My Wedding Day

While picking my brain as to what to write - I came across one of my favorite blogger's page today & she's partnering in hosting a pretty fun link up.  So why not join in?!  Thanks to Holly of Where We Can Live Like Jack & Sally  for the super fun link up!

    

So without further ado...my wedding day! And in advance, there are quite a few photos (some courtesy of my awesome photographer, but most of these are from our dear friend MaryGene, who is quite the photog herself!) - but mostly because I just loved my wedding day so much!

Well, after about a year & half of dating my Honey Isaac proposed to me in Plam Springs as a TOTAL surprise...I'm pretty good at finding out information, but he did a fantastic job keeping it a big secret.  We got married on 07/24/09 -- why did I pick this day?  Well, honestly, marrying a football coach I got my first taste of the time constraints associated with the new lifestyle of mine.  My options, working around camps & workouts, were the 4th of July or the 24th (which would lead us right in to "dead week" for our honeymoon).  Not wanting to infringe on others' holiday - I opted for the 24th. 

Alright here are the details!
Location -- my Mom & I found this beautiful venue in the hills about 20 minutes from my house.  The Willamette Valley here in Oregon is pretty well known for some killer wines, particularly our Pinot Noirs.  We were married at a vineyard called Zenith Vineyards in West Salem. It was the first place we looked at, it had an amazing bridal suite (a priority for me - since I planned on getting ready onsite!), and the views of the surrounding hills & vineyards were breathtaking.  My mom, who isn't like a glitter & butterflies mom when it comes to weddings, simply asked me if we needed to go anywhere else -- I of course said NO!  Funny part of this story....my mom put down the deposit for this place approximately 2 months before Isaac & I were engaged! So I knew something was up! Ha!

(courtesy of Vibrant Table)

The other benefit of Zenith -- they had the most fantastic catering company available.  Without question they were one of the highlights of our whole event.  I had the best coordinator who took care of everything, the food was beyond amazing, & the service they provided for our friends & family was unparalleled.  Even my mom was impressed!

 Bridal Party -- My uber popular husband wanted to have like 8-10 people in our wedding parties.  I quickly shot this down, and told him he could have 3 groomsmen, and 4 ushers.  I had my niece be a junior bridesmaid, 2 bridesmaids & my younger brother was my "Gentleman of Honor."  This is something I SO thankful I did -- friendships come & go, but family is forever.  I am thankful my little brother stood beside me on that day as my #1 go to.  And it worked out well for the recessional - since we had my brother & Isaac's best man/brother both escort my niece & the rest of the party was good to go.  I had a makeup artist/hair stylist come to the venue that day & she did the girls' hair so they looked awesome & I let them each pick out their own dresses (to honor their different body types & tastes) but they had to be chocolate brown/short. I think they turned out pretty good looking! We also had Isaac's little cousin be the lei bearer, my little cousin be our ring bearer, & our friend's sweet daughter be our flower girl.  All 3 kiddos were 4 at the time & were just so stinking cute! Isaac's cousin & our friend's daughter held hands all the way down the stairs to the ceremony site & down the entire aisle! It was precious!

Colors -- Our colors were chocolate brown, ivory, and a sort of muted light blue (think light blue hydrangeas).  Loved it.  Clean, classic & flattering.

Here are some photos from our ceremony:

 

 First Dance -- Isaac & I danced our first dance together to a song his Nana recorded.  She passed away about 10 years ago now, but she was a singer in Hawaii in the 60's & 70's - and had recorded this beautiful song "Misty Rains & Lehua" with her cousin's band.  It is seriously one of the most beautiful songs & I'm so thankful we could include her in our wedding.  We tried to add as many Hawaiian touches as possible to honor Isaac's heritage & family.  I know his Dad was tearing up while we danced.  Seriously -- go to iTunes & listen to it. It's gorgeous.  

During our first dance

Reception (I'm adding this one!) -- LOVED our reception.  Our DJ was amazing, the food was amazing, we spent a lot of time going around & seeing people.  We had people flying in from Hawaii, DC, Indianapolis, California, & Washington - so we wanted to say hello to everyone.  Our caked was phenomenal - I still go to our cake lady any time I need something special!  The toasts were amazing.  Father/Daughter & Mother/Son dances were great -- Dad & I danced to "I loved her first" & I forget what Isaac & Sheila danced too....whoops! My family danced like lunatics (expected) and my friend Morgan may or may not have shoved someone to grab my toss bouquet! It was a beautiful, tasteful, classy night - complete with good friends & family, great food & wine, and lots of love!

 

Our cake -- top tier: champagne cake w/ guava mousse.

And the cake topper: My grandparents used this when they got married in 1946. It has an iridescent feel to it, so I asked my cake lady to try & mimic that in the ribbon (which are pleated to match some pleats there were in the side of my dress).  It was such a joy to share this piece with my grandparents. 

 Oh, just my Swarovski encrusted wedding shoes....LOVE LOVE LOVE them! And have TOTALLY worn them since!

 Showing off the shoes again...Ha

 Me & my honey - in our leis (mine is pikake or jasmine for non-Hawaiians)

And our Swarovski champagne flutes.

My mom's saying thru the whole planning process: "Every girl needs glitz!"

Honeymoon -- After leaving the venue, we spent two nights at a nicer hotel in town. I HIGHLY recommend this to all my friends! We spent the next day just resting and laying low. And didn't head out to Hawaii until Sunday morning.  We then got to spend 6 beautiful days on Kauai.  It has easily become my most favorite islands. So peaceful & calm.

And to top it off - after our days in Kauai, we hopped over to O'ahu for our Hawaii party.  Isaac's Dad hosted this party for us so we could celebrate with all of Isaac's family & friends.  Let's just say it was nearly larger than our actual wedding.  Well there were certainly more people that's for sure! But it was so fun to see everyone, and basically have a whole other celebration!  Isaac's family gave us a such a gift in that party.  His aunty was amazing!  And we were SO thankful for one of his HS YoungLife leaders, Charmaine, who essentially was the party planner for the whole event.  We celebrated at the old Dole Cannery Ballroom.  Had great music. GREAT food, again! And again, LOTS of love & laughter, lots of hugs & kisses.

What Would I Change? -- Hmm...probably the amount of dancing Isaac & I actually did. We were so busy saying hello to everyone we didn't dance much.  I would have tasted more of my cake!  I would have confirmed our get away car!  We were gifted a ride from the venue by a football parent Isaac knew - he's in a classic car group & a friend of his with like a '56 candy apple green Chevrolet with suicide doors & all white interior (loved it) was supposed to pick us up -- but they ended up at another winery, and when we were there -- they headed back home, which was approximately 40min from us.  So we took my parents car to the hotel.  More candid photos during the day. All in all, there isn't much else I'd change. 

Aw, man...I just love looking back at this day.  My husband is the best man around (and I'm not the only one who thinks this! Ha!) & I am so blessed to be his wife!

Thanks for going down memory lane with me! :)

Shopping + Girlfriends

I've been here before...and I'll likely be here again...  But I've got some pretty great girl friends.  This past Saturday, I found myself sulking a bit and bumming it on the couch.  Honey Isaac & our Celtics have a tough game the night before. 
But rather than be left to my own devices(I had absolutely no intention of doing anything til date night began.) - two of my sweet friends texted to see about going shopping for a girls day!

Well thankfully this month, Honey Isaac and I set up our budget and had allotted some funds for me for some new clothing (hallelujah!).  And who passes up on an opportunity for girl time & shopping.  Even though I'm not super great at shopping for myself, I happily agreed!  We made our way to the nearest outlet mall to do some damage...except by damage, I really mean make our way thru the stores while trying not to be too stingy.  However, it was awesome to not be the only one who wanted/needed to stop in the store and do some quick math.  Talk about good, like minded friends!

First stop was Banana Republic outlet...found myself a cute pair of eggplant pants (apparently dark colored jeans are still "in" for the fall) and a navy light cardigan.  Nearly ate about half my budget -- which had my stingy meter on full alert.  So we all promptly made our way to LOFT for some better deals.  To which I ended up getting two cardigans, two v-neck sweaters, and a blouse.  Morale of the story ladies & gents...go shopping with good  friends, they see things MUCH differently than you, can be great encouragers, help you stay on budget track, and it's simply more fun!
My own personal lessons for the day.....I need to expand my wardrobe a bit more. I confided to my friends that I have a problem with only purchase v-neck t-shirts, and I have a serious problem purchase cardigans! They're seriously an addiction of mine. Lots of colors in short, 3/4, and full sleeve. The other lesson: find pattern that's versatile & be sure to get multiple kinds of pieces to make full outfits.  This most recent trip I ended up with only one pair of pants and the rest tops...which is totally fine, but I need to remember to incorporate shoes, accessories, etc.
Makes me wish one of my favorite fashion bloggers lived closer...I'd call on her in a second!

All in all an agreement was made to make a monthly shopping trip together & help one another purge our closets quarterly!  Huzzah for great friends!
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These Days...

Well my friends we have survived the first week of real football practice, survived our first game (a whopping 4 1/2hrs south from us, and ended in a bitter loss...sad day), and survived our first weekend of meetings.  Needless to say, it feels good to actually be back in to what is the Parker's "normal" routine.  I always feel a little jolt as we move in to this season....a small shock to the system as it all comes together.  But once in the swing of it, it feels right.  Sure there are nights when I'd like my honey home early to eat at a "normal" time & it'd be awesome to snuggle on the couch the entire Sunday afternoon....but truth be told, Isaac is doing what he loves & what he is meant to do.  How can I be mad about that??

And these days....have already brought a few instances where my husband's incredible patience has needed to shine through.  For which I am amazed - can't say I would be as gracious, as cool under pressure, or as clear minded. Can we say rockstar or what?! 

But most importantly these days - I've been reminded (even though that ugly little voice is trying with all its might to distract me with lies) that I am loved and supported by some pretty wonderful family & friends.  Ever have one of those days when just everything seems to be falling apart at the seams?  Yup, that was my Tuesday....or what I'm calling Monday on steroids.  Rather than crumbling to that ugly voice (which would and sometimes still is my norm) - I thrust out my hand to my sweet friends; who without hesitation offered prayer, encouragement, and love.  Let's just get this clear - for a girl who never thought of herself as a "girls girl" - I am BEYOND grateful for this group of women who I am growing to know, trust, & love.  What a blessing to know I can turn to these women even with the smallest, or ugliest things and know that I'm not alone.  Weight lifted! Which in turn obviously makes me want to return the favor - to them, to the other football wives/girlfriends, to my other dear friends, to family...catch the drift? Ya know, pay it forward??

Just for good measure - here's a photo from Honey Isaac's first football game... I was a smidge late, and missed the kick off (insert wife guilt here....) but by & by could not be more proud of him.   

That's him in the center w/ the black hat & blue shirt.  Thankfully we're on to the next game & everyone is ready to take on the new challenge.  Will try to keep my cool at the game this week...don't want to be the cooky wife! 
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Proud Wifey, Good Friends, & Blue Day

I first must apologize for my MIA status....life, as expected, has gone complete nutty with the start of football.  But like me, I'm sure you all have craziness of your own.

As mentioned, football is in full swing (even though I've said this before, now it's real & true).  Two weekends ago we had our coaches BBQ, which was the first sign.  Then we moved straight in to doubles week...aka, don't see your husband week.  Thankfully enough I have some pretty wonderful friends who invite me to share in their evening routines.  Thursday night of last week was spent with some dear friends having dinner, watching flag football, and observing a very rowdy baby boy getting a hair cut...let's just say there was hair everywhere.  And again super blessed by good friends on Friday night when a sweet friend tagged along with me to make some Head Coach's Wife errands & deliveries.  Followed up by a good dinner & conversation.  A reminder, yet again, that friends are the family that you get to pick!

Which brings me to McNary High School's first ever "Blue Day" extravaganza held on Saturday.  Honey Isaac & a Rotarian in town have been working on hammering out details for this even for months.  Our local Rotary club sponsored the event & offered to host/cook for McNary's Football team & parents, the Pop Warner teams in our area, McNary's marching band, as well as our cheerleaders.  The booster club made it's presence known by having NEW McNary merchandise to outfit fans.  It was an absolutely wonderful day.  I showed up about 9:30 and there were already about 50 people putting things together, getting grills warmed up, setting up shirts and yard signs to sell.  So I spent my time in the Booster Club tent selling sweatshirts & t-shirts & more.  It was so fun!  Honey Isaac asked if I caught any of the scrimmage...to which I sheepishly answered no, I was too busy selling the new duds!  Our friends from the Rotary club shared that they fed nearly 1,000 people! Amazing! Blue Day was an incredible success - but the best part of all was seeing how our community banded together in support & how that day really has built some excitement for what's to come!  For this coach's wife I was more than honored to be able to field so many compliments from our new friends about what a wonderful job Isaac is doing (duh!), and how happy they are to have someone at the helm who is genuinely excited about growing a strong, successful, and well rounded program & community!  *insert puffed up chest here* Talk about extreme pride & joy spilling out from my heart.  Plus it was just plain cool to really get my first glimpse of Isaac in his role as the Head Coach of the program!

Here are two photos from the day taken by the gentleman who helped organize the whole event...

Honey Isaac & our mayor Lore Christopher...she was our MC for the day

Myself & the booster club presidents youngest daughter...selling our little hearts out!

 

 It was, again, such a fun day...and made me so thankful & happy to be starting this new journey with so many wonderful, new friends.  Blessings, blessings, blessings!

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oh yes...vacation!

I'm just under the 24hour mark for the beginning of my week long vacation for "dead week."  Nothing spectacular planned.  Just time away with my husband, my folks for a few days, & some of our very dear friends.  I am beyond ready for some quiet, lazy mornings, afternoons by the pool, nights filled with games & laughter, and lots of quality time with Isaac.

Small frustration slightly related to vacation (for next year that is....) - the place we are going & were hoping to go next year changed their reservation process (one that has been in place my entire life) and so we aren't able to get reserved for next year! Bah-humbug!  So we'll try and figure something else out...perhaps book a week & trade for something over spring break.  Meh - we shall see.
Back to the good, right?!  So I'm going to focus on beautiful weather that's expected. Quiet mornings. And most of all gearing up for this football season.  Prepping my heart & mind for all that will come with being the head coach's wife....whatever that means! ;)

As always, I'll try and snap some photos -- but I'll fore warn you, they'll probably all be iPhone or instagram.  Sue me for being lazy! ha

Enjoy your week friends! 
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a trip, some photos, & a thought

This past weekend, Isaac & I made our way to Denver.  The objective in traveling to the Mile High City: visit with Isaac's brother, wife, & meet our new nephew Kapono.  Definitely a trip we were looking forward to - and were happy to add it in to our typical 3 trip/year agenda.  I mean who doesn't love holding a cooing baby?!  Plus, it was really nice to have some quality time with my brother-in-law & sister-in-law. Time to rest, time to visit, time to just stare at the little guy & chuckle together at his pouty lip (that he is very quickly mastering). Parker man & I decided to stay at a hotel about 15/20 minutes from our family - mostly because I really didn't want to put pressure on them about having to "entertain" us, or worry about waking us or vice versa.  It actually worked out really well....because one day my SIL Crystal had some errands to run & the boys wanted to shoot guns.  So I dropped Parker man off at their house & made my way back to our hotel to rest, do some work, and putz around.  Everyone did what they needed/wanted to do & were happy.  Most of all it was just great to build some memories together and visit.  Definitely my favorite thing to do.  We even cooked up a quick Hawaiian dinner for Matt for his first Father's Day -- and I know being there for that made Isaac super proud of his brother.  I can tell how proud he is of Matt & how well/fast he's taken to being a dad.  A reminder of all the blessings in our families!

Here are a few photos snapped over the long weekend....sorry for the poor quality, I forgot our camera & only had the trusty iPhone available!

 Kapono boy himself -- such a sweet heart! And with reddish/brown hair & light eyes, so cute!

 Parker & Kapono visiting -- Pono was a fan of Uncle's tummy!

 Big man put the little man in his jammies

 On our last morning sitting in Pono's favorite spot -- the front porch.

Sad to leave the little guy but excited to see how he grows!

 Parker man found a new "use" for the Boppy...haha

 Kapono in love with his "My Little Lamb" swing. He was happy as a clam watching the mobile go round & round.

Isaac & I were reminded of how many blessings there are all around us.  Though there are challenges, nothing really outshines or should out weigh the goodness that surrounds.  Maybe it's babies that bring things back to center - their needs are simple.  Their love pure.  A reminder to care for & love one another in that same manner....to only expect people to be exactly who they are & respect them for that.

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do not be afraid

There's been a stirring in my over the last 6-9months.  A stirring I've been thoroughly confused by.  A stirring that has taken me from one emotion to the next - mostly because I was & still am quite uncertain of what the stirring means.   

As a self-proclaimed control "freak" these kinds of stirrings - you know, the ones with no clear direction or meaning - tend to throw me off my game.  Truth be told I've mostly been stuffing or ignoring this stirring.  Probably because it seemed easier to do that than sit & dig in to what might be behind that stirring (sorry for the extreme use of the word stirring... can't think of a better term).  

Last evening I was blessed to be in fellowship with some of the kindest, warmest women I have met.  Women who inspire me to be authentic, women who's beauty is far deeper than just what is seen, women who, even if its just in that moment, are not afraid to live from their most confident place.  In our study time last evening I had a bit a revelation...that often times I make my own plans and develop entire scenarios/experiences in my own head & completely miss what the Lord is doing or is trying to teach me.  Looking back I think of all the things that I have missed -- how sad.

And I'm noticing in the past few days that God is clearly saying to me (the only clear thing I have right now)  is to not be afraid. In my weekly memory verse, in my morning study, in the quiet wisdom from trusted friends.

Who knows what that stirring is or what it means.  But what I do know is that I will not be afraid.  I will trust & I will praise -- because there is nothing that the Lord is doing that will bring harm.
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"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.  In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid.  What can mere man do to me?" Psalm 56:3-4

My News

courtesy of Dirk Knudsen

 Ok friends -- I know for about 2 months now I've been casually mentioning that something was in the works.  But darling husband didn't want me sharing details on the blog.  He's a little superstitious & cautious.  He never wants to step on toes.  So I had to stay mum.  A few close friends & of course family knew what was going on.  **FYI - this is NOT a post about babies, so don't get excited in that way! ;) 

2 months ago my high school opened the job for their head football coach.  My sweet husband is probably one of the best coaches I have ever encountered -- and I know I've shared about him before.  So when this job opened up, we were beyond excited.  The opportunity to finally apply for one of his dream jobs & lead the charge at our local high school.  The job opened 12/22 & my efficient husband had his application submitted by New Years Day.  And then the waiting began...  Waiting for the school to interview/hire coaches for their spring sports.  Waiting for the call for an interview.  The interview came.  My dashing husband showed up looking professional & prepared.  The result of that interview we later found out came down to a 4-2 vote in support of giving him the job! We were beyond excited...but puzzled a bit also.  What would happen next?  The next call informed husband he would be asked to give a 45minute presentation on how he would run the program at the school.  Again my wonderful honey put all his efforts & focus on preparing for that presentation & he worked nearly non stop for the next 4 days to be ready.  After his interview he called me fully energized. He said he had nailed it & felt completely confident & comfortable.  But most of all, he felt a release -- this entire journey we have been praying for contentment & patience, releasing any hold we might have on that job to the Lord.  That His will would be done & that we would find joy in where He would have us.  
Again the vote after the final presentation was 4-2...can we say stressful?!  We had to wait a full day before we got the news....

We were at boys basketball game when the athletic director of the school spoke with Isaac & offered him the position as the Head Coach!!! ECSTATIC does not even begin to fully express how I felt when Isaac told me in the parking lot of the high school.  I may have even done a jumping spin to release my energy!   And to make it even more special, Isaac shared the news with me along with the current head coach & his wife that Isaac has worked with for 7 years.  They are one of the best couples I have ever met, and they fully welcomed me in to their family & community.  They're a good picture of how I hope Isaac & I can be in a lot of ways. Scott & AnneMarie have taught both Isaac & I a lot of lessons about being a head coach & a coach's wife.  Those lessons I'll hold near as we venture in to this new arena.

So now it begins....here I stand as a 26yr old head coach's wife, at my alma mater.  Being completely honest there are parts of me that are beyond nervous about what's to come & what expectations there may be of me, and those I may have already placed on myself...But thankfully we have amazing family & friends already surrounding us in support.  If nothing else I have clearly seen how the Lord works for the good of those who believe & He has the perfect plan in place for us.
Here's the link to the small announcement published by our local newspaper sharing the news on Isaac's hire: KeizerTimes 

Here's to a new adventure! I'm back to my Celtic Blue!
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Accomplished

today is one of those days where I feel really accomplished.  I feel very proud of myself for the work I've done in getting 3 pretty challenging short sales approved & closed.  And another came thru with an approval today! 

There are certainly days when I've gone home frustrated to no end & on the verge of tears out of pure anguish.  But today -- today is not one of those days.  And yesterday I got to experience two awesome events.  I was able to go to two signing/closing appointments for two of our clients.  One a single lady who works two jobs and is just a salt of the earth type of person.  And the second a small family, dad's a teacher & mom's a stay at home mom -- so incredibly sweet.  They were beyond excited that the buyers for their home were actually going to live there & not just have it be an investment property.  That certainly helped put everything in perspective for me & reminded me of the big picture of why I do what I do with my mom.

Today was a good day! :)

Days of Gratitude - Day 10, 2011

Day 10 - Today I am grateful for the United States Marine Corps.  I am grateful for the role that this branch of the military played in the lives of my parents; and ultimately my life.  I am grateful for the sacrifice of the men & women who proudly wear the eagle, globe, & anchor (symbolizing the Marine Corps' presence in the sky, on land, & on the sea).  I am grateful for their dedication to excellence, protection, and pride in our nation.  And most of all, I am grateful for the incredible sacrifices made & being made by past, present, & future Marines.

Marine Corps Memorial, Washington D.C.

My Devil Dog Parents: GySgt & CWO-4

Check out my pops fresh off bootcamp graduation!

I swell with pride when it comes to my dad & mom and their service!

Happy Birthday Devil Dogs! Semper Fi

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Blogging Bum

Yup -- that's me! The latest blogging bum!  For a multitude of reasons I have been MIA.  Lately, I'd rather be spending what precious time I do have with Isaac...darn football.  And then this weekend was spent with 4 wonderful girl friends of mine.  Though I promised to try and take photos -- true to form, I was having far too much fun to even think about it! I did bring my camera with the best of intentions.  But there's something about taking walks, random/spontaneous Zumba parties, & a nerve-wracking Stanford game that keeps a girl preoccupied.

I will say that I was reminded again of how thankful I am for the blessings of wonderful girl friends.  It's always so surprising how nice it is to just be surrounded by good friends, talking about serious things, laughing & giggling about silly things, and having a shared love of Christ to be bonded together.  A brisk 2.4mile walk in to Sunriver Village was awesome -- followed up by a cup of coffee & a quick stop at the renovated market.  There's not much that beats a girls weekend. 

And to top it all off -- this week husband has a bye for football, but of course we're going to another high school football game.  It wouldn't be fall without a football game every Friday night.  But this game is the 1st playoff game for his cousin who plays in Portland against another Salem team. So it'll be fun to sit with family, and actually enjoy a high school game with my husband! And we're likely getting tickets to the OSU/Stanford game too which will be AWESOME! Thank you Coach Souza! I pinky promise to take some tailgating/game photos! I'll even get Ike in on the action & to remind me! :)

MUST mail off scarf swap box tomorrow! Waa! Have to get a few more items for the package before I mail it, but boy it takes a lot of thinking! Hope my swap partner doesn't mind that I'm not super creative.....eek.

Have a great one friends! Glad to be back in the mix!
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Counting My Blessings

Alright -- I've decidedly made it through the 1st two weeks of the football season.  Despite my complaints in my last post, I have survived.  And I believe this year I've survived more so because I wasn't afraid to tell those around me that I was lonely, or needed a friend, or needed any excuse to get out of my house.  Swallowing my pride this year definitely made the difference in keeping me from becoming a self-loathing, pity party loving, annoyingly depressing woman.  I'll have to remember this for next year and get a better jump on it!

But out of those two weeks I have yet again gained a perspective of how wonderful the people around me are.  How incredibly giving and loving they are.  How they care about who I am & more importantly, how I'm doing.  I only pray that I am able to offer this in return to them when they need this encouragement.
I'm moving back in to my running routine with the help of the fabulous "Running Aunties" I'm blessed to know.  I'm blessed to have spent some quality time with AnneMarie -- who's husband is the head coach for my husband's football team.  She is quality, and I so appreciate the real-ness that she brings to every situation, no sugar coating, no BS -- just real life AnneMarie.  I'm blessed with some of the very best girl friends out there.  Like Mo who invited me over for dinner last night with her & her husband (whom I lovingly call Yearbster).  We haven't had much time to connect recently and it was absolutely worth the 15 minute drive to her house to eat together, visit, and of course get the obligatory frozen yogurt!

And most of all I am blessed with a husband who loves what he does, seeks to include me in all areas of his life & passions, and loves me to the moon and back (and I love him the same as well).  I know he's been working like crazy these last few weeks, and with two hard losses on the books he's been putting in over time to try and best prepare the other staff and the players.  So I wanted him to know how much I appreciate his dedication...I bought the man a round of golf at our local course to have an afternoon of relaxation & decompressing.  Boy I'll tell you -- there is nothing better than the purity of a grateful smile and sincere hug.  He was elated when I handed him that certificate (which I'm sure he'll be using this weekend while I'm out of town!).  It is such a joyous feeling to bring joy to the ones you love.

I'm letting go of that negative attitude from my last post.  I'm passing on the negative ranting & raving of football.  I'm moving away from pouting.  Instead I'll count my blessings, I'll be thankful for evenings on the couch together -- even if they do include breaking down film.  I'll be thankful for football games together on Saturdays -- even if they are our "date night" activity.  I'll be thankful for a man who diligently wakes up every day to go to work (without complaint), who cares deeply for his students & his players, who strives for excellence in all that he does, and longs to be an image & ambassador for Christ in all areas of his life.

Those are just a few of my blessings -- for which I'm giving all praise to the Lord above.  For nothing comes to us without first sifting this HIS hands.  He knows the plans he has for us...."plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
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I'm BACK!

I'm back from camp -- thoroughly tired, no voice, and thankful that God blessed me with a whole week with great kiddos.  And He was moving in some of their hearts; so much so that 5 of those great kids accepted Christ in to their lives! Praise Jesus!! Huzzah!

Here are some of my favorite shots from the week!

 After our hike - incredible view of camp & the property!

 Hawaiian Dinner - last night at camp

 The Lady Leaders -- great women!

 The cabins -- aka hotels!

 Our cabin -- crazy girls, who protected their leaders well!

 Pool games! Taking out the speaker!

 The FANTASTIC water park at the camp!

 My super cute niece Kenzie...loves her

 Miner Night -- turned out more like western night!

 The guys from Keizer 

blessed

These are my parents - and they're pretty awesome.

I know I've talked about them before, but when there's something I love I'm prone to write about it frequently.

I had a much needed conversation with my mom today - I've been carrying thoughts and feelings for a long time that I probably should have talked about with her a while ago.  But honestly, it's sometimes scary bringing things up with her because of how much time we spend together; often things get taken wrong or mis-interpreted.  Today was a different day however.  I really tried to be mindful of the words I chose when we were talking and to keep "I" statements in the fore front of my thoughts, rather than "You" statements that often come up accusatory.

My dad is really impressing me lately.  He made it his New Years resolution to improve his relationship with my eldest sister.  And he's been doing his best to do his part.  And as a result of her meeting yesterday he & my mom have volunteered to step up should anything change with my sister & my niece.  This would never have happened in the past.  But I'm proud of my dad for the ways that he is trying to step up and be there as best he knows how.

All in all a good conversation that will hopefully bring good results as well.  And warm feelings about my dad. 

Through it all, good or bad, they're pretty stellar parents.  I'm thankful

<3

The Simple Things

Boy life is good & sweet right now...

I'm relaxing, our groceries are put away, and I'm listening to my hubby practice his set for worship on Sunday.

Life is good...and I've been in need of some real goodness after the past few days.

<3

Surrounded by Love

I know I've mentioned this before - but this has been an incredibly difficult time for my family.  But even in the midst of all of that chaos one thing has rung true through it all...I am surrounded by love.


This entire weekend I saw how people around me & my family love, care, & support us.  It was nice to be encouraged and supported at work on Saturday.  It was nearly overwhelming how many ladies came Saturday night to my mom's house - we all gathered together to eat, drink wine & share fond memories of our mothers.  My mom wanted to do this to honor everyone that has supported her & our family during everything.  I have to say this was the best thing I've been a part of in a while. We had family there with us - girl friends of my mom - ladies we know from work.  Just a wonderful picture of the people of our lives.


And Sunday was spent with Isaac...at church, running errands, napping on the couch, and watching the Super Bowl with my parents.  Probably the most low key Super Bowl - but perfect for all of us.  I was just so thankful that my parents and I still have a very tight relationship & that they are so supportive of & love Isaac as well.  It's a blessing for sure how well we all get along.


So in preparation for Wednesday's service & events to remember Gran...I'm going to do my best to hold on to the feeling of being surrounded by love. I'll need it for sure.
<3

And I'm Back In the Game!

That's right! I'm actually headed to San Francisco to run in the Nike Women's Marathon (I'm actually doing the half).  Yes, originally when I was debating a couple weeks back - it seemed like there was no way for this to be a reality for me any more.  Changing finances had impacted some decisions Isaac & I had to make, and cutting a few "extras" were key.   So hubby & I did the responsible thing, brought down the "extra" spending, ate in, and were very diligent about our spending habits & of course maintained our giving.  We understood that you can't do absolutely everything all the time & trusted that later God would reveal His bigger plan for us.

Well school started and it became clear what we needed to cover for our short fall for the year.  And we had already surpassed it by $500!  Here's the crazy part -- when estimating what it would cost for the entire NWM weekend, I had come up with a $500 figure & that's precisely what we had in excess of what was really needed.

Thank you God for blessing me, & us, in this way.  I was heart broken that I wouldn't be able to go and experience this weekend with my great girl friends.  But trusted there was something bigger and released it.  No bitterness or anger....just an understanding that we were being called to diligence, responsibility and patience.   And God answers...well and Isaac let me go too.

So now I will get to spend the weekend in San Francisco with great friends, make a mini road trip, run the race, and drive home.  I'm really looking forward to it! It's a wonderful challenge, but no pressure to be or perform a certain way.  I'm looking forward to good food, good fun, & laughs....well, that & the Tiffany & Co. necklace waiting for me at the finish line!!!!

Here's to a wonderful, completely blessed weekend! Thank you Lord!
<3

Girlfriends

I have to admit - I have never really been one who has multitudes of girlfriends.  I'm more of a lone ranger with a select group of friends, some of whom happen to be girls.

A couple of years ago I really started praying that God would bring some true, grounded friendships with girls who challenge, encourage, and most of all love me for who I am.  It's taken some time for these friendships to come around - and I'm still one who has a small group of trusted girlfriends; but I truly feel like God answered my prayers!

Here are a couple of my great friends who I treasure:

 Monique

 

Monique is one of my greatest friends!  One of those girls that you just know if you need anything will be there in a heart beat.  She recently got married and was on her honeymoon - so we had no communication for a week & a half! Crazy!  But I am incredibly thankful for her.  She some how gets me to do things I normally wouldn't....Example: running.  She is so kind and gentle and aware of her surroundings.  She brings about a softer side in me.  And I love that our husbands get along so well -- it's one of those things where you don't even worry about the awkward silence, because we're always laughing.  That's probably one of the best parts about our friendship, the laughter.  There's always something to laugh about.  It's so fun!

Heather

 Heather has been one of my best friends since the first day we met in 5th grade!  She had just moved from another school to ours and we were at the same desk group.  Let's just say we bonded over a mutual love for all things Sanrio (it was the mid-late 90's...give me a break!).  Thru middle & high school we ebbed & flowed, but really bonded our friendship in our junior & senior year of high school.  We both chose to go to the local community college and ended up having a ton of classes together still.  My parents look at her as one of their kids, and her folks have lovingly called me "Froggy" since 5th grade (I have a tendency to lose my voice frequently).  She is such a lightning bolt - and marches to her own drum no matter what.  She's my go-to fashion girl when I need help, but most of all she knows who I've been, who I am, and wants me to be the best person I can be.  Plus it was fun having her stay with Isaac and I while her hubby Jim finished some school in VA over the summer.  We've been thru thick & thin together -- and I'm sure there's more to come!

Kathryn

Kathryn -- boy oh boy!  She seriously intimidated me the first couple times I met her.  Like border line afraid because she was that confident.  But bonded over  New Years weekend in Bend, primarily over Guitar Hero (at one point I thought she was going to have an seizure from playing for 6 hours straight)!  There have been so many changes in our friendship over the last 3 years, and I am so thankful.  The biggest, and most significant, change to our friendship came when Kathryn accepted Christ as her Savior.  I can vividly remember sitting in a local restaurant crying tears of joy listening to her share how she was ravenously reading thru scripture and sharing how God was meeting her in a really dark time.  I am so thankful for her -- she shares an innocence of loving God that you don't often find.  She cares so much for her students (she's an autism specialist for our local school district).  And most of all -- she is striving to love & glorify Christ in all that she does! Plus she pushes me to better - a better athlete(she's super intimidating in this aspect too, but I love it!), a better woman, a better wife, and a better follower of the Lord.

Lauren

We were introduced by my old mentor.  I think the first time we had coffee I might have scared her (I was talking about having a beer at Oktoberfest & maybe threw out a couple swear words here & there).  But out of it all she is a great friend.  Lauren is who I went to talk about what to expect on my honeymoon and we shared about our fears about being married, and now we share about the other things going on in our lives.  She is probably one of the least judgmental people I have ever met, and really strives to see the good in others; but is also equally logical.  If something is off, if someone is off -- she can see, feel and call it by name.  I so appreciate that in her.  She's no nonsense without being abrasive.  It's a quality I strive for (and tend not to be so hot at...).  Plus she's a freaking amazingly hard worker! This girl works in a law office as a clerk and then is in her 2nd year of law school! She is a rock star!  She always psyches herself out for exams, but KILLS em' every time!  I love that we are both down to earth and just have a good time sharing our lives.

These women are blessings that's for sure.  God has answered prayers - and of course continues to do so.

Who are you thankful for in your life right now?  

<3

83 + 87

83: days til we're in Hawaii for Christmas Break
87: days til Christmas!!

And so to keep me motivated to work for the next 83 days...a short montage of things I'm looking forward to - food, places and people:

Seeing things like this every day!

 Christmas!

Hiking Diamond Head with Hubby Isaac

Brunch at Duke's Waikiki

Playing Hanafuda with family...or learning how to play!

Lunch at Rainbow's...seriously the best

Spending the day at Sandy's!

Going back to Bishop Museum..I'm such a nerd that this REALLY excites me

Church at Kawaiahao Church 

(The Westminster Abby of the Pacific -- and Isaac's former YL leader is the head pastor)

And most of all TIME with all these people God has blessed me with:
Best friend Heather (& her hubby Jim); Hubby Isaac; Parker Family;
Furukawa/Mukai/Junsay/Fujii-AhHee/Morgado Families;
and more specifically, my mother-in-law Sheila (last picture, back row left)

Can you tell I'm excited and already have a ton planned?! ;)

<3