2010?

Really?! 2010? Doesn't it just seem like last year we were all freaking out about the Y2K scare? I still remember where I was.. Leah Harman's (Now Pippen) parents house for NYE. When the clock struck midnight, Leah's dad turned off all the lights and we all, for just a second, thought that Y2K was actually real! Haha. Then after that split second we realized the tv was still on so obviously the power wasn't out. We were just freshmen then! Now it's ten years later and Leah is married and living in Maryland. Some of our friends that were there that night have kids! One is pregnant and due in June. Are we really getting old enough for all of that? I turn 25 in January and I just can't seem to believe it. It just seems like yesterday.

Now, 2010 is upon us and as I look back on 2009 I can't help but feel so grateful for all that we've been given this year. We've survived our first year of firsts with marriage. We've moved into a new apartment, and we have made some amazing friends here in Merrillville in our small group. I've started a new job, that I'm really enjoying (now that the holidays are over!). And Mike has found his own niche at his store. Thank you Lord for all that You have given and continue to give. In 2010 we want to give more back to You and Your will.

Have a very happy New Year. Be safe tonight and enjoy!

I survived the holidays!! Merry Christmas to all of you! I hope that you were surrounded by loved ones and remembered that Jesus is the Reason!! It's so easy to forget the true meaning of Christmas with all of the stress and craziness around us.

Speaking of craziness, I made it through the hectic holiday season. From what I hear- we are going to feel like we're on vacation from now on. I'm really looking forward to that. Plus it will give me time to really get to know all aspects of the job and strengthen myself in some of the areas where I'm lacking confidence.

We had a great Christmas. We spent Christmas Eve with the Marshalls. We are so blessed with great families who really support us through everything! We were reminded of that this weekend. Today we spent the morning with my family and the afternoon with the Huber side. I have missed my cousin Andrew, so it was great to have him home from New Orleans! We left reminicing about some funny moments and feeling like there just wasn't enough time. We always seem to leave feeling that way. But I guess that's a sign of a great visit!!

Remember...

As you finish up your Christmas shopping this year (or start if you're a procrastinator like me..) and as you deal with hectic, stressful, and busy retail environments please remember that the people working at those retail stores are just as stressed as you are. Probably more. "Thank You" goes a very long way. And just remember that their job this time of year isn't easy. Dealing with the public never is.

Just a friendly reminder from an exhausted retail associate :)

I've been a little MIA. I have been working in the Merrillville studio for over a week now and I think I'm settling in pretty well. I have my days where I think "What did I get myself into!?" BUT most of that frustration comes from the fact that it's the holidays and we are CrAzY busy. Overall, I think that I'll really like this job. On Fridays I'm reminded of the fact that I have a good PAYING job and that gets me through the insane weekends :)

Mike has been AMAZING with helping out around the house while I'm at work. So far, our schedules haven't conflicted too much. The weekends are the worst part though- when he's off on Saturdays and I have to work all day. But it's not too bad.

Tomorrow is our 1st Anniversary!! I have to work, but I think afterwards we're going to go out for dinner or something. We both agreed- no gifts. We can't afford it and we don't need anything. Yes, I know it's our first anniversary, and Mike's boss has been giving him a hard time over it, but we decided last weekend that if we would do anything we would make it meaningful. At our wedding for our wedding favors we gave money to the AGC baby center in the names of our guests. So this year for our anniversary we're doing the same thing. That's a gift that helps others. What's better than that!? And those sweet babies deserve it more than we do. If you would like to help the babies in Kenya visit http://www.nmcandthebabycenter.blogspot.com/.

I survived!

My time in NC is almost over! I'm sitting in my hotel room by myself after a week with two terrific roommates and a hotel filled with stressed out/nervous Portrait Innovations trainees. Breakfast this morning wasn't the same with only two of us. I'm thankful that at least someone was still here though! I made some amazing friends and I'm so glad that we could all go through this program together. I know we'll all be texting each other Wednesday night after we have our first day in our own studios. I'm anxious to see how things go at the Merrillville studio and to meet everyone I'll be working with. It became so comfortable working with all the trainers and trainees this week, so now I have to do it all over again. But I'm excited.

I hope you all had a great week! I am going to enjoy having today and tomorrow off with my husband before I start work. I'm so grateful for this job. Please keep praying that we get adjusted and that I all of my other in-studio training goes well!

North Carolina

I'm headed to North Carolina on Sunday for a week of training for my new job. Everyone keeps asking if I'm excited. Should I be!? I'm more ready to get it over with so I can get into a routine with my regular work hours and start getting a paycheck!! Mike and I were going over our bills last night and we kept saying "ugh, it will be so nice when we're a two income family!"

Some of you have asked what to pray for - Please be praying for Mike while I'm gone. He tends to get a little lonely. Once we have a house, I'm sure he'll have plenty of projects to work on- but it's a little tough when we're just in an apartment. He has to work alot, and he's picked up some extra shifts, so hopefully that will help. Also, please pray that God would prepare both of us for the crazy schedule that we'll be on once I start working in the Merrillville studio. Of course, for safe travels to and from NC.

Have a great week!

Happy Fall!

Happy Fall from my family to yours!! :)

Family Pictures

Mike and I went home this weekend for the Mast family pictures! We picked quite the day to have these done. It was rainy and FREEZING!!! But we got them done and that's what counts! Jill sent me a little teaser of some of the pictures. I'm excited to see the rest. It was great to spend the day with everyone, despite the cold. It's not often that we're all in the same place together between my brother's busy schedule, us trying to split our time between two families and our friends, and my parents schedules. This weekend it worked out great though. Mike was able to have a guys night with some of his friends. He deserves that and doesn't get that time often enough. He values those friendships so much and I know that it's been hard for him to not see his guy friends as much as what he would like. I was lucky to have a mama/daughter night Friday night with my mom. We went shopping for new work clothes for me. My parents are so generous and I'm so thankful for everything they have given me (not just financially either). It was so nice to spend an evening with my mom. *Thanks Mom!!*

I leave for North Carolina a week from today. I'm looking forward to getting training over with and getting started in the Merrillville studio. It will be nice to get into a routine.

Have a great week!

Show us Your Life

Today at Kelly's Korner it's Show Us Your Life: What you Make!

This is a verrry FUN one!! I love looking online at unique, personal, gift ideas. Alot of them are made by stay at home moms or women working from home to make another income for their family. I love helping them while they are helping me with gift ideas!! So this week is perfect for me! On Kelly's blog there's a long list of links (tons of them!!) from the women that make these unique items. Have fun browsing. Mike is working late tonight so I'm happily watching "Say Yes to the Dress" on TLC and browsing all the fun things getting Christmas ideas!! Enjoy and let me know what your favorite is!

God Is Good...

...All The Time!

Even when I forget it. We were definitely blessed this last week. I was offered a JOB!! I will be working at Portrait Innovations here in Merrillville. I'll be traveling to North Carolina for a week of training November 1-9th, and then I officially start work on the 11th of November. I'm excited to start, but pretty overwhelmed at all of the things to do before I start! I know that since the holidays are right around the corner that it will be a very busy few months at work. Thank you so much for your prayers through this time. Mike and I are very happy that this opportunity has come up, but we'll still need your prayers as the studio has told me that through the holidays I'll be working around 60 hours a week. Mike and I won't be seeing each other much and we'll have to try and stay positive. Please be praying for that. Also, I really hope that I'll still be able to go to small groups on Tuesdays. We have fallen in love with each couple in our small group and I would hate to miss out on anything. Especially now when we're all growing closer to one another.

If you're in the Merrillville area this winter bring in your kids and come visit me and I'll take your picture!! :)

Happy Birthday!

Happy 21st Birthday to my not so little brother!!!

10 Things...

10 THINGS I'VE LEARNED SINCE GETTING MARRIED...

1. I really like to cook.
2. I really hate cleaning up after cooking.

3. I keep our apartment much cleaner than I ever kept my room at my parents. (sorry mom).

4. Marriage is work. But so worth it.

5. I can do a load of laundry almost every day. For just the two of us. Yes, my hubby changes clothes too much.

6. I love clipping coupons.

7. Mike thinks my mom and I should start our own wedding planning business.

8. I've realized that I was born to be a mother. I've never had such a strong desire for anything else in my life.

9. My mom is my best friend.

10. I love grocery shopping. I find it very relaxing.

*more to come as our one year anniversary approaches.

Show us Your Life

Happy Friday!!
Today at Kelly's Korner it's show us your life day: TAILGATES AND FAVORITE TEAMS!
I've been excited for this one because it seems that on Kelly's blog most of the blogs are fans of the SEC and southern teams. I'm reppin' the midwest this week!! The Mast's and Marshall's have always been NOTRE DAME fans. I've grown up cheering for the Irish and have since enjoyed a few games in South Bend.

Trina and I at the Purdue/Notre Dame game a couple years ago

Notre Dame has so many neat traditions. From the band, to mass before the games, to singing the alma mater after each game going to the games to cheer on the Irish is always exciting!

Notre Dame is off this week with a bye. BUT next Saturay is a BIG game vs. USC. It's a big rivalry so you can bet that Mike and I will be decked out in our ND stuff cheering on ND!!
HERE COME THE IRISH!!

Check this Out...

I saw this trailer and was shocked to see NorthWood grad RYAN WOODLE in it!! Congrats Ryan!

Peaks and Valleys

This has been a rollercoaster of a week. Little things seem to really be getting to me. I have two interviews - one tomorrow afternoon and one Sunday morning. I'm anxious about those and I've been praying very fervently about each one. Especially the one I think would fit me and our family better. But then the valleys of life always hit hard. I finally got my car back tonight after three weeks without it as it was getting fixed. One thing would get fixed and then another thing would go wrong. Isn't how it always seems to go? Now tonight I get it back and there's a crack in the windshield. Boo!! Anyone know how much that's going to cost me? Not something I'm looking forward to. I always seem to see dollar signs when things like this happen. A second income would REALLY be a blessing right now. If you remember, please pray for this opportunity for me. Thanks so much.

The weekend is almost here though and we're excited to have family in Merrillville. It always feels a little more like home when we have people come and visit.

Have a great weekend.

I've been playing around with my blog a little bit. I added a signature and will continue to add some buttons on the side. I have two job interviews this week, so prayers would be greatly appreciated! I'm nervous about them, but I've really been praying for God to open up the right doors, so I'm hoping that the interviewer will see me as God sees me.

Show us Your Life

It's Show us Your Life Friday! This week over at Kelly's Korner it's BABY GEAR week. Since we don't have a child and don't plan on having one anytime soon I don't have any favorite baby gear. However, I wanted to join in on the fun, so I'm going to list a few things that I think are just so cute or things that I might want whenever that time does come!

Booties: Aren't these booties just precious!?! I know that alot of new moms just opt out of the baby shoes because most of the time they end up kicking them off, but come on! How can you say no to these!!

Bibs: I always thought that you can go waaaay overboard with monogramming, but these are so cute! I love the patterns.

Bedding: This is my DREAM crib bedding! I think it would be so cute for a boy or a girl. I'm always on the look out for neutral stuff too, because Mike and I already know that when we do decide to start having kids we won't want to know what the baby is before he/she is born. I just love damask and in these colors is perfect. :) It would be easy to throw in some pink accents if the baby was a girl or leave as is if a boy.Udder Cover: I keep going back and forth about breast feeding, but I know that when I have a child I'll definitely try it out and if it works out wouldn't this just be perfect!? I'm all for modesty and what a help this would be. I think it kind of looks like an apron. But I'm sure it's nice that you can be completely covered and still be able to see your baby and what's going on. Without getting too hot too since I'm sure the alternative is being all covered up with a blanket.

All of these things weren't very practical, just more fun but I'm allowed to have some fun with it now before I actually have to consider all the options :) By the time I'm pregnant I'm sure I'll have completely different opinions and new stuff will be on the market and doctors will be saying something new too about what's best for your children. Head over to Kelly's blog to check out all of the other baby gear that people like.

I am currently watching the Today Show and Matt Lauer just said "Today is the final day of September..." What!?! September came and went that fast?! Really?? Is September really over after today?! October is right around the corner. The weather is a testament to that, that's for sure. I love the change in weather, despite how quickly it came upon us! I'm certainly not ready for snow, so I hope that fall stays around for awhile!! Mike and I are kind of fighting the sickness bug that is going around. Yesterday I was feeling a little under the weather, achey, headache, etc. Mike is still fighting an itchy throat and a cough. He NEVER gets sick, so this is really annoying for him! I'm feeling better today, but I always seem to get sick when the weather changes, so I'm hoping that maybe it missed me this time!

I hope everyone in your households are doing well and staying healthy! Have a great week!

Iowa

We had a great time in Iowa this weekend!! I was a bridesmaid in my friend, Natalie's, wedding. She made one STUNNING bride! It was a weekend of celebration and reuniting with some hesston friends. Anyone who knows me know that I love Hesston and the friends I met there are some of the most quality people I'll probably ever meet. It made me so happy to be able to hang out with some of them for the weekend. Here's a picture of Nat and I. Isn't she beautiful?

Mike loved Iowa so much he says he wants to move there! Ha. Actually, this isn't our first time traveling to Iowa together and each time we return home he has said that. There are Aldi's there. Maybe God has that in the cards for us :) I wouldn't be too upset about living in Iowa either to tell you the truth. I already miss my friends that live there! But then again, we always go back to what it would be like if we were back in Nappanee and it's hard to beat that!!

Prayers

I've added a new part to the blog. My heart has been feeling so heavy lately during my prayer and devotion time. There's SO many things going on in our world today and among the people around us that my prayer time is filled with requests. Prayer is the most powerful form of help we can give, so why not spread the word when there's a need? So keep an eye on this portion of my blog for prayer requests. And if you have a request please email me and I can post it. Some of the requests will be specific, others won't. Some of them I might know, others I won't. Like today...

Today I added The Sullivans. I don't know these people. But my heart goes out to this young husband. He has been married for five years and his wife just gave birth via emergency c-section to a beautiful baby girl, Chloe. His wife was dealing with breast cancer during her pregnancy. Unfortunately, just yesterday, this man's wife, and Chloe's mother went to be with Jesus after experiencing some seizures. You can read the story for yourself. Just click on the link on the right. I can't imagine what this man is feeling as he says goodbye to his best friend and wife but also as he deals with having to raise this newborn on his own. He needs our prayers.

Show us Your Life

I forgot to post this last week, so we'll just use it for this week since I'll be in Iowa on Friday. Over at Kelly's Korner it's Show us Your Life: RECIPES!! This was a great one!! I'm excited to read through all the new recipes! I feel like I'm stuck in a rut with the things I make for dinner, so hopefully there's some great ones to try!

My recipe is for: No Peak Chicken
*This was a big hit with my husband! It's very easy and takes little preparation.

Ingredients:
1 pkg. Uncle Ben's Long Grain and Wild Rice
1 Chicken in pieces or Chicken Breasts (I used three chicken breasts)
1 Can cream of mushroom soup
1 Can cream of chicken soup
1 Can chicken broth

Put rice in bottom of 9x13 pan. Place chicken on top of rice. Cover with seasoning packet from rice. Mix soups and broth together in separate bowl. Pour over top of chicken. Cover pan with foil. Bake at 325 degrees for 2 1/2 hours. DO NOT PEAK!

I don't have a picture of this recipe, but trust me, it's great! enjoy!!

Colts

I had such a great time at the COLTS game on Sunday!! It was a great way to spend the day. And boy is that the way to watch a football game! Jill scored some amazing seats in a SUITE from a guy at work. The people in the suite were so nice and everything was taken care of for us! We enjoyed free food and drinks, and a fantastic view of the game! At half time they surprised us with bringing the SUPER BOWL trophy to our suite!! We were able to take pictures with it. There was one guy in the suite who cracked us up. He was VERY excited about seeing the trophy. He was like a little kid on Christmas morning. He was on his phone right after they took the trophy out calling his friends to tell them about his exciting day.

Thank you Jill for asking me to go with you!! We had so much fun. Not to mention the Colts won, so that's always a great way to end the day!! That stadium is just amazing. It makes the RCA Dome look awful. The 2012 Superbowl will be hosted there and I wish so much I still lived in Indy to experience that!!

6 Years

I can't believe that it's been six years. Six years ago today, I know right where I was. What I was wearing. Who I was with. Where I was sitting when I got the phone call. What I said. What I did. The urge of sickness in my stomach.




Six years ago today - We lost a man of God. We lost one of our best friends. We lost a man who never failed to make us smile.

But within the last six years, we've all found strength we didn't know we had. We've found a deep friendship from people who were once aqauintances. We found renewed faith in God. I'm thankful for Nick. I'm thankful for his legacy. I'm thankful for the faith that he never failed to share with others.

Today, we remember you, Nick. Your heart. And your Smile.

Guess where I'm headed...

Notice the VIP!?! That's right!! My best friend Jill scored some AWESOME tickets for the game this sunday!! Her and I will be enjoying the game from a suite!!

Weekend

We had an amazing weekend!! Mike and I had so much fun at Blue Man Group in Chicago last weekend. We recommend this show to anyone!! We loved it and had a lot of good laughs. Mike said he had a great birthday. We were able to spend it with both of our families and also with some friends on Tuesday. We're so thankful for all the people in our lives who keep us grounded and make us better people. Here's a picture of Mike with his birthday cake that his mom brought for him.
And here's one of us in Chicago in front of the Briar St. Theater. We would LOVE to go back to see this show again. Mike commented that next time maybe we'll see it in Vegas :) No complaints here!!

Show us Your Life

This week on Show Us Your Life it's SCHOOL PICTURES! The only pictures I have on this computer are these. This first one I was in Pre-School I believe. Maybe the year before. Mike doesn't think I was a very cute kid, but I would have to disagree!! :) I might be biased though!

Fall

With September and the recent cooler weather I got into the fall mood :) I hope you enjoy the new layout. Happy Fall!!

Weddings and Birthdays

We had a FANTASTIC weekend!! CJ and Jen's wedding was beautiful and SO MUCH fun!! Mike and I both enjoyed our time with old and new friends so much!! Here's a picture of me with Chris, CJ, and Josh. I love these guys and we all have seen each other through a lot. We are all spread out now, but it was so great to spend an evening with them! The rest of our weekend was spent with family and we wouldn't have had it any other way.

Now we're looking forward to this coming weekend! It's Mike's birthday on Friday!! His family is coming Friday evening for dinner. We're going to Chicago on Saturday to see the Blue Man Group and have dinner with Emily!! Then Sunday my parents are coming to celebrate with Mike! We're so lucky!!

Here and There

We had a great weekend in Merrillville this past weekend. It's not often that we get an entire weekend at home (at least this summer it hasn't been likely) and so it was nice to relax and get some things done around here. It was also great to go to our church here. New small groups and classes are beginning in September so we took advantage of this. Mike signed up for a men's group that is starting in the fall. There's not many younger men involved in this particular group, so we're praying that the older men embrace him! I also signed up for a women's small group. They are just starting to have a younger demographic of women, so I know that I'll be comfortable going into this group. Which makes me feel good since I don't exactly like going into a new environment totally on my own. We'll also be getting involved again with our Newly-Married small group. We will begin meeting again with them in September after taking the summer off.

We're SO excited for this weekend! A good friend of mine, CJ Cunningham is getting married! I'm very excited to see this group of friends that will be at the wedding. CJ and his family have been such a support to me in the years since Nick has died. CJ, Megan, and their parents Dave and Janice are so generous and loving. I'm excited to celebrate with them!

Show us Your Life

Ok, for this week's edition of Show Us Your Life I don't have much to input so I'm counting on everyone else!! The category is BABY SHOWERS. Yes, I've been to them, but never had to throw one so I don't have many ideas. I did find this very cute picture over at Kelly's Korner of cookies that she had at her baby shower!

Aren't these soo cute!? Adorable I think. Maybe when it's time (waaay down the road) for me to have a baby shower I'll request cookies like these!!

Join in the "Show Us" fun!!

Texas Update

We got a little update on Texas. Not exactly what we were expecting. Mike found out that instead of getting his own store, there's potential that he could be hired as an assistant manager (which is his current position). He wasn't excited about that- but they also told him that because the standard of living is cheaper in Texas than here- he would be receiving a pay CUT. Plus, they wouldn't pay our moving costs if he was hired as an asst. manager. IF he would accept that position in Texas then there's a lot of potential to be getting his own store pretty quickly. HOWEVER. His district manager also said there's alot of possibility to get his own store if he says NO too. They have other openings elsewhere apparently. So, needless to say, there's absolutely no positive to taking the same position for less money in Texas. As much as we wanted a change, we can't afford to do that. So he took his name out of the running if it's only for an assistant position. Now we are back to the waiting game. We're hoping something else comes up, something better suited for us maybe. I trust that God knows our plans better than we ever will. Keep us in your prayers as we try and figure out our future and still be satisfied with where we are currently at. I'm secretly keeping my fingers crossed that maybe a store in Kansas will open up and need a store manager!! :)

Show us Your Life

Vacation Spots

This week is Vacation Spots. Kelly's Korner is a great place to check out other people's favorite spots. Mike and I haven't traveled very many places together yet. I have some personal favorite places - like Kansas and Sarasota, Florida. Anyone who knows anything about me knows that Kansas is one of my favorite places. I learned so much about myself in Hesston, Kansas and I have so many fond memories. Sarasota is a place that my family went year after year while we were growing up. Both sets of my grandparents now live there half the year and the memories we have created will last forever. Olympia Fields is the place to be! :)

However, the place that Mike and I have loved going together is JAMAICA!! We have traveled to Florida together, but Jamaica takes the cake! We went for our honeymoon and loved the laid back lifestyle, the fact that clocks were not a necessity, and the gorgeous blue water.

This was our pool area at night at the resort we stayed at. This was our favorite place to be at night. It was so relaxing to hear the ocean in the background and the calm waters of the pool.

One night before dinner.

Pure Paradise! We loved waking up each morning and seeing this sight. I could definitely live there!! We would love to go back sometime and try out another resort.

Show us Your Life

I'm a very loyal reader of a blog I stumbled upon called Kelly's Korner and every week she does a "Show us Your Life" day. It's a different category every week but this last week was wedding reception/wedding party. I love seeing everyone's pictures but this time I thought I would join in. Join in the fun with me!

The Boys!

Just one pic from our VERY fun reception! It's taking too long to upload pics to do anymore of the reception!

Ok, I think I'll have to wait til later to upload more pictures. It's just taking too long and my internet connection is never very reliable. Have a great week and please join in the "Show us your Life" series!

Nothing new to report. We have alot of exciting things coming up though!! Tomorrow Chelsea Fink is coming to visit! I'm so excited to catch up with her. We are so blessed with great friends who make the trip to come and see us. It makes Merrillville feel more like home. This weekend will be great as well as we're heading to Nappanee for Jill's house dedication. Her and Anessa deserve such a great outpouring of love and prayer as they move in to their new Habitat for Humanity house. We're excited that we can share in this. Next weekend while Mike is working (sorry babe!) I'll be back in Nappanee for Bethany and Kevin's wedding! Plus I'll be staying a couple extra days to help Jill organize and decorate the house. It will be great to have a girl's weekend and help her and Anessa get settled.

Summer is almost over. I'm excited for all that is coming up but I'll be sad to see my pool days go! Have a great week!
~M

Love It or Leave It

Another addition to the love it or leave it series!

LOVE IT:

Cascade Complete All-In-One Action Pacs

I love this dishwasher detergent! Since getting married I've tried several different varities, but this is the best. No need to pre-wash or rinse before sticking them in the dishwasher! This little baby takes care of it all. I used to get crusted on stuff in my glasses, but since using this it doesn't happen near as often. I give these my seal of approval :)

LEAVE IT:

Clorox Mop

Honestly, I don't have much to say about this mop. It seemed very cheap. Mike got it before we even got married, so I didn't have much say in it. But I'm a big Swiffer lover- so I would much rather go with the Swiffer model. There's probably not much difference except the brand name, but I'll stick with Swiffer. I do still use this mop, because I don't see the sense in buying another one when this one isn't broken. But instead of using the Clorox wetwipes I buy the Swiffer ones instead and just attach them to this mop.

Texas

I haven't posted this in my blog yet, because Mike and I had decided that we weren't going to tell many people- but I think by now, almost everyone knows..so I'll share now. Mike is up for a promotion. His District Manager called him a couple months ago and asked if we would be willing to move to Denton, Texas. They are building a new division down there and they put Mike's name in for a store manager position. After discussing it with me, it didn't take us long to decide that this is something we defnitely wanted to go for! We don't know much as of now, except that they have weeded some people out- and Mike is still in the running for the job!! We do know that if he does get the job we will have to move during the first quarter of the year. I'm hoping that we find out if he got it or not by the end of the summer. But Mike thinks that it will be more like fall before a decision is made. Please keep us in your prayers. This would be a fantastic opportunity for Mike. We're both excited about this possible adventure. I've been doing my online research of Denton (it's between Ft. Worth and Dallas) and it looks like a great town to live in. The waiting is the hardest part right now. We are trying to be patient and remember that God is in control. Pray for Mike as he continues working hard for his store in Chicago - but patiently waits to hear about the promotion. I know that right now he's pretty stressed because the more time that goes by without hearing anything, the more anxious he gets.

Thanks for all of your kind words and prayers thus far. We appreciate it more than you know!

Madalynn Update

Mady is 7 months old this month! She's getting so big and learning so much. Here's some new pictures of her.

While we were in Michigan we made a stop at a Harley store, and found the perfect little Harley for Mady!! She loved it. The second her dad pulled her off of it she would start crying. He sat her back down on it and she was smiling and happy! It was so cute. The Marshall's definitely aren't against adding another Harley lover to their clan (don't worry - they haven't pulled me in.)

Also while we were in Michigan, Mady started sitting by herself for longer periods of time! She can't quite figure out how to get herself to a sitting position yet, but when you sit her up she does very well at now falling over!! She's also trying to scoot her butt around when she is laying on her stomach. She's going to be crawling before we know it.

Mike and I had a wonderful time spending the week with Mady. Being an aunt and uncle is so much fun! It's getting us prepared to have our own kids someday. Until then though, we definitely spoil Mady!

Vacation over

The only pictures I took from vacation were of Madalynn! Go figure. We had A LOT of rest and relaxation while we were in Michigan. I loved being on the lake. I vow to live on the water someday. Its so peaceful at night and makes me realize God's power. Back to reality now. Mike has a big work week this week as he is running the store while his boss is on vacation. He loves this challenge. He only has one day off this week though.
I hope you all had a great week.
I'll try and get pics posted soon. We canceled our internet to save some money, but once in awhile I pick up a signal.
-m.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Michigan

Here we come!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Just testing blogging from my phone...

He's going to be a great dad some day...

We are headed to Michigan to spend a week with Mike's family in a cabin on the lake! Have a great 4th of July Holiday and a great week!

Mike's Bike is FOR SALE!

We're selling Mike's 2008 Yamaha V-Star Custom motorcycle. Here are the specs:

EXCELLENT/SHOWROOM CONDITION

ALL BLACK WITH GHOST FLAMES

HIGHWAY PEGS AND ENGINE GUARDS INCLUDED

LESS THAN 900 MILES!!

1100cc

We're asking $8,000 for it, but we're definitely willing to negotiate. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE pass this around to your friends or anyone you know who is looking for a great bike. Mike would LOVE to keep it. But we just can't afford it right now. Here's a picture of it as well.

What do you do in Life?

I was reading a blog this morning and the blog author asked "What do you do in life?". He had 18 comments and most of them were what people did to make a living. What their job was. I couldn't help but think "that's your answer to what you do in life? that's what makes you- you?" Maybe it's because I'm struggling with finding a job, or maybe it's because of the number of layoffs this year, but I certainly don't want to be labeled by where I'm employed. Do you really measure success in life by your job? If so, I feel as if you're missing out on a whole world of happiness. I believe that happiness and success should be measured by your relationship with God. Family. Friends. Children. How you HELP. Now how you earn your money. At the end of my life I want to be able to say that I lived a good, fulfilled life. Not - I had a good job. That's not what people remember about you.

I know this is a little random, but those comments on his site just got me thinking about how I measure myself. What do I do in Life? I love my husband. I value my time with friends and family. I make time for those relationships and make sure they are growing everyday. I strive to be a better wife. I consume the Word in order to follow God more deeply. I try my hardest to make these things control my happiness instead of what the world believes.

Welcome Summer!

As I begin this post, I let out a sigh. It's summer :) Mike and I are taking full advantage of this great weather and spending the mornings (if he doesn't have to go into work til later) by the pool or the afternoons (if he goes in early) laying out. Our evenings (when he's not closing) are spent taking long walks then a dip in the pool to cool off. That's one great thing about apartment living - the pool :)

Our summer is getting pretty busy. Not exactly by choice, but we're looking forward to every moment. We have alot of weddings- this weekend starts off wedding season for us. My cousin, Ben is getting married in Ft. Wayne this weekend. It will be great to see some Indy friends who are up for the wedding and also celebrate with them and our family. Jackie is such a great addition to our family. I'm going home on Thursday to help Jill with her new house and just to enjoy each other's company. Friday, I'm watching Anessa for the day. We'll probably enjoy some pool time and I might treat her to some McDonald's :). I'm really looking forward to spending the day with her. *Thanks Jill for allowing me to babysit!!

We leave for vacation in a couple weeks. Mike's parents rented a cabin in Michigan for the week after the 4th, so we're going with his family there. We're looking foward to spending the week on the lake and enjoying each other and getting away from Merrillville for a bit.

I had a job interview last week, but unfortunately I found out today that I didn't get the job. I thought I would be really disappointed, but for one reason or another I just think it wasn't right for me right now. God has plans for me, and I'm praying that He will open the right doors.

A night at the Park...

Mike and I enjoyed a night at the park last night! We ventured to Crown Point to a cute little park. Corey, Jill, and Anessa came for dinner so we thought we could wear Anessa out before she laid down for bed. It took us awhile to actually find the park, but I think we're all in agreement that it was worth it! I don't remember such fun things at parks when we were little! They had a great slide that I think we enjoyed more than Anessa. Actually, I'm sure of it! I have a feeling Mike and I will be returning! Here's a picture of Jill going down our favorite slide! Can you see it's made out of rollers? It was a blast. :)

We loved the company that we shared and loved watching Anessa run and enjoy the park. She took a little spill at the end of the night after her mom spun her on a toy a little too long. haha. Anessa loved the spinning but did NOT love the feeling of dizziness when she got off and did a faceplant into the dirt. After we got done laughing, possibly adding insult to injury.. we headed back and watched a movie while Anessa slept.

Thanks Corey, Jill, and Anessa for such a great night! We're so thankful for your friendship!

Memorial Day

We had a great extended weekend at home with our families and friends!! We went home on Friday night for a Saturday afternoon wedding. Congrats to Andrea and Jay! We then went out to eat for my mom's birthday. It was so nice to have everyone together and just relax and laugh with one another. On Sunday Mike had to work, so he traveled back to Merrillville, but I stayed in Nappanee and went to church and lunch with my parents. Sunday evening Mike made it back into town after work and we gathered with the young adults at Corey's house for a bonfire and ultimate frisbee. This was such a blessing for us!! It was SO good to hang out with everyone in one place and enjoy each other's company. Mike and I are very blessed with great friends in Nappanee. We hope we can form those relationships with people here.
On Monday we spent the day with Jill and Corey and Jill's daughter Anessa. We went to the very short Memorial Day parade in Nappanee. Then went out to Jill's parents' house in Mentone. We love being with the three of them and couldn't have asked for a better way to spend the day! We wrapped up our weekend with visits with each of our families.

Unfortunately, the same thing happened on our trip back to Merrillville that usually happens. We began wondering and vocalizing why in the world we are in Merrillville. We know that God must have some plan for us here, but we still can't figure it out. My ultimate wish is that after this year is up, we can make it back to the Nappanee area. At least a little closer. Mike said last night he prays for the same thing. We just need to keep trusting that God has bigger plans, but he does know our hearts and our wishes. On the bright side - I do know that being away from our families and being alone here in Merrillville has really helped our marriage and our relationship with each other. So maybe that's part of the Plan.

Sidenote--after watching the premiere of Jon & Kate + 8 last night. I say to them... GET OUT and GET HELP. There's no reason to go through all of this pain in front of the entire world. It's effecting your children. As much as I love the show, I would rather have their marriage be saved then know every bit of their lives. They kept saying "We're here for our children". Well if you are ... do the right thing.

Love it or Leave It

Love it or Leave It #2:

Leave It:

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. I thought that maybe this product would be worth it, but I was wrong. I really don't think it does more than soap and water. The first time I used it I needed it for some stains on my countertop caused from purple kool-aid. It did a great job and I was happy with the result. However, the second time I needed it was for something on the kitchen floor. It got the stain up, however it took ALOT of elbow grease and I had to use some other product too. I also didn't appreciate how the "erasers" fell apart. When you scrubbed hard enough like I had to do on the kitchen floor it left pieces behind creating another mess to clean up.

Love It:

Ikea!! Being so close to Chicago we've enjoyed being able to go to these bigger stores! Ikea is one of them. Before we moved to our new apartment we were able to go and spend a few hours there. I could spend all day there!! But we got a couple of great lamps and some other organizational stuff. They have great stuff for that purpose. With a one bedroom apartment you have to try and organize the best you can! So Ikea is great for this!

A day of Celebration

Today is a a day of Celebration for two reasons. Today, is my mom's birthday! Also, six months ago today, Mike and I got married.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY MOM!

I never really appreciated my mom and all that she did while I lived at home. Not enough anyway. But now that I have my own household and am married I realize all the things that my mom has had to do for her family. She basically has had multiple jobs her whole married life. Her job that she went to during the day, then she was a cook, a maid, and a wife. I now appreciate how she didn't always have to have the cleanest house - but she took more time out for my brother and I. Thank you mom for being a great mom, a great role-model, and a compassionate person. We love you! Happy birthday.

HAPPY 6 MONTH ANNIVERSARY!

It seems like just yesterday that we got married. We'll both admit that some days it feels like longer than six months. Ha. But it's been the best six months of my life. I have loved being a wife. I have loved learning new things about Mike, when I thought that I knew everything! No one really tells you about the adjustment of marriage. And while we've had to adjust to each other and our own little quirks, it's been such a blessing to both of us. We have had to really think about each other's needs instead of our own. That helps us think about how God loves us. He's always think about our own best interests. I am excited for many many more anniversaries. Happy anniversary love!