Jon and Kristin got hitched!

Chris's younger brother and his new wife, Kristin, got married last week in Tulsa. It was a beautiful, sweet wedding. Chris and I were both honored to have been a part of the wedding party!

Chris, Me, Sandi, Michael

My handsome husband and me

The happy couple!

The sisters-in-law

The crew at the rehearsal

We enjoyed a few days of family and fun! It was so nice being able to spend time relaxing and catching up with everyone.

But I told you in person... isn't that enough?

I know when you get married two families collide. Two different ways of eating, vacationing, worshipping, arguing...really two different ways of doing everything. Today I am focusing on one difference- Thanking.

Yep, the acceptable way to let someone know you are thankful for their gift.

Growing up I wrote thank you notes for graduation gifts, some birthday gifts (depending on whether or not the person was there), and of course, wedding gifts. But that's it.

Chris, on the other hand, was taught to write thank you notes for everything.

So, which was is right and which way is unacceptable?

My family believes in simply saying thank you and meaning it. You get a gift, you open a gift, and you say thank you. Done. Everyone is happy. This is our common practice for Christmas and birthdays. When I started dating Chris I realized that his family expected thank you notes for all gifts given- not just weddings and graduations. I do my best to be a good addition to the family and I write my thank you notes so I don't upset anyone. I am by no means saying there is anything wrong with expecting thank you notes, but it got me thinking about what we will teach our kids.

I decided to do a little research on what is socially acceptable by today's standards.

Emily Post says, "A thank you note is always appreciated, but a note isn’t needed if you’ve thanked someone in person for a gift—the most personal thanks of all. If you receive gifts from family members that you won’t see to thank in person, write them a thank you note, both to let them know their gift arrived and that you liked it. Remember that relatives from ‘the old school’ may still expect a written note even if thanks were given in person."

Dempsey and Carroll says, "Every gift deserves a thank-you note..."

Even Etiquette for Dummies says, "...writing a thank you note is necessary. Just saying 'thank you' isn't enough."

I looked at many other sites and found many mixed opinions. Obviously no one really knows. It seems to be what many call a "dying art." Seriously? I feel that thank you notes can be special but I prefer a hug or a call. Don't waste money on a stamp and cards. Definitely not a form of art.

But again, I grew up with a family who did not expect nor want thank you notes, so I struggle with the idea.

The 'experts' do tend to say that thank you notes should be sent immediately- I guess I should get on that. Is a month too late? ;)

Today's the day.

Throw up a few prayers for my dad today, please. His tests are sometime today, but still not sure when we will know the results.

"Miracles are God's way of showing us that if we believe, all things are possible."

Back to the Black Boots

" She was absolutely glowing in her fashionable red dress, sparkly earrings, and passion for God."

I love this quote because it reminds me that my personality and attitude can show off my faith and my love for the creator of the universe. It's so cool to think that people can see God in me just by my conversations with them, and hopefully my "glow". After I read this quote I smiled, moved on, and then realized it's message. Here is my take:

Let me make it clear that I am not that trendy. I refuse to buy things that I think will be out of style in a year. I am too cheap for that. I have decided that my style is more of a classy practical, though I am not sure if many would say I even have a "style".

With this said, I do enjoy dressing-up. It makes me feel better. I don't like dressing like a slob, and lately I tend to dress girlier/dressier than I have in the past; I realized how fun it is. I actually think about what I am going to wear now, rather than throwing something on at the last minute. When I shop I am preparing outfits in my head and thinking of all the different ways I can wear a purchase. I even bought awesome black boots to wear rather than my everyday, comfortable flats. And yes, I am very thankful for my black boots, but that's a whole other post. ;)

Though confident in myself, I know I am not physically perfect. But I constantly try to be my healthiest. I eat well and go to the gym at least 5 times a week. I strive to take care of the body I was given. I take time to put on make-up every morning. I get my haircut on a regular basis. Basically, I keep myself presentable and professional.

What I am getting at is that I spend time on my outward appearance. I take the time to do all of the little things that keep me looking socially acceptable. But with my calender quote this morning, I started to wonder if I am doing everything I need to do to keep my passion for God noticeable. Am I joyful? Are my words "seasoned with salt"? Who am I living for? Am I praying enough? Am I living a life that is questionable to others? Am I causing others to sin? Am I reading and devouring God's word as I am my no brainer, thoughtless girl novel?

While answering these questions honestly, I became aware of how others may perceive me. Especially the past few weeks. I am so "busy" that my quiet times are a last priority. I pray, but I don't listen. Even in this hard time of waiting on results for my dad's testing, I am still not brought to my knees in prayer. What's the deal? I am not joyful. I am sarcastic and critical. My words can be hurtful. I am living for myself and my obligations. I talk about others. Worst of all, I cause people to sin. I could go on. My life is far from allowing others to see my passion for God.

With these struggles, am I glowing from the inside in a way that others can see my passion for Christ?

So, what now? The first step is admitting you have a problem, right?

I found a few verses to remind me of the woman God wants me to be and the things I need to change in order to reach my full potential. I want to glow from the inside.

Proverbs 31: 29- “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Colossions 3: 12-17- Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
James 1: 19- 27- My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
Wow.
It's amazing what God can put in your life to convict you. A calender? Oh my.
I could find verses forever. I could talk about all of my faults. I could focus on them. But I won't. I will focus on serving my creator. On worshiping the God of the Universe. The one who loves me unconditionally- sin and all.

Thank God for forgiveness.

Wrong Date.

In a previous post I said that my dad would be tested yesterday (I think), but apparantly the appointment got changed. He is being tested closer to Christmas. I am not sure why they moved it, but I have played the waiting game this long, surely I can keep going.

As for my Monday goals, I chose to not pay attention to what I ate, considering I started my morning with a peice of pie and cookies... I know Katie will understand ;)

"Her heart believed and she sparkled from head to toe."

My List Continued

13. My brothers- they are fun, funny, and really awesome guys. I miss them!

14. Healthy food options. After eating McDonalds for lunch today I feel disgusting. I am thankful I don't have to eat such greasy food all the time.

15. Hailey- she encourages me in EVERYTHING. And keeps me laughing.

16. Kohls- for their great deals and great selection!

17. The holidays- they are a time of family, food, and fun!

18. Having a job when so many don't.

19. Facebook- I don't think I need to explain.

I really could go on forever. Life is full of blessings any way you look at it.

Thankful? At Thanksgiving? And a few additional thoughts.

"She thought about everything she wanted to say to God, and it always started with, Thank you."

This is my desk calender quote of the day. It got me thinking about how blessed I am and how often I forget to be thankful. I get so worked-up about school, grading, running, softball, and other things that tend to use a lot of my time. I focus on how busy I am. Thanksgiving is right around the corner and I honestly don't think I have thought about giving thanks. I am too focused on whether I want to use my China or regular dishes. How will I do the place settings? Do I even want to have place settings? It's been a while since I stopped and thought about the blessings the Lord has showered on me. So here it is. My list of of blessings (in no particular order).

1. Chris- my husband is my best friend. He makes me smile and he makes me coffee. Two very important things. He also has taken care of me while I recover from a recent surgery. I am so blessed.

2. Sharon and Becky- these two ladies get me through the school day. They keep me positive and keep me sane. They also shop with me. :)

3. Katie and Casey- I don't know what I would do without my two best friends. They know me better than anyone (other than Chris, of course). I miss them terribly, but am thankful for the phone chats!

4. My momma- she loves me- unconditionally- which is hard. She also gives good advice. I should listen more often.

5. And I can't say my momma without mentioning my daddy. And yes, I call him daddy. I am just like him. Of course, I only hope I can be as giving as he is.

6. My job- I complain, but I love it.

7. My church family. For obvious reasons. :D

8. My dog, Dixie- she loves me. Even when I push her away because she is licking me too early in the morning, she always comes back for more. I wish I could love like her...

9. West Lafayette- yes, the whole town. I love it. I love the people, the atmosphere, and my life here. I love my life in general, but I really love living here. Being able to move has been a bigger blessing than I could have every imagined.

10. My health. As always. Especially as I hear of others my age who are suffering. I am blessed.

11. My faith and the people everyday who encourage it.

12. My new black boots. They're super cute. And I got them for 70% off.

13. My students, and all of the things they teach me.

14. Being able to run- even though the doctor has me resting for three weeks.

15. My Under Armour running Capri's. They are awesome.

16. Our Element.The box car. I love it.


* I started this post yesterday, with plans to add today. I wanted time to think about all I was thankful for. But I didn't add. It's the same as when I stopped writing yesterday.
After softball practice yesterday I called my mom as always. She informed me that my dad, who was recently diagnosed with diabetes, was being recommended for further testing. That didn't sound too bad. I mean, I have had further testing with different things. The more questions I asked, the more reality set in. This could be serious. Like this could be really, really serious. Or it could be nothing but diabetes (not that diabetes isn't serious itself, but compared to the options...). I didn't know what else to do but cry. And so I did. I don't think I have been that scared in a while. Once I got off the phone I just sat down on the couch. I didn't really know what to do. And then I asked the questions that I have so often answered for others: "Why is God doing this to my family? Why could this even be an option? My parents are good people. My dad doesn't deserve this." I have answered it before, but I couldn't answer it now. It was different. It was real. I began questioning God's motives. I tend to expect the worst and especially with this. Not that my dad has been diagnosed with anything- but just the fact that they're testing him for conditions so serious terrifies me.

On my way to school this morning I was thinking about my dad. I was thinking about how I would get through the next few weeks not knowing what's going on. And then I heard a song. I don't remember who it was by or what it was called, but it talked about the "God of perfect Peace." And I thought, "Duh. The God of perfect Peace. Why am I running from him now? Why am I irritated now? Why am I not running to him? Why am I not seeking his peace? The peace that passes all human understanding?" It hit me like a ton of bricks. I needed to have faith. I needed to be hopeful and stop expecting the worst. I needed God. I needed his peace.

And so here I am... trusting. Or trying to. And so I reflect on my thankfulness of yesterday, and I realize that maybe I am not thankful enough for the PEOPLE in my life. Black boots? Seriously. I mean I do really like them, but why am I not focusing on those things that cannot be replaced. And place settings? What is happening to me? Why am I not more thankful for the people who have made me and continue to make me who I am? I focus on material things so much. I want this and I want that. And in the end- who cares? These "things" mean nothing when it comes down to it. They are pointless.

I pray for all of you, my 11 readers, that this Thanksgiving and throughout the holiday season, are able to see the beauty in your life. That you are able to see and appreciate the people that God has blessed you with. And that your families are healthy and happy.

I also ask for your prayers for my dad's health. That the tests are able to be done quickly and results are made known. Pray that whatever the results say, treatment can begin and health restored. That God would provide my family with peace and comfort knowing that he is in control. That his plans are perfect.

Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension (understanding), will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Ephesians 5:4 "Remind each other of God's goodness and be thankful."

Our First Year of Marriage

I was looking back at my previous blogs and realized that I don't blog much about my fantastic husband. So, here is a posting specifically about our first year of marriage!

Last year we got married on June 6, after dating for 7 years. I know. Ridiculous. But we were high school sweethearts and went to separate colleges, so we couldn't get married any earlier. And honestly, I am so thankful for my time in college to form a few friendships that I can't imagine my life without. Here is a picture of us on our wedding day.

We then spent the next week and a half in Colorado for our honeymoon. Quickly after getting married, we moved to the Midwest for Chris to attend graduate school- and our journey began!

Some of my favorite memories of our first year of marriage:

• -A surprise trip to Chicago for the weekend

-Learning how to cook together- always including a good glass of wine

• -Planting our first garden, and attempting to make it grow

- Riding our bikes to buy a car battery
- Walking to the farmers Market every Sat. morning (this is my favorite)

-Learning how to use the drier :)
-Painting our entire house together

-Movie and game nights
-Our day trip to Indy our first week here

-Picnics
I really could go on forever, but these are the memories that stand-out from our first year together.
Chris is an amazing husband who would do anything for me. I am spoiled, and I will be the first one to admit it. I could never make it out the door on time if Chris didn't make my coffee, have it in a cup by the door, help pack my lunch and softball bag, and in the winter, start my car to have it de-iced. He really is the greatest blessing in my life.
Chris constantly shows me what it means to be a servant of Christ. When I start to stray he pulls me back on track and pushed me to be better than I am. Chris supports my random new hobbies, my attempts at being a good wife, my attempts at cooking (which I need to take lessons on!), and all of the other activities I try and often fail to do. I knew I loved Chris when we got married- I have loved him since we were 15- but I never knew that I could love him so much more.
The changes that Chris and I have been through over the past year have been such a great experience for us. Getting married, moving hours from home, making new friends, joining a new church, beginning a new career, and learning how to take care of a house. It's been a blast! I can't wait to see what all the future holds...
Here is a picture of our Anniversary celebration on our anniversary:


This past weekend Chris took me to Michigan City and Chicago. It was a blast! I will do another post over it so the pictures are easier to post! :)

The Natural State

I miss Arkansas. Here are a few specifics.

Friends.

Arkansas Razorback spirit.

Pedestrian Bridge.

Family.

The River Market- including the used book store.

Downtown.

I miss the Buffalo River- I am in need of a nice long river float!

And here we are...

Well, as of June 29, we are officially in Indiana for the next few years. At least two. Chris has begun his Masters degree at Purdue, and I am currently a professional job seeker. We have one dog, Dixie, who is spoiled- and becoming more and more spoiled by the day. She keeps us quite entertained!
I have had this blog for a while, but never really wrote anything. So, we'll see how it goes. really, it's just about us, and our 'adventures' as newlyweds in a new place. And whatever we decide to tell you all about. :)

So, here are our adventures so far...really just our day to day 'dumb doings.'

1.Mistaking oxy clean for windex...and cleaning every window and door before noticing the streaks.

2. Mistaking chicken thighs for chicken breasts, and thinking something was wrong with our meat.

3. Wondering why the heat wasn't working on our dryer, with the setting on air dry.

4. Having to ride our bikes to Auto Zone (Chris carrying a car battery in a backpack) to get a new battery for our one car.

5. Dropping what Chris calls an essential took, into the front of the element, and watching Chris spend an hour determined to get it out. Even tying a magnet to a string so maybe the tool would attach.

6. Getting lost on a daily basis in a city smaller than Jonesboro.

On a not so dumb note, we have painted the hallway and part of the living room of our super cute house! We pulled up bushes and trimmed quite a few trees. The neighbors behind us remind me of a fraternity house in college. There's definitely a constant game of beer pong, plenty of fireworks, and music... at all hours. Other than that, the neighbors are old. So that's nice. However, at certain times, usually in the evening, you can hear the people across the streets tv... I think they are hard of hearing. It's fun!
We've spent a couple of days hanging out with Chris's lab friends. Super nice, but very different from my usual clique. I actually feel bad about using my drier after hearing how environmental they are, but I need to figure out why driers are so bad before I stop using one. We do recycle- so we're at least doing a little... and we don't get sacks at the store. That's good right?
Yep, that's it. In between trips to Bed, bath, and Beyond and Wal-Mart, we seem to be painting or staining wood (just one lamp on the stain part, but we were proud!).