Beau begins his night call on the first on January and will be at it for two weeks. Night call meaning "graveyard shift." And it is because of this that we are still up...at 11:52pm ET. Well, I am. Beau is fighting falling asleep.
So the plan is to sleep during the day and be up at night. I don't know how well I will be able to adapt to the schedule. I need my sunlight! :D
As I sit here trying to stay awake I am watching Barry Watson's newest made for TV movie. He used to be so hot. I remember he was the main reason I used to watch 7th Heaven back in the day. What happened? Oh I do love made for TV movies.
Well, time to put the chili away. And make some coffee!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Thursday, December 29, 2011
New Years Resolution, or ResolutionS...
Another year is quickly coming to an end. I can't believe it has gone so quickly. Where did 2011 go? Such a very busy and blessed year.
Well lets see, Beau was sick over Christmas so we didn't end up making it to New Jersey. We didn't want to get family sick and so his mom changed her flight so she could come here and spend the night with us and give us our Christmas gifts. NO GIFTS...Right...Stinker...she went shopping for us anyway even though when she was here a few weeks ago she took us shopping at Macy's. I got a pair of boots and Beau got some really great shirts for work. But apparently the words "NO GIFTS, you've already given us so much" are lost on her. We love you mom...
And on top of that, Jaq and Trav bought us some goodies as well. We were VERY spoiled this year...
Jaq and Trav got us Apples to Apples (freaking SWEET) and one of our favorite movies!!!! Mom got me this BEAUTIFUL sweater, Beau got more dress clothes, and we both received Target gift cards. HECKS YES! And, the most precious gift, a beautiful album from our wedding. Oh my word, I cannot put into words how much I loved this. Beau and I just sat there and poured over it and I of course started crying. Not only is this such a thoughtful and beautiful gift, but it was even more special because it came straight from the heart of my mother in law. She went to a lot of work and a lot of people were in on this gift including our dear friend Jenna (you are a stinker). It is so funny because I had thought about putting a book together myself and I am sure that I mentioned that to Jenna. And she knew all along... Thank you guys for this beautiful and heart felt gift, it is the BEST!
Not only did we have a great night with mom, but as we were sitting around plugging away on our computers and talking, Beau received an email from Janesville. The much anticipated and very much prayed for email. Beau handed me his phone so I could read it and before I took it out of his hand, I saw the look of sheer and complete joy all over his face. I read it, squealed, and we both started tearing up a little bit. We have been praying so long and so hard for good news from Janesville in regards to getting electives there and being able to move back to the Midwest just as soon as possible. WHAT a blessing... basically, we aren't 100% moved as of yet, but our chances of moving as soon as the last weekend in January are about 98%. We are more or less just waiting for the paper work to be finalized and for our schedule to be sent to us. PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!
That being said though, we are not totally out of the woods. We still are waiting to receive confirmation from them and therefore are still diligently praying that we do indeed get to move very very soon. REJOICE! Beau has instructed me to start looking for places to live and to start calling around so I think he too is very happy and optimistic. I have already found one place that is very promising. Close to the hospital, two bedroom, all appliances included, and...OLIVER can live there with us!!!!!!!! Thank you heavenly Father.
This was humbling for me. VERY humbling for me and it is because of this that I started to really think about what my New Years resolution was going to be. Every year I decide on one (or many) but I have never been very good at keeping them. But this year I want to be different, and here they are:
1) Start eating healthy, lay off the junk food, and work out on a regular basis. (a common one I know)
2) Set a routine for myself, start going to bed at a normal hour and get up with the sun (ok not quite, but much earlier than I do now)
3) Don't be afraid to speak my mind.
4) Try new recipes.
But these are the most important of all...
5) Make a greater effort to talk to my grandpa on a regular basis.
6) Make sure the ones I love, know how important they are to me.
7) Be a more attentive to those I love.
8) Give more grace.
9) Read my Bible and spend more time with the Lord.
10) Make a joyful noise.
I love Christian music, but I don't really know a lot of the songs, but I have come to realize that the Lord doesn't want me to sing only worship music. So as I have promised myself to learn more worship music, I decided that today I was going to turn OFF The Office and turn on some good music and just let the Lord know the joy in my heart. So I am sitting here singing to 80's music and LOVING it!
I realize these are a lot of resolutions, but life is far too short to not use every day that we are given. Being here in NY I feel as though I have lost touch with the person that I really am because I have been so bitter to our commitment to live here. Not so much bitter to the commitment of living here per se, but more so homesick in every conceivable way.
Oh, resolution #11...broaden my vocab...
God is so good, and I just want my heart to pour that out to everyone I meet.
I wish you all a Happy New Year and pray that the Lord does amazing things in all your lives this year and every year here after...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Well lets see, Beau was sick over Christmas so we didn't end up making it to New Jersey. We didn't want to get family sick and so his mom changed her flight so she could come here and spend the night with us and give us our Christmas gifts. NO GIFTS...Right...Stinker...she went shopping for us anyway even though when she was here a few weeks ago she took us shopping at Macy's. I got a pair of boots and Beau got some really great shirts for work. But apparently the words "NO GIFTS, you've already given us so much" are lost on her. We love you mom...
And on top of that, Jaq and Trav bought us some goodies as well. We were VERY spoiled this year...
Jaq and Trav got us Apples to Apples (freaking SWEET) and one of our favorite movies!!!! Mom got me this BEAUTIFUL sweater, Beau got more dress clothes, and we both received Target gift cards. HECKS YES! And, the most precious gift, a beautiful album from our wedding. Oh my word, I cannot put into words how much I loved this. Beau and I just sat there and poured over it and I of course started crying. Not only is this such a thoughtful and beautiful gift, but it was even more special because it came straight from the heart of my mother in law. She went to a lot of work and a lot of people were in on this gift including our dear friend Jenna (you are a stinker). It is so funny because I had thought about putting a book together myself and I am sure that I mentioned that to Jenna. And she knew all along... Thank you guys for this beautiful and heart felt gift, it is the BEST!
Not only did we have a great night with mom, but as we were sitting around plugging away on our computers and talking, Beau received an email from Janesville. The much anticipated and very much prayed for email. Beau handed me his phone so I could read it and before I took it out of his hand, I saw the look of sheer and complete joy all over his face. I read it, squealed, and we both started tearing up a little bit. We have been praying so long and so hard for good news from Janesville in regards to getting electives there and being able to move back to the Midwest just as soon as possible. WHAT a blessing... basically, we aren't 100% moved as of yet, but our chances of moving as soon as the last weekend in January are about 98%. We are more or less just waiting for the paper work to be finalized and for our schedule to be sent to us. PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!
That being said though, we are not totally out of the woods. We still are waiting to receive confirmation from them and therefore are still diligently praying that we do indeed get to move very very soon. REJOICE! Beau has instructed me to start looking for places to live and to start calling around so I think he too is very happy and optimistic. I have already found one place that is very promising. Close to the hospital, two bedroom, all appliances included, and...OLIVER can live there with us!!!!!!!! Thank you heavenly Father.
This was humbling for me. VERY humbling for me and it is because of this that I started to really think about what my New Years resolution was going to be. Every year I decide on one (or many) but I have never been very good at keeping them. But this year I want to be different, and here they are:
1) Start eating healthy, lay off the junk food, and work out on a regular basis. (a common one I know)
2) Set a routine for myself, start going to bed at a normal hour and get up with the sun (ok not quite, but much earlier than I do now)
3) Don't be afraid to speak my mind.
4) Try new recipes.
But these are the most important of all...
5) Make a greater effort to talk to my grandpa on a regular basis.
6) Make sure the ones I love, know how important they are to me.
7) Be a more attentive to those I love.
8) Give more grace.
9) Read my Bible and spend more time with the Lord.
10) Make a joyful noise.
I love Christian music, but I don't really know a lot of the songs, but I have come to realize that the Lord doesn't want me to sing only worship music. So as I have promised myself to learn more worship music, I decided that today I was going to turn OFF The Office and turn on some good music and just let the Lord know the joy in my heart. So I am sitting here singing to 80's music and LOVING it!
I realize these are a lot of resolutions, but life is far too short to not use every day that we are given. Being here in NY I feel as though I have lost touch with the person that I really am because I have been so bitter to our commitment to live here. Not so much bitter to the commitment of living here per se, but more so homesick in every conceivable way.
Oh, resolution #11...broaden my vocab...
God is so good, and I just want my heart to pour that out to everyone I meet.
I wish you all a Happy New Year and pray that the Lord does amazing things in all your lives this year and every year here after...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Christmas Blessings...
Well, Christmas didn't turn out exactly the way we planned. Mom was set to get into New York yesterday and we were all going to take the train to New Jersey today. I had been sick for the past two weeks and was really trying my best to get over it before this weekend but I suppose it was inevitable that Beau would catch what I had. So now here he lies on the couch, miserable. I feel so bad, guilty. I wish we would have been able to make it down to be with family.
This is our first Christmas away from home. Well, not away from home, but the first Christmas we haven't been able to spend with family. It hasn't been easy being away from loved ones during the holidays, but there have been little treasures that have made it a little easier...
Christmas cards...our fridge is covered with Christmas cards and I am anticipating getting more in the mail judging by how many people have asked us for our address. I can't even describe how nice it is to get a little something from home. Yesterday we even got a card from my grandpa. I won't get into how much I miss him. But one other Christmas blessing we got in the mail was from my dearest friend Kim. I was so surprised and excited when I saw the handwriting. I knew exactly who it was from. So I ripped it open ASAP...
AHHHH!!!! She translated it for me. I even got an added postcard...oh Kimmy... I miss her so very much. She is my best friend, my sister and I love her dearly. It feels so good to know that she misses me as much as I miss her and that she makes the effort to send me little treasures from the other side of the world. Thank you my dearest Monkey.
A while ago I was thinking about the fireplace. There is nothing more homey than a fire in the fireplace and I remembered that there were screen savers that you could get that looked like a fireplace. This morning when I woke up Beau had shown me what he added to Netflix. Here is what he added...
AND one of the "episodes" even plays Christmas music. It blows my mind how well he knows me and the little things he does that make me feel so loved and special and appreciated. Not only is this little treasure a Christmas blessing, but being married married to my other half is the greatest Christmas blessing.
But the most precious and priceless Christmas blessing of all is that of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the blood of the lamb.
“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” Luke 2:16-20 NIV
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not, for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you this day is born in the City of Bethlehem, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men'". That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie brown
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
This is our first Christmas away from home. Well, not away from home, but the first Christmas we haven't been able to spend with family. It hasn't been easy being away from loved ones during the holidays, but there have been little treasures that have made it a little easier...
Christmas cards...our fridge is covered with Christmas cards and I am anticipating getting more in the mail judging by how many people have asked us for our address. I can't even describe how nice it is to get a little something from home. Yesterday we even got a card from my grandpa. I won't get into how much I miss him. But one other Christmas blessing we got in the mail was from my dearest friend Kim. I was so surprised and excited when I saw the handwriting. I knew exactly who it was from. So I ripped it open ASAP...
AHHHH!!!! She translated it for me. I even got an added postcard...oh Kimmy... I miss her so very much. She is my best friend, my sister and I love her dearly. It feels so good to know that she misses me as much as I miss her and that she makes the effort to send me little treasures from the other side of the world. Thank you my dearest Monkey.
A while ago I was thinking about the fireplace. There is nothing more homey than a fire in the fireplace and I remembered that there were screen savers that you could get that looked like a fireplace. This morning when I woke up Beau had shown me what he added to Netflix. Here is what he added...
AND one of the "episodes" even plays Christmas music. It blows my mind how well he knows me and the little things he does that make me feel so loved and special and appreciated. Not only is this little treasure a Christmas blessing, but being married married to my other half is the greatest Christmas blessing.
But the most precious and priceless Christmas blessing of all is that of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the blood of the lamb.
“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” Luke 2:16-20 NIV
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not, for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you this day is born in the City of Bethlehem, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men'". That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie brown
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Christmas Came Early In The Waddell House...
I am so much like my auntie. She is infamous for not being able to hold on to a gift. I think I am much like her in that I delight more in seeing people opening the things I give them than I am actually opening my own gifts. I love the look on people's faces when they open that gift. How special they feel that someone knew them well enough to get them the perfect gift. I am not saying I am a great gift giver at all, but I do put my whole heart into it.
This year I had spending a lot of time on pinterest and craftgawker finding the perfect gifts for our loved ones. I wanted to make gifts this year because a) I had the time to make gifts this year and b) I think they are more personal. I always loved the gifts that people made for me. I wish I would have brought my sewing machine back with us. But that being said, there really isn't a fabric store that is conveniently located.
I love to give gifts. I wanted to completely shower Beau in gifts this year. We have been through so much this year, and he is the most incredible husband. There is nothing he wouldn't do for me, and he has worked so very hard to get us home as soon as possible. What an amazing gift I have in him, and how the Lord must love me to give me the most incredible love. The deepest love, that I don't even have words to express. I am blessed to have my best friend, my soul mate, my everything as my husband. My cup runneth over.
There were loads of things I wanted to get him this year, but since a possible move is in the foreseeable future, we are bringing as few items into the apartment as possible (save for food). I did cave though and buy a tree and lights. We also had a budget this year for gifts. So...
I bought Beau a bunch of "spa treatment" goodies that I could do for him here at home. (Mmmm...my handsome husband). I of course wanted him to open his first so I could see the look on his face and when he opened it he laughed a little and said to open mine...
(Please excuse how nasty I look, I've been sick for days now)
Beau had made me a gift certificate for my very own spa day! (I love how there is an expiration date ;) ) Baby...
Our first Christmas as a married couple and I couldn't ask for anything more special.
Well, I have taken some Theraflu and am starting to get a wee bit sleepy so I am going to wrap it up for now. Its gloomy and drizzly today, perfect for a cold medicine induced slumber.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
This year I had spending a lot of time on pinterest and craftgawker finding the perfect gifts for our loved ones. I wanted to make gifts this year because a) I had the time to make gifts this year and b) I think they are more personal. I always loved the gifts that people made for me. I wish I would have brought my sewing machine back with us. But that being said, there really isn't a fabric store that is conveniently located.
I love to give gifts. I wanted to completely shower Beau in gifts this year. We have been through so much this year, and he is the most incredible husband. There is nothing he wouldn't do for me, and he has worked so very hard to get us home as soon as possible. What an amazing gift I have in him, and how the Lord must love me to give me the most incredible love. The deepest love, that I don't even have words to express. I am blessed to have my best friend, my soul mate, my everything as my husband. My cup runneth over.
There were loads of things I wanted to get him this year, but since a possible move is in the foreseeable future, we are bringing as few items into the apartment as possible (save for food). I did cave though and buy a tree and lights. We also had a budget this year for gifts. So...
I bought Beau a bunch of "spa treatment" goodies that I could do for him here at home. (Mmmm...my handsome husband). I of course wanted him to open his first so I could see the look on his face and when he opened it he laughed a little and said to open mine...
(Please excuse how nasty I look, I've been sick for days now)
Beau had made me a gift certificate for my very own spa day! (I love how there is an expiration date ;) ) Baby...
Our first Christmas as a married couple and I couldn't ask for anything more special.
Well, I have taken some Theraflu and am starting to get a wee bit sleepy so I am going to wrap it up for now. Its gloomy and drizzly today, perfect for a cold medicine induced slumber.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Ah...Sick, AGAIN...
I wish I could shake this persistent sore throat I have. Last week I had this terrible sore throat and it lingered for a few days, I chalked it up to just drainage. I had an awful ringing/stabbing in my ear so I just self medicated with tea and cough drops and eventually it went away.
Here's the thing. When I used to work in the doctor's office I was exposed to sick people all the time and so I built my immune system to the point where I never ever got sick, not once in a three year time span. But, since I am not around too many people lately, I am sure I can't fight off things as easily as I used to. I am sure there are lots of things that Beau picks up at the hospital and brings home with him. This most recent "bug" has been playing ping pong with us. I was sick last week, then Beau was sick, and now I am starting to feel like poo again. I am not sure, but I am thinking its a cold lingering on the horizon just waiting to pounce. Probably when I have stuff I need to do, or when we have plans to visit our friends or family. Mmmm...so here I sit, Vix slathered all over my throat and my big thick purple scarf. Bwa...
Beau...oh my goodness, I cannot put into words how much I love him. This totally doesn't go along with the "Ah...Sick..." theme, but (as a friend of mine wrote on her blog) its my blog and I am allowed to let my mind go wherever it wants... but I digress...
Beau...the LOVE of my life. Last night he came home earlier than he has been. He started his Ambulatory Care portion of his surgery rotation and so his hours are not as long. Its such a blessing. He was home by around 5 last night and I just wanted to snuggle up in his arms and not move from the couch the rest of the night. We had dinner and then he jumped up and was so excited. He said not to come over to the table because he was working on my Christmas present. Baby... he sticks an envelope under the tree, one that I can't see through! I love my husband more than anything in this world. He is so good to me, so perfect for me. He is truly my soul mate.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Here's the thing. When I used to work in the doctor's office I was exposed to sick people all the time and so I built my immune system to the point where I never ever got sick, not once in a three year time span. But, since I am not around too many people lately, I am sure I can't fight off things as easily as I used to. I am sure there are lots of things that Beau picks up at the hospital and brings home with him. This most recent "bug" has been playing ping pong with us. I was sick last week, then Beau was sick, and now I am starting to feel like poo again. I am not sure, but I am thinking its a cold lingering on the horizon just waiting to pounce. Probably when I have stuff I need to do, or when we have plans to visit our friends or family. Mmmm...so here I sit, Vix slathered all over my throat and my big thick purple scarf. Bwa...
Beau...oh my goodness, I cannot put into words how much I love him. This totally doesn't go along with the "Ah...Sick..." theme, but (as a friend of mine wrote on her blog) its my blog and I am allowed to let my mind go wherever it wants... but I digress...
Beau...the LOVE of my life. Last night he came home earlier than he has been. He started his Ambulatory Care portion of his surgery rotation and so his hours are not as long. Its such a blessing. He was home by around 5 last night and I just wanted to snuggle up in his arms and not move from the couch the rest of the night. We had dinner and then he jumped up and was so excited. He said not to come over to the table because he was working on my Christmas present. Baby... he sticks an envelope under the tree, one that I can't see through! I love my husband more than anything in this world. He is so good to me, so perfect for me. He is truly my soul mate.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Monday, December 19, 2011
Home Is "Here" For The Holidays...
Last week was so nice. Beau's mom got into town on Thursday and Beau got off in time that we were both able to meet her at Penn Station. When we got home we threw in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and just sat and caught up for a while. Poor Beau is so used to heading to bed early though and he did his best to stay up and talk with us.
Friday we decided we needed to go shopping. Mom was needing to get some Christmas shopping done and I really wanted to take her to Macy's. Its almost a necessity if you are in New York during the Christmas season. As we were walking up to the infamous department store there were people EVERYWHERE, even for the time of day it was very crowded. Everyone was huddled around the window display. It. Was. BEAUTIFUL. I wish I would have had my camera with me. I knew that all the department stores had a tradition of decorating their store windows, but I had no idea the decor would be so elaborate. I can't even describe how beautiful and magical it was. On one side of the building they had a "Yes, Virgina" window display. I was DELIGHTED as I loved that movie. When I say display, I mean story line. There are a series of windows along each side of the building and each window display is a part of the story. The one that was so captivating told the story of how Christmas wishes come true. Oh my goodness I wish I would have recorded it. The music even...wow. Let's just say Bloomingdale's doesn't have anything on Macy's.
After standing and watching the story unfold for a while, we decided to fight the crowd and head into the store. It was INCREDIBLE. I hadn't been there since my brother came to visit back in April. They were of course all decorated for Christmas and it was breath taking. It reminded me of A Christmas Story when they go to see Santa. We spend about 5-6 hours on the shoe floor ALONE. And the line to see Santa? Oh my goodness...probably MILES long, and that is no exaggeration as the store itself takes up most of an entire city block.
Mom spoils us. Always. Her visit this time was no exception. She was in the shopping mood and she got me these incredible boots and Beau some dress shirts and ties. Isn't it funny how our wish lists change as we get older. I remember when I used to go through the Sear's Wish Book when I was little and circle or star all the toys that I wanted. Now its house stuff. I am sure the closer we get to starting a family, I will start wishing for baby stuff.
Beau was going to meet us in the city so we could go to the Hard Rock for dinner, but his surgery case was pushed way back and so we decided we'd just head home and have dinner ready for him there. So we headed back to Queens and stopped at the produce store and picked up lots of fruit. Then we headed back to the apartment and Mom started on her amazing potato soup. When Beau got home we started "Miracle on 34th Street" but ended up talking more than paying attention to the movie.
Saturday our good friends were in the city just for day and we met up with them in Little Italy for lunch. It was so great seeing them. Noah is Beau's best friend from childhood. They're more like brothers and its so fun seeing them together. Truly kindred spirits.
From there we went back to Macy's so Beau could pick out some shirts. Then we jumped on the subway and headed towards Rockefeller Center to see the big Christmas tree. Talk about a crowd! We almost couldn't get out of the doors to the building because of the people. But we were able to get some pictures!
We were there about as long as it takes to get a couple pictures and then we were out of there. It was getting late and we were all tired from the shopping and being around so many people. We got home and watched The Eagle and then had an Office marathon. We got to bed late and then on Sunday...
Beau made is famous pancakes. Oh how I LOVE it when he makes his pancakes. Secret recipe, but let me just tell you, they would chance your life if you ever were to have them. Then mom started packing up and we took her to the airport. She is only gone for a few days though, and she will be back on the 22nd to spend Christmas with us and our brother and sister. Such a blessing that she is able to spend the holidays with us. Makes us feel closer to home.
Today is cleaning day. Top to bottom. Still no word from Janesville. I don't even know what to think anymore. All I know is that we have such a longing in our hearts to be home and that the Lord knows our hearts, so I have to resign it to Him. It is out of our control at this point and really all we can do is sit and wait for her to get back to us. I just need to find some things to keep my mind busy in the mean time. Beau will for sure be in Janesville for six weeks in February so I will be home and hopefully working. Hmm...
I can't believe Christmas is only a week away. So much to do and so little time!
In God's Love,
Beau and Kenz
Thursday, December 15, 2011
A Special Visitor!
Beau's mom is coming today to spend a few days with us. I am SO looking forward to spending time with her and to just have family so close. Its such a blessing that she has been able to spend so much time with us over the past couple months. Not only is she here for Christmas (well, early Christmas) she was here for Thanksgiving and she will be coming out again next month. It helps so much as we get so homesick. It makes the time here go faster for sure. I love my mother-in-law. We are so much a like in many ways and it will just be nice to have her here. I know Beau is over the moon that she is going to be staying with us for a few days.
I sent her on an important mission before she made her way from Jersey to NY. Mission: find and purchase Brach's Ribbon Candy and deliver to final destination. Well, she text me a while ago and apparently she was unable to find said candy. I am beginning to wonder if it (like many other things) is a Midwest thing. However, Archway cookies (one of my FAVORITE Christmas cookie makers) has since stopped selling in the Midwest and now sells strictly in New York (go figure). I was tempted to go hunting for them, but since my new goal is to again lose all the weight I lost for the wedding and tone myself up, I decided against it. The LAST think I need is sweets sitting around. Not that I necessarily love sweets, but when they are cheaper than health food...well...you can guess what happens.
To get into the holiday spirit I have instead added all my favorite Christmas movies to Netflix. Tonight is Beau's favorite National Lampoons Christmas Vacation! OH YEA!
Its quite pleasant here. I think I could get used to more mild winters. I HATE the snow, unless I am INSIDE looking at it out my window with a big cup of something hot, a nice fluffy blanket, a good movie or book, and Beau and or Oliver to snuggle with. I have to admit though, I am a lover of white Christmases. It just doesn't feel like Christmas unless there is snow on the ground. Checking the forecast though it looks as though we are in for either sun or rain all the way up til the 25th. If it could only hold out one more month! I do NOT want to attempt driving in a blizzard again this year.
Miss you friends and loved ones. I hope you continue to have a blessed holiday season.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
I sent her on an important mission before she made her way from Jersey to NY. Mission: find and purchase Brach's Ribbon Candy and deliver to final destination. Well, she text me a while ago and apparently she was unable to find said candy. I am beginning to wonder if it (like many other things) is a Midwest thing. However, Archway cookies (one of my FAVORITE Christmas cookie makers) has since stopped selling in the Midwest and now sells strictly in New York (go figure). I was tempted to go hunting for them, but since my new goal is to again lose all the weight I lost for the wedding and tone myself up, I decided against it. The LAST think I need is sweets sitting around. Not that I necessarily love sweets, but when they are cheaper than health food...well...you can guess what happens.
To get into the holiday spirit I have instead added all my favorite Christmas movies to Netflix. Tonight is Beau's favorite National Lampoons Christmas Vacation! OH YEA!
Its quite pleasant here. I think I could get used to more mild winters. I HATE the snow, unless I am INSIDE looking at it out my window with a big cup of something hot, a nice fluffy blanket, a good movie or book, and Beau and or Oliver to snuggle with. I have to admit though, I am a lover of white Christmases. It just doesn't feel like Christmas unless there is snow on the ground. Checking the forecast though it looks as though we are in for either sun or rain all the way up til the 25th. If it could only hold out one more month! I do NOT want to attempt driving in a blizzard again this year.
Miss you friends and loved ones. I hope you continue to have a blessed holiday season.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Nothing Feels Better Than A Squeaky Clean Home...
I am a neat freak. Well, I like things really clean. And in 500 square feet the littlest mess makes the apartment feel a lot smaller.
But I have another reason to clean today. Our mom is coming tomorrow for a Christmas visit!!! We have been so blessed being all the way out here. Not only do we have our family in New Jersey, but our mom travels a great deal and we've been luckily enough that has visited about three times since we've been here. Its been so nice!
Christmas is coming! And I always think of Charlie Brown's Christmas, not only because of the adorable pathetic little tree that Charlie picks up for the Christmas program (much to everyone's dismay) but also because of Linus and his recital of the true meaning of Christmas. I posted the clip a few weeks back. Watch it, it can't help but warm your heart.
Its a late night for Beau so I a sitting here watching "Yes, Virginia" munching on apple slices, and am rather proud of myself for accomplishing so much today.
I even went out and bought a tiny tree. Its our first Christmas as a married couple and I wanted to make it as special as I could for Beau.
Here is our tree:
Its only about 2 feet tall, but its absolutely adorable with the lights on it.
I hope you are all looking forward to spending time with your loved ones.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
But I have another reason to clean today. Our mom is coming tomorrow for a Christmas visit!!! We have been so blessed being all the way out here. Not only do we have our family in New Jersey, but our mom travels a great deal and we've been luckily enough that has visited about three times since we've been here. Its been so nice!
Christmas is coming! And I always think of Charlie Brown's Christmas, not only because of the adorable pathetic little tree that Charlie picks up for the Christmas program (much to everyone's dismay) but also because of Linus and his recital of the true meaning of Christmas. I posted the clip a few weeks back. Watch it, it can't help but warm your heart.
Its a late night for Beau so I a sitting here watching "Yes, Virginia" munching on apple slices, and am rather proud of myself for accomplishing so much today.
I even went out and bought a tiny tree. Its our first Christmas as a married couple and I wanted to make it as special as I could for Beau.
Here is our tree:
Its only about 2 feet tall, but its absolutely adorable with the lights on it.
I hope you are all looking forward to spending time with your loved ones.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Oh The Cookery...
I have had this incredible urge to bake up a storm lately. Since we've lived here we have yet to purchase the ingredients necessary for any baked good. Flour, sugar, brown sugar, powdered sugar, baking powder...basically we run on essentials.
Every Christmas my mom and I have baked cookies and taken them to our friends. One of my favorite holiday treats is GINGERBREAD! Oh I LOVE it! Mmmmm Mmmm Mmmmm! So as I was writing out the shopping list last night, I added Gingerbread.
I have recently discovered the amazing website: foodgawker. A-MA-ZING. I think I opened about 20 tabs with recipes I wanted to try out. Everything from pesto to Rose and Orange Blossom Shortcake cookies, to Povlova, to Crinkle Cookies. I wanted to make them all. I wanted to take a weekend and bake til the kitchen was filled with sweets. But what do I do with them after? I don't necessarily like sweets per se, but I do love to bake. Maybe next year...
I do have a Chocolate Pound Cake and Beer Bread mix up in the cupboard ;)
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Every Christmas my mom and I have baked cookies and taken them to our friends. One of my favorite holiday treats is GINGERBREAD! Oh I LOVE it! Mmmmm Mmmm Mmmmm! So as I was writing out the shopping list last night, I added Gingerbread.
I have recently discovered the amazing website: foodgawker. A-MA-ZING. I think I opened about 20 tabs with recipes I wanted to try out. Everything from pesto to Rose and Orange Blossom Shortcake cookies, to Povlova, to Crinkle Cookies. I wanted to make them all. I wanted to take a weekend and bake til the kitchen was filled with sweets. But what do I do with them after? I don't necessarily like sweets per se, but I do love to bake. Maybe next year...
I do have a Chocolate Pound Cake and Beer Bread mix up in the cupboard ;)
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Sick Day...
Last night I was starting to get a head ache. Who knows where it came from. Yesterday being Wednesday I had to move the car. So I got up and decided that I would go to the grocery store in the morning and take my time so I wouldn't have to move her twice. I went to the store and picked up groceries and thought I was doing pretty good on time when I pulled up in front of the apartment and the clock said 9:45. "I'll just sit here that way if the cops come, I can drive off and avoid yet another parking ticket." So I sat there. 10:00, good... I haul the groceries upstairs and glance at the clock on the microwave... "WHAT! 9!" And then it dawned at me that we don't drive enough to have set the clock back in the car. So I throw the groceries in the fridge and run out. By this time it is pouring rain and I didn't have my umbrella!
So I end up driving around for an hour because I didn't have my umbrella and there wasn't a single place to park within two miles. Driving around was worth it. It was so cold and nasty yesterday, I didn't want to risk catching a cold, especially since Beau doesn't get any sick days this rotation. And lets face it, hes just too kissable ;)
Oh and then there was the toilet...I wanted to to get the fridge cleaned out. We still had Thanksgiving left-overs hanging out in there and before they got REALLY nasty I decided to flush the old mashed potatoes. Flush? Yes, I know...my friend said the same thing, but we flush because the apartment already has a funky smell to it, I didn't want the garbage smelling like nasty rotten potatoes! So I throw them in the john. Ker-plunk... A solid mass, no breaking down. Stupid me, I decided to flush. BIG MISTAKE. Water ALL over the floor! Lets just say I felt like I was about to artificially inseminate a cow as I pulled a bag up over my elbow and went for it. Ick... "its just potatoes, its just potatoes, its just potatoes..."
And then there is this unbelievable stress we are under right now. I know I talk about this all the time, but it is so near and dear to us right now. Home. Be it Iowa or Wisconsin we don't care, its a hell of a lot closer to our friends and family than NY is. We just want to get HOME. Our last day here is to be January 27th. The countdown has begun, but we are still unsure of what February brings. Please pray for us. Please pray that we hear soon. Please pray that we get to move home.
Today my mom writes me an email telling me Oliver had gotten out again. I panicked. My head had already been pounding and I had been queasy since I woke up this morning. I didn't need to hear that my dog had ran away. My Oliver, I love him so much. I don't know what I'd do without him. But thankfully, she text me. He was home and snoring away...he definitely has earned his nickname of "Shithead."
But then I went down to the mailbox and there in the mail was my FAVORITE Christmas movie "A Christmas Story" ( I can't wait for Beau to get home tonight so we can watch it together and have Hot Toddies!) AND a homemade Christmas Card from my momma. Inside signed "Mom, Dad, Dylan, and Shithead" How I love it. And how it makes my heart break to see them.
My momma's home made Christmas cards...stamped with love...Well, time to take a shower and take some more excedrin and hope this migraine goes away before my husband gets home. I just really want to snuggle up tonight.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Getting Ready For Christmas!
We hadn't intended on decorating for Christmas this year as all our decorations have taken up residence at my parents house. But its our first Christmas as a married couple, and because of that I really wanted to give Beau a Christmas. Especially since we can't make it home this year.
So...the other day I made my first attempt at really driving in the city. There is a Target about eight to ten miles down the road from us and even though I had gone with the intention of loading up on groceries and groceries only, I caught the Christmas bug when I turned on the radio to a NY station that plays "All Christmas music, all the time." I though to myself "I'll just look and see what they have."
I made a bee line to the Christmas decorations and scooped up a container of brown and gold Christmas bulbs and a strand of Christmas lights and then I was OUT of the aisle. My thought process was this: if I go to the decorations aisle first then I won't be able to talk myself into things while I was shopping for groceries. I was quite proud of myself when I triumphantly left with said items.
All day yesterday I was extremely anxious for Beau to get home (I am every day but yesterday in particular). I walked down to the grocery store because the weather was beautiful! I made sure I scrubbed the apartment top to bottom and then made the chili early enough that it could sit and simmer and make the apartment smell delicious. Beau text me and told me to pick out some Christmas music. DONE. All was ready when he got home! So we had chili and watched some TV and had a Hot Toddie and I look over at him and hes starting to drift. Now was the time. Not a moment could be wasted.
I jumped up and hauled out the Christmas decorations. Beau: laying on couch now... So I started to unwind the lights and pulled a chair over and very dramatically looked around the apartment trying to figure out where to put them, clearly incapable of doing it on my owe due to my vertical short comings. I think he finally picked up on my obvious distress as he managed to pull himself up off the couch. Poor guy. Early morning+Hot Toddie= one worn out medical student ready for an early bedtime.
Here are our decorations:
And here was Beau after we ran the strand of lights:
Clearly it was too much activity for him. Out...
So while he snoozed I did this with the bulbs:
We didn't really put a lot of emphasis on decorating, but its festive and I think Beau appreciates the thought behind it.
Today we were going to go to Rockefeller Center and take our picture in front of the tree to send out in our Christmas cards this year. But as I picked out an outfit and applied my makeup I was quickly getting out of the mood to take the train into the city, try and find someone to take our picture, and then get back on the train and walk home. Thank goodness Beau felt the same way. So we attempted our own photo shoot this year. It worked well. Even though we were limited to basically one pose, at least we were able to change out outfits. Overall, I am happy with what we came up with. Next year we will have our tree and I am sure SNOW so we can come up with more pictures to work with.
Another new thing we did this year: picture Christmas cards. Our sister uses a website each year that she uploads her own pictures on so we thought we'd give it a try this year. I am excited to see how they turn out. If they look nice, it might be something we do every year. I love Christmas cards, but when I write them out individually, I tend to procrastinate and, well, it takes me FOREVER to get them sent.
Here are some of my favorites:
Not too bad...thank you iPhoto!
I hope you are all enjoying the Christmas season! Christmas Day will be here before we know it!!!
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
So...the other day I made my first attempt at really driving in the city. There is a Target about eight to ten miles down the road from us and even though I had gone with the intention of loading up on groceries and groceries only, I caught the Christmas bug when I turned on the radio to a NY station that plays "All Christmas music, all the time." I though to myself "I'll just look and see what they have."
I made a bee line to the Christmas decorations and scooped up a container of brown and gold Christmas bulbs and a strand of Christmas lights and then I was OUT of the aisle. My thought process was this: if I go to the decorations aisle first then I won't be able to talk myself into things while I was shopping for groceries. I was quite proud of myself when I triumphantly left with said items.
All day yesterday I was extremely anxious for Beau to get home (I am every day but yesterday in particular). I walked down to the grocery store because the weather was beautiful! I made sure I scrubbed the apartment top to bottom and then made the chili early enough that it could sit and simmer and make the apartment smell delicious. Beau text me and told me to pick out some Christmas music. DONE. All was ready when he got home! So we had chili and watched some TV and had a Hot Toddie and I look over at him and hes starting to drift. Now was the time. Not a moment could be wasted.
I jumped up and hauled out the Christmas decorations. Beau: laying on couch now... So I started to unwind the lights and pulled a chair over and very dramatically looked around the apartment trying to figure out where to put them, clearly incapable of doing it on my owe due to my vertical short comings. I think he finally picked up on my obvious distress as he managed to pull himself up off the couch. Poor guy. Early morning+Hot Toddie= one worn out medical student ready for an early bedtime.
Here are our decorations:
And here was Beau after we ran the strand of lights:
Clearly it was too much activity for him. Out...
So while he snoozed I did this with the bulbs:
We didn't really put a lot of emphasis on decorating, but its festive and I think Beau appreciates the thought behind it.
Today we were going to go to Rockefeller Center and take our picture in front of the tree to send out in our Christmas cards this year. But as I picked out an outfit and applied my makeup I was quickly getting out of the mood to take the train into the city, try and find someone to take our picture, and then get back on the train and walk home. Thank goodness Beau felt the same way. So we attempted our own photo shoot this year. It worked well. Even though we were limited to basically one pose, at least we were able to change out outfits. Overall, I am happy with what we came up with. Next year we will have our tree and I am sure SNOW so we can come up with more pictures to work with.
Another new thing we did this year: picture Christmas cards. Our sister uses a website each year that she uploads her own pictures on so we thought we'd give it a try this year. I am excited to see how they turn out. If they look nice, it might be something we do every year. I love Christmas cards, but when I write them out individually, I tend to procrastinate and, well, it takes me FOREVER to get them sent.
Here are some of my favorites:
Not too bad...thank you iPhoto!
I hope you are all enjoying the Christmas season! Christmas Day will be here before we know it!!!
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Libby, You Are One Classy Dame
When I was younger I was such a history nerd and no doubt THAT is the reason I went chose the path as a historian once I went to college. But when I say history nerd, I mean history nerd.
I remember there would be topics I would hear about and then I would be stuck on them for forever. First it was Kate Shelly and how she shaved the passenger train. Then there was the Titanic. Anything and everything Titanic I could learn about, I did. And then there was WWII, and then Ellis Island.
I don't remember how old I was at the time. Still fairly young, way before high school even. I would go to the library and pour over the coffee table books that were filled with pictures of immigrants coming to our country. I would think about how it must have felt to spend weeks, even months, upon one of those cramped passenger liners and I would try to imagine how I would feel if I were a immigrant way back then. How I would feel when I saw the Statue of Liberty for the first time and fully grasp everything she stood for.
When Beau and I first moved to the city, she was the first thing we saw as we went over the bridge and it was INCREDIBLE. Even though she was teeny tiny and I had to squint to see her, she still took my breath away. And I started to feel a little bit like someone starting a new life in a very big city so very far away from everyone and everything I knew. Wow...
When my brother came out to visit this past spring we had gone down to Battery Park and I wanted so badly to go. Beau and I had gone down to the park a few times to just sit there and look out across the harbor. She may be old, but she has always meant something to me. And she has such a huge place in my heart. It gives you so much pride as an American as you look out at her.
Beau had always know how much her symbolism means to me and so a couple weeks ago we bundled up and headed down to the harbor. We were boarding the boat and we were going to get a close up view of...her...
Shes so beautiful...
I was just so excited. And the closer we got, the more emotional I became. Perhaps it was because of all the different languages I could hear being spoken around me. I wondered if maybe their ancestors came to America this way, and I thought about my ancestors who saw the same thing I was seeing, so many years ago. They too were filled with so much hope and promise. They came to America looking for a better life.
As we boarded the ferry to take us to Ellis Island I was just so extremely pumped. Jumping up and down like a little kid. Walking through this extremely historically significant building was just so incredible, almost sacred in a way. I almost felt as though, if I were there all alone, I could stand in the middle of the grand hall and hear all the voices from the past. Mmm...
And as we made our way back to Battery Park, this is what you see:
America...That tall building is where the World Trade Center once stood and is now the site of the 9/11 Memorial. To the far left is the Empire State Building. I just thought it was so incredible. How different it must look now. Can you imagine coming from a country with virtually no sky line to this? How intimidating and scary it must have been. Will I make friends? Will I find work? Where will I live? Will anyone speak my language? The struggles our ancestors must have faced all to be FREE. It makes so sad to think that our great country once held so much promise and "hope." What a drastic change. I wish everyone could place themselves in the shoes of those who came here long before we were born, long before our grandparents or great-grandparents were born. Maybe then we wouldn't allow ourselves to be walked all over by an increasingly corrupt government. Its just sad.
And on that happy note...
We are so blessed to live in this great country. Don't let your freedom be taken from you.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Monday, November 28, 2011
Rejection Slip Theater!!!!
Oh my GOODNESS! I just found my own trip down memory lane with this. When I was little we used to listen to this radio show EVERY Sunday. It was called Rejection Slip Theater and it was on WHO. We NEVER missed it. I had been looking for this for a LONG time. Barnes and Noble used to sell it but when I got on their website they didn't sell it anymore so I did some digging and started SQUEALING with excitement when I found this website. Hope you all enjoy it!!!!
http://www.podcastalley.com/podcast_details.php?pod_id=35879&allEpisodes=
http://www.podcastalley.com/podcast_details.php?pod_id=35879&allEpisodes=
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Christmas Time Is Here
Its hard to believe how fast this year went, now that I look back it hardly seems possible that we've lived here almost a year already. Its been a year of big changes, that is for sure.
Thanksgiving has come and gone and it seems as though Christmas is earlier every year. When I was buying decorations for our wedding back in September, Hobby Lobby had already started setting up their Christmas displays. At that time I thought to myself "its way too early for that!" but as we walked through Wal-Mart on Thanksgiving day, I couldn't help but get caught up in the Christmas spirit. Perhaps its the reason for my background change, even though I hate the snow.
Since we will be moving about a month after Christmas we decided we weren't going to get a tree or decorate since we just don't have the room for it. Its going to be weird not having a Christmas tree! We also agreed that we are not going to exchange gifts this year either. We are trying to save money. Moving is so costly, and we got a surprise the other day...the kind saying that we have to start paying back student loans next month. Oui...
Normally I don't like to talk about the economy, or politics, or anything too controversial but I have to say here that we were at Target in Brooklyn on BLACK FRIDAY and there was hardly anyone there. Granted we were there later in the morning, but all the "door buster" deals were still there when we walked in. There were plenty of flat screens and toys to go around. I wonder what Christmas will be like this year for families with little ones.
Ever since we were little it was instilled in us that Christmas was not about "getting" but "giving" and I think that is one of life's most valuable lessons. I usually love to go all out for Christmas, making things and buying things and completely and totally delighting in wrapping presents while I watch a Christmas movie and sip on cider. I just love the feeling of the season, knowing that before too long you'll be surrounded by loved ones and I love watching people as they open their gifts.
This Christmas we will be here in New York. Scheduling has made it impossible for us to go home and there is just no way I am going to leave my husband on our first Christmas together. So even though we are having to break with tradition this year, I still look forward to next year. I look forward to shopping and wrapping and setting up the tree and cooking and looking at Christmas lights, and going to candle light service...I look forward to spending time with loved ones.
Thanksgiving has come and gone and it seems as though Christmas is earlier every year. When I was buying decorations for our wedding back in September, Hobby Lobby had already started setting up their Christmas displays. At that time I thought to myself "its way too early for that!" but as we walked through Wal-Mart on Thanksgiving day, I couldn't help but get caught up in the Christmas spirit. Perhaps its the reason for my background change, even though I hate the snow.
Since we will be moving about a month after Christmas we decided we weren't going to get a tree or decorate since we just don't have the room for it. Its going to be weird not having a Christmas tree! We also agreed that we are not going to exchange gifts this year either. We are trying to save money. Moving is so costly, and we got a surprise the other day...the kind saying that we have to start paying back student loans next month. Oui...
Normally I don't like to talk about the economy, or politics, or anything too controversial but I have to say here that we were at Target in Brooklyn on BLACK FRIDAY and there was hardly anyone there. Granted we were there later in the morning, but all the "door buster" deals were still there when we walked in. There were plenty of flat screens and toys to go around. I wonder what Christmas will be like this year for families with little ones.
Ever since we were little it was instilled in us that Christmas was not about "getting" but "giving" and I think that is one of life's most valuable lessons. I usually love to go all out for Christmas, making things and buying things and completely and totally delighting in wrapping presents while I watch a Christmas movie and sip on cider. I just love the feeling of the season, knowing that before too long you'll be surrounded by loved ones and I love watching people as they open their gifts.
This Christmas we will be here in New York. Scheduling has made it impossible for us to go home and there is just no way I am going to leave my husband on our first Christmas together. So even though we are having to break with tradition this year, I still look forward to next year. I look forward to shopping and wrapping and setting up the tree and cooking and looking at Christmas lights, and going to candle light service...I look forward to spending time with loved ones.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Just a couple more pics ;)
Here are a couple that I wanted to add:
My husband and I at the 85th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The weather was PERFECT!
Beau's shadow Smokey. Its our brother and sister's cat and he is always so happy when we come to visit. He's basically glued to Beau the entire time we're there. He's such a good boy.
Beau's mom came out to visit us Tuesday and she brought us these beautiful fall flowers. I LOVE them and they looked pretty great along with my special Thanksgiving salt and pepper shakers ;)
My husband and I at the 85th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The weather was PERFECT!
Beau's shadow Smokey. Its our brother and sister's cat and he is always so happy when we come to visit. He's basically glued to Beau the entire time we're there. He's such a good boy.
Beau's mom came out to visit us Tuesday and she brought us these beautiful fall flowers. I LOVE them and they looked pretty great along with my special Thanksgiving salt and pepper shakers ;)
A Great Thanksgiving
Another Thanksgiving has come and gone. This was a very special Thanksgiving for us. We had many things to be thankful for this year. Too many to list, but then again, I think every day we have many things to be thankful for. Our health, the food in our stomachs, the roof over our heads, and the love and support of many wonderful friends and family...
This year was very exciting. Ever since I was a little girl, our family tradition has been to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. For as long as I can remember I have wanted to see the parade in person and this year we were given the opportunity to do just that. It was such an exhilarating experience. The night before we had gone out with some of Beau's work friends and by the time we got home we were both so tired that I was having second thoughts about going. Beau was beat and I really wanted him to be able to sleep in for as many of the four days that he had off. But we both woke up early on our own and I have to admit I was like a kid at Christmas. I was so excited to see the parade that I was jumping up and down and squealing with laughter. I love that I have a husband who finds my shear excitement entertaining and not in the least bit annoying...
We got on the subway and were headed to 42nd street. There were people everywhere and the closer we got to Manhattan the more people there were boarding the trains. There were parents and kids packed on to the F line like sardines and the excitement coming from both kids and the young at heart made the event that more exciting. Their anticipation was contagious and there was one point where I looked over and saw a little girl that looked exactly like my niece and I couldn't help but wish we would have had them with us to share in the experience. I mean I am 26 for crying out loud and you'd think I was an 8 year old (then again I still die with laughter when Beau "raspberries" me, but that is another story for another time).
Once we were off the subway and up on the street I couldn't imagine the people. I knew it was going to be crowded but this was ridiculous. We stood and waited for about a half hour before the parade got underway but the wait was worth it! Here are some pictures:
It was incredible! My batteries died half way through the parade and I wanted to save them for Santa. Yes Santa, because I am 8 I REALLY wanted to see Santa. We ended up leaving though with about an hour left of the parade. We were taking the train down to New Jersey for Thanksgiving and we wanted to get there before the crowd.
Getting to the Subway through hoards of people...I bet it was how the Beatles felt when they tried to leave Shea Stadium. CRAZY is all I can say. I held on to Beau's back pack the whole way out of fear of being separated and not being able to find him. There were times where I was afraid of getting pushed over there were so many people moving in groups going every which direction. We made it to the train eventually and were on our way to Jersey.
Travis picked us up at the station and we went shopping. We made a couple of stops before heading back to their house and one of the stops was Wal-Mart. I am not a huge Wal-Mart fan, but I have to admit I was kinda getting a buzz off of all the booty they had laying around for the Black Friday sale. I confess, I am getting into the Christmas spirit.
We got back to the house and mom and Jaqui had been cooking away all morning long. Here is the amazing dinner we had:
We had such a great time. It helps so much having them close and it was an extra treat that Beau's mom was able to join us for Thanksgiving this year. We feel very spoiled.
Tonight Beau and I had our own little Thanksgiving here at our home and we invited one of our old friends over for dinner. We had the works although Beau is the one who made most of it. There is something about the holidays that knocks me out! Here is our delicious meal that Beau made:
And the guys enjoying it!:
It was a great Thanksgiving this year and I am very excited to see where the Lord will have us this time next year. Big things on the horizon for sure! We are truly blessed.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
This year was very exciting. Ever since I was a little girl, our family tradition has been to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. For as long as I can remember I have wanted to see the parade in person and this year we were given the opportunity to do just that. It was such an exhilarating experience. The night before we had gone out with some of Beau's work friends and by the time we got home we were both so tired that I was having second thoughts about going. Beau was beat and I really wanted him to be able to sleep in for as many of the four days that he had off. But we both woke up early on our own and I have to admit I was like a kid at Christmas. I was so excited to see the parade that I was jumping up and down and squealing with laughter. I love that I have a husband who finds my shear excitement entertaining and not in the least bit annoying...
We got on the subway and were headed to 42nd street. There were people everywhere and the closer we got to Manhattan the more people there were boarding the trains. There were parents and kids packed on to the F line like sardines and the excitement coming from both kids and the young at heart made the event that more exciting. Their anticipation was contagious and there was one point where I looked over and saw a little girl that looked exactly like my niece and I couldn't help but wish we would have had them with us to share in the experience. I mean I am 26 for crying out loud and you'd think I was an 8 year old (then again I still die with laughter when Beau "raspberries" me, but that is another story for another time).
Once we were off the subway and up on the street I couldn't imagine the people. I knew it was going to be crowded but this was ridiculous. We stood and waited for about a half hour before the parade got underway but the wait was worth it! Here are some pictures:
It was incredible! My batteries died half way through the parade and I wanted to save them for Santa. Yes Santa, because I am 8 I REALLY wanted to see Santa. We ended up leaving though with about an hour left of the parade. We were taking the train down to New Jersey for Thanksgiving and we wanted to get there before the crowd.
Getting to the Subway through hoards of people...I bet it was how the Beatles felt when they tried to leave Shea Stadium. CRAZY is all I can say. I held on to Beau's back pack the whole way out of fear of being separated and not being able to find him. There were times where I was afraid of getting pushed over there were so many people moving in groups going every which direction. We made it to the train eventually and were on our way to Jersey.
Travis picked us up at the station and we went shopping. We made a couple of stops before heading back to their house and one of the stops was Wal-Mart. I am not a huge Wal-Mart fan, but I have to admit I was kinda getting a buzz off of all the booty they had laying around for the Black Friday sale. I confess, I am getting into the Christmas spirit.
We got back to the house and mom and Jaqui had been cooking away all morning long. Here is the amazing dinner we had:
We had such a great time. It helps so much having them close and it was an extra treat that Beau's mom was able to join us for Thanksgiving this year. We feel very spoiled.
Tonight Beau and I had our own little Thanksgiving here at our home and we invited one of our old friends over for dinner. We had the works although Beau is the one who made most of it. There is something about the holidays that knocks me out! Here is our delicious meal that Beau made:
And the guys enjoying it!:
It was a great Thanksgiving this year and I am very excited to see where the Lord will have us this time next year. Big things on the horizon for sure! We are truly blessed.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Monday, November 14, 2011
My Favorite Holiday is on It's Way
There is nothing I love more than the holiday season. My most FAVORITE holiday is a little over a week away and I absolutely beyond excited!
Yes friends, I am speaking of that centuries old holiday we call 'Thanksgiving.' Everything is perfect about that holiday. The fall colors, the weather, the clothes, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, being surrounded by loved ones and FOOD.
A couple years ago Beau and I spent our first Thanksgiving away from our loved ones. He was in school in Dominica and he couldn't make it home so I went to him. It was difficult for us being so far away from home, but I was determined to make it a REAL Thanksgiving for him.
Even though we didn't have a lot to work with, (and no Turkey) we still had a great Thanksgiving. Look how happy he was...
Last year we spent Thanksgiving at my grandpa's. Its a tradition we have had for many years. Usually we start cooking early and take everything over to grandpas. We fill his island with all kinds of delicious things. Pot roast, ham, turkey, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole...oh my makes my mouth water just thinking about it!
I made pumpkin bars for the first time last year and grandpa LOVED them!
I can't wait...
This year, I am SO excited because, for as long as I can remember, I have wanted to see Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and then go to the famous department store for some Christmas browsing. This year we are DOING IT!!!! And then we are headed to New Jersey to spend the weekend with our family. I truly can't wait.
We have so much to be thankful this year. So many blessings upon our family. But I think one thing I have come to realize is how thankful I am for proximity. What? When we are so far away from loved ones (especially during the holidays) I think we realize how good we have it to be so close. So I am thankful for our family, our loved ones, and the impact they have on our lives.
I have lots to be thankful for. So much to thank the Lord for. Good thing He knows my heart, because it is overflowing...my cup runneth over...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Yes friends, I am speaking of that centuries old holiday we call 'Thanksgiving.' Everything is perfect about that holiday. The fall colors, the weather, the clothes, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, being surrounded by loved ones and FOOD.
A couple years ago Beau and I spent our first Thanksgiving away from our loved ones. He was in school in Dominica and he couldn't make it home so I went to him. It was difficult for us being so far away from home, but I was determined to make it a REAL Thanksgiving for him.
Even though we didn't have a lot to work with, (and no Turkey) we still had a great Thanksgiving. Look how happy he was...
Last year we spent Thanksgiving at my grandpa's. Its a tradition we have had for many years. Usually we start cooking early and take everything over to grandpas. We fill his island with all kinds of delicious things. Pot roast, ham, turkey, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole...oh my makes my mouth water just thinking about it!
I made pumpkin bars for the first time last year and grandpa LOVED them!
I can't wait...
This year, I am SO excited because, for as long as I can remember, I have wanted to see Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and then go to the famous department store for some Christmas browsing. This year we are DOING IT!!!! And then we are headed to New Jersey to spend the weekend with our family. I truly can't wait.
We have so much to be thankful this year. So many blessings upon our family. But I think one thing I have come to realize is how thankful I am for proximity. What? When we are so far away from loved ones (especially during the holidays) I think we realize how good we have it to be so close. So I am thankful for our family, our loved ones, and the impact they have on our lives.
I have lots to be thankful for. So much to thank the Lord for. Good thing He knows my heart, because it is overflowing...my cup runneth over...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Greek Living
I feel like we live in a frat house lately. At all hours of the day people are stomping up and down the stairs, making WAY too much noise in neighboring apartments, or blaring music and singing along at the top of their lungs (i.e. every Monday morning, same time, same song...) and to top off the experience a couple weeks ago I went down to check the mail and there, on the wall, was a certain part of the male anatomy, drawn larger than life itself. Gotta love it...
Saturday morning and I have loads on my mind and true to form I blog. I was thinking several things this morning:
-why can't Felicity get her sh** together and just PICK ONE, Noel or Ben. Come ON girl lets wrap up the show already!
-why is it that when I go to try my hand at this "extreme coupon" thing whenever I go to the plethora of coupon websites I signed up for, none of them have coupons for things I actually buy. And if there are coupons then I have to buy 60 of anything to actually take a few cents off. Makes no sense to me and I have decided I am going to drop the whole plan til we get moved to somewhere with a little more storage room.
- there are a TON of places in New York that look fascinating to me and how did I learn about them? Through other blogs.
- (oh...there goes the downstairs neighbor again...belting his lungs out)
-I need to do something about our blog. Next year I am planning on a revamp!
-I miss my friends
-The holidays are right around the corner...SHIT
-I LOVE taking care of my husband and the pure joy he gets from me doing something as simple as making him dinner.
-I LOVE married life!
-I really want to get crafty this winter and I am hunting for some good websites so if anyone knows of any send them my way!
-I need a haircut already
-Why is it so expensive to fly?
I know these are all random thoughts but those are usually the ones you have when you are sitting in front of the TV on a Saturday morning. I wish Beau were home... :(
I hope this entry finds everyone well!
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Saturday morning and I have loads on my mind and true to form I blog. I was thinking several things this morning:
-why can't Felicity get her sh** together and just PICK ONE, Noel or Ben. Come ON girl lets wrap up the show already!
-why is it that when I go to try my hand at this "extreme coupon" thing whenever I go to the plethora of coupon websites I signed up for, none of them have coupons for things I actually buy. And if there are coupons then I have to buy 60 of anything to actually take a few cents off. Makes no sense to me and I have decided I am going to drop the whole plan til we get moved to somewhere with a little more storage room.
- there are a TON of places in New York that look fascinating to me and how did I learn about them? Through other blogs.
- (oh...there goes the downstairs neighbor again...belting his lungs out)
-I need to do something about our blog. Next year I am planning on a revamp!
-I miss my friends
-The holidays are right around the corner...SHIT
-I LOVE taking care of my husband and the pure joy he gets from me doing something as simple as making him dinner.
-I LOVE married life!
-I really want to get crafty this winter and I am hunting for some good websites so if anyone knows of any send them my way!
-I need a haircut already
-Why is it so expensive to fly?
I know these are all random thoughts but those are usually the ones you have when you are sitting in front of the TV on a Saturday morning. I wish Beau were home... :(
I hope this entry finds everyone well!
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Friday, November 11, 2011
I'm So Charlotte
I am looking out the window and noticing that the leaves are falling like snow flakes. So that can only mean one thing, winter is on its way. And if that isn't indicator enough, the temperature is. Yesterday it was in the mid 60's and I had the windows WIDE open. Now as I sit here wrapped in a blanket with a candle, its 48 out. And I hate it.
So with the on coming winter I am cringing. I was on the phone with my sister yesterday and we were talking about the cold weather ahead and I was thinking, no, dreading the fact that we are spending another winter here. Last year I felt like the walls were closing in on me but at least I had classes that I was working on. This year I am desperately seeking employment.
Over the summer I put my resume into countless places that I knew would be resume builders for me. Not even a nibble. I tried The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The New York Public Library, Christies, and The American Museum of Natural History. All these places I was SO excited about! I thought how AWESOME would that be? I am so Charlotte.
Back to the phone conversation with my sister...I told her I had been putting in applications various places and she suggested that I join some kind of club. I cringed at the thought of it because I am shy. I am shy with strangers and the idea of joining a club here in NY makes me feel like this move is even more permanent, like I need to start making friends because I will never see my other friends ever again. And partly because I did, for a moment, entertain the notion of joining a book club, a women's club. And then I had visions of Sex and the City and I was thinking to myself how extremely sad it would be for me if I did.
In college my dearest girlfriends and I watched that show ALL THE TIME and we always talked about how cool it would be if we all went to NYC together some time. Well, now I am here and they are scattered to the four winds (well, three winds). We even decided which one of us was most like each character. If you know me, and if you've ever seen the show, well...I was the one who was most like Charlotte.
I miss my Carrie, Miranda, and Samantha and I just can't do a book club with out you here. The next couple months will go by fast though and then we are OUT of here.
Hmm...maybe I should look into Starbucks...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
So with the on coming winter I am cringing. I was on the phone with my sister yesterday and we were talking about the cold weather ahead and I was thinking, no, dreading the fact that we are spending another winter here. Last year I felt like the walls were closing in on me but at least I had classes that I was working on. This year I am desperately seeking employment.
Over the summer I put my resume into countless places that I knew would be resume builders for me. Not even a nibble. I tried The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The New York Public Library, Christies, and The American Museum of Natural History. All these places I was SO excited about! I thought how AWESOME would that be? I am so Charlotte.
Back to the phone conversation with my sister...I told her I had been putting in applications various places and she suggested that I join some kind of club. I cringed at the thought of it because I am shy. I am shy with strangers and the idea of joining a club here in NY makes me feel like this move is even more permanent, like I need to start making friends because I will never see my other friends ever again. And partly because I did, for a moment, entertain the notion of joining a book club, a women's club. And then I had visions of Sex and the City and I was thinking to myself how extremely sad it would be for me if I did.
In college my dearest girlfriends and I watched that show ALL THE TIME and we always talked about how cool it would be if we all went to NYC together some time. Well, now I am here and they are scattered to the four winds (well, three winds). We even decided which one of us was most like each character. If you know me, and if you've ever seen the show, well...I was the one who was most like Charlotte.
I miss my Carrie, Miranda, and Samantha and I just can't do a book club with out you here. The next couple months will go by fast though and then we are OUT of here.
Hmm...maybe I should look into Starbucks...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
A Change of Plans...Again
Monday came and went. Beau and I had sent out prayer requests that his Pediatrics rotation would not work out so we could move back to the Midwest before Thanksgiving.
The Lord answered out prayers, but there has never been a more truer saying that the Lord's plan is always best. I'll explain:
When Beau called me and told me the Peds rotation hadn't worked out it felt like my heart was shot into space, and then he told me that they had offered him the surgical rotation and just as fast as my heart departed from the ground it came crashing back down again. Surgery...
The surgery rotation is a grueling one. Long hours and difficult scenarios and very very stressful at times. We knew that it was going to be a hard rotation and I knew that if Beau were given the opportunity to do it here, then we'd take it so we could just get it out of the way. If he were to take it here, then he'd be green book certified and there would be no restrictions in any states in terms of matching for residency, or being able to practice. I knew that this was something Beau had been stressing over basically since he started medical school so when he told me he had taken it, I understood the importance behind it even though it wasn't what we planned at all. We were so desperate to get home.
So the change of plans. We went from the possibility of coming home mid November to now March. That is UNLESS Beau can get his peds rotation some where other than here. If he can, then we are done here in NY on JANUARY 27TH. Tentative. Very tentative.
We wanted to come home so badly, but this is where God wants us for now. And I am happy with that actually. Plans change, especially the ones we make for ourselves.
We will see what happens next ;)
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
The Lord answered out prayers, but there has never been a more truer saying that the Lord's plan is always best. I'll explain:
When Beau called me and told me the Peds rotation hadn't worked out it felt like my heart was shot into space, and then he told me that they had offered him the surgical rotation and just as fast as my heart departed from the ground it came crashing back down again. Surgery...
The surgery rotation is a grueling one. Long hours and difficult scenarios and very very stressful at times. We knew that it was going to be a hard rotation and I knew that if Beau were given the opportunity to do it here, then we'd take it so we could just get it out of the way. If he were to take it here, then he'd be green book certified and there would be no restrictions in any states in terms of matching for residency, or being able to practice. I knew that this was something Beau had been stressing over basically since he started medical school so when he told me he had taken it, I understood the importance behind it even though it wasn't what we planned at all. We were so desperate to get home.
So the change of plans. We went from the possibility of coming home mid November to now March. That is UNLESS Beau can get his peds rotation some where other than here. If he can, then we are done here in NY on JANUARY 27TH. Tentative. Very tentative.
We wanted to come home so badly, but this is where God wants us for now. And I am happy with that actually. Plans change, especially the ones we make for ourselves.
We will see what happens next ;)
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Saturday, November 5, 2011
I Have a Feeling I'm Going To Have a Case of the Mondays
Monday is on its way, but before I get to that, I want to reflect on the great weekend we had.
Thursday we made an impromptu trip to New Jersey and spent a couple days with our family. It was so great to be there. It was a much needed break and I was missing Jaqui in a major way. Its funny how just a simple hug from someone and to just vent to someone who really knows you can make you feel so much better. It was a great weekend. We made dinner for her and Travis and just hung out. It was absolutely WONDERFUL being able to spend time with them. I always look forward to spending time with them.
We tried out Thomas Sweet's for the first time this weekend! Last night Jaqui burst out with "I want Thomas Sweet's!" ( I have no idea if that is the right name or not but its pretty close) So Beau and Travis ran to pick up the most AMAZING pumpkin frozen yogurt I have ever had in my entire life. It was great to spend that girl time with Jaqui and just really talk to her. She always has a way of putting me at ease. From the very beginning of Beau and mine's relationship she has always been there and I can't imagine not having her close.
But I should explain why I have been so hard to get a hold of and apologize to all of you (a hem, Chunk) who I haven't emailed yet...
I haven't wanted to get into the whole story. I have asked for prayers and Beau and I have been so deep in prayer over this. Let me explain...
When Beau was in Miami (over a year ago) he had to have labs drawn for school. He had his labs drawn through the school that he is attending (keep that in mind as the story progresses). As we are driving down the road on our HONEYMOON his school calls. We were in having dinner and so we listened to the message when we came back out. They (his school) said that the labs (that his school had drawn) weren't the right ones and that he was going to need to have his labs drawn again before he could start his next rotation. They called us on a Wednesday and they were due to the hospital on that Friday! So after he had called the school back and asked them if he could get an extension because we were on our honeymoon and driving cross country, they told us that they didn't give extensions. They said we'd have to show up at the hospital and hope that they allow him to do this rotation. So I got on my phone and called up the doctors office and we turned around and drove all the way back to Toledo. In the end we didn't get the labs into the hospital on time, but the story doesn't end there...
After having the labs drawn and being told they definitely would NOT be submitted to the NY hospital on time we set off. It had put a damper on the entire honeymoon. We were so stressed. What does this mean? Are we going to be able to get a different rotation in NY? Are we going to have to move within the next few weeks? Should we even bother taking all this stuff back with us to furnish the apartment if we weren't going to be there much longer?
When we got back to NY the school had "worked things out" and that he should be able to do the rotation. At least that's what they said. Beau was so relieved but I was, well, not. There was a part of me that just wanted so badly to be done here. To be able to move back to the Midwest. So we stocked up on all kinds of food and set up the apartment thinking we were going to be here at least another six weeks. By this time we had decided that we were going to move back in December regardless.
The day before yesterday his school called back. Basically we are bogged down by the same questions we had before we got back. But the funny thing is, that at this point, we are praying that it doesn't work out. We want so badly to be done with this place. We want to leave NY for good. And up until yesterday, despite how badly I want to leave, I felt guilty because I didn't want to leave Jaqui and Travis here to spend the holidays alone. But as I talked about everything with her, she told me how desperate they were to get home as well. This made me feel so much better. Especially when she told me they would be praying that we get back to the Midwest as soon as possible.
So as I sit here, Beau is looking at the cost of appliances and we have been house hunting with the hopes of having to find a new place very soon. And as I sit here, looking at him, and as I drink the chamomile tea he made me because "he thought I was stressing about things" (Lord how could I love him any more?) I think about how blessed I am that we are together through this and I think how even though we hate it here and want to be home with our family and friends, I know the Lord brought us to NY for a reason and I know he knows our hearts and hears our prayers. I have the most amazing husband and we are going through this together and we are becoming even stronger because of it.
So if you read this, can you please say a prayer for us?
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Thursday we made an impromptu trip to New Jersey and spent a couple days with our family. It was so great to be there. It was a much needed break and I was missing Jaqui in a major way. Its funny how just a simple hug from someone and to just vent to someone who really knows you can make you feel so much better. It was a great weekend. We made dinner for her and Travis and just hung out. It was absolutely WONDERFUL being able to spend time with them. I always look forward to spending time with them.
We tried out Thomas Sweet's for the first time this weekend! Last night Jaqui burst out with "I want Thomas Sweet's!" ( I have no idea if that is the right name or not but its pretty close) So Beau and Travis ran to pick up the most AMAZING pumpkin frozen yogurt I have ever had in my entire life. It was great to spend that girl time with Jaqui and just really talk to her. She always has a way of putting me at ease. From the very beginning of Beau and mine's relationship she has always been there and I can't imagine not having her close.
But I should explain why I have been so hard to get a hold of and apologize to all of you (a hem, Chunk) who I haven't emailed yet...
I haven't wanted to get into the whole story. I have asked for prayers and Beau and I have been so deep in prayer over this. Let me explain...
When Beau was in Miami (over a year ago) he had to have labs drawn for school. He had his labs drawn through the school that he is attending (keep that in mind as the story progresses). As we are driving down the road on our HONEYMOON his school calls. We were in having dinner and so we listened to the message when we came back out. They (his school) said that the labs (that his school had drawn) weren't the right ones and that he was going to need to have his labs drawn again before he could start his next rotation. They called us on a Wednesday and they were due to the hospital on that Friday! So after he had called the school back and asked them if he could get an extension because we were on our honeymoon and driving cross country, they told us that they didn't give extensions. They said we'd have to show up at the hospital and hope that they allow him to do this rotation. So I got on my phone and called up the doctors office and we turned around and drove all the way back to Toledo. In the end we didn't get the labs into the hospital on time, but the story doesn't end there...
After having the labs drawn and being told they definitely would NOT be submitted to the NY hospital on time we set off. It had put a damper on the entire honeymoon. We were so stressed. What does this mean? Are we going to be able to get a different rotation in NY? Are we going to have to move within the next few weeks? Should we even bother taking all this stuff back with us to furnish the apartment if we weren't going to be there much longer?
When we got back to NY the school had "worked things out" and that he should be able to do the rotation. At least that's what they said. Beau was so relieved but I was, well, not. There was a part of me that just wanted so badly to be done here. To be able to move back to the Midwest. So we stocked up on all kinds of food and set up the apartment thinking we were going to be here at least another six weeks. By this time we had decided that we were going to move back in December regardless.
The day before yesterday his school called back. Basically we are bogged down by the same questions we had before we got back. But the funny thing is, that at this point, we are praying that it doesn't work out. We want so badly to be done with this place. We want to leave NY for good. And up until yesterday, despite how badly I want to leave, I felt guilty because I didn't want to leave Jaqui and Travis here to spend the holidays alone. But as I talked about everything with her, she told me how desperate they were to get home as well. This made me feel so much better. Especially when she told me they would be praying that we get back to the Midwest as soon as possible.
So as I sit here, Beau is looking at the cost of appliances and we have been house hunting with the hopes of having to find a new place very soon. And as I sit here, looking at him, and as I drink the chamomile tea he made me because "he thought I was stressing about things" (Lord how could I love him any more?) I think about how blessed I am that we are together through this and I think how even though we hate it here and want to be home with our family and friends, I know the Lord brought us to NY for a reason and I know he knows our hearts and hears our prayers. I have the most amazing husband and we are going through this together and we are becoming even stronger because of it.
So if you read this, can you please say a prayer for us?
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Thankful
My dear friend Jenna reminded me today that it is indeed November and she has a 30 days of thankfulness going. Awesome Jenna!
That got me thinking that I too have very much to be thankful for even though things are so screwy all of a sudden.
We received some FANTASTIC family news on the 27th. I will keep that day forever close to my heart. I can't really go into it now, but Beau and I are so ecstatic! To celebrate we opened the bottle of pink champagne my mom and dad snuck into our car. It has become a new family tradition, pink champagne to celebrate, my mom bought it for us the night we got engaged and she snuck it into our car for our honeymoon!
The night we got engaged! August 10th, 2010!
CELEBRATE!!!!
For the first time since we moved to New York our cupboards and freezer are PACKED. I am thankful that we were able to bring Ruby out here because the Lord has blessed us with the means to get to a more affordable grocery store and the ability to buy larger amounts of food at a time. We are so thankful for this. The grocery store we were shopping at was only a couple blocks away, but it was so overpriced it was RIDICULOUS. $5 for a box of gram crackers? You have to be nuts!
Praise the Lord for all this cheap food!
I am thankful for all our loved ones.
I am thankful for being so close to Jaqui and Travis and the time we have had together to grow a close and strong relationship with them.
I am thankful for my education.
I am thankful for mobility.
I am thankful for our health, our happiness, the clothes on our backs, and the roof over our heads.
I am thankful for my husband and all that he has become and all that he continues to become.
I am just thankful, thankful for every day, thankful for this life the Lord has given me.
I hope you all have a great month and you too are able to reflect on the many blessings in your own lives.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
That got me thinking that I too have very much to be thankful for even though things are so screwy all of a sudden.
We received some FANTASTIC family news on the 27th. I will keep that day forever close to my heart. I can't really go into it now, but Beau and I are so ecstatic! To celebrate we opened the bottle of pink champagne my mom and dad snuck into our car. It has become a new family tradition, pink champagne to celebrate, my mom bought it for us the night we got engaged and she snuck it into our car for our honeymoon!
The night we got engaged! August 10th, 2010!
CELEBRATE!!!!For the first time since we moved to New York our cupboards and freezer are PACKED. I am thankful that we were able to bring Ruby out here because the Lord has blessed us with the means to get to a more affordable grocery store and the ability to buy larger amounts of food at a time. We are so thankful for this. The grocery store we were shopping at was only a couple blocks away, but it was so overpriced it was RIDICULOUS. $5 for a box of gram crackers? You have to be nuts!
Praise the Lord for all this cheap food!
I am thankful for all our loved ones.
I am thankful for being so close to Jaqui and Travis and the time we have had together to grow a close and strong relationship with them.
I am thankful for my education.
I am thankful for mobility.
I am thankful for our health, our happiness, the clothes on our backs, and the roof over our heads.
I am thankful for my husband and all that he has become and all that he continues to become.
I am just thankful, thankful for every day, thankful for this life the Lord has given me.
I hope you all have a great month and you too are able to reflect on the many blessings in your own lives.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Welcome to Our Home
Hello everyone!
Initially I didn't want to post pictures of our "remodeling" project until after we had our family over but as we are having Thanksgiving at their place this year (and because I really want to show the pictures because I am just so proud of how nice we've made it) I decided to post them for your (and my ;) ) enjoyment!
I posted one picture of what it looked like when we moved in but let me give you the bare bones and now...
Move In Day, January 17th (ish) 2011...
And Now...
I LOVE our kitchen! There is one more thing I am wanting to add to the walls. Its a sign that says "Wine, How Classy People Get Trashed"
This is a view basically from our front door. The kitchen is right off to the left and the bedroom is the second door you see.
Our living room is so homey now. Its nice to have our Toledo things with us now.
So there it is in one very tiny nutshell.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Initially I didn't want to post pictures of our "remodeling" project until after we had our family over but as we are having Thanksgiving at their place this year (and because I really want to show the pictures because I am just so proud of how nice we've made it) I decided to post them for your (and my ;) ) enjoyment!
I posted one picture of what it looked like when we moved in but let me give you the bare bones and now...
Move In Day, January 17th (ish) 2011...
And Now...
I LOVE our kitchen! There is one more thing I am wanting to add to the walls. Its a sign that says "Wine, How Classy People Get Trashed"
This is a view basically from our front door. The kitchen is right off to the left and the bedroom is the second door you see.
Our living room is so homey now. Its nice to have our Toledo things with us now.So there it is in one very tiny nutshell.
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Monday, October 31, 2011
Inspired to House Hunt
So to all of you who have endured me complaining for the last 10 months about our neighbor I apologize. I apologize but the bitching does not end there. In July the neighbor we had upstairs (the one I had been complaining about since we moved in) moved out (praise the Lord) and in moved the quietest people ever. It was great. No more late night poundings on the ceilings, no more late night trips upstairs for Beau to ask him nicely to please shut the "f" up before I punch your face in (noisey upstairs neighbor+5am rise and shine=not a happy downstairs neighbor), and no more frustration over the fact that he was completely incompetent and RUDE.
Well, I shouldn't have ever dreamed the new neighbors were going to be here til we moved. One day Beau calls me and tells me that we have new neighbors. Almost immediately my heart sank because I was so thankful for the last neighbors (who I am pretty sure levitated across the floor because they were so quiet). He told me that he had already been up a couple times since they had moved in asking them to quiet down. "GREAT!" I thought. And since I have been back to NY, I have wanted to get out my broom and do some pounding on the ceiling. Its the loud guy times 2! And, and we have a neighbor DOWNSTAIRS as well who has (as Beau puts it) decided to audition for the next season of American Idol. At the same time every morning I am awakened by the bass of the SAME SONG and the man soulfully singing along apparently completely unaware that he is not the only person who inhabits this building.
So where I am going with this is that Beau and I are house hunting. Before you say "whoa you're only going to be in NY a few more months WHY are you house hunting?" Well, the planners that we are we have started looking for houses in Janesville. Last night we were looking at website after website and even hit up craigslist to see what there was for rentals. I am thinking we are DONE with apartment living. That being said, the neighbors we had in Toledo were AMAZING and became friends of ours. Maybe its just New Yorkers.
We are pretty much sold on buying. Especially if we get residency there. Here is what we have on our wish list:
-hard wood floors
-fenced in back yard
-garage for Annie
-at LEAST two bedrooms
-full basement that we can utilize either as storage or as a living space
-nice size yard for our boys (Oliver and the future Joey) and room for a garden
-close to Mercy Hospital
-a good size kitchen
-LOTS of windows
-SPACE
I am a sucker for Arts and Crafts Architecture as well as anything Art Deco. I LOVE my friend Jenna's house with all the built in wood work and natural hard wood floors. To me that feels so much like a home. Here is an example of Arts and Crafts:
This house is an example of a Craftsman built in 1910. But before the architect in me gets carried away I will just say this: it looks so homey and I can just see us filling a place like this with loved ones. *sigh*
I don't think we have an unreasonable wish list. We have even looked at many foreclosures and fixer-uppers. There was one in particular that we were particularly interested in. It is definitely in need of some TLC, but it had all the original woodwork and LOADS of potential. I am not afraid to dig in and really make it ours. We will see what the Lord has in store for us. We are so blessed in that we have family and friends who have had lots of experience in home improvement. One thing is for sure, we are having a house warming party when we do find a home and we will have everyone over to help us paint and pray over our home. We want the Lord to fill every corner.
I am a sucker for Arts and Crafts Architecture, as well as anything Art Deco. I love my friend
Its crazy to think that we are married. It still hasn't sunk in yet. As far as owning a home and starting a family? Well that seemed like a lifetime away. Its hard to believe that this time next year we may be home owners. Its so exciting. And babies? Oh my goodness! But as I sit here and watch Beau I can't imagine our life any different. I am so excited to start physically looking at places (not just over the internet) and I cannot wait to see his face when I tell him we are pregnant for the first time. We have been emotionally ready for this for a very long time now, we just need to rely on God for the rest of it.
And then there is school...another entry for another time.
So yes, are we eager to have our own place that we can do whatever we want with, and not have to share all four walls with someone? Um, YES. Wow, its coming up quicker than we think...phew...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
Well, I shouldn't have ever dreamed the new neighbors were going to be here til we moved. One day Beau calls me and tells me that we have new neighbors. Almost immediately my heart sank because I was so thankful for the last neighbors (who I am pretty sure levitated across the floor because they were so quiet). He told me that he had already been up a couple times since they had moved in asking them to quiet down. "GREAT!" I thought. And since I have been back to NY, I have wanted to get out my broom and do some pounding on the ceiling. Its the loud guy times 2! And, and we have a neighbor DOWNSTAIRS as well who has (as Beau puts it) decided to audition for the next season of American Idol. At the same time every morning I am awakened by the bass of the SAME SONG and the man soulfully singing along apparently completely unaware that he is not the only person who inhabits this building.
So where I am going with this is that Beau and I are house hunting. Before you say "whoa you're only going to be in NY a few more months WHY are you house hunting?" Well, the planners that we are we have started looking for houses in Janesville. Last night we were looking at website after website and even hit up craigslist to see what there was for rentals. I am thinking we are DONE with apartment living. That being said, the neighbors we had in Toledo were AMAZING and became friends of ours. Maybe its just New Yorkers.
We are pretty much sold on buying. Especially if we get residency there. Here is what we have on our wish list:
-hard wood floors
-fenced in back yard
-garage for Annie
-at LEAST two bedrooms
-full basement that we can utilize either as storage or as a living space
-nice size yard for our boys (Oliver and the future Joey) and room for a garden
-close to Mercy Hospital
-a good size kitchen
-LOTS of windows
-SPACE
I am a sucker for Arts and Crafts Architecture as well as anything Art Deco. I LOVE my friend Jenna's house with all the built in wood work and natural hard wood floors. To me that feels so much like a home. Here is an example of Arts and Crafts:
This house is an example of a Craftsman built in 1910. But before the architect in me gets carried away I will just say this: it looks so homey and I can just see us filling a place like this with loved ones. *sigh*
I don't think we have an unreasonable wish list. We have even looked at many foreclosures and fixer-uppers. There was one in particular that we were particularly interested in. It is definitely in need of some TLC, but it had all the original woodwork and LOADS of potential. I am not afraid to dig in and really make it ours. We will see what the Lord has in store for us. We are so blessed in that we have family and friends who have had lots of experience in home improvement. One thing is for sure, we are having a house warming party when we do find a home and we will have everyone over to help us paint and pray over our home. We want the Lord to fill every corner.
I am a sucker for Arts and Crafts Architecture, as well as anything Art Deco. I love my friend
Its crazy to think that we are married. It still hasn't sunk in yet. As far as owning a home and starting a family? Well that seemed like a lifetime away. Its hard to believe that this time next year we may be home owners. Its so exciting. And babies? Oh my goodness! But as I sit here and watch Beau I can't imagine our life any different. I am so excited to start physically looking at places (not just over the internet) and I cannot wait to see his face when I tell him we are pregnant for the first time. We have been emotionally ready for this for a very long time now, we just need to rely on God for the rest of it.
And then there is school...another entry for another time.
So yes, are we eager to have our own place that we can do whatever we want with, and not have to share all four walls with someone? Um, YES. Wow, its coming up quicker than we think...phew...
In Gods Love,
Beau and Kenz
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