Life of a Band Wife

To Do Board

2011-08-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

My secret sister at church is beautiful, kind, caring, is in college, and lives in an apartment that is very brightly decorated. I wanted to make her something for the start of the school year that would go with her decor, but also be useful. I've been seeing diy dry erase boards on Pinterest and wanted to try my hand at it. This is what came out of it:

Supplies needed:

$3 ugly picture frame from Goodwill

$1 can of white spray paint

2 sheets of scrapbook paper from your pile of scrapbook paper that's not ever going to be used

Hot glue gun

Ribbon from your bridal shower that was 2 years ago

Brown paper bag

1. Start with your $3 ugly picture from Goodwill. Remove backing, picture and glass from frame. Lay frame on top of the brown paper bag and spray paint. It might need to do this a couple of times.

Picture before.

2. While paint is drying, make your "picture." My goodwill picture was glued to two borders and backing. I flipped the picture over to the backing side and pasted my paper on the smooth surface. My backing and frame were larger than my paper, so I added another sheet of paper to make the border. I first measured my center paper and determined how wide my border needed to be. I then stick glued strips for the border and then added the full sheet.

Like this!

3. Put your frame and picture back together. I wanted to add a little more pizzazz, so I added ribbon I had stuck in my closet since my bridal shower 2 years ago. Hot glue the ribbon to the back of the frame. Cover the back of the frame with packing paper for a cleaned, finished look.

4. Ta-Da! It's done. That's it! It really only took me 10 minutes to make (not counting drying time) and cost me $4. I hope she likes it!

P.S.

My secret sister totally knows who I am. It's ok if she sees this :)

Freezer Meals- Chicken Style!

2011-08-22T19:52:00.000-07:00

I must confess. I'm tired of last minute, throw together meals. I only work three days a week, but on those three days, I leave at 5:30 am and get home at 8:

30 pm. This usually means Andrew and I fend for ourselves, or something quick is made- usually spaghetti (Not knocking your spaghetti Andrew. I appreciat

e you making supper and you do a great job at it.) I just need a little variety. I decided to try my hand at freezer meals.

Disclaimer: I have never tried freezing and then baking these recipes. Hopefully they work. Also, I played a lot of these by ear- sometimes making for great results and sometimes not so awesome.

I started by using 14 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts. I got an awesome sale on them $1.88/lb. I usually pay over $2/lb- and that's for frozen.

Before I started any of the recipes, I grilled 12 of the 14 lbs of chicken with a little steak seasoning (I left 2 or3 lbs for the Italian Chicken). This is a healthier approach and I'm not dirtying extra pans. I can also cook a lot of chicken at once, saving time. I then shredded all of the chicken with 2 forks. Make sure to shred the chicken while it's still warm. It will make the job much easier!

My first recipe was the easiest and most simple:

Italian Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 packet Italian dressing mix

1- 16 oz jar banana peppers

1. Combine all ingredients into your crock pot. Cook on high for 4 hours, or low for 6-8.

2. After chicken is cooked, shred and place in freezer zip-lock bags. You can also increase this recipe to make more. I used 6 chicken breasts, 1 jar of peppers, and 1 1/2 packets of seasoning, making 2- 1 liter bags of chicken.

For serving: Thaw chicken in refrigerator or microwave. Heat through and serve on toast or buns. The chicken can also be used in soups, on salads, in tortillas....the options are endless.

Baked Spaghetti with Chicken

3 lbs spaghetti

shredded chicken

4 jars spaghetti sauce

1 package mozzarella cheese

1. Boil pasta and drain. Drizzle olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Place spaghetti in aluminum pans. This recipe made 2 large pans and one smaller pan. Pour 1 1/2 jars of sauce for each large pan and 1 jar for the smaller pan. The spaghetti may require more or less sauce- just eyeball it, but make sure you use plenty of sauce. The spaghetti tends to soak it up. Add chicken (eyeball this too) and combine. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Cover with plastic wrap (to help prevent freezer burning) and then foil.

3. To serve: Defrost overnight for an evening meal the next day. Bake with foil on (don't forget to remove the plastic wrap first). When spaghetti is almost heated through, remove foil and bake until cheese is melted. Serve with bread and salad.

Chicken Fajita Enchiladas

I made these for my brother and sister-in-law one day after church. That time I used leftover grilled pork tenderloin. They loved them, I loved them, and Andrew really loved them. I hope they freeze just as well!

3 green pepper

2 onions

1 tbs oil

Shredded chicken

1 packet taco seasoning

20- 10 inch tortillas

1 packet shredded mexican style cheese

1 jar salsa

1. In a large pan, heat oil until very hot. Add peppers, onion, and chicken. Cook until peppers still have a little crispness to them. Add seasoning packet and a small amount of water. Stir until chicken and vegetables are coated.

2. Fill each tortilla with mixture, add cheese, and roll. Place tortillas seam side down. Each large pan should fit 10 tortillas. Spray tortillas with cooking spray for extra crispness when baked.

3. To prevent sogginess, place salsa and cheese in 2 separate freezer bags for each pan. Plastic wrap and foil.

To serve: Thaw overnight. Serve with Chipotle Style Rice, baked tortilla chips, salsa, and fat-free refried beans.

BBQ Chicken

Please note on this recipe: I have no idea how it tastes. I'm a little skeptical. You could also just combine chicken and a bottle of bbq sauce and it would be just as good. But...if you want to try to be super home-makerish, use this recipe and cross your fingers.

1 1/2 c ketchup

3/4 c spicy brown mustard

1 onion

1/4 c lemon

2 tbs apple cider vinegar

1 tbs Worcestershire sauce

1 tbs brown sugar

1/2 c water

2 tbsp grill seasoning

Shredded chicken

1. Combine all.

2. Place chicken into 1 gallon freezer bags (makes 2 bags). For low mess, place bag into a blender. Fold bag over the sides and fill. Genius!

In the end, I made 2 bags Italian Chicken, 3 pans Bakes Spaghetti, 2 pans Chicken Fajita Enchiladas, and 2 bags BBQ Chicken. It took only 3 hours and not very many pans. And I'm very tired of chicken :). Maybe we'll save these meals for next week!

Turtle Cheesecake

2011-08-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

Out of all the sweets I've baked, I've never made a true cheesecake. Why? I have no idea! I insisted we get spring-form pans on our registry two years ago so I could make cheesecake, but they've been piled and shoved and rattled in my cabinet waiting to be used. On our date Friday, I asked Andrew what his favorite dessert was besides ice cream and cake. He answer was cheesecake. Who knew? So being the good wife I am (ok, maybe I secretly really like cheesecake too) I decided to bake Andrew a cheesecake. A turtle cheesecake to be exact. I found a recipe on Kraftrecipes.com and went with it (and changed a few things also). It's Kraft, it has to be easy! And it was.

Ultimate Turtle Cheesecake

24 Oreo Cookies, finely crushed (about 2 cups)...which means you can eat some and still have plenty left)

6 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted

1 pkg. (14 oz.) Kraft Caramels

1/2 cup milk

1 cup chopped Pecans (I only had walnuts, so I used those)

3 pkg. (8 oz each) Cream Cheese, softened

3/4 cup sugar

1Tbsp Vanilla

3 eggs

1/2 cup chocolate chips + 2 Tbsp milk

1. Place your 24 Oreos into a gallon sized Zip-lock bag. Using a rolling pin, crush the cookies until they're small crumbs.

2. Melt your butter and add it to the cookies. Seal bag and shake (smoosh) around until combined.

3. Press your cookie mixture onto the bottom and 2 inches up the side of your 9-inch springform pan. (BTW: I had three sizes of pans, but didn't know which one was 9 inches, and I couldn't find a ruler or tape measure. If you are ever in a bind like I was, there is a website called iruler.net that has an actual ruler to measure. What did we ever do before we had the internet?)

4. After you've made your crust, melt your bag of caramels with the milk for 3 minutes, stirring after each minute, until melted and smooth. Pour 1/2 of the mixture over the crust. Sprinkle 1/2 of the nuts on top. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.

5. While the crust is cooling, combine 3- 8 oz. packages of cream cheese (I used reduced fat), vanilla, and sugar (I might try Splenda next time) until smooth.

6. Add room temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. pour over caramel layer in crust.

7. Bake at 325 for 1 hour 10 minutes or until center is almost set. Tip: Place a pan of water in the oven, along with the cheesecake, to prevent cracking.

8. When done, remove from oven and run a knife around the rim. Refrigerate until cool (about 4 hours if you can stand it) before removing the ring.

9. Melt remaining caramel and pour over cheesecake. Combine the milk and chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted. Drizzle over cheesecake. Sprinkle remaining nuts.

10. Eat and enjoy!!!!

It was way easier than I ever expected and didn't really take that much time to make. I'll definitely make this again soon!

Belize- Day Six

2011-07-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today has been a day of rest and relaxation. We are staying at a beautiful resort on the beach and today we were able to enjoy it. After taking a morning nap on the beach, we headed for the town of Placencia where we bought souvenirs and ate yummy ice cream. We didn't want to stay too long, so we decided to take a taxi back to the hotel instead of taking the group bus back. Let me tell you, the taxis in Belize are not the same as the ones in the US. They are primarily identified by having a green license plate. We weren't having any luck finding one, so we decided to go searching. We found one parked at a barber shop. The driver was getting his hair cut, but had his friend drive us. The van we rode in was fresh out of 1993, no air, and the driver had to open the door from the outside to let us out because the handle on the inside was nonexistent. It was all a little shady, but the driver was nice and we made it back safely. After our shopping spree, we hung out by the pool and got burnt. I was hoping for a Belizean goddess tan, but instead I got a burn. I'm still hoping it turns into a beautiful dark tan though!

Right before supper, four of our team members decided they wanted to be baptized in the ocean. It was amazing and brought tears to my eyes. It was just one more way God was glorified this week.

Today has also been a day of reflection on the entire week. There have been so many highs and lows running through, that we are spent physically, mentally, and emotionally. The things we saw and experienced will stay with us and impact the rest of our lives. I'll never forget the children, their smiles, their laughter, and their hugs. I'll never forget the mothers who so desperately wanted vitamins for their children. I'll never forget the people who I worked with who cared for over 500 people, trying to make a difference. Dr. Paul suggested we write down three things that impacted us the most on this trip. I have so many more than three, but I've narrowed them down to three:

1. My God qualifies the unqualified. I felt like I was going into this mission trip blindly. I had no idea what I was getting into, I just knew I had to go. I had doubts and fears, but God showed me that there was no question I was to be here this week. God's timing is perfect and should never be questioned. God also has unbelievable patience as I question so much, yet he always carries through.

2. I am blessed and selfish. I have so much while other have so little. I buy another pair of shoes when the $12 could be spent on sponsoring a child. I take my blessings for granted. I take healthcare, my family, my country, and my God for granted. God has showered me with more blessings than I ever deserve. My goal after leaving is to use the blessings God has given me and spread them to others, whether in Belize or in my own country.

3. I am blessed to have been raised in a country, home, and church where my needs were always provided for, where I have healthcare when I need it, where my closets are full, and where I never wondered where or when my next meal would be.

Belize- Day Five

2011-07-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

I can't believe today was the last day at the clinic. We saw a total of 173 patients, plus many other who were seen but not charted on. The the line was forever long again when we came to the clinic. We were so busy today and it was so hot. Mom and I were able to begin the day by giving two little girls dresses the New Hope ladies had made. The construction team was building them a new house as well. The smiles on their faces were priceless. Many people in Belize only have one set of clothing. To have your clothing collection double is pretty awesome. While we were there a 4 year old neighbor girl came up to us with a severed foot that needed stitches. The mother and father were digging a ditch for their first ever "pipe water" and were unable to take the child to the clinic, so we took her 6 year old sister along to be the interpreter and packed both of them into the SUV. The child was so scared. I can't imagine being the little girl, having white people take me from my home, having them stick a needle in my foot and stitching up my foot, and not having my mom there. I also can't imagine being the mother and knowing my baby was getting her foot stitched up and not being able to be there for her. The girl's foot was stitched and everything worked out. The drive and survival of the Belize is amazing.

As the clinic got busier, we knew there was no way we were going to be able to see each patient. The medical director came up with a brilliant idea to have the nurses act like doctors and give OTC meds (vitamins, tylenol, etc.) to well children and also give them worm pills. This freed up the physician so that they could see more seriously ill patients. It was pretty cool, but I don't think it'll work in the states :).

The last thing we were able to do was hand out goody bags that New Hope VBS made for the children. We handed out 60. Each child received a toy, crayons, a starburst, and a toy. The smiles on the children's faces were priceless. I'll always cherish their hugs and love.

This week has had so many ups and downs. I've met some amazing, loving, and strong people. People like Delia, our interpreter, who aspires to go to America and obtain a degree in science. She is so smart. She interpreted everything from education on hypertension, to diabetes, to hand washing and food preparation. By the end of the week, she was able to teach the patients on her own and she'll be able to continue to education her village once we are gone. We have fallen in love with her and are hoping to be able to help her get into the US so that she can reach her dream.

I have fallen in love with Belize and it's people. I've been humbled and shown how blessed I am.

Belize- Day Four

2011-07-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Today was probably the most emotional day yet. We saw around 130 patients, which makes for a grand total of around 300! It's amazing how great the needs are. Many people don't have any running water. Many of the villager's water source is from a well or stream. How are you supposed to teach someone how to bathe, clean, and cook safely when they don't have clean water or soap? So many of the illnesses we have seen could easily be prevented if they just had the basics.

The most saddening, I want to take you home so I can help you, I can't believe it can get this bad, what can we do to help moment was when a 15 month old girl came in with a cast that had been cut open on her left arm. We learned from her parents that her upper arm had been run over by a car 3 months previously. They had taken her to a visiting doctor who put a cast on the arm and told the family he'd be back in 4 months and to keep the cast on until he saw her again. Three months has past. The father knew the arm was not healing properly and had taken the girl to 2 or 3 other doctors. Each time the doctors would look at the arm, it would rebreak. When our physician examined the child, the same thing happened. When he barely moved the cast, the arm visibly rebroke causing the arm to bend above the elbow. The physician was finally able to take the cast off. This only revealed large open sores, some as large as 2-inch circles, on her entire arm from having the cast on. Like I said, lack of cleanliness and skin issues are rampant in Belize. The poor child was in excruciating pain. All we had was tylenol and ibuprofen, which wouldn't even touch it. Now let me back up, when we were given a list of meds to bring to the clinic, narcotics were on the definite NO list. Somehow (well we know how....some of us call it "A God Thing") a bottle of tylenol with codeine, in liquid form no less, had been donated with the other medications. We gave it to the child with so relief. The doctor cleaned her wounds the best he could and made a make shift cast and sling. We are already trying to set up a way for the child to come to the US and have surgery, which she desperately needs. Without it, her arm will never heal properly if at all. Being an orthopedic nurse, this hit hard for me. If I was at work, if this little girl was in the U.S., supplies would be readily available, the arm would be healed by now, surgery would have been done within hours of the break. Instead, this child has suffered and the family feels helpless. Please pray that the family will be able to take the child to the U.S. quickly and that her arm can be healed. It could take up to a month for everything to come together. That's a long time, especially if you're 15 months old.

Now after a sad story, I must end with a happy one. The people of Belize are always smiling. It doesn't matter if they had to wait 7 hours to see a doctor or they have scabies and lice, they still smile, are thankful for what they have, and are always loving. They are so Christ like in their own way. It's so easy for us to get wrapped up in our "stuff." Sit back, soak in your blessing, and thank God for them. Then smile.

Beliz- Day Three.

2011-07-26T22:03:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's day 3 already! Today was awesome. I felt as though I made a little bit of difference in my patient's lives. They are so appreciative of our care. So far, we have treated 206 patients. We have been so busy, and we wouldn't want it any other way. Education went much better. We were able to work with the MD's and NP's on diagnosis and the patient's specific needs. We worked in the clinic starting at 9 and ending at 4:30, making for a long day. Some things I learned about Belize:

1. The people are happy. They are so poor, yet they are always smiling.

2. Families are big and the girls start having babies young. One villager told us sometimes as young as 14. I had one patient who was 23 and had 5 children including a 7 year old. I can't even imagine.

3. I am so blessed.

4. I taught a patient what arthritis is. I could see a light bulb click on when I told him his joint pain was from old bones rubbing on old bones. It made so much since to him. He told me no one had ever told him why his bones ached. He also called us angels and said God sent all of us for a very big reason. He was 80 something and quite the ladies man. He definitely stole my heart.

5. A one month old also stole my heart. She had fever and the mother had no tylenol to take the fever down. We take so much for granted. The poor mother could do nothing for her new baby's fever until she came to us.

6. God has made the unqualified, qualified.

Belize- Day Two

2011-07-25T21:46:00.000-07:00

Today has been a full day, and whew we are tired! We began our morning by eating breakfast on the "dock", which is pretty much in the middle of the ocean. Not a shabby start to our day. We then had a short morning devotion with worship and then headed for the buses. We were then taken to a church that had been planted by International Servants and shown some living conditions. If anyone in the U.S. lived in houses (grass huts and dirt floors) like the people of Belize, child services and PETA would be knocking on the door. It's amazing how little they can live off of. The pastor we visited had 12 children and many grandchildren living in one grass hut. How? I have no idea. The children ran around barefoot without a care in the world. It's amazing how they can have so little and be so happy. Maybe there's something to that? They loved having their pictures taken and loved all the attention they could get.

We then traveled a few more miles to another grass hut homestead and ate lunch- chicken and rat. They call the rat gibnut, but my ears only heard rat. It's a delicacy here and the rat isn't little, it's more like the size of a oppossum. And of course I ate some....ok more like a teeny tiny bite, but I still can say I did it and I can also say that it's the best rat I've ever eaten. (BTW..I just looked up what a gibnut is, and now I'm feeling a little woozy.) It was actually quite tasty. The family also made homemade tortilla on their stone oven and fried chicken. It was finger lickin' good.

Finally after eating we were able to set up clinic. Mom, Nina, and I, plus one other- Melanie, have been put in charge for education. We were a bit overwhelmed and lost as to what to teach the people of Belize. Most of the patients we will be seeing speak only Spanish or an Indian language. None of which I know. And, to top it all off, we are the first group to have an education team. The day was pretty discouraging. Many patients didn't even come see us. I felt like I was not helping the people of Belize at all. I came here to help sew on fingers and save lives and lead people to Christ. How can I do that when I'm teaching them how to wash their hands? Those who have been on the trip before assured us that tomorrow will be better. God qualifies the unqualified. We must look at the big picture and how we can contribute to that. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. I know it will be. As long as I have God to guide me and rely on his plan, everything will fall into place.

Belize- Day One

2011-07-24T21:31:00.000-07:00

We're finally in Belize! After many months of planning, collecting supplies, prayer, tears, prayer, sweat, prayer, and hours of traveling, we have made it to Belize. We left for the airport at 5:00 am this morning and landed in Belize City around 3:00 pm after making a stop in Dallas. We then met up with our team of 60 people, loaded our luggage, and hopped onto a bus for a 4 hour ride through the jungle. And it is jungle! Most houses are one room shacks on stilts and far and few between. After following a windy road, taking some dramamine, stopping at one of only two gas stations in the four hours we drove, we finally made it to the beautiful resort. It is luxurious! I wish I would've gotten married here. I'll post pictures tomorrow. I want to post some of the clinic first, so that you'll believe we're on a missions trip and not vacation. When we got to the resort, they took us to a dock and fed us till we could eat no more. We are exhausted, but ready to face the challenge God has placed on our hearts. We are forever grateful and amazingly blessed to have the support system that we have through our friends, family, and church family. We truly could not have done this without you. I'm headed for bed! Love and blessings from Belize!

P. S. I'm having trouble uploading pictures tonight. Hopefully better luck tomorrow!

TGR Video

2011-06-07T15:47:00.001-07:00

Check these boys out! I'm pretty proud. The only problem with this video is not enough Andy. I think all 13 year old girls will agree. Enjoy and Share!!

You can watch it here.

Here We go...

2011-06-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

Here we go as in....what we talked about when we were 20 and sitting in a SIU-E parking lot talking about the "what-if?, would you support?, is this your dream, too?, I might be gone for long lengths of time, I might not teach, we may not have extra money as we might hope" conversation before we were married. Here we go as in...I won't see you this summer for long lengths of time. You're going to miss birthdays and anniversaries. Here we go as in...we are making sacrifices that aren't always comfortable. Here we go as in....we won't be home together for an entire week until 8 weeks from now. Here we go as in...you'll be in Michigan while I'll be almost 5,000 miles away in Belize.

I'm so excited for this summer, but I'm also somewhat dreading it. I'm scared, anxious, and worried. I don't like not seeing you for days. I know it could be much worse, but it still makes me uncomfortable at times. You are what puts a smile on my face in the morning that lasts until the night. One thing that erases all my worries and fears is knowing we are following what God has called us to do. It gives me a peace of mind knowing if we follow God's plan, He will not abandon us. He will bless us, and blessed we are. We are blessed to have a loving, supportive Christain family. We are blessed to have a home. We are blessed to have each other. We are blessed to have jobs that keep us busy. I could go on and on.

I can't wait to see what adventures God has planned for us this summer. I pray for our safety, that we show Christ's love with everyone we encounter, and that we grow closer to God and each other as we cross days of joy and frustration. I lean on you, you lean on me, and together we lean on God.

Good Read

2011-03-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

This book, written by Karen Kingsbury, was first suggested by my mother (who usually suggests all the books I read). Side note----> if you are a mother, get your Kleenex's ready. I'm not a mother, but the tears came easy for me on this one. Like Dandelion Dust is a story telling of a "perfect" couple who recieve a call stating the birth parents want their adoptive child back. It's a good read, makes you appreciate what God has blessed you with, and will have you in tears of sorrow and tears of joy. Let me know how you liked it!

Baby Morph

2011-03-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

Instead of cleaning, or laundry, or any other productive thing I should've been doing, I decided to find out what our children will one day look like......one day that is far far off from now :)

Poor kid :)

Home Sweet Home

2011-03-28T11:44:00.000-07:00

Waking up at 10:00 this morning was AWESOME. The down side of traveling is:

1. Laundry
2. No food in the house (including milk)
3. Grocery Shopping

Laundry is going, grocery list is made, and I scrounged up some potatoes, carrots, and a pork loin and threw it in the crock pot (no more gas station food!). Book club is tonight and the gym is on the to-do list as well. It's so nice to be home! We have a blessed life.

South Dakota Gig- Day Four

2011-03-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

More challenges, but that's ok. After we said our goodbyes to the very gracious South Dakotans (South Dakota-ins? South Dakotings?), we pulled out and headed home. Such a great feeling. No matter how much fun you have, there is definitely no place like home. We made it to Sioux Falls, SD when Bigger Mama wouldn't accelerate and decided to have a fit. We pulled into a gas station and started looking up mechanics. FYI: No mechanic in Sioux Falls is open on Sunday. It was starting to look like we weren't going to make it home as soon as we were thinking. Just when we were starting to wallow in our tough luck, God saved the day. We originally thought it might be the transmission. Then Geoff thought that maybe, just maybe, it could be a sensor. A trip to O' Rielly and $12 later, we were on the road. Thankfully the rest of the trip was uneventful and we made it home at around 2:30 am. My bed never felt better. Thank you all for your prayers and to South Dakota Presbyterian Youth for making this weekend fun and memorable.

South Dakota Gig- Day Three Continued

2011-03-28T08:04:00.000-07:00

Day 3 continues to be fun. Geoff has finally made it in!!!! After a talent show, some good grub, and listening to the speaker, the kids were finally ready for the TGR concert. Because we only had 3/4 of our band members, we weren't sure what was going to happen. God is so faithful. The concert was a blast. I've never seen kids as energetic as these. They even did a kick line to "Hosanna." Haha!

When the concert was done, the boys signed autographs. As I was selling merch, a kid comes up to me and says, "You look like you never sign any autographs. Would you sign my arm?" It totally made my year! I never get to sign autographs. All together, I signed a second arm, 2 pictures, and a drum stick. Well worth the 1600 mile trip.

After the concert, the boys were hungry for ice cream. One would think Pierre would be a larger town since it's the state capital. Not the case. The only ice cream shop opened at 10:30 pm is Walmart- And that's where we headed. Because my husband is so money savvy (aka cheap), we bought a 1/2 gallon of birthday ice cream because it was only $.50 more than the small size. His plan was to eat half of it tonight and eat the rest the next morning. Well, he ate half of it, but ended up giving it to some kids and they ate the rest.

We're having a lot of fun, but can't wait to be home tomorrow!

Here are some more pictures from our day:

Some major head banging.

"Hosanna" kick line.

The kid whose arm I signed.

Andrew eating his 1/2 gallon of ice cream.
We totaled the calorie intake at around 800.

South Dakota Gig- Day Three

2011-03-26T13:38:00.000-07:00

Today has been fun and relaxing (for me anyway!). Our hotel is very nice and has a hot tub and pool. Too bad I forgot my swimming suit! (We went to Walmart looking for one at 11:30 last night, but no luck.) We had the privilege of sleeping in until 8 this morning and got up for some breakfast and worship. The kids and staff here are great and have all been very understandable and flexible as we make our way through this recent challenge. During free time, Andrew and I participated in a good for your marriage exercise- Sumo Wrestling. I wish I could say I dominated, but that would just be a straight up lie.

South Dakota Gig- Day Two Continued

2011-03-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

With every gig, we are usually faced with a challenge and test of faith. Some are larger than others. Tonight's was pretty big. Geoff and fill-in guitar player Matt K were to arrive by airplane to South Dakota tonight. Because of a delayed flight, Geoff and Matt were unable to make their connecting flight in Minneapolis. God works in mysterious ways, and tonight He showed us once again how in control He really is. As Matt and Geoff were deciding on how they would get to South Dakota, Matt received a phone call stating his mother had passed away. If the flight would've been on time, Matt would've been stuck in Minneapolis while his family mourned and dealt with the loss of his mother. We are praying for healing, strength, and understanding as Matt faces this sorrowful time. Geoff went ahead and took the flight, once it arrived in St. Louis, to Minneapolis. We are praying for safe travels as he flies into South Dakota tomorrow afternoon. We are planning to play the scheduled concert tomorrow night with no lead guitar. We could probably use prayers for that as well :)

South Dakota Gig- Day 2

2011-03-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

Snow in Iowa!

The nutritious snacks we brought.

We made it to Pierre, SD! I always complain about not stopping at any sites. By pure luck, our route took us past the Corn Palace. After begging the boys to stop and see it, telling them how cool it is, and how it's the only corn palace in the world, we pulled over at Mitchell, SD. (Lunch time also played a big factor in stopping, I think.) Here are some pictures from the world famous Corn Palace:

Standing in front of the Corn Palace. How Romantic.

"So, what do you do at the Corn Palace."
"Follow the corn feet and you'll find out!"

South Dakota Gig - Day one!!!

2011-03-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Today (Thursday) we rolled out in Bigger Mama. 7 days off work, 4 guys, one girl, 1600 miles, and a van = fun band trip. Matt K and Geoff are flying in Friday night, so it's only a 2:1 boy/girl ratio right now. So far we have learned:

1. The drive from St. Louis to Pierre, SD is boring.
2. Yes, it can still snow in March.
3. Driving in a snow storm at night with the driver having only one good eye is dangerous. As my husband would say, "you gotta know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em." Too bad he has a hard time following his own advice.

At around midnight, we finally decided to pull in at a Missouri Valley, IA Super 8. Lumpy pillows, but a good night's sleep. We should be rolling into Pierre, SD tomorrow afternoon!

Making an Apron...

2011-03-08T12:41:00.000-08:00

Growing up with a mother who could sew was the best. My mama is so talented when it comes to creativity and sewing. She made everything from dresses to Halloween costumes, color guard flags to doll clothes, and musical costumes to bridesmaid dresses. I was hoping the gift would pass down to me and.........the jury's still out on that one. A few weeks ago I found a printed table cloth on clearance and thought I MAYBE could make something out of it. So...I made an apron...without a pattern (really relying on those sewing genes. Risky, I know!)

The Fabric. Thank you, Target Clearance!

I used an apron Mom made for a pattern.

Folding and ironing down the edges.

Let the sewing begin!

And after some more sewing magic.....

And 2 broken needles....

The apron was finished!!!!

Not quite Mama quality, but not too shabby :)

And he wants to wait 5 years.....

2010-11-27T17:31:00.000-08:00

We babysat Miss E last week. She is so smiley and kicks and kicks and kicks. She's just pure sweetness! Andrew has fallen hard for Miss E. This was evident when I walked into the room and found this:

And he said he wants to wait 5 years....

2010-11-27T14:29:00.000-08:00

Life is GOOD!!!!!!! I was just thinking how a year ago, I was a new nurse (I'm still "new", just not as new as some:), working nights, and trying to keep up with Andrew and I's hectic schedule. Those were some dark days (get it- working nights...dark...). Really, they were not fun. I was turning into an old lady working midnights, and Andrew was spent trying to gig all weekend then face 25 2nd graders on Monday. Last winter we made a huge, hard, out of my comfort zone, I don't know what to do, are you sure, GOD? decision: Andrew quit his teaching job, turned down the grade he always wanted to teach, and decided to go full time with the band. Eeeek! Let me tell you, it has been the best decision we've made in our married lives. And I'm on days! Because of our decision to follow God's plan and being blessed with a job on days, we see each other, we sleep in the same bed together, I don't cry as much, he's not as stressed, and most important- our relationship with each other and with God has strengthened. Why is it that when we know God is calling us to do something, our initial reaction is to say no or ask questions when we know deep down that God is the boss, He knows best, and He's always carried through with His plans? The decision wasn't easy and God still hasn't revealed His entire plan, but we rest assured knowing that God hasn't and won't lead us astray.

Let Me Introduce to You....

2010-09-16T07:12:00.000-07:00

Miss E! Isn't she just beautiful? This is the first grandchild on both sides of the family, so you know she'll be spoiled. Aunt Kaycee and Uncle Andy have already called dibs on her when a babysitter is needed AND we are the only ones in the family with a swing set (that means she HAS to spend extra time with A.K and U.A!). She definitely has Uncle A wrapped around her precious little finger. ---Quick Story: Andrew and I were walking out of the house after seeing Miss E. I knew he was smitten by her when he said, "Aren't those mittens the cutest things on this planet?" I thought I was going to die laughing!---- I watched her for a few hours the other day, and man can that girl eat! In a 4 or 5 hour span, we had 3 bottles and 2 poopy diapers. Andrew thinks it's good birth control for me ;) Many of my friends are getting babies and I'm trying to keep the baby fever in check. We still have a while, but for now we'll just enjoy playing with our little Miss E! She is sooo precious!

A Poem About My Love For Days.....By Yours Truly

2010-09-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

I LOVE DAYS! They are great,
It was nights that I did hate.
No more crying, no more tears,
Now I'm all smiles and cheer.

The End

DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-07-10T01:41:00.000-07:00

Soooo....my boss e-mailed me today and said I AM OFFICIALLY ON THE DAYS SCHEDULE!!!!!! Yiiippppppeeee!!!!!!!!!! Words cannot express how much this means for us. We've been praying since October (the night after I started working nights) that a position would open up on days. When I didn't think I could take anymore sleepless days, sleepless nights, 30 hour no sleep runs, nights without Andrew, crying, emotional rollar coasters, etc., I went out on a limb and e-mailed my boss reminding her that I STILL wanted to go on nights. And wallah! I'll be starting nights in August. That's like only 13 more shifts, 13 more nights until we no longer have to sleep alone, 13 more and I will finally be on a normal sleep schedule and hopefully these dark circles will disappear! We are a little excited!

Birthday Weekend- Band Wife Style

2010-07-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

Friday
Red Lobster with Phil and Kaitlyn!!!! Love those two, and will soon love three! :)

Saturday
Worked on the new house. It's really coming along. I planted lots of flowers to give it the "curb appeal." Not sure how much I improved the look, but at least it has some flowers. It has to look a little better, right? The night was spent at Ma and Pa Schneider's. Matt cooked up some fiiiinnne pork tenderloin on the grill.

Sunday
My birthday!!!! The day you can do things like eat 5 pieces of cake, or stay in your pj's until 10:00, or stay up late, "because it's my birthday." I LOVE birthdays. I'm also a traditionalist. Every year for my birthday (July 4) we would wake up early, go to the Casey parade, have a swim party, and finish the night with fireworks. This year was WAY different. Andrew had a gig in Springfield, IL at the Capital Building. We were to get there at 8:00 am (meaning alarm went off at 5:45!!!). We made it to Springfield and waited and waited and waited. I ended up reading a book on the Capital Lawn. The gig started at 6:30, so we went shopping and ate Coldstone (Yuuuuuummmy!). The boys played great, it rained, and we went home. On the way home we bought Icee's. I had a large red one- because red is the best, and red is a 4th of July color, and a large was only $.99. It was not my usual 4th of July birthday, but it was spent with my husband and friends. What more could I ask for?

Monday
Off to the farm for us. Mom welcomed us home with pork burgers, watermelon, corn and green beans from the garden, macaroni and cheese, red velvet cake, and homemade ice cream. (I'm a little spoiled.) Later, Jars of Clay and NEEDTOBREATHE were playing in the big town of Martinsville, IL. We love Jars of Clay and had to go. Mom, Dad, cousins, aunts, and even Granny Kay and Grandpa made it out. It was a blast, but I had an even better time watching G&G "rocking out" to the show.

Blended Floats

2010-06-28T20:30:00.000-07:00

After going to see Toy Story 3 tonight (I cried 5 times...really, it was 5) we stopped by Sonic and grabbed some Blended Coke Zero Floats. In case you've never had one, it's ice cream and your favorite bubbly beverage (I call it pop, others may call it soda) blended together. So yummy and brilliant. Andrew's never had one and it was love at first sip. He loved it so much we had to stop by QT and grab a Coke Zero so we could make our own when we got home. This is how you make a Schneider Blended Float:

Step 1: Place ice cream in blender

Step 2: Add your drink of choice. Ours was a $.59 Coke Zero from QT.

Step 3: BLEND!!!!

Step 4: Taste and see if it's "just right."

Ours needed more ice cream.

Step 5: Enjoy every sip with your sweetie!

Crazy Busy!

2010-06-23T12:13:00.001-07:00

Work - Work - Sleep - Remedy Drive Gig - Fireworks Gig - - - - - - >

DAY AT HOME WITH ANDREW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We've only had one day at home since May.....

Can someone say....Excited???

My Mama is Awesome Because.....

2010-06-23T11:58:00.000-07:00

She makes THE BEST homemade noodles and rolls.

She can sew anything in an emergency, including bridesmaid dresses, costumes, pants, and various other articles of clothing.

She keeps a clean house at all times.

She has a green thumb.
She supported me when I was in piano, softball, music contests, band, flags, tumbling, dance, pageant, cheerleading, volleyball, girl scouts, nursing, clubs, musicals, etc., etc., etc.

She taught me how to cook.

She listens to me rant and rave about work.

She is beautiful.

I get her hazel eyes from her.
She is an amazing example of a godly wife and mother.

She will tell me the truth.

She inspired me to become a nurse.

She is selfless.

She is the best mom ever.

Her birthday was Monday.

Happy Birthday Mama!

To My Husband.....

2010-06-20T14:33:00.000-07:00

This past year we have gotten married, bought 2 houses, sold one house, started our jobs, traveled around, started nights, started crying, wrecked a car, committed to the band, lost a job, gained it back, didn't have a fight, didn't gain weight, didn't have a kid. You supported me through each new challenge, and encouraged me when I didn't think I could do it anymore. You let me cry on your shoulder, and sang the Oompa Loompa song to cheer me up. You waited patiently when I took forever to get ready, and were patient when I couldn't make up my mind. You encouraged me to stay healthy, and told me if the chicken dinner was really a winner. You were kind, generous, thoughtful, and gentle. You made me proud. You made me happy each and every day. I can't imagine there ever being a time I didn't know you. God put us together for great reasons. Some he has revealed, and others we have yet to see. I love you so much and thank you for being an amazing husband. Happy Anniversary!

Happy Father's Day Papa!

2010-06-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

To the man who carried me on his shoulders till I was 8 when I was tired of walking the trail,
To the man who shared a perm with me,
To the man who I have always had wrapped around my finger,
To the man who calls me Ma,
To the man I get my legs from,
To the man I also get my chubby cheeks from,
To the man who always provided for my needs,
To the man who bought me a life size Doodle Bear on Christmas Eve,
To the man who shares my love of chocolate chips,
To the man who is the best father I could ask for.....

Happy Father's Day!
I Love You!

Life of a Band Wife

2010-06-16T02:54:00.001-07:00

Life of a band wife is not fun right now. Andrew is in Nashville writing songs and meeting with labels for a week while I stay at home. Boo! No fun! BUT- I'm so very excited to see what is to come out of this weekend!

Miss my boo...

That the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 1:7

Brushcreek 2010

2010-06-16T02:47:00.001-07:00

This past week Andrew and I went to my old church camp. The one that is in the middle of nowhere in southern Illinois. The one I've been going to for about 15 years now (give and take a few). The one that I was saved at. The one that is AWESOME. We had fun and lots of kids were saved!

Cabin 15

We Bought Another House. Ahhh!!!!

2010-06-16T02:42:00.000-07:00

I do believe when I asked Andrew how long it would be before he flipped another house (after we had just flipped the Wood River house) he said 5-10 years. Just for the record- It's been one :) We've now owned 3 houses in the past year. Craziness. Our new summer project:

Wedding Tour 2010!!

2010-06-16T02:04:00.000-07:00

Weddings! I love them. Good thing, because we have 8 this year. Yes, 8!!!! That's a lot. We have four down and they were all gorgeous. Here's a few pics:

Wedding #1- Mr. and Mrs. Fischer (My big bro). I bawled. Not like a few tears bawl. More like, my Kleenex is now in a little soggy ball, someone please give me another before the snot gets too bad type of bawl. My Grandpa was sure to point in out. It was a beautiful wedding :)

Andrew just LOVES weddings ;)

My Family! Love them, love them, love them!

Happy Marriage to the happy couple!

Wedding #2: Mr. and Mrs. Mathewson- Another nursing girl got married! Nicole was my riding buddy to and from clinicals during school. We both share the love of food and the love of God. Awesome girl and awesome couple.

My super cute flowers. She got them from Canada. Very cool.

Like I said- Andrew is just giggling with excitement over all these weddings...

Wedding #3: Mr. and Mrs. VerDught. Andrew's old roomie. This wedding was number two on our Super Wedding Weekend. We had the Mathewson wedding in Peoria, then hopped over to Iowa for the VerDught's. Lots of driving, but well worth it!

4 weddings down (congrats to Ellie too!), one wedding missed, and only 3 more to go! Woot Woot!

2010-05-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

200,000 miles in 8 years. Not too shabby....

Agape = Love

2010-05-06T06:17:00.000-07:00

Agape was great this year! The guys were awesome, the crowd was awesome, and I got a little bit of a tan! Since TGR played on the main stage, we had backstage passes and ate, met, and saw other artists such as Skillet, Family Force Five, Stephanie Smith, and more. I can now say I've shaken John Cooper's (lead from Skillet) hand. I also won "Best Cousin Award 2010." My cousin Jordan came to the concert with us and we were able to get him a back stage pass as well. I think he had a great time. I can't wait until next year!

There's just something about a tight black tee and a bass... ;)

The Flying Ninja

It's our favorite girl, Ashton Lee!

We were even able to get some quality time in! And when I say quality time, I really mean Andy was able to take a nap while I painted my toenails. I'll take it!

Date Night!

2010-05-06T06:06:00.001-07:00

Between gigs, work, and other activities, Andrew and I have had very little "us" time. We have been due for a date night for a long time. We hadn't had a weekend off together at home since January, and even then we weren't sure. Andrew had a radio interview at 10:30, so we decided to make it a date night and go to Gian-Tony's. Oh how I love Gian-Tony's. I do believe I'm half Italian. I LOVE fettuccine alfredo. It does not love me, but everything in moderation, right? Our date night was wonderful and the time together only reminded us how much we not only love each other, but LIKE each other.

Scary rain clouds. Eeek!

At the very late radio interview. They did great!

Working Girl

2010-04-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

No, I have not fallen off the face of the earth. I've just been scheduled to work 5- 12 hour shifts in the next 6 days. They wanted me to pick up an extra shift last night, but I thought THAT MIGHT JUST KILL ME!!!! So this will be my life until next Thursday:

65 hours here at St. Clare...

10 hours of driving on here...

And 30 hours of sleep....

Hmmmmm.....No wonder I'm always tired!

The Life of a Band Wife

2010-04-14T13:28:00.001-07:00

It's pretty much official- we're going full time! I have learned when God calls you to do something, you hop up, say ok, get your big girl pants on, and get ready for a ride. Too bad it's not always so easy. I tend to stand up like I'm 90, a little unsteady, say, "well give me a little bit to think this over," and tell God to hold on while I try to decide which big girl pants I want to wear. And the ride doesn't always promise to be comfortable. Some days may be like riding in a stretch Hummer limo, while most other days may seem more like I'm a passenger in a 1970 Chrysler Station Wagon- with no a/c. Thank goodness I serve a gracious and patient God who has laid a burden on our hearts to go full time with the band. Thank goodness I serve a God who shouted and made His voice clear, telling us to trust Him and let Him have the reigns. And thank goodness I serve a God who has an amazing plan for us that we can only dream of.

Before we were married, we sat down and discussed the "what if's" in life. What if.... the band went full time? We both agreed we would be willing to sacrifice whatever, if God called us in that direction. Well, here we are! We've been feeling the itch for about six months now. It seemed as though every sermon, bible study, and devotion was screaming "follow Me," "have faith in Me," "trust Me," "step out of your comfort zone," "I have a purpose for you. Just trust." You get the picture. Andrew and I would even be at different churches and hear the same sermon, telling us to let go of our plans and seek God's instead. So we prayed. And prayed. And prayed. Then Andy got word that he may lose his job. So we prayed some more. One day we realized we weren't praying for Andy to keep his job like we would have normally (who wants to lose a steady job?!). We didn't even think about praying for him to keep his job. Instead we prayed for direction. Well, Andy lost his job along with 59 other Edwardsville school employees. We have peace because we know God has a different direction for us. We're opening all doors. We haven't given up on teaching. Andy has applied at various other schools, but we know God will close the doors and leave one for us to enter.

So there it is. The beginning of our journey down a little narrower path. It's going to be busy, we will probably be seeing each other even less, and I may not be able to get my QT cappuccino for my drive home every morning. These are all earthly things and in the end will be worth the sacrifice.

"Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." Psalm 9:10

15 Things I've Learned About Marriage So Far

2009-11-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

15. If you decide to rearrange the kitchen cabinets, let your husband know where each item was moved to, especially the cereal bowls. He'll be lost forever if you don't.

14. Tell your husband how much you appreciate them.

13. Marriage doesn't become a dream come true on its own, you must work at it.

12. Husbands appreciate the little things, even if it's organizing their underwear drawer.

11. Tell your husband EVERYTHING you bought when you went shopping. He'll figure out you bought more than tennis shoes when you also come out wearing a new pair of jeans.

10. Make every night a date night, even if it's eating cereal on the couch.

9. Husbands make the best foot warmers. God also gave them two hands for a reason- to give foot massages.

8. Your husband will tell you what's wrong on his own time. Just let him know you'll be there to listen when he feels like sharing.

7. Your husband will not know his hair clippings on the bathroom sink bother you unless you tell him.

6. Praying together every night does something special to your marriage.

5. If your husband tells you the supper you make looks like a muffin and tastes like a hot dog, but is ok, he really means, "please don't make this thing you call meatloaf ever again."

4. Husbands aren't perfect.

3. Husbands can't read minds. Communication is key.

2. When your husband says you look sexy in fleece Christmas tree pj pants, you know you have a keeper.

1. Keep God number one.

Holy Cow It's Been a Month!!!!

2009-03-03T11:37:00.000-08:00

So....I am shocked I haven't written in a month! I must update you on my life:

1. Andy and I celebrated our 2nd anniversary. (We also secretly celebrated it being our last "dating" anniversary!) We got all dressed up real perty like and went to California Pizza Kitchen. We had originally planned on eating Cheesecake Factory, but it was a 2 hour wait!

Here we are all dressed up. You can see the roses he gave me :)
Oh! And I love bragging about my bargains...Dress: $10

Waiting for our table. We were STARVING!!!

We were rear ended on the way there :(, but luckily hardly any damage.

2. I realized I have less than 4 months until the wedding!!!! I can't believe it! I am going to be a grown up married lady! Sometimes I still see myself as a kid.

3. We got a new boarder collie puppy named Sadie. She's so sweet!

4. I competed in the WIBI Opening Act Contest and made it to the quarter-finals (top 45). I was so excited! I've always loved to sing and see it as a great way to witness to others. I didn't make it any further, but I thought I did my best and sang it for the Lord....In my eyes, I won :)

Singing "Glorious One" by Steve Fee. It had a GINORMOUS range. I almost cried when I found out how wide the range was and wondered why I picked it. There was some major belting going on!

I HAVE to tell you about the bargains going on here:
The cute blue peep toe wedges: $15 (List Price: $80!!!)
Jeans: $7.50 (List Price: $40!!!)
The jeans were also a size smaller than what I usually wear, which is always an added bonus!
The shirt was also cheap and was picked out by my wonderful roomy!

5. We started pre-marital counseling. Eeek! (again, realizing I'm growing up!)

6. I am officially on spring break!!!! My last class was today (Tuesday), and I don't have any class on Monday this next (and last!) 8 weeks, which means I get 12 days off!!! Be jealous...

That was my February! I think it was a good one ;)

Licking Fingers

2009-02-04T10:03:00.000-08:00

One day while I was doing TONS of laundry, I decided to make cookies! Now I LOVE cookies, but I love cookie dough even more. Make it double chocolate chip oatmeal cookie and I'm in heaven. Here is how it all went down:

Beat 1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter/margarine and sugar until fluffy....do not start tasting the dough yet. Not good tasting.

Melt 1 cup chocolate chips in a bowl in the microwave for 15 seconds at a time. Don't get in a rush and set the microwave longer. You will get burnt chocolate chips and that would just be a waste of perfectly good chocolate, now wouldn't it?!Look at that chocolate licking potential!

Yum Yum!

Don't forget to wash your finger off after licking. We don't want to share germs!

Add 1 egg and 1/4 tsp vanilla

Add combined: 3/4 c. flour, 3/4 c. oats, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips.

Don't forget to taste! VERY IMPORTANT!!!!

Look at that beater. If you would like, you can share a beater with a friend, or you can eat both yourself. Don't forget to check your face before going into public. Licking beaters can get messy!

Everyone should have this book. Period.

Bake in an oven that has been preheated at 375 F for 8-10 minutes.

Mmmmmmmm.......

Cool for a minute (or as long as you can stand it) and indulge!!!!!!!!!!
And don't forget to lick the chocolate off your fingers!

Goals!

2009-01-27T09:33:00.000-08:00

Last night at Chi Alpha Bible study, we were asked to make goals for this coming year. When thinking about what I wanted to do in 2009, I realized that many of my long-term goals that I've had set for years will finally be accomplished. It was exciting, overwhelming, and it kind of made me feel old. With the goals that are soon to be accomplished came new goals that I've never been able to set. It's really exciting actually. One will always have goals. When a goal is reached, a door is opened for another higher goal to be set. Here are some of the goals that I wrote down for 2009:

1. Have a stronger desire to know God through scripture and prayer.

2. Be an example of Christ to others and be a role model for those to look up to.

3. Be a wife. (One goal I will soon accomplish!) I don't just want to be a wife, I want to be a great wife. Someone who Andy will want to come home to everyday, someone who does little things "just because", someone who will stick with it through thick and thin. I can't wait! I've had this goal since I was 3 when I played wedding with my cousin. I always said my goal was to be married by the age of 22. The wedding will be two weeks before my 22nd birthday- close enough!

4. Be a nurse. (Another one I will hopefully be able to check off my list!! Fingers crossed!) This includes graduating and getting a job. I want to be a nurse that people remember. If you've ever stayed in a hospital, you will always remember the nurse who went the extra mile for you. I want have an impact on my patients and leave them with a sense of hope, renewal, and joy. The first year of nursing can be the hardest. My hope is that I will continue to have the desire to care for people.

5. Gain a spouse, but not gain pounds. Andy and I have promised each other that we will NOT GET FAT after we get married. I sure hope we don't! Andy has always said that even if I was 300 pounds, he would still love me. That's very sweet of him, but I'd rather stay way below that! We're both pretty health conscious, so I'm hoping that sticks with us after marriage.

6. My last goal is to stay in contact with friends. After graduation, I'm moving to Wood River for good. No going home every other weekend to see friends and family. I'm going to be shoved into the real world. I won't be seeing friends from home or college as often as I would like to. Thank you Jesus for Facebook!!! I will have to make a conscious effort to stay in contact and not let those friendships slip away.

So there are my goals. Hopefully in a year I'll be able to look back and reflect on how much I have accomplished! Then I will be able to set new and exciting goals. Who knows maybe children will be on the list! (Just kidding....if it's there, it'll be a LONG-TERM GOAL!)

Cupcakealicious!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

Tonight a group of us girls went out to eat chocolate at Bissinger's before Kim went off to Japan to teach! All girls love chocolate! After getting lost, then finding the place, then hunting forever to find a parking spot, then walking forever in our very cute but uncomfortable boots in the cold we finally got to the place, only to find out we would have to wait 40 minutes to be seated. The place was very cool, but was very low on seating. Only 4 or 5 tables in the entire place! Not enough for 7 people and other customers! Luckily for us, The Cupcakery was just around the corner! Cupcakes are a girl's 2nd best friend! The cupcakes there were GINORMOUS, but the best. Here are some pictures to sum up the night...

My Delicious Peanut Butter Cup Cupcake with my Skim Milk (Have to Stay Healthy!)

This is when I realized my cupcake was half eaten and I became very sad...

My cupcake is all gone....Well worth all the calories!!!

Nina loved her cupcake!

Some of us girls...

Roomies!!!!

I thought the light shades were very cool...

I always wanted a sister.....not much longer and I'll have one!

Good luck in Japan, Kim!!!! I know God has a plan for you and will be using you in so many ways. We'll all miss you!!!!

Humbled

2009-01-22T21:24:00.000-08:00

Tuesday I had the opportunity to wash the homeless' feet. My first thought....GROSS!!!!! We saw people who lived in shelters and on the streets. All we did was wash their feet and give them some information on how to care for their feet. The looks on their faces were ones of eternal gratitude. Something so simple meant the world to them. It's so easy to take everyday things such as bathing, food, a warm house, and clean socks for granted.

Washing feet also reminded me of the example Jesus set for us when he washed the feet of the disciples. He humbled himself before his disciples- even the one who was going to betray him- and did the low task of washing their feet.

I challenge myself and others to not take anything for granted and to humble ourselves. Instead of complaining about going to school, I should be joyous that I have the privilege of going. Instead of complaining about not having anything to wear, I should be grateful that I have more than one outfit in my closet. Be humble, reflect on what you have, and don't take anything for granted. Most importantly, follow Jesus' example and "wash feet".

Thank You Mr. President

2009-01-20T22:15:00.000-08:00

Today we got a new president. I was filled with a million emotions including excitement, fear, pride, and sadness. While watching George Bush walk out during the inauguration, I had no idea that I would become so emotional. This sadness for the loss of a president turned into anger as people around me started making degrading remarks towards the soon to be former president. I cried and cried and cried. It was not fair.

I know many do not agree with the decisions Bush made over his 8 years in office, but the guy still deserves respect. He was after all our president and leader. I hate how so many go by what the media says and do not dig to find the truth for themselves. I hate how society blames so much on one person when that person had no control over the situation.

I decided to research the good things Bush has done for our country. I was surprised, pleased, and proud of our past president. Here are some of the good things he has done for us:

-Proclaimed a National Day of Prayer during his first month in office.
-Airline safety
-Sent military to Afghanistan, dismantled the Taliban and liberated 25 million people
-Established Office of Homeland Security
-Signed the Pledge of Allegiance Bil reaffirming "One Nation under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance and "In God we Trust" as the National Motto.
-Initiated military with Iraq dismantling the Saddam Hussein regime, liberating 22 million people.
-Amber Alert Bill
-Passed more Pro-life bills than any other president
-Called for Constitutional Amendment protecting marriage
-KEPT THE US FROM BEING ATTACKED FOR 7 YEARS!!!
-Established faith-based programs
-He gives God the glory

These are just a few. The guy had 2 hard terms. A lot of the things that happened were out of his control. Do I agree with everything he did? No. I just wish people would give him a little more respect, that's all. I can't imagine being briefed EVERY MORNING on the threats our nation faced. What a drag! That's not something I would want to wake up to. I loved the line in Bush's farewell speech when he said:

You may not agree with some tough decisions I have made. But I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions.

And that's what I admire about Bush- he tried his best. I hope in the future, people will look back and see that Bush wasn't all that bad. I also hope Obama receives respect. He is our president, our leader, and he now bears the weight of the world on his shoulders.

So now I'm done venting. I would like to say Thank You Mr. President Bush for doing your best and Thank You Mr. President Obama for volunteering to lead our country. It's going to be an exciting 4 years!

Tights!!

2009-01-19T09:21:00.000-08:00

I think a man invented tights. Yesterday I decided to wear my gray tights. I'm just now getting into this tights thing and almost forgot how big of a pain they are. I made a few rules that might be helpful for those of you who have decided to wear tights also:

1. Do not try to put on tights directly after taking a shower or putting on lotion. It will be nearly impossible.
2. Gather the tights with your two thumbs like your momma taught you. This is the best and quickest way. Don't try to pull them on. You're just asking for trouble.
3. Pull the tights up as far as they go...usually up to the boobs (control top can't hurt for the boobage area either, right?....and you're getting a 2 for 1!) Any lower and you'll get rolls. Sometimes this rule requires jumping. A great workout for the day!
4. Take Gas-X. I don' know about you, but tights make me feel bloated. I think it's the control top squishing all my organs together.

After following all of these rules (I unfortunately forgot the Gas-X one), I looked in the mirror and saw how cute I looked in my gray tights, black knee boots, and blue sweater dress. I guess tights aren't THAT bad after all!

Pizza Cook-off!!!!!

2009-01-19T08:24:00.000-08:00

Saturday night Andy and I went on a double date with one our favorite couples- Drew and Jenna. No one cared what we did. No on movies. Maybe a jazz club, but we would have to lay down at least $40/couple- no one wanted to do that. After ho humming around, we decided to have a pizza cook-off at Andy's house. For those who don't know, the Schneiders are VERY competitive. It was pretty much an instant go.

We made some rules:

1. Boys vs. Girls
2. Cannot be pre-made
3. You only have 10 minutes in Shop in Save to get your things.

Jenna and I decided on making Garlic Chicken Stuffed Crust Pizza with Special Sauce (alfredo and red sauce with sauteed garlic- DELICIOUS!)

The boys made Sausage, Peperoni, Bacon, Canadian Bacon, and Green Pepper Stuffed Crust Pizza.Here they are picking out the cheese. (Which by the way was HILARIOUS!)

This is what I imagined they were saying:

"So um, dude, what cheese should we get."
"Oh, I don't know, dude. Should we do stuffed crust."
"I don't know, man. Are the girls doing it."
"I dont know, man. Let's just do it!"
"Yeah, let's do it! Grab the big bag!"
"Let's do it!"
"This will be enough cheese to bind you up for a week!" -Actual words from Andy

We checked our ingredients out. Girls won cost efficiency by a land slide. 1 point girls, 0 boys.
We went back to Andy's house and started baking. Us girls had a little set back after we burned the garlic, but that didn't discourage us. Our pizza turned out beautiful:

Jenna making the special sauce...

Our finished pizza ready to be put in the oven. It was so beautiful.

The boys had a lot of work to do with their pizza including frying the bacon and sausage. I think they were a little intimidated by our beautiful pizza and that we cooked the crust for a bit before we put the toppings on. Their pizza was LOADED with toppings.

Drew making the stuffed crust. You can see their ginormous bag of cheese...
Andy putting on the finishing touches.

Finally at 8:30, the pizzas were finished. (We had started at 6:00. Talk about being hungry!) Here are the final pictures:

The boys' pizza. Voted best topping and most manly.

Our pizza. Voted best sauce and crispiest crust.

We decided the pizza cook-off would end in a tie. Each pizza was eaten and enjoyed, and we had a blast making them- the most important part. We finished up the night by eating a chocolate pudding pie and falling asleep on our sweeties watching a movie. What a great double date!

Handy Dandy

2009-01-16T23:07:00.000-08:00

I swear this house is cursed! It seems as though every time I turn around, something else has broken. Lately our shower has been clogged- probably not so much the house's fault, but more three girls using one shower-, the knob on the shower mysteriously broke off, and the light in my room is burnt out. I decided that I would become handy and fix everything. I'm a very girly girl, but even girly girls like to fix things.

Nina and I had already tried fixing the shower knob, but the knob we got didn't fit. I had Andy go to Lowe's in Edwardsville to pick another one up. It's amazing how differently a man and woman's brain functions. I tried describing the knob to Andy. This is kind of how it went:

Me- Well, it's kind of hexegon, but just the part that fits to the poke out part, but the knob is
round, and the one we already bought at Walmart had little pokey things that came out of
it, so it didn't fit. So do you see one at Lowe's that would work?
Andy- What? Umm, I don't know what your talking about.
Me- It's hexegon, well let me go see again, well one part's hexegon, but it's round too.
Andy- I don't see what you're talking about. Can't find it.

So I checked the faucet knob off my fix-it list. 1 down, 2 to go.

Next was the drain. We figured it was clogged when the water started going up to our ankles when we showered. Grant (the homeowner) had told us just to go to the basement, unscrew the pipe, and a discusting ball of hair would slop out. Gross, but so is ankle shower water. So Nina and I went down stairs with a wrench (how fix-itish!) and tried to find the pipe. There are a lot of pipes in the basement. The one coming from the tub had a lot of twists and turns, so we decided it was probably best not to tackle that one ourselves. 2 down, 1 to go. Nothing fixed.

Last, my light. I thought for sure I could do this one. It's a light! And a very cool one with a remote. I can lay in bed and turn my light on or off, or even dim them! I made Andy put one in the house. ( He can thank Grant and Molly for that one!) I unscrewed the globe, which was a challenge in itself, and found the tiniest wierdest light bulb ever! I of course didn't have it and therefore couldn't replace. So much for that.

All three jobs were attempted, but none were completed. I was unsuccessfully handy. My friend Lindsey put it best when she said, "Try to be handy, but when you become unseccessfully handy, call the boyfriend." So I did :)

2009-01-11T22:03:00.000-08:00

Little Life Lessons

Yesterday I had a dentist appointment in Robinson and had some extra time. What else do you do with extra time but go to Walmart! And that I did! We didn’t have anything to drink at home besides water (heaven for bid if I drink it!), so I decided to get Fresca. I love Fresca! Fruity, Spritey, and calorie free!!! And they had a flavor I had never tried- exciting! I checked out, went on my way to the dentist (only one almost cavity- since when do dentists diagnose you with an “almost cavity”??) and drove home. I carried my bags in (garland for $1!) and decided I was parched. I went to get the Fresca out of the car and it was nowhere to be found! I had left it behind at Walmart. Here is where the little life lesson came into effect. Little Life Lesson #1: Make sure you have all items when leaving Walmart. I was not happy. I was thirsty. I wanted my fruity, spritey, calorie free, new flavored Fresca! I called Walmart- they didn’t have it, but if I brought in my receipt they would give me my Fresca. Of course I already threw that away! I dug through the gross trash and found my receipt with my paid for Fresca. So until I take my receipt to Walmart to pick it up, I will be stuck drinking water and will have to wait to drink my Fresca.

Today after supper I was hungry for something sweet! I looked at the clock- 7:00 and saw I had an hour and a half to make something and eat it (I made a New Year’s resolution to not eat anything after 8:30). I decided to make no bake cookies. I love these things! Oatmeal, pb, and chocolate. The perfect cookie. Since the big pan that I usually make them in was dirty (and I wasn’t about to wash it by hand), I decided to make a half batch with the smaller pan. I had the chocolate sauce made and was ready to put the oatmeal in. Little Life Lesson #2: Make sure you have everything before you make anything food. Woops! No oatmeal. Now what! I could eat the chocolate with a spoon, but that’s much more unhealthy than eating the entire batch of cookies. I certainly was not going to throw out precious chocolate and peanut butter sauce. I decided to add Rice Crispies. Chocolate, pb, and rice crispies. Sounded good to me! I plopped the rice crispie creations out into little balls and tasted. Not too bad, not too great either. Even though they were a little chewy, a bit soggy, kind of dry and brittle, I had about 5. But don’t worry, it was before 8:30. Ok, most of them were before 8:30. Little Life Lesson #3: Does anyone ever follow their new year’s resolution 100% of the time?