pictures. He hung in for 45 minutes of pictures and while he was loosing his smiles at the end he was still a trooper. It's nearly impossible for me to choose just a few as my favorites but I'm going to try. To see the whole shoot go to: http://photos.creativeeventstudio.com/maag/connor6mo

Growin' On Up-5 Months!

2011-06-05T17:02:00.000-07:00

Life has been both busy and boring. I spend most of my time at school, studying, and managing our ever growing, busy boy. Jon spends the majority of his time at work or sleeping and sometimes we even get time with him :p This night shift business stinks! Just a few more months and we get the day shift back, hopefully for good. Praying for that!! In the meantime we try and stay flexible. I have 2 more weeks of school left (1 week before finals!!) and then a 2 week break for which I am VERY excited. Maybe my house will get clean at some point during those 2 weeks? hehe I have gotten a couple of pictures taken although I know I should be taking more. I do admit the last 2 pictures were *very* staged. He did not pull himself up but darn if he didn't keep himself there! Creative Event Studio (the gals who did our maternity and newborn photos) are doing a 6 month baby shoot in a couple of weeks and I'm excited about those pictures!! Until then...

First Easter

2011-04-24T14:33:00.001-07:00

Connor's first Easter was today, yay! Nana & Papa Long from Colorado sent an Easter basket full of toys and the sunglasses in the previous post photo. Connor had fun "opening" the basket with me and I'm SO looking forward to next year when he's truly interested in what's going on :)

He's apparently quite happy to get a basket from Nana and Papa ;)

This wasn't really meant to be a teething toy but it became one quickly

But ultimately the fingers won out~Those must be some good fingers!

While at Jon's parents house I wanted us to get a family Easter picture~Hard to believe sometimes we're a family of 3 now!

I also have realized I don't have very many pics of Connor and me they're mostly Connor and Jon or just Connor because I remember to get the camera more often lol So I had his mom take a few of just me and my baby boy

Today was church and followed by my side of the family at The Elms in Excelsior Springs for Easter brunch/lunch. Connor did really well and I was so relieved! He's a pretty good baby in general but he's in that over-stimulation stage so I'm never totally sure when he's going to suddenly reach that breaking point until it's too late. Fortunately today between my cousin and aunt holding him and being fed and walked, etc. he did pretty darn well. Especially compared to some of the other kids around us that were crying! Fortunately his sympathetic crying did kick in!

4 Months

2011-04-23T05:34:00.001-07:00

I can't believe he's already 4 months and that month 3 went by so quickly, and probably mostly, without too much excitement. I had no idea I hadn't posted for so long! Well today I'll share some pics taken lately and tomorrow I will post Easter pics. After all, there's not much cuter than baby's first Easter pictures hehe

In other news, I have officially started school again, this time for my LPN. It's an accelerated program and I should be done end of June 2012. This means we just have to make it through a crazy, intense, sometimes sucky, 14 months and then I'll probably take a break and then finish up with my BSN. Who knows, maybe I'll push through and finish right after but I highly doubt it haha Mostly so we can have a second income again because this year will be tight tight! We like having some extra $, who doesn't? We'd feel better if we had more savings established next time I go to school :p
That's really the only "news". Jon's still liking his job w/ Gladstone Police Dept. and should be going on his own in a few weeks. Easter pics will come tomorrow!

I was doing laundry and had put him in his bumbo after he ate. I came back to the living room and found him like this! Think he was tired? lol

2 Months

2011-03-11T02:47:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe my little cuddle-bug is 2 months already! Actually by the time I got around to posting this he's 2 1/2 months haha

He took his vaccinations like quite the trooper, we were both proud and relieved! He'd stopped crying by the time we left the office (after being fed haha) and slept for about 4 straight hours. No side effects at all! I definitely got some crying out before we even got to the appointment and I managed to not tear up until right after they were done when I picked him up and he was screaming... ugh. I hate we have to go through this so many times in the next few years, esp this first year. I'm glad I had Jon to go with me though. I might make sure of that every time if I can! Could I do it alone? Sure. But I don't wanna :p

He started recognizing himself in the mirror last week which is possibly one of the cutest things, esp when he smiles at himself haha His general smiles and coos have definitely become more common and his actual responses to us are so fun now! I told Jon last night I'm going to try and really relish this time when he's a momma's boy because I know by the time he's about 4 he's gonna be daddy's little buddy and mom isn't likely going to be *as* important :( But hard to say I suppose since we haven't done this before haha I'm just preparing myself... kinda :p

In other news, Jon is really enjoying his job with the police department which definitely makes for a happier hubby and therefore a happier home! We're so blessed for him to have a good and secure job right now! I still personally think cops don't get paid as much as they should. If you have to put on a bullet proof vest to go to work you should make a little more money, yes?

The newest thing going on right now is I got into a nursing school! I'll be starting the LPN program next month and will graduate June 2012. I'm pretty darn excited esp since I've been working slowly on pre-reqs nearly since we got married. It's crazy timing but we have a great sitter and my in-laws have been super helpful with him. It kind of becomes one of those things that you just have to bite the bullet and do it because there's really no time that things like going back to school is going to be "convenient". I got a part time job working as a nanny for the summer while my class load is lighter. Then this fall I'll be a full-time student, no working. Gotta focus on those grades! If I have anything less than an 80% in a course I get dropped so no getting bad grades for me! Hopefully it's a really good teacher-that makes so much difference!

Here are a few random pictures we've taken over the past couple of weeks :)

Newborn Photo Shoot

2011-02-07T19:31:00.000-08:00

My amazing former roomies, who previously did our maternity pictures, also did newborn pictures for us. Connor wasn't really a fan of the flash from the camera and didn't sleep like most new babies through a shoot (of course, already causing problems!) but we still got some great shots. Here are a few (ok several) of my favorites~

One Month!

2011-01-28T07:06:00.000-08:00

It's nuts and it's what every other parent on this planet says but WOW this has gone so FAST! What's the saying? The days are long but the weeks are short? Yes when he's crying or when Jon's at work for 12 hrs and I'm totally on my own for a day and a half (since he has to sleep the next day) the days feel *very* long. But to know that we've already had him for a month it seems pretty fast. Funny how life is :)

He had his one month check up and is a growing healthy boy at 9lbs 9oz and 22 inches~mommy's little butterball ;) His gas and "colic" are getting better. Little Tummy's Gas Drops are *amazing* things! We thought maybe something I was eating was making all of it worse so I started with eliminating dairy because I've heard that is the most common problem causer. Well it has helped immensely! SO grateful because now everyone is happier lol He still gets gassy of course but not so upset like before. Unfortunately for *me* dairy is pretty much my favorite food group. I've been able to still eat yogurt but everything else is off limits. I wank milk and cheese and ice cream so badly! The Dr said Thursday that usually by their two month check up foods can begin to be fazed back in since their digestive systems are more developed at that point. I hope she's right! But even if she's not the sacrifice is more than worth it especially thinking about how he cried before!

Still working on finding a better fitting job for after maternity leave is over so please pray I find a good fit sooner rather than later! I'm still really quite tired and while I try to sleep when he sleeps I can't always (sometimes you're just not sleepy!) but I'm trying to find a balance because I'd still like to have my house not a wreck :p I know it will happen eventually it just takes time. I'll leave you today with a couple more super cute pictures of my puddin' pop :)

He was hanging out in our (clean) laundry basket while we got ready one day. Seemed a little confused but content

"Oh look, a hand!"

Contemplating... Not sure what but certainly contemplating :p

Meeting the Great-Grandparents

2011-01-19T17:22:00.000-08:00

Connor is blessed enough to have not only both sets of grandparents but both sets of *great* grandparents! He met his paternal set last week~

And because he's just so gosh darn cute :)

~So sweet when he's asleep

~Not sure *where* this look came from but how much bigger can his eyes get??

~Insert a variety of thoughts that could be appropriate here :p

The Many Faces of Connor

2011-01-14T06:33:00.000-08:00

Well not that it's a surprise to anyone who knows either of us, our child is quite expressive lol We've caught some of his looks on camera to share although there are a few we just can't quite get him to duplicate when we have the camera (of course). He's a whole 15 days old today and it's still a little surreal that we have this little guy. Not quite as surreal when I'm up in the middle of the night to I must admit :p He's totally perfect though and we're so blessed he's been healthy since day one. Not too much to report but that's why we have pictures! :)

Our Son is Here!

2011-01-07T00:56:00.000-08:00

Connor David Maag was born 12/30 at 4:45 am, 9lbs 5 oz at 20.5 inches

I began early labor on Tuesday the 28th. I spoke w/ my doula and she confirmed yes I was in early labor, to get some rest, eat & she'd probably see me that night. Jon and I enjoyed the day together. So far the contractions weren't bad, especially compared to the cramps I've had since I was 11. They were getting progressively worse and closer together although irregular. Around 4:30/5:00 they went up a notch in severity and we knew we were making progress which was both exciting and scary! We called our doula in around 7:30 that night as I was having a hard time working through them on my own. She came and we all worked through them using different positions, counter pressure, breathing, a hot shower, etc. Around 1am they had been that magic 5+1+1 equation for over an hour so we headed to the hospital sure that I was far enough along to be admitted. We were all shocked and baffled to find out I was only dilated to a 1... I cried. Of course we got sent home and at this point it was around 3:30am. I already had my 40 wk appointment scheduled that morning so we were just hoping to get some good news at that appointment. Meanwhile, Jon's swearing in for the Gladstone Police Department was *that morning* at 10... I ended up getting sleep in 5 minute increments as my contractions continued to come 5 minutes apart the rest of the night.

Fortunately we found out at my appointment I was dilated to a 4 (thank God) so they kept me. Jon wasn't able to get there till mid-afternoon due to all the police stuff he had to attend to but our doula was with me so we both were comfortable with him finishing what he needed to do that day. The contractions kept changing pattern. I'd have a cluster of them being just a few minutes apart but then have a 20 minute span where I didn't have any. It was weird but they certainly didn't hurt any less! Around 7 we broke my water because I'd only made it to a 6 after laboring all day with consistently intense contractions just not a regular pattern. Well that definitely upped the severity and brought them closer together so we all thought for sure this would be what was needed. Nope... They checked me 2 hours later and no progress. Being as I hadn't slept in 2 days we were becoming concerned about my epilepsy and sleep deprivation at this point. By this point I'd been in labor for over 30 hrs and hadn't actually slept since I'd begun early labor. We decided I should get the epidural so I could have a shot at sleeping. After the epidural we started the lowest level (a 1) but Connor wasn't handling it well. They had to come in and put me on oxygen for him which fortunately was all he needed but that also mean we couldn't use a higher level and I still hadn't progressed past a 6! They had also put in an internal monitor on my uterine wall (no contact w/ him) to see if my contractions were even productive and they weren't.

At this point it was 2-something in the morning and we were all so tired. The Dr's came in and said being as we exhausted pretty much every option they would have to recommend a c-section. Obviously that's the last thing, esp a first time mom, wants to do. However there really wasn't any other option at that point. They rolled me in to prep and then brought in Jon. I had a fabulous anesthesiologist through the whole thing and really all the dr's & nurses were amazing. The Dr's had actually looked at my birth plan! They had all been very cooperative since we got there which was a true blessing. They got Connor out and took him to for evaluation and suction, etc. Jon and I were waiting for that all important cry... As soon as he cried we cried haha Jon spent the next few minutes wiping away my tears and then went over to check on Connor. Jon brought him over to me all wrapped up so I could at least see and nuzzle him. Then Jon headed off w/ him to the nursery and I got stitched and stapled up. I later found out, when Jon joined me in the recover room, took me to recovery and Jon joined me later telling me he was over 9 lbs - quite a shock! They finally brought him in and we were able to at least initiate nursing. It wasn't entirely effective but when they brought him back after his bath he latched right on which was very exciting!

At the end of it all, 40 hrs from its beginning, we had a beautiful baby boy, absolutely perfect and healthy. It's cliche and I never fully believed the mom's who said it but, it was all so completely worth it! I got my staples out yesterday and he got a clean bill of health from the pediatrician (it was a big day!). So far the healing process on my end has gone amazingly well and I'm so grateful. I made myself get up and walk around the room, take a shower, etc. the day after and I know that has helped. Jon was able to not officially start his new job till the following Monday evening so he was at the hospital with me the whole time and then we came home together Saturday evening. I'm so grateful, I can't imagine not having him all that time! So far we're adjusting to the whole "parenthood" thing, working on nightly feedings and such. He's completely precious especially when he's not crying ;) For the most part he's a pretty good baby. He definitely doesn't have an "infant cry" so when he cries it's a pretty good volume already! Sorry for not updating this for a while~things were fairly boring for a bit there but not so much anymore! We weren't able to get a lot of pictures at the hospital but I do have a few we've taken. I've got to get in a better habit of taking pictures of him every day!

Jon all suite up for my c-section

First pictures~

Possibly one of my favorite pics so far-We were still at the hospital and Connor was just inconsolable. We happened to lay him on the bed and Jon squatted down next to him. Well Connor got a *death grip* on Jon's fingers and would not let go~He held on to Jon, stopped crying, and just laid there like that for a long time. Sweetest thing he'd done yet :)

Heading home from the hospital!

A couple random shots at home enjoying his random facial expressions (of which he has * a lot *

Woot Woot Shutterfly! Holiday Expressions & More

2010-11-13T08:38:00.000-08:00

As we expect our first baby this winter we have plenty of cards and announcements to be sending out soon. We are so looking forward to using Shutterfly for our holiday cards, announcements and creating fun gifts for family next year! The holiday card option we like best is http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/pictures-in-red-christmas-card-5x7-flat?fg=384&sortType=1&fa=8&storeNode=93496&fe=1&fb=1&fc=1
This format allows us to show pictures from our maternity shoot, newborn pictures and us as a new family of three all on one card which is great. People love to put pictures like these on their refrigerators and having to send three separate ones can make things crowded. This way we can send all three memories on one card which makes it easier for our loved ones and cheaper on us buying fewer stamps! The different size options for the individual pictures are good so we can easily highlight certain pictures more than others. Definitely want to be able to have many shots of baby boy’s cute little fingers and toes! Next year we can use Shutterfly to send out http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/baby-cards-stationery/baby-boys-1st-birthday-invitations. Plus we can create http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars/wall-calendars as gifts this year. Many family and friends live out of state so Shutterfly is a great opportunity for everyone to stay connected through our on-line albums and be able to print their own favorite pictures of our growing family.

7 months & a Birth Plan

2010-10-06T16:32:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe but I am 7 months today! It is certainly going fast! I unveiled my birth plan (well the condensed, bullet-point version) to my Dr today & thank God he was totally cool with it :) Here's the bullet-point version for your "reading pleasure" ~

Labor
• I would like to be free to walk around & change my positions throughout labor.
• I would like to be able to have fluids & other nurishment by mouth throughout labor.
• I do not want an IV unless I become dehydrated but I will accept a heparine/saline lock for potential IV purposes.
Monitoring
• I would prefer intermittent to continuous monitoring.
Labor Augmentation/Induction
• I would prefer to be allowed to try changing position and other natural methods (walking, nipple stimulation) before considering medical induction including membrane rupture.
Episiotomy
• I am hoping to protect the perineum by using perineal massage to avoid an episiotomy.
• I would appreciate guidance in when to push so the perineum can stretch.
Delivery & Immediately Following
• I would like to be allowed to choose the position in which I give birth.
• Even if I am fully dilated, and assuming My Son is not in distress, I would like to try to wait until I feel the urge to push before beginning the pushing phase.
• I would like to have My Son placed on my stomach/chest immediately after delivery.
• I would prefer that the umbilical cord stop pulsating before it is cut.
• I plan to keep My Son near me following birth and would appreciate if the evaluation of My Son can be done with him on my abdomen, with both of us covered by a warm blanket, including the need for heat lamps, unless there is an unusual situation.
• I would like to delay the eye medication for My Son until a couple hours after birth.
• The Hep B vaccine will not be administered to My Son.
• After the birth, I would prefer to be given time to urinate on my own.
• My plan is to initiate breast feeding immediately after birth.
Postpartum
• Unless required for health reasons, I do not wish to be separated from my baby.
Breastfeeding
• I do not want My Son to be given a pacifier or any bottles.

We are still unsure which vaccines we will decide to do but we do know we aren't going to be following "protocol". God-willing we will be lead to a pediatrician who will allow us to spread them out & choose the ones we feel comfortable with our son having. I am baffled how big a controversy vaccinations are now! Then again I suppose everything regarding pregnancy & child-rearing are whether it's based on "fact" or simply people's passionate opinions. I'm gradually beginning to not care what others think as long as Jon & I agree on what we choose which I suppose really is the most important thing! We are still interviewing doula's. We have one we like but her schedule may make it difficult to guarantee she will be there. She has a back up which is good but if we can find one who can 100% no doubt be in attendance regardless of when I go into labor that would be the ideal choice. We will keep you posted :)

More Baby Connor Maag

2010-09-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

We had a second round of ultrasound pics done because the first time they thought they saw some issues. It wasn't anything too extreme, they were fine waiting a month before another round so we weren't worried either. Second round was great, the tech didn't see anything that looked awry, placenta is right where it should be so yay :) And by the time I saw my Dr they hadn't passed anything on to him of concern either. While we were there, however, reps were doing a demo of a new 3D ultrasound machine! So they offered for us to do some on that one (which of course we definitely agreed to) and although Connor wasn't being overly cooperative at all that day we did get a couple good ones of his little face, hand & foot :)

New Ultrasound=New Bedding, New Name

2010-09-08T06:19:00.001-07:00

We are now going with a nautical theme
http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3070550
For Connor David's room :)

Whoops!

2010-09-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

Well this is what we get for being impatient. Turns out baby girl is actually baby BOY :p So we will be redecorating a bit, needless to say haha Next time we'll wait for the official test for sure!!

So far so good though. Plugging along at 23 weeks & feeling great aside from being kind of tired & starting to feel cumbersome at times. I know this will only get worse! Enjoying baby boy's kicks & twists!

It's a Girl!

2010-07-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

We are officially having a girl!

This is the link to her bedding :)
http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3540575

I've been super blessed so far. Not much in the way of morning sickness, a few random cravings like left-over spaghetti, nacho cheese doritos, yes pickles lol, Taco Bell, Long John Silvers (which is extremely random), Girl Scout Thin Mint Cookies & egg nog... Yeah the latter craving was pretty tricky to indulge! At this point I am 18 weeks along & am slowing going from looking a little pudgy to actually looking pregnant! I'll post a preggo bump pic soon. The last one we took doesn't really show much tummy :) The nursery has begun to be painted & planned. We hope to have it done in a few weeks so we can have the dressers moved in (we already have those) & have somewhere to put the baby things we'll get from the upcoming showers!

10 Things of Me

2010-06-18T18:16:00.000-07:00

I'm doing this because a fellow blogger friend nominated me to do so (Momma Amma) and being as that was weeks ago I thought I'd finally follow through and stop being a bum. The idea is to tell 10 things you all might not know about me. That should be relatively easy as there aren't *that* many of you but a few of you may know some of these anyway. I'm not always that creative when these things come along but I'll try :)

1. I detest and I do mean detest flying insects, bugs, whatever. I really do lose it around them especially moths. I don't know why but they creep me out. My husband of course finds this both ridiculous and hilarious.

2. I was born with jet black hair. My current auburn shade came in at 3 months ~ Apparently my black hair gradually fell out and red came in. I think as a parent I'd freak out if my newborn was losing hair like that but Mom never mentioned it if she did.

3. I wanted to be an Olympic ice skater or gymnast when I was little. Part of me still wishes I had been. I think ultimately I preferred having a life instead.

4. I do my best cleaning of the house while blasting old-school music like Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, etc. I dance while I clean~It makes the process more fun.

5. My brother wanted to "send me back" when I was six. He's 10 years older and while he wanted a sister when he was 10 he didn't count on me being liked by his friends/girlfriends & getting in the way later. ha!

6. When I was little I didn't want any of my food touching. At all. My parents were annoyed & I was grossed out when my Dad stirred his corn into his mashed potatoes.

7. My Mom didn't buy *anything with artificial anything* - sweetener, flavors, colorings. IE: I didn't have fruit roll-ups. I had "fruit leather" from the health food store. When I got to college I went to Wal-Mart and stocked up on every unhealthy junky thing of which she "deprived" me.

8. When I get *really* excited about nearly anything my laugh/voice turns into squeaking. I try to talk & I'm squeaking while I talk. A mutual friend informed me only dogs can hear me at that point...

9. I'm already planning on saving up for a "mommy-makeover" when we're done having kids so I can have everything put back to its original location hahaha

10. When I was little I hated how I stood out with my red hair. I would have done *anything* to be blonde. Now I still think I stand out but at some point in high school it became ok & I began to appreciate my *natural* shade more.

There ~ Now you know a little more randomness about me. I'd LOVE if those of you who actually read this little blog of ours would post in return because I think this type of thing is fun but I understand everyone is busy and pressed for time. It took ME weeks and that's really just because I was lazy.

Momma Amma you get out of it cuz you were the one to tag me. Although I love you for thinking of me & wanting to know more about the randomness that is me.

Madness of Ms Katherine I think you should do this in return if for no other reason than in honor of all the talks we have shared over the sorority years.

Chronicles of Family Barr You fascinate me so! I know there are many things I do not know about you & much I could learn!

The Fulkersons I know there is plenty that I didn't learn about you in our short time together in church youth group!

Clare's Contemplations I adore your blog & love hearing about your kids. Therefore I know I'd love learning more about you dear friend. You have inspired me many a time!

For those that read this & I don't realize, thank you!! I have not purposefully left you out but instead focused on those who have commented and therefore occasionally read my rantings. Please participate in all this fun if you'd like I'd love to read it!

Tick Tock Baby!

2010-05-26T20:01:00.000-07:00

2010-05-19T11:47:00.000-07:00

It is official ~ Baby is due December 29th! We saw the little heart beat flicker today... Most surreal thing ever.... at least so far :o)

Graduation!!

2010-04-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

Thursday April 8th, 2010 Jon officially became a policeman and therefore I became a policeman's wife. The ceremony was really nice. I got to go on stage with his grandfather (a retired officer from KC) and put Jon's badge on him. I was *so* nervous I was going to drop it but it actually got in his shirt really easily, yay! Tomorrow we'll have a party at his parents house and I'll post pictures from that. Jon will officially start his job, and our new life, on Monday. I'm very proud, very excited but admittedly the whole thing hasn't quite sunken in. I'll let you know when it does haha For now just keep him and us in your prayers!

43 Million Minus One

2010-02-22T18:58:00.000-08:00

My friend from junior high and her husband are adopting a boy from Ethiopia. This is the link to their page:
http://markandbeckyk.blogspot.com/2009/10/one-hundred-forty-three-million-minus.html
They are slowly earning their way through all the bills for the process by selling reusable bags they have designed~Please visit the link and support them if possible.
:o)

The Top 10 Do and Do Not's of the ER by Yours Truly

2010-01-22T18:12:00.000-08:00

If, by such poor luck, you have to visit an ER I beg of you to keep these things in mind. Also as you read this list remember each of these things are due to experiences I've had with patients personally and quite recently.

DO
1. Bathe
2. Put on clean clothes
3. If not both 2 & 3 at least one of the two...
4. Listen for your name to be called
5. Listen to what you are being told to do so as not to have to ask repetitive questions bordering on stupid. (ie, when I say "sign, date, and print" you sign, date and print. Not just sign. Not just print. All 3. And don't ask me where do I sign/date/print when not only did I just point them out, they are not only labeled but highlighted. HIGHLIGHTED.)
6. Be aware that antics will only get you put further down on the list not higher. If you're being disrespectful and/or putting on an Academy-award-winning performance in the waiting room of how tragic your situation is we'll likely just leave you waiting as long as possible because you're pissing us off.
7. Be aware, we have security on stand by. Therefore rolling around on the ground, cussing us out or causing other such inappropriate commotion will only get you tossed into our specials ward where you don't have TV to watch and still won't necessarily get you seen any faster.
8. Be respectful of the people trying to help you. When asked for your information please be polite, we are only trying to help. Help us help you.
9. Understand that those around you who are doubled over in pain are going to be in higher priority than you who are chowing down on a big mac with no pause.
10. Be prepared to provide the same information to many people within a short period of time. There is no kind of verbal or technological communication going between what the front desk does and what registration does or information either knows. Sorry.

DO NOT
1. Eat while being registered ie Digging in your McDonald's bag for more fries or continuing that sausage mcmuffin you just got
2. Dig into those twizzlers in your purse. They can wait 5 minutes. I promise.
3. Ask the registration personnel how long you will have to wait. We don't know.
4. Complain about how long you're going to have to wait when you came in for a cough or a sore throat and yet have not coughed once in my booth and are talking just fine. If you come in with chest pain and we prove on an EKG you need treated, you're going to come back before the cold symptoms will. Just a fact.
5. Trash-talk the hospital while still being registered. Not only are you trashing the facility who I am employed by but you are trashing the only hospital in town that will not only take you without insurance but set you up with a discount program.
6. Talk about how much better the other hospitals are in town-if they're so great, GO THERE. Wait, you don't have insurance... Be grateful for what you have.
7. Over-dramatize your symptoms or pain level. Staff can usually tell and it just annoys us.
8. Think that we won't call security. We have and we will. (see # 7 in the "Do's")
9. Talk so fast when we ask for things like your SSN that we can't register it quick enough to type it. We ask for a reason and we have to be able to understand what you're saying.
10. Forget what mommy taught you when you were little. Cover your mouth/nose when you cough/sneeze, use the tissues that are readily available, as well as the hand sanitizer, and please don't cough/sneeze directly into the same hand you're going to use to hold the pen I give you to sign your paperwork. Speaking of paperwork please be sure to review #5 of the "DO's".

That is all. Thank you kindly for your time and attention. Next patient please.

The 2000's

2010-01-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Everyone seems to be doing a look back over the past 9 years. I've always been a sucker for peer pressure so here it goes :o) It amazes me how much has happened, changed, and begun anew in the past 9 years.

2000 I was graduating high school, starting at the community college for some core classes and trying to figure out what to do with myself in the semi-real world.

2001 I was leaving for school when a plane hit the first of the towers on 9/11. On the way to school I heard the other one had hit. At school there were tv's everywhere and we all huddled around them in between classes. We were right next to a major Air Force base and, I don't remember why, but mid-morning we were evacuated. There were enough "military brats" on campus that day to be freaked about what this meant for our families. We had no idea how much this would impact the next decade and beyond.

2002 I decided it was time to spread my wings, persay, and I moved to Missouri to attend William Jewell College. It was also the year that my now husband would graduate and head toward the same college. Our paths would not cross for some time but it's always interesting to me to look back and realize how much is going on that we don't know about and yet will impact our lives forever. I tried out for and got a lead in the play that first semester "Street Car Named Desire". I was so excited!

2003 I joined Alpha Delta Pi and gained a sisterhood I will always have and always cherish. Many of my closest friends today are from that sorority. It was also the semester a tornado would hit campus and finals were canceled for most of the students. YAY! That was a day I will not soon forget though. Watching a tornado touch down in town I felt like I was in the movie "Twister" which is not a movie you want to partake in. I was shaken quite a bit I'll admit. My dad flew out to drive back home with me and boy was I glad to see him! Living in CO I'd never experienced so much as a tornado watch muchless the real thing!

2004 I was entering my senior year and was given the responsibility and role of Formal Recruitment Chair for the sorority recruitment that fall. The girls did amazing things and we achieved our biggest class in the previous 7 years! My wonderful diamond and bridesmaid came from this class and now I have an awesome group of girls in my 'diamond family'. At the end of that year Jon and I would cross paths in a whole new way. A simple conversation in a common area on campus became a date to Starbucks and several late night walks around campus. Next thing we both knew we were having our last first date and last first kiss. It wasn't long after that we knew we would get married!

2005 I graduated from college! This was both exciting and scary as I didn't have any job prospects at that time. I went back to CO for a while for some friend's weddings and to have time with my parents. I moved back to MO permanently and stayed in my aunt and uncle's basement while I looked for a job. We never thought I'd be there for a year but I was. Job market was tough! That summer we got engaged and began looking toward a whole new life together.

2006 I got a full time job, we bought a house and got married - talk about big changes! After getting back from our honeymoon we settled in and realized wow, this whole marriage thing is way tougher than we thought LOL

2007 We got a puppy! I never thought I'd have one but we got a sweet lab we named Layla. We celebrated our one-year anniversary and slowly the steps of house-breaking our little addition and living through her teething process. Definitely not something we want to experience again! But she's worth it-can't imagine life without her now. I also started back to school for nursing at the end of this year making a new path for myself in life.

2008 Jon started the process of applying to the KC police academy. Little did we know this process would take more than a year and be a true test of our patience and faith. I was engrossed in classes and work every semester. The year went by fast although the days themselves were long.

2009 The year started fairly well but within a month of the new year I was laid off unexpectedly. It would take 8 months living on unemployment and countless hours applying for jobs for me to finally get one. During this time Jon went through the final stages of his application process and we would receive word he was accepted! Many weeks later we were told there was actually a start date (even more exciting!) and Sept 21st he embarked on his own new journey for both our lives. So far, neither of us have looked back.

As we end the year he is half way through his training and I'm enjoying my new job. I will start classes back up in 2010 and Jon will graduate and enter the streets as a police officer. Who knows what else the year might bring!

~Jess~

Creative Event Studio

2010-01-01T18:12:00.001-08:00

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Why Did We Have To Burn Our Bra's?

2009-11-29T08:19:00.000-08:00

Odd title I know but I've been doing some reading lately and what I tend to focus on is medical-related non-fiction. I picked up a book from the library that was both fascinating and frustrating. "American Women of Medicine" by Russell Roberts is an amazing (and short) compilation of biographies. These women were the pioneers in the medical field when so many women were not only expected to not work at all but certainly not in the male dominated medical field. For example...

Dorthea Lynde Dix(1802-1887) Passionate about the living conditions for and the treatment of the mentally ill Dix wrote a Memorial to the Legislature of Massachusetts in 1843. The memorial was so powerful the legislature passed a bill ordering the state hospital to provide better accomodations. In New Jersey her efforts brought about an entire state hospital devoted to the care of the mentally ill. Ultimately she was responsible for founding institutions or improving conditions in 20 states as well as Canada.

Elizabeth Blackwell(1821-1910) Blackwell became the first modern woman doctor. She applied to every medical school in NY and Philadelphia only to be turned down by every single one. In October 1897, after applying to and being denied acceptance into 29 schools she was accepted into Geneva College in upstate NY. In 1857 she founded the NY Infirmary for Indigent Women & Children and became the first woman listed in the British Medical Registry.

Clara Barton(1821-1912) Barton started possibly the first free public school in Bordentown, NJ and after just one year had 600 students. After the Civil War errupted 1861 she learned of the soliders lack of provisions she set out to provide them necessities. Barton volunteered as a nurse and stepped out onto the battlefield to tend to the wounded. The directors of the International Red Cross were eager to estabilish a branch in the US and Barton was the perfect candidate for the job. The first branch of the American Red Cross was founded in NY in 1881.

Mary Edwards Walker(1832-1919) Walker graduated from nursing school in 1855 as the only woman in her class. Denied an appointment as a surgeon in the Union army she worked as a volunteer physician and surgeon from 1862 into 1863 plunging into the battlefield. While she never won her appointment in the Union army, President Johnson signed a bill in Nov 1865 that awarded Walker the Congressional Medal of Honor. She was the first woman to receive this prestigious award.

Susie King Taylor(1848-1912) Taylor began her career as a Civil War nurse, at less than 15 years of age, by looking after several men who contracted a form of smallpox. One day she met Clara Barton and was taken along whenever Barton visited local hospitals. Taylor was one of the first African-American nurses in US history. She went on to organize Corps 67, the Women's Relief Auxiliary, to help Union army veterans and their families.

Clara Maass(1876-1901) At just 16 she enrolled in a nursing program. For the next two years she worked tirelessly and by 1898 became the head nurse at a hospital. When scientists identified the mosquito responsible for carrying malaria they sought to find if it carried yellow-fever as well. Maass volunteered when the city of Havana was in the grip of another yellow fever epidemic. It was there she learend about the research and in 1901 signed up for the experiment. Unfortunately it resulted in a severe case and ultimately her death. Because of this experiment scientists determined the carrier of yellow-fever and conquered the disease. In 1952 the former Newark German Hospital was renamed Clara Maass Hospital in her honor.

Gerty Radnitz Cori(1896-1957) Cori enrolled in college in 1914 at age 18 and graduated in 1920. After a two-year stint in Europe she returned to the US to focus on medical research. She focused her reserach on the chemical process of carbohydrate metabolism, ultimately determining the results of sugar and insulin in the blood stream. She went on to study enzymes and in 1939 discovered the enzyme responsible for converting glycogen to glucose. In 1947 Cori became the first woman to earn a Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine.

Antonia Coello Novello(1944- ) Novello earned a full scholarship to college where she studied biology. She graduated in 1965 and that same year went on to medical school. During her internship she was named Intern of the Year, the first time a woman had ever received the award from the pediatric department. She went on to get her masters in 1982 and became the director of the National Institute of Child Health & Human Development. In 1990 she was sworn in as the US surgeon general as the first Hispanic and first female to hold that high office. After serving her term she was then appointed to serve as NY State Health Commissioner in 1999 where she is still in charge today.

I know this was a long post and if you read it all I am both surprised and thankful. I am not a feminist by any means and I have always known women are both capable of great things and have accomplished great things. What I didn't know before was how many women in the 1800's and early 1900's did so much and yet women were still fighting for equality and, burning bras, in the 50's, 60's, 70's... And some even still today fight for equality. I don't understand what it is about the gender gap. Do some truly believe we are still the 'weaker' sex? If so how can that be after everything women have accomplished?

It is inspiring to look so far back and see what these women achieved in the face of extreme opposition. It does make me wonder why we now seem to give up so easily when faced with a hurdle. If our ancestors gave up as easily what would we, as a collective nation, missed out on? If we persevere as they did, what achievements might we pass on to the next generation?

This Crazy Thing Called Life

2009-10-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Jon is officially into his second month at the KCPD Academy! There were (are) plenty of adjustments to be made but we are settling into a routine. He's done extremely well on his tests and is making it through the crazy intense physical training they're doing. Unfortunately for me they're told to practice what they learn in defensive tactics so I've found myself in handcuffs a few times as he practices how to take down a bad guy. Those things are amazingly uncomfortable! haha

Meanwhile I have started my new job! God blessed me with a position at a hospital, Truman Medical Center, which is exactly what I was hoping for. I'm working in the emergency department of the number one trauma hospital in the city! I register the patients when they come into the ER whether from the waiting room or when they've been taken back to a bed. I didn't realize registration would entail so much immediate contact with the patients but it does and that's wonderful. Later I will learn how to admit and discharge patients and provide financial counseling as well. Truman is the kind of hospital, especially the ER, that if you have it on your resume for any length of time it is looked upon *very* well. Should I apply for a position at another hospital it will help immensely! For now though I am happy at Truman. I see all walks of life really as most of the patients are insured by medicaid/medicare. There is definitely something different every day and often busy so my 12 hr shifts go by relatively fast.

This fall has brought many changes in our lives but unlike the beginning of this year's changes the recent ones have been good. I'm so grateful that even in the midst of our own human doubt God remained faithful to us and our dreams.

It's a long road...and then it turns.

2009-09-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are. I (Jon) start with the KCPD on Monday, I've left what was the longest tenured job I've ever had (Men's Wearhouse), and left it all in God's control. I still have to do a lot of work; but I think I've prepared as well as I can. Sure, I could've done a lot more running than I did, but I guess we'll see how much that comes back to bite me in the butt. I'm not exactly sure how I'm going to pay my first month's insurance premiums- they make us pay a month in advance- so that will definitely be interesting. Had to buy my beautiful, fashionable, black boots...talk about a change. I go from picking my shirt, tie, and suit every day to a choice of blue, blue, or hey, if I'm lucky...blue! I guess being at the apex of fashion isn't a big concern when you're busting baddies or saving babies. From all reports, the academy's going to be a para-military setting, so I'd better get used to getting yelled at from time to time. My biggest problem will be not laughing while some large man is screaming at the guy next to me. I'd rather laugh than cry, I guess.
So, why? Why turn away what was basically a cake job that paid ok for something that is infinitely more challenging, but doesn't pay that much better? Simple, really. I can come home after a long day, be exhausted, and know that my energy was actually spent on something worthwhile. I get to know that a child might just have a better future because I helped put the drug dealer next door behind bars. But there's always another one. Always another drunk driver, always another shooter, always another druggie trying to make his living off the sorrow and death of other people. That's why we're out there. Because for every scumbag, there are 50 people busting their butts to provide for their children. There are students in colleges all over the country who are quite literally defenseless against any maniac who may want to come onto their "gun free" campus and start shooting. I can't protect them from my chair. I'd like to have a utopian worldview- to hold the belief that people are good, that the world is right, that we will all eventually be communists with no greed, no hunger, and no possessions- but that is simply not a realistic pattern of thought. Not so long as the Bible is accurate...which means forever. As long as people are born into sin, and have that predisposition, there will always be heinous, evil acts done to people who don't deserve them.
I was too comfortable to join the military- too happy with living in my house, in my borders, in my little bubble. This is my attempt to make up for that- to do what I believe is every man's responsibility, to protect and provide for those he loves. That doesn't mean pinning on a badge, or becoming a marine, or putting on a cape and mask and jumping off rooftops- at least, that's not what it means for everyone. It means making sure that you are doing your best to ensure that those around you have every opportunity they deserve to live, and to be free. My dad said often, "The only thing society owes you is an opportunity." So I have finally begun to realize mine.
In other news, Jess will begin her new job at Truman Med center on October...12th, I think. She'll be admitting patients into the ER...yay! 3 12-hour shifts will be different, but I'm sure the off days will be nice as well. While I'm going from 7-4 5 days a week, she'll have time to take care of the dog, or whatever else needs to be done, and I'll have plenty of time to study...while we still get to actually see each other. Life's beginning to turn; it's taken awhile, but with God's grace, we held on. Now we need to slap ourselves for doubting as much as we did.

Omaha 2009

2009-09-03T15:43:00.000-07:00

We recently took a trip to Omaha as a quick get-away before Jon starts the police academy. Jon grew up in Omaha ages 6-12 but hasn't been back since they moved to KC so it was a big blast from the past weekend for him! I couldn't believe it but he managed to find his old house, his friend's houses, his school... I'm not sure I would have been able to do all that after 13 years. Oh his memory...

First we decided to stay somewhere a little more fun than a hotel so I found what is apparently the only Bed & Breakfast in all of Omaha haha But the Cornerstone Mansion was definitely a great choice. It was beautiful and we would recommend it!

We got in on Sunday evening so we didn't do much until Monday. That's when we hit the Omaha Zoo and later a minor league game, the Omaha Royals! More on the game later. The Zoo was definitely a blast and we got some great pics ~

This one was a beautiful waterfall in one of the exotic exhibits they had~

Gotta love the penguins! We spent quite a bit of time there watching them~There were some baby penguins who were no doubt showing off and hilarious to watch!

Apparently this is a kilpspringer (whatever that is)~I was just entertained at getting a pic of him with his mouthful hehe

We got most of our entertainment out of the gorillas, monkey's and this particular orangutan. Meet Fu Man Chu~He was obtained by the Zoo in the 60's and they soon found out he has the ability to create tools...and use them! He got wire from a light fixture and figured out how to unlock the pad lock and let him and his friends out! He also figured out how to hide it within his mouth so no one could find it. After several mornings of lose animals and finger pointing they figured out his trick. He was simply the biggest of that species we'd ever seen...Simply amazing.

We also got a couple of shots of the gorillas. The one by the gate was banging on it quite a bit either a) showing dominance or b) wanting inside although at that point no one was going to open that gate! haha

And yes, this a gorilla pouting. No joke - funnies thing ever

After the Zoo we had lunch, drove around town a bit and headed back to rest up for the game. We got to the game super early because my dear husband is way to used to going to the major league games where there's actual traffic... But for $10 a piece we got seats 2 rows back from the field, just to the right of home plate ~ very cool!

While we were passing the time before the game began a girl came over and asked if we would like to be part of an on-field game between innings. Well we said yes before we knew what we were agreeing to (never a good idea) but even after she told us Jon thought it was the coolest thing ever. I was nervous that I would make a fool of myself in front of... okay so a couple hundred people who I'll never see again... But that's not the point! ;o) I knew I was being a pansy so I sucked it up - Well as you can see in the pictures below, it was quite the experience. The game was (and we were competing against another couple on the other side of the field) to basically pop balloons between us-sounds easy enough but...we had to do it *their* way. So I was standing about 15 feet from him, took a balloon and ran towards him. We pretty much bear hugged/chest bumped to pop it. While I ran back to get another one he was setting up a chair so when I ran back towards him I gave him the balloon and sat on it on his lap to pop it... The last one was the one I chickened out on but for good reason! I grab another balloon but this time he's lying on the ground. They said basically body slam him but I was sure I was going to crush him LOL He kept telling me not to worry about hurting him but apparently I love him too much for that because just as I got to him I chickened out and the picture tells it all. I kinda fell forward...kinda on him...kinda not LOL That balloon was of course a little harder to pop then but we got the job done. Fortunately everyone in the stadium agreed we won (it was really close) so... yay!

Tuesday we checked out of the B&B and checked out a couple of museums before heading home. First was the Durham Museum which was a renovated Union Station with all sorts of exhibits from 'back in the day' ~ We love this historical stuff although I admit I get a bit picture happy haha Later we went to the Strategic Air Command museum. Being an Air Force brat it's always cool to see the planes and Jon (fitting enough) has always had a fascination with them. Naturally I got more pics there as well. We checked out one more local eatery for lunch and made our way back home.

Instruments of torture? No...medical tools! Eek...

Means of communication... I'm thinking people said less back then haha

They had statues like these all around the lobby and they were motion sensored which was weird but they'd start talking like they were going through it all over again. Saying goodbye and whatnot.

I'd often heard Omaha is a great vacation spot and I always thought they were crazy but there is plenty to do tourist-wise to fill a couple days and the Cornerstone Mansion is a great place to come back to~I have a feeling we'll be back :o)

p.s. Way too many pics to post here so check out my Facebook for the rest of our trip!

KCPD Academy

2009-08-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know we've been in the process of getting Jon into the police academy. The whole thing started in April '08 so obviously it's been a loooong road. After budget cuts and the threat of no academy for the foreseeable future the department got the thumbs up to put together a class. Jon got the call a couple of months ago that he was IN the academy the next class they had but they didn't know when that would be. Just that knowledge alone was huge but then it almost made it worse waiting to see when the academy would start! Well this morning he got the call that the academy will begin September 21st!! Our lives with officially and forever change so there is much anticipation! There is one last step and that's getting a physical which he'll go in this week to do. So pray for the last few steps of this journey and praise God for the date being set!!

Lake, Friends and SeaDoos

2009-07-20T06:48:00.001-07:00

Yes it's been a long time since I posted but honestly we haven't done much post-worthy haha However this weekend we finally got out and had some fun w/ some friends. One of our few couple friends who don't have kids :-p

Jon's parents have a boat up at Smithville lake. It's a sizeable boat with all sorts of amenities but yesterday we were more interested in the entertainment factor. Brandon, Kelly, Jon & I headed up after church, had lunch at the marina and hit the water. We were able to borrow a jet ski/seadoo thingy from a friend which was amazing. Jon drove the boat out while Brandon followed behind on the jet ski. We found a place in the cove to anchor down and spent the next couple hours taking turns on the jet ski and kicking back with cold beverages and enjoying the 80 degree weather - it was a beautiful day, perfect to be on the water! We didn't leave till around 6 and it's amazing how fast time goes when you're having fun with friends! But it's also amazing how tiring all that fun can be haha Jon and I got home, ordered some pizza and crashed on the couch but that part was fun too. Just to sit around and relax together. It's rare to spend a full day together and to spend it with good friends was even better! So thanks to his parents for letting us borrow the boat, Phil the-car-guy for the jet ski and Brandon & Kelly for coming along to make the day a party :o)

Pics of the day ~

4th of July

2009-07-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

Jon was set to work on the 4th (boo) but got off a couple hours early (yay!) so we headed up to the lake in Smithville where his parents have a boat. We got there with Layla in tow and as soon as we got out of the car it started raining... It wasn't too terribly bad so we kept going. Before we made it out of the parking lot it was raining *hard*! So we're holding a beach towel over our heads while being drug by our 2 year old lab who is apparently oblivious to the downpour. We make it the loooong way to the dock and take cover under an overhang. Fortunately his parents and grandparents had saved a table at the dock restaurant under cover! Our manic puppy was SO excited with all those people and took her a good 30-45 minutes to calm down at all *sigh* After dinner we went over to the boat and hung out. It had stopped raining at least but was much cooler than anyone expected it to be! Ummm, MO in July?! Anyway, his parents made some ice cream, we popped open some wine (random, yes) and later made our way out to the lake to watch the pros shoot some fireworks! All in all it was a nice night (minus the rain) and it was definitely a plus to have Jon off work early to enjoy the day a bit more.

Tonight is the 4-year-anniversary of our engagement, craziness! Just 2 days away from our 3-year-wedding anniversary, also crazy. As Jon says, the days are slow but the years are fast! So true. So very true.

Classes & Such

2009-06-01T09:46:00.001-07:00

We are officially both starting classes today! Jon is taking an online course, Intro to Criminal Justice, which should be interesting at least. I'm taking my LAST pre-req, YAY! Praying the prof is nice and the teaching style accommodates my learning style! If nothing else at least for now I'm able to hit up the tutors during the day if I have problems grasping certain things. There's a LOT to consume in 8 weeks!

God-willing I'll be starting a full-time program in July but there is a lot that has to happen between now and then. God brought me through to getting into this class I so desperately need so I have faith He will either get me in that program or open another door that I can't see right now. Meanwhile, I'm working my Arbonne business and am in qualification for District Manager which is exciting! If I can't get an outside job if I can bring $ in with this it would be fabulous!

I hope everyone has a wonderful summer!

Vacation to CO, 2009

2009-05-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

We got to go back to CO to see my family and a few friends for a few short days last week. We drove out and got there in time to see my parents for a late lunch then headed to the hotel. We laid pretty low that first night which was fun. The next day we hit the outlet stores in Castle Rock (there was a pair of shoes Jon could not find in his size in all of Colorado Springs lol). Yay Castle Rock had the shoes! We came back to the Springs and checked out the Ghost Town Mueseum then met my parents for dinner.

Dad and Jon went to Bible study and I got some mom and me time :o)

The next day was a full day - We headed up to Estes Park (this is turning into a tradition of sorts).

We had lunch, stopped at a store that had nothing but Nebraska Husker wear (Jon's a big fan) and replaced Jon's baseball hat and got me a fleece in support of 'his' team haha We had lunch and got some pies to take to a dinner that night. From Estes we headed back through the Springs to Pueblo to have dinner with my god-sister and her family. We hadn't been down to their house yet and with 4 kids it's hard for them to meet us in the Springs in the middle of the week. It was so great to see their home and hangout with the kiddos! The following day I got to see 2 of my best friends and their baby boys while Dad and Jon went to the shooting range and to see 'Wolverine' (yay male bonding!). Tara and I decided to culture her baby boy Ian (ok so he's 1-year-old now but still a baby right?) We headed to the Pioneer Museum and got some cute pics.

We capped off that night with a dinner out at Salt Grass with my parents which was really nice. I don't think we were able to spend that much time with my parents last year and we got some nice quality time in which was great.

We ended the week hanging out with my nephews and my brother and sister-in-law. Then it was time to pack up and drive straight through Kansas home.

We got home in time for Jon to have enough daylight to mow the lawn haha I went and picked up Layla from our pastor's house, ordered some pizza and we watched a movie - Nice end to a short vacation!

It's always hard to go back to CO because there is just never enough time to see everyone I want to see - I hope I can go back soon, even just for a couple of days, and see some more friends but that remains to be seen. Just know that if you're reading this and I didn't see you it's not because you weren't on my mind - I just couldn't get to everyone and see my family too! :0)

Bugs

2009-05-08T19:01:00.000-07:00

I just have to say that I'm really glad my dog is here to kill bugs when Jon isn't. Yes I'm 'that' girl who hates to kill bugs, particularly when they can start flying away as I try to do so. However, if it flies my dog will hunt it and eat it - not only hilarious to watch but I'm certainly glad she does!

Complete Randomness think think think think

2009-04-11T06:42:00.000-07:00

So I found this on a friend's blog and couldn't help but take the quiz myself...

What Internal Organ Are You?

You Are The Brain

You're the type of person who's always on, always churning.
You are alert and quick to react. You like to stay busy.

You are responsible but also demanding. You take up a lot of energy.
You are someone of deep mystery. There's a lot below the surface that's hard to figure out.

Wow. The brain is kinda huge. Lotta responsibility... Good thing I work well under pressure! :0)

Tough Decisions

2009-03-26T09:17:00.000-07:00

We all come to a crossroads in life when we have to make a tough decision. These are often decisions we don't want to make which I suppose is what makes them tough! This semester has not been very successful for me which is disheartening as it was to be my last semester of pre-reqs. So many things have gone wrong and there have been a lot of difficulties in a variety of areas. I have decided to withdraw from my two courses this term. It is mathematically impossible to get the grade I need to have with what is left in this term. Jon and I decided it is foolish to continue the rest of the semester with the stress level I've been carrying when I won't end up with the grade necessary. I will go today and officially withdraw at the school and pursue enrolling in courses for the summer term and getting in touch and following up with other programs.

All of this has been a slow learning process in accepting something other than what our plans are, trusting that there is a greater plan than our own and how important it is to get out of our own way so God's plan can take shape without our making things so much more difficult! It's still so hard for me to gauge the right road for either of us at this time. As our pastor stated a few weeks ago, however, there is a reason we are giving a lamp to light our path. We're only meant to see one step at a time. Our foolish human nature tries so hard to run through that path but all we end up doing is stumbling along and running into things that we could have otherwise avoided if we'd just been taking it one step at a time. The place I sometimes wish we were in life is exactly where many of my dear friends are, which I admit makes it a bit more difficult to still be here! I'm well aware that everything happens in its own time and God has a reason for not giving us what we want when we want it (usally because we're being foolish lol). If I'm not meant to start a program this year I have to accept that and trust there is a reason not yet seen.

Right now, today, I am going to use the extra time I will have not studying or going to class in the most productive ways I can (or at least I will make a valliant effort!) and perhaps get some projects accomplished here at home, provide my husband more home-cooked meals, and take the time to dig my heels in and launch my Arbonne business. Who knows what the future may hold? I want to make the absolute best of what we have been giving in this moment. Isn't that all any of us can do? Make every moment count and count our blessings in every moment.

Epilepsy (and me!) Needs Your Help

2009-02-17T08:05:00.000-08:00

Please see my personal page

http://giving.epilepsyfoundation.org/site/TR/Walk/walk?px=1145662&pg=personal&fr_id=1840

Life Happens and Then We Pray

2009-02-02T21:36:00.000-08:00

Another update so soon?! Could it be?! Yes, it can and it is. However the reason I am able to update this quickly is not a happy one. Americo, the company where I've worked for 3 years laid off 25% of its work force Friday, including myself. It all came very suddenly and as quite a shock. Needless to say Friday was a really bad day for everyone, not just those who were let go but those who remained as well. What has been neat is the outpouring of support and friendships that have popped up via Facebook after everything happened Friday. I had no idea how many people I worked with were on and many who had just been let go it seemed heard it was the place to be to keep in touch and many have since joined just this weekend. Including many management levels which is simply amusing to me :0) I've tried to use it as a way to witness even if it is only in how I respond to those expressing their sympathies and the question of 'are you ok?' God gave me a great amount of peace on Friday. Yes I had my moments of tears but they were more so due to shock and the simple loss of a place I went for nearly 3 years and all the friendships it held. We have amazing friends who will help support us as they can. Really we are so blessed in all this. So many of the people who were let go have families to support and major bills to pay. Many held the insurance for their entire family. Some have babies on the way. Us? We have a puppy, who while eats her fair share, is not nearly as costly to feed or maintain as a child. We are blessed to not have house or car payments. We have some debt to take care of but that's our main hindrance if you will. We do not have to worry about our house being forclosed or collection agencies coming to get us. We watch the news and all these families have been suffering so much around this country for months. First we were grateful we were both working. Now, while we're down to one income at the moment, Jon got me transfered to his insurance so we're covered there, Americo gave me a reasonable severance so we can wait a few weeks to panic, Jon's business has been doing well so we have a little extra cushion there as well. Plus, my 'seasonal job' at Macy's hasn't cut me loose yet and due to God's intervention I never got around to telling them I couldn't continue to work due to my class load being so heavy. Now I still have hours there and can request to pick up more in the coming weeks. I have the utmost confidence that God has a great job lined up for me, I just have to knock on a few doors until one opens. Please pray for continued peace, persistance on my part as I 'pound the pavement', that Jon's business would stay busy, and that in all this I will be able to focus on my school work as it is going to be an extremelly challenging semester. Love you all and appreciate your support and prayers. If you hear of any job opportunities please let me know! :0)

Checking In

2009-01-24T18:36:00.000-08:00

I'm realizing it's been since before Christmas anything was posted. This means either we're just that boring or just that busy. Honestly? A little bit of both. I worked at Macy's as much as I could over Christmas break and completed a couple 'projects' I had on my list. Of course not coming near to even half of my list but hey, some things were done at least. I admit I'm most proud of our sub-basement. I spent 4 hours putting up shelves, going through our boxes and big plastic storage containers to see what I could get rid of and consolidate. At the end of it all I think I got rid of a couple boxes, consolidated a couple more, and got rid of some stuff that I'm embarrassed I even kept all this time! I am my mother's daughter unfortunately-an eternal pack-rat! Definitely going to have to work on that one... In any case, after some drama, I got enrolled in both my classes/labs. I'm in Anatomy and Physiology (separate and both with labs) so I'm tucked away on campus Tues-Thurs evenings. This is when the fact that Jon works such random hours and so often closes helps so we don't really 'miss' each other more because we wouldn't have seen each other anyway! The down side is when I AM home I have to study - something on which I have to really pick up my discipline again and FAST! I have a lot to keep track of and study for and prep for... As my prof suggested, it's better to hit the ground running hard now and be able to relax toward the end than the opposite and be under pressure at the end because we didn't do well in the beginning! He's pretty nice though and since I have him for both of my classes that's a good thing! I'm definitely going to learn a lot and am kicking myself for not just staying with this school and going to another one at all - Live and learn, hindsight is 20/20 blah blah :o)

The rest of life is pretty much the same. I got older this month (yay) but had a great time celebrating with Jon and then some friends the next day. That definitely made it better! Meanwhile we are both still waiting to hear from our respective 'futures'-at least people have stopped asking every week at church... I know they mean well but goodness, believe me you'll know when we do! ;-) I am grateful that we have so many people behind us supporting and rooting for us. Life would be SO much harder without our amazing friends and family! I hope everyone reading this is doing well and staying warm in this mid-west freeze we can't seem to fully get out of! haha

Perspectives

2008-12-20T16:13:00.000-08:00

The other day on the radio there was a give-away to a single mom in KC. Thousands had written letters in nominating either a friend or themselves. All the letters were read and this mom was chosen - They called her, read her letter over the air, and announced her prizes. The thought of this in itself tugs at the heart strings with the reminder of how many kids are in broken homes and how many parents are trying to do Christmas by themselves. The details of this woman's story, however, is really what got me. She has 5 kids, no father but biologically, she was working 2 jobs but lost one of them. She and her family had been hopeless for a year and she'd finally saved up enough to get a small trailer for them. Her mini-van was on its very very last leg and she was afraid she wouldn't be able to get to a second job. She'd gotten each of her children one Christmas present, $10 or less, and when she tried explaining to her daughters that it wouldn't be like other Christmases, one told her 'It's ok Mommy' - She thought for sure Santa Claus would come through for them. This mom won a new mini-van filled with toys, a $100 gift card to a local grocery store and a weekend stay at this great resort we have for kids-It's like 80 degrees in there all year round with a water-park inside haha It seems 'Santa Claus' came through.

I was on my way to work when I heard this story and got to thinking... We all know factually that there are so many families less fortunate than we are but do we really know? We live comfortably in our safe zone of 'knowledge' without really handling the issue at all. There are military families who have been separated for nearly every major holiday in the past 5 years. There are families who are literally living pay check to pay check with near bare shelves in-between. There are little kids who are asking Santa for food and a job for daddy. We're preoccupied with paying for our taxes and other bills but bottom line we don't have to be afraid we're going to lose our house, we don't have to decide to not eat so our kids can, and we have a warm dry place to sleep, to live. It is far too easy to forget the blessings we have each day and how much we have to be thankful for - This may sound like more of a Thanksgiving post but I think the Christmas season may bring the thankful spirit out more, maybe that's just me. I think it's really just another reminder of how we forget what this season is supposed to focus on-Jesus came from the highest place, becoming one of us, just another lowly human being, raised in a meager home, spending his days serving others, eating and staying with those viewed as the lowest on the totem pole. I think we often view those less fortunate as being below us somehow, whether a conscious thought or not, all the while celebrating the birth of our Savior who lived his life among those less fortunate. A bit of irony in my opinion.

I think many of us have these little 'revelations' at holiday time - If only we'd have these revelations on a consistent basis throughout the year. How much of a difference would the right perspective make on a year-round-basis?

Reason for the Season?

2008-12-09T20:25:00.000-08:00

We all know Christmas has become a commercialized, excuse for a party and eating more food, and the opportunity for kids and grown-ups alike to get all their 'wants' on sale. As you grow up the excitement of presents on that morning fades a bit and we develop new perspectives. Don't get me wrong, presents are always exciting, especially when they're what you actually wanted. However is this really the goal for the day? In a conversation regarding Christmas plans with someone the other day, it was mentioned part of her family would be having Christmas dinner 2 weeks early. During the conversation, though, she remarked that she didn't know what the point was in getting together anyway because no one buys presents anymore, at least not for anyone but the youngest child in the family... So there's no point in getting together if there's no presents? That made me so sad. I admit as a kid the presents were always pretty cool and my parents were great in what they provided my brother and myself. A few specific presents stick out in my mind as being 'super cool' but what do I remember most? I remember reading the Christmas story every year and as I got older it was my turn to try to pronounce all those hard names myself. haha I remember time with my parents and brother eating breakfast and watching the parade. And I remember being SO excited to go to my god-parents for dinner.

I think there are always more thing we can do in order to not lose sight of the 'true reason for the season' (a saying which itself is over-used) and these are very personal choices. I do feel as though I grew up with the perspective of Christmas being a time to be thankful, joyful, and celebrate with family the blessings of our Lord and take a sometimes too rare opportunity to fellowship with other believers. As an adult I am trying to re-evaluate and determine which of these perspectives may not be in the right direction or what area I may need to add more focus in order to ensure I myself do not get lost in what becomes holiday chaos. I'll let you know how that goes...

Life is a Blur

2008-11-16T08:30:00.000-08:00

The semester is nearing an end and I still have a presentation and 2 or 3 tests left in my micro class, 2 assignments and 2 major tests in patho left to survive. I know I will - mostly because I have no other choice ha I am ready for a break though. I started working at Macy's seasonally for some extra money for those lovely end of the year tax bills. Fortunately it's very close to our house so I don't spend a lot of extra time driving like my husband has to spend driving to Independence. I'm gradually getting some look into his world of retail and I honestly don't know how he's done it for 3 years! I highly doubt I would have lasted that long. Not that's bad but I just don't see doing it full time for so long. My 2ish days a week are just fine with me! :o) Things have finally picked up at work for Jon though which is such a blessing. He'll be working mostly 6 days a week now as they've entered the 'fourth quater' with holidays and such. Sales have been so much more profitable lately and I suppose it's perfect timing - we got our tax bill last night so we have approxmately 6 weeks to pay down a large bill without incuring late fees and such. I know God will provide - we just have to maintain discipline to not buy all the things we see along the way haha It's so hard to believe the holidays are upon us...

$$ saver

2008-11-12T20:02:00.000-08:00

I heard an interview with one of the creator's of this site the other day on the way to work. 2 friends who are wives and mothers trying to find ways to cut their budgets in today's economy. Ironically they actually started this process before everything went down the tubes. They are bringing their 1-2 years of research to a public website to help others. Lots of suggestions and links to coupons and such to help. I haven't explored the site fully but what I've read and seen I think it will be pretty nifty - especially for those with kids!

http://www.becentsable.net/

So so busy...

2008-10-29T14:58:00.000-07:00

I think I will be glad when October is over - Last week was missions conference week at church and while it is an amazing opportunity to connect with our missionaries and very inspiring, it's very tiring! Either at church or at school every night last week, including the weekend. This week I have 2 tests, a cold, and Trunk or Treat on Friday (but set up Thursday) and since I helped plan Friday nights festivities I have to be there with bells on haha I do get to dress up as Glenda the Good Witch from the Wizard of Oz, so that's a bonus :o)

This weekend I MUST catch up-on life! Laundry, at the very least... Study for my midterm and another micro test... I have orientation and training next week for the 2nd job I'm taking on - Macy's for seasonal hours- and would prefer to be a little ahead of my game before those hours begin. I am praying they will work with me on hours until my school is over - Just because the store will be open until midnight in the week doesn't mean I can be there that late! Oh, and a local out-door shopping district will be open at MIDNIGHT on Black Friday - Midnight! Because 4 am wasn't early enough?! What is wrong with people? I'm definitely not looking forward to working Black Friday as I know I will have to but Jon will be too so at least he won't be enjoying a day off either haha On the plus side, after putting some away for our taxes at the end of the year I can use my bonus towards getting some furniture for the house at a good discount! Yay! :o) - That is, if I survive long enough LOL

1 step forward, 2 steps back

2008-10-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

Good news first: Jon got a letter from the KCPD advising he is in the eligibility pool for the next academy class! They are not yet sure of the date (so it probably won't be November, awww) but they'll call him when they secure a date and go from there. Very exciting!

Bad news: I 'just so happen' to go to a Pampered Chef party today hosted by my first college roommate. Well it's been a very long time since we all truly caught up and she, our other roommate and her best friend, and I were talking and I mentioned where I was looking at going for the program. It took about half a second for them to tell me not to go there! Well I had forgotten they are admission reps for another career college in the area and they know lot more about stuff like this than I do. For instance, accredidation - apparently the school I was looking at is not accredited itself which means even if the program is, I won't be able to take those classes and move up in degrees (BSN, NP) without repeating classes. It makes sense that an accreditted school won't take courses from a non-accreditted school but I had no idea the school itself wasn't accredited!

So long story kinda short, my 'plan B' is now no longer a plan at all. Now I have to contact them Monday and cancel all the appointments I had lined up though at least now I don't have to worry about making up graduation/high school documents to prove myself to corporate (which was a big flag in itself). The silver lining to this, though, is the school my friends are reps for is actually opening their own BSN program in the spring and since I have connections I will know immediately when enrollment starts! I am determined for this to work somehow, somewhere. I know I'm supposed to be a nurse and apparently I'm going to appreciate my journey there greatly being as I'm having so many bumps along the way.

*sigh*

Step by Step

2008-10-15T18:57:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately not too much has happened since my last post but we're certainly growing in our patience and trust. Which I suppose is an important thing :o)

I'm making it step by step in school, one test at a time, one assignment at a time. Sometimes several at a time haha Doing surprisingly well in both and I'm so very grateful. I appreciate my husband being willing to lose time with me as I bury my head in books, the computer, and flash cards. After being put on Jewell's waiting list for the program in May I took a step back and realized not only had I been foolish in putting "all my eggs in one basket" as it were but I'd been making a BIG assumption regarding God's will.... I have no doubt that nursing is the track I should be on but I hadn't really taken much time to consider where to obtain that education. Well, I had but I also wanted to take the most efficient path possible which primarily left Jewell. I had a friend at my last university who went onto a one-year program (like I wanted) and loved the school. She's in the middle of that program now but I disregarded her opinion about the school and her suggestion to apply. I wanted to go back to Jewell, for the prestige and the solid reputation that comes with very good training. However, when I took a step back I realized Jewell was not necessarily the best place for me. I earned my first bachelors there but would it really be a good idea to go backwards to go forwards? There is perhaps too much 'bagage' at Jewell. So I applied and tested for my friend's school, Concorde, and stepped back knowing that I have explored more options and can sit back and wait. The testing there went better than at Jewell and I have one more interview to go but it's a 99% sure thing which feels good. That program would begin March 23rd, so a bit earlier than Jewell, and wouldn't be quite as stressful as it would be an associates rather than another bachelors. It will be easy to bridge to achieve the bachelors once I am working and the hospital will pay! I don't imagine everything will be completely official until after Christmas but I have complete peace that things will work out.

Meanwhile, we'd been wondering where Jon's call was from the police department for his last interview. He finally got a phone call at the end of September to schedule the oral boards with the commissioners! That was October 9th and it went very well. We're back to waiting but there is a small glimmer of hope there will be an Academy beginning next month but it's a fairly slim chance.... Thanks to the hiring freeze it will probably not be until spring, sometime around March (ironically) but it was a HUGE load off to know he is still being considered and a fair amount of confidence that at the very least we'll know one way or the other by the end of this month Jon's fate as it were.

We seem to be spending the second part of this year in a semi-permanent flux. I'm just eternally grateful to be experiencing it with my best friend. What better support system and shoulder to lean on than your spouse? As much as neither of us particularly like this whole experience it has definitely taught us who we're supposed to be relying on, reminding us we have very little control, and a time to grow in our own relationship. It is amazing to realize that as much as you want your own dream to come true, you would be willing to give it up for your spouse's dream to come true instead. Hopefully, both our dreams will come true and we will be able to celebrate together as our paths change together. Either way, no matter what happens, I know this will have been an experience we will continue to grow from and learn from for quite some time.

Jewell's Wait list.....God's Waiting Room

2008-08-30T12:37:00.000-07:00

I received my letter today. While it was not the worst it wasn't the best either. 3 options: accepted, wait list, or declined. Apparently I'm just shy of being good enough to out-right accept; I am officially on the wait list for the program which begins in May '09. Of course at first I was completely crushed, upset....then I just felt numb and empty. I'm amused a little at myself saying only days ago that regardless of the outcome I just wanted to know... Now I think the not-knowing was better. I could at least live in the fantasy that I would indeed be accepted. Deep down I was scared and afraid I wouldn't get in. I knew that was a very real possibility but yet a part of me refused to believe it until it happened. Apparently, though, the wait list is quite fluid and changes quickly. Thing is, I have to wait until someone decides to drop out, decides they aren't ready or something happens in their lives that they have to put off participating for now. My happiness depends on someone else's tragedy in a way.... The thing that comes to mind as a comparison is the families who are waiting for a transplant... A far cry I know but still, you want to live or your loved one to live and yet you know your livelihood depends on someone else's demise. Part of me is afraid that should I officially be accepted the happiness will be tainted knowing that I was not only not "first choice" (am i in a draft now?) and that I'm in because someone else's life changed so dramatically that they couldn't pursue their own dream.

Ultimately I have no doubt this is God's way of telling me I have to learn to let go and stop holding on for dear life to every thing I want, to every plan I make, and to every great idea I have for my life. Jon has had his KCPD dreams put on hold as the department has been put on a hiring freeze and there won't be Academy possibilities until next Spring. We were definitely counting on that one far too much and far too early. Similarly we had everything all planned out with my program. He'd finish his training before I started my program, we'd both have good solid jobs by our 4th anniversary and ta-da! Life would be as it should. Mmmhmm. I have no doubt things will indeed work out (ok a little doubt) and we will most likely both get what we have dreamed for and wanted so much. It's that whole "in HIS time" thing that gets ya in the end. It's not until it's too late that you realize you haven't let go...you haven't given control to the One who has it all in His hands in the first place. We can only do so much to control our own lives. While we can't just sit and wait for something wonderful to be dropped on our doorstep (like for instance Ed McMann) we also have to realize when we've done all we can to achieve our goal and then wait. Patience and waiting are definitely 2 of the most challenging attributes in which to grow. I'm continually realizing we have no right to even try to control our lives in the way we want. We are not the directors of our lives like we were positioning people on a stage.

I must submit, I must give over control, and I must learn to wait. And so I am waiting....and listening for that still small voice......

Patience....

2008-08-29T14:02:00.000-07:00

Can I just say having to be patient really stinks? It's been nearly 2 weeks since my last interview with Jewell and I've yet to receive my letter regarding either my acceptance or, well, non-acceptance. It's like when you're a senior in HS and you rush home from school everyday to see if the letter from your top school is in the mail. Except I'm rushing home from work praying my letter from my ONLY school is in the mail. Talk about putting all my eggs in one basket huh? Thing is Jewell has the only program that's only 1 year. I'm just not sure how I feel about taking 2 years to finish a program because that means 2 years worth of loans. That's extremely uncool.

Pray for the letter to come..... regardless of what it says I just need to know.... If I get in I can celebrate and focus on my current classes. If it's bad I can at least start re-adjusting my plan and see what my options are before it's too late to apply elsewhere if that's what we decide to do. Whatever you do, don't pray for more patience - I don't think I can handle it! :-)

Classes and such

2008-08-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

I'm officially back in school, yay lol My pathophysiology (online) started last week but I haven't had much of a chance to delve into it just yet. Last weekend was mostly spent doing filming for a friend's indy film - really fun but very long day! I just finished my 2nd Microbiology class and think it's not going to be too bad but will also take a lot of discipline to study. I'm currently kicking myself for going to National American University at all because I have little doubt my GPA would be much better right now if I'd just gone to Maple Woods. Boo. Ah well - Hopefully that part doesn't penalize me too much in my quest for Jewell's program. Still haven't heard about that but they're sending letters this week so who knows...maybe sometime next week I'll know my fate for the next 2 years and believe me I'll let everyone know (at least if it's good news...if not I'm not quite sure what I'll do...)

Pics!

2008-08-17T14:45:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone! I updated my former vacation posts with the pictures I promised :-)

Progress

2008-08-15T16:40:00.000-07:00

I've officially completed the last step of my application process for the Jewell AT-BSN (accelerated track Bachelors of Science in Nursing). While it feels good to not just be waiting and twiddling my thumbs to get everything finished it's also a little odd to know it's officially and entirely out of my hands at this point. It's always been partly out of my hands - I want to be in God's will more than anything - but a small part of it was in my hands since I still had tests and interviews left to be done. Now...it's in Jewell's hands...And hopefully God is leading them in a preferable direction ha!

My on-line class began yesterday and my "in-person" class begins Tuesday. Pathophysiology online and Microbiology w/ lab in person. While I'm excited to be back in class, learning, and being challenged, it's been SO nice to not have homework to do nearly every night and be able to indulge in other things. I know it will be worth it in the long run - I just hope I can learn to manage my time better this term. I need to have that as close to down to a science as I can before the program! :-)

Boredom + stress = ?

2008-08-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

Hey all, Jon writing for once. I'll try to note when it's me, so we can keep the confusion to a minimum. I'm at work, and as usual, we're dead. When you're paid $5 per hour and the bulk of your paycheck comes from commission, this is not a good thing. We're in way over our heads financially lately, and every day that goes by when I don't sell poop tends to wear on me a bit. I tend to be very segmented by nature- it takes quite a bit for me to stress over something, or to get unnerved in any way. This is doing it. I'm still waiting to hear about my Police Department application status; I'm on the last step of the process, and still waiting. And for the love of Pete, if people don't quit asking me "Have you heard anything?", I may have to bonk someone over the head with something that won't cause permanent damage. I'll freaking tell you when I know something, dangit. But, we're still alive. We may have an empty bank account and debt to our ears, but we're alive, and we'll climb out of it. I'm not sure how just yet, but I have a wife who's very good with money and a fairly full closet, so hopefully I won't need to buy any more clothes for awhile. The bad thing about retail consulting is that you have to look good all the time. For me, that can sometimes be hard work...or just expensive work. Some guys can throw on a $200 suit and pull it off. I can't. Not fair. Out!

Back to Reality

2008-08-11T05:41:00.001-07:00

We made great timing coming back from the Springs yesterday which means I got to get my puppy back last night and relax a little before hitting the "rat-race" again this morning. I am very glad I told work I'd be in late to give myself a little more time this morning to get in the swing of things. Wish I had this extra time every morning! hehe

Our Last Day

2008-08-09T20:38:00.001-07:00

Today we got to spend the morning sleeping in and being lazy, yay :-) We saw Jason & Hollie for lunch in downtown; really great pizza place we'll have to re-visit! It was very good to see and visit with just them as last year it was us plus all the kiddos (much more quiet this time ha!)

After that we spent time with the nephews and then the parents. Went out for dinner with the parents to a great local Mexican restaurant and then visited a little at home before saying our final goodbyes.

We saw the nephews again and everyone got hugs and even some rides from Uncle Jon
:)

We had wanted to go to a Rockie's game but that was a) kinda far away and b) expensive SO we settled for a Sky Sox game instead. Supporting the local minor league :)It was going well for the first couple of innings and then it started raining-really raining! So we decided as fun as it was it wasn't worth getting drenched! Here's a pic before the inevitable downpour

It has been a great week and I'm a little sad to see it end but it will feel good to return to my KC home, my own house, even our manic puppy Layla ha It is good to be able to return to those who helped shape who I am today, those who have been in my life during formative years. There is also the realization that there are so many in KC who have helped to shape my "adult" years since I moved there. It is easy to forget how important those people, and their influences, are in my life. As much as I miss the Springs, I am slowly realizing I would truly miss KC, perhaps even just as much albeit in a different way, should we return to CO permanently. Until then, KC, here we come.

The Rocky Mountains

2008-08-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our adventure day :-) It's been way too long since I've been through our mountains and Jon really never has so we decided that was the perfect adventure to have.

We drove through Denver (stopping to have lunch at Landry's, SO good) toward Estes Park. We stopped along the way to do a bit of trail hiking and then back on the road. From Estes we headed to The Rocky Mountain National Park. We took our time, stopping to take pictures and admire the scenery. (pictures to come later) We decided to take a different route home, going through Winter Park and then back through Denver. It was definitely a full day but it was worth it ~ That's the kind of stuff you only experience in the great state of Colorado! Again, some of our favorite pics~

Amazing views and an important reminder of all the beauty and wonder God has created for us!

More food, friends & family

2008-08-07T20:19:00.000-07:00

I'm realizing as I type this the main thread through all our trip and posts are food. Hmm... better hit the gym when we get home! :-p

We got to have lunch with just my brother today which was nice - Always nice to get more time with him without the kiddos climbing us haha From there I got to spend the afternoon with Tara - This was a great treat as she is one of 2 people I have been best friends with since Jr High - That was a loooooong time ago! She just had her first baby in April and this was the first time to meet Ian. It was a great time to be a part of her mommy experience for a short time. We went to Chapel Hills, the mall we frequented as kids, walked around, got Orange Julius' like when we were kids, and even went into Claire's to look at cheap jewelry and giggle at the teen girls in there who reminded us of ourselves 10 years ago. :-)

Meanwhile Jon tooled around the Springs, going into some stores, napping, and generally having some chill time - Very cool husband to let me disappear for an entire afternoon!

Tonight we met with my parents and god-parents, Rick & Kathy Kite, for dinner. It would not be a complete trip without seeing the Kites (we'll see her daughter & family Saturday!). They are indeed my 2nd set of parents and I treasure the amazing yet rare relationship we've always had with them. We were at dinner a good 2 hours and I'm so glad we had that time together. Yay family :-)

Nephews, Animals & Family Time

2008-08-06T20:48:00.000-07:00

Jon's been battling altitude-sickness since Tuesday so it's good we didn't have much carved in stone for the trip-enjoying the trip is more important than cramming as much in as possible!

We laid low most of yesterday and then went to see the nephews around lunch time. After that it was nearing nap time so we decided to use some coupons my mom had to go to the zoo. It was fun although we got sprinkled on a bit it was worth it. We saw almost everything and got some exercise to boot! Here are some of our favorite pics from the zoo~

Last night Jon got hit with the worst of the altitude sickness and instead of the planned outing with Dad to go to Bible study, he ended up back at my parents house curled up asleep in the lay-z-boy. Again, glad plans are flexible! I had planned to visit with Stacie, a dear friend, to have dinner & catch up with life. Since my Mom was playing nurse for Jon and there was nothing anyone could do but let him sleep, and he was quite understanding about my girly-date I was still able to visit with Stacie for a bit.

Fortunately this morning Jon was feeling better. Yay! We met my Dad for lunch at Noodle & Co. - we don't have one in MO so I'm always glad to go when we're back here. We tried to go see The Dark Knight afterwards but the times for the IMAX showing changed from yesterday when I looked.... :-( So Jon & my Dad went to the shooting range and I hung out with Mom and saw a family friend to kill time before the next showing. We went back and saw the later showing-very good, very intense, definitely will end up buying it and watching it over and over.... :-) Got pizza with Dad afterwards and then it was chill-time, which is always a good thing on vacation.

With the trip half-way over I'm already getting a little sad about going home but am doing my best to focus instead on all the wonderful things yet to come this trip! :-)

Family Time

2008-08-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

*Disclaimer* If you are in CO and I haven't let you know so we can get together I am VERY sorry but we only have a few days here so it's impossible to see everyone we may want to see. Don't take it personally, hopefully the next time around it will be easier to see more people :-)

We are officially in CO - Began driving Sunday after church ( and after we finally packed! ) and stopped half way in Hays, KS. On the way we took a "side-trip" to Wilson's Lake. Several miles off the highway we found it and it was very pretty although we thought we'd never find it!

Finished our drive in yesterday, getting here shortly before 1pm. Yesterday was also my Dad's birthday so we had a celebratory dinner at my bro's house with the parents, his wife Melissa, and the two rug-rats, Jonah & Mason. They both, especially Jonah, attacked Jon and spent most of the night hanging off him wanting to play play play haha

We got left-overs to take back to our hotel room (yay mini-fridge) but I'm not sure when we'll eat them!The matress however is hard as a rock! We hit up Walmart for a egg-cushion-thingy and it definitely helped, thank goodness! Unfortunately Jon isn't feelin' so hot so we're hoping it's just some weird allergy to the new environment and if it's a cold hope it goes away fast! No fun to be sick on vacation. We'll be hangin' out with the family again today so many more stories to share later I'm sure!

In the Beginning....

2008-06-28T17:53:00.000-07:00

It seems we're officially joining the world of bloggers. Subject to peer-pressure? Maybe a little. Perhaps this will be an easier way to keep in touch with all our friends as life seems to be spreading us further apart.