The beginning of a season

So, I looked at the calendar today and realized that it's the 30th of November. Insane! Tomorrow it will be December. With December comes the season of celebration. A season of hope.

But, for alot of people December also brings along with it difficult memories. Not to mention the extra stress and scheduling conflicts. For me, it brings all of the above. All of you know that the past couple of years have not been easy for my family. There has been alot of change and alot of ups and downs. Christmas over the past couple of years has changed a little bit for each one of us.

This year, again, my Christmas will be changing. This year I will be celebrating my very first Christmas with my husband. I've never had a husband before! Not only will it be a new experience with him, but we are also travelling over the holidays which I have also never done before.

With all this change, I become a little hesitant. I LOVE Christmas. Those who are close to me know that I am a Christmas nut. I love the lights, the music, the movies, the snow...etc. Problem is, I don't always love change.

However, despite all the changes in the past couple of years my love for this season has not diminished, but it has changed slightly. Christmas is now more about spending time with the people I love. It's about cherishing what the season is really about. This is a season of hope. A reminder that the world was given the greatest gift...in a little baby. That right there is plenty a reason to celebrate!

Christmas bring many of memories, good and bad. I am trying not to look back on those memories and wish I could re-live them again. I cherish those times as they helped mold me into the person I am today. What I look forward to this Christmas season, is creating new memories. I intend to cherish every moment I have with my family and friends. And I hope to start new traditions for Rob and I. As this is our first year together we're going to be trying to figure out what works for us. I can't wait for us to establish those together!

So friends, as you prepare to engage in your Christmas traditions...cherish them. Cherish the people you are celebrating with. Don't be afraid to try something new too!

Remember the Christmas season is a time of hope and a time of celebration.

Enjoy!

P.S. For those of you who were worried that since we're going away for Christmas, I won't get to decorate - don't panic! I still put up a Christmas tree and lights around the house!! I wouldn't let my new house go undecorated!!!! :)

Weeks 2 & 3 Results

Hi Friends!

Sorry I haven't updated you on the status of my project. Without internet at my house it's difficult to find time to write.

Unfortunately I cannot give you the most accurate count on what I've been doing simply because I haven't been as faithful of writing it down as I was hoping. I can re-assure you though that I am doing pretty well. I have kept on track mostly by taking walks on my lunch hour, walking after work, and I've taken to dancing to Christmas music....since it's pretty much time for that!

I don't know that I have been as loyal in doing it every single day, but I have been quite proud of myself for the accomplishment I have made.

I think that I haven't seen much improvement in say, my weight, but I am feeling more energized and putting that into getting some other things done around the house. Such as cooking and organizing.

The only problem with that is that I am a TERRIBLE cook. I try but I am just so bad. Nothing I ever make tastes good. Even if I follow a recipe. I'm THAT bad!! If anyone has tips on how to become a better cook - I NEED THEM! I have a million cook books but I just seem unable to make food that tastes good! I need help! Like seriously.

Anyways, one more week of the project left and hopefully I will be able to report that things go just as well as they have to this point!

Talk soon!
Peace.

Week One - Results

Well, they're in. The results from my first week of the "Get moving" project. And I did pretty darn well!

I believe that I told you all about it on Wednesday last week. That night, I took a 20-25 minute walk. I wanted to see what kind of route I could take that would last the right amount of time. Mission accomplished.

Then Thursday night, I took another walk. I went to visit some friends of mine. I decided to walk there and they could drive me home. However I got about 20 minutes in and got picked up! So it was cut a little short but I was still able to get out for a bit.

Friday night, I spent several hours cleaning up my house. Dishes, bathroom, laundry, mopping floors etc. And I did it all with a great dance beat! Most fun I've had cleaning my house since we've moved in!

Saturday was my day off, then Sunday night we had a soccer game in which we played 3 minute intervals. Great circut training to run hard for a few minutes then rest for a few. I being able to play that way.

Monday night (last night) I took an hour long walk! I decided I wanted to go to the dollar store. There is one on a major intersection by my house, so I figured I'd walk there. I made it there in about 25 minutes. Took my time in the store then walked back in about 25-30 minutes. I felt great when I got home, except my feet were killing me. I need better walking shoes!

Tonight, if I don't get time for a walk (since I have guests tonight), I have every intention of doing a little dancing or maybe try my "basement bootcamp". I'll let you know how it goes!

Well - week one down! And I have to admit that I am very proud of myself and the fact that I am following through with this. I have even had a little more energy to do some cooking and a little home renovation.

Here's to feeling good!!!

"Pay it Forward"

Friends!

Today is November 4, 2011. Nothing terribly special about the day, except that today has been designated "Random Act of Kindness Day". It's a little sad that people cannot be nice to each other any other day of the year, however it's also kind of exciting to see how people transform today and do a random act to help somebody else out. Today I was fortunate to be on the receiving end of a random act. Most of you have already read about this event on my Facebook, but I feel as if it needs to be explained again, as well as studied a little deeper.

Occasionally on my lunch break from work, I drive about 15 minutes to visit my sister at the Starbucks store that she works at. I usually get a drink and sometimes we even get to sit for a few minutes and chat. Today I showed up and it was busy in the store. It sucks a little bit because that means more time waiting in line and less time for me to spend there since I have to drive back to work. Regardless, I waited patiently in line keeping my eyes peeled for prime seating. As I get to the register, the gentleman who had ordered in front of me steps up beside me, shakes my hand and says "I'd like to buy your drink for you today. Seeing as it's random acts of kindness day. The only stipulation is that you have to pass it on". I was a little shocked and I think my face went red as I now became the centre of attention at Starbucks. So I said thank you and ordered my drink. He then handed me a business card and said that he was very honored to have been able to do that for me. Turns out the guy is a morning radio host from 91.5 The Beat! How exciting! I thanked him again and walked to the end of the bar to wait for my drink as the entire store was watching. I then stood awkwardly silent for a few minutes beside him as he also waited for his drink. After the initial shocked wore off, I got really excited about it! It was super neat to be the "victim" of that act. Although it wasn't anything enormous, that small gesture was a big deal. It made me smile and excited to go on with the rest of my day.

Isn't that what it is about? Doing things for others to make them smile? Sadly, I have to report I have yet to pay that act of kindness forward. I hope to make good on this by the end of the day. However - doing nice things for people shouldn't just happen on one particular day of the year. In my mind, as humans beings, we should be loving and show gratitude for other people all the time. Not only do I want to do a random act today November the 4th, but it should be done once a day any regular day....if not multiple times a day. A little generosity goes a long way.

What will you do to make someone smile for a little while? It doesn't take a lot. Make it a goal for this weekend to do something nice for someone. Whether it be buying a coffee for a total stranger or cooking breakfast for a loved one. It doesn't take much. Just pay it forward.

The "Get Moving" project

Friends!

In a post I wrote the other day I mentioned how I was lacking of motivation and therefore feeling a little down and discouraged. Well, I'm happy to report that I've been doing some research on how to get out of this little slump and get moving again.

I was reading online that in order to succeed at getting going again there are a couple things I need to put into place. One of them is creating a goal for myself. I was warned not to make it anything huge because if it is unatainable I will become discouraged and once again fall into the laziness slump. Second, put a plan in place. Physically type up my goal and action plan and tape it to the fridge, display it at work, etc. Not so that the whole world can see, but so I can be reminded each day of my goal and how to get there. Next step, get support. Step after that goes hand in hand with the last step, put people in place to hold you accountable. Hopefully with the encouragement from them when I'm doing well will be enough to help me keep moving forward. Also, when they come to me saying I'm slacking I will hopefully get enough of a push from them that I will keep going.

So here it is, my plan. I have to admit that my only real goal is to get out of this lazy slump. Also, I want to be able to feel good about myself. So, in order to feel good I figured I should (in the most vain sense of feeling good) feel good about how I look. Therefore, part of my goal is to get more physical activity. Instead of sitting inside my house like a lump on a log, I need to get out, get up and get moving. Since gym memberships are ridiculously expensive I have searched the internet and come up with several ideas of things I can do at home and that don't cost any money! Becuase I get bored easily, I have a different option to do each day to keep it exciting and different. I plan on doing this 4 days a week (Not Wednesdays because Rob's home, Saturday's becuase they are usually WAY to busy and Sunday's because I already play soccer that day).

A couple home options are: Walk. How simple is that!? Walk somewhere for 10 minutes. Then walk home. At the end of it, I will have walked 20 minutes. Genius!! Next, I have read in multiple places that dancing is a great work out. I plan on going home tonight and creating myself a upbeat, fast paced playlist that runs for 25-30 minutes long. Then dancing days I will put on the playlist and let loose! Another option that I found online is called "basement bootcamp" it's 5 really simple exersizes that I can do right at home. It's a circut and because I change positions so much it'll hopefully be enough to encourage me to keep going.

Now comes your part. I need YOU to be my encouragment/accountibility buddies. For one month, I want to try and do this "get moving" project. I plan to do some activity 4 nights a week. At the end of each week I will blog and tell you how I did that week. If I start making excuses I need you to call me out on them. I look forward to your words of encouragement and words of motivation throughout this project.

On a side note, If any of you would like to join me, I'd be happy to have a walking or dancing buddy!

I'm hoping that in a month, I won't feel as lazy. I'll feel happier because I've stuck with something and who knows, I might even get into shape!

Let the project begin!!!

Winning Photo

Well friends, this is the photo that did it! This is our winning picture. Not the most amazing photo since not everyone is really looking but it was unique and different from all the other entries!


Thanks for your votes friends!!! It's because of all of you that we won!!!

Apology Blog

Friends,


I must apologize for my last blog. I was ranting and it was inappropriate.

My attitude and behaviour should not have been poured out on each of you through the post and I extend my deepest apologies.

I know that sounds cheesy, but after looking over the blog again, I realized that I was ranting and said some things I probably should not have said.

Friends, I am writing this simply to ask your forgiveness.

Too much to talk about

Hi friends,

I have so much on my mind today that I would love to write about in detail, but in all honesty I don't have a ton of time and I'm afraid some of it would turn out to be ranting.

So instead, I think I will pick a couple of the topics, write something small on each of those, then you can share your thoughts with me.

First, motivation. I'm sure I have written about this on multiple other blogs, but I feel the need to ask again for your help or suggestions. With my new job, I find that I am home so early and have so much free time - which is great - but also a pain in the butt. I enjoy being busy. I like having things to do each day. But I find that when I get home and plop on the couch I don't want to do anything. We don't even have cable so it's not that I'm wasting time watching TV. I am a person who is fueled by being around people and instead I sit at home by myself just wasting time. I need to figure out how to motivate myself to get things done, housework, errands, making the effort to visit friends etc. Suggestions?!

This leads into my second rant (or problem I'm having). This is going to sound really dumb. To the point that I am debating whether I should even type this. But here goes, I feel as if I don't have alot of friends to visit with. Ok before you start shaking your head, hear me out. I have some great friends. I am blessed to have those people in my life. And I totally get that everyone is busy - we all have jobs and lives and getting together becomes complicated. However, before the wedding, everyone was calling asking how they could help etc. I had lots of people interested in hanging out and now no one calls! lol. It's hard to make time to visit people and I know that is partly my fault. But, I think because I sit home alone so often, even one get-together is such a big deal. I get that people are busy and stuff happens, but for those of you who know me, know that I am totally a "people person". I need to be around people! I crave friendship and conversation and when I find myself alone alot, it makes me sad. (For lack of better word).

Well, I guess that the next thing I need to discuss is prayer. I need to request some prayer from you guys. I have been struggling with anger and hurt by a couple of my closest friends and I am having a difficult time forgiving. I know we are called to love and forgive others a million times over but I am really struggling with doing that. I feel that I keep forgiving these people over and over again and each time I am continually met with disappointment and hurt. Please pray that I would have the strength to resolve my conflicts and love those who hurt me.

Ok, I think that last thing I'll mention today....it's Halloween. The one time of the year where people dress up as something their not, walk around and nobody thinks anything of it. I'm very back and forth with my feelings this year about Halloween. Usually I didn't care too much, kids just walk around and get candy from total strangers. (Sketchy!) But this year I'm more concerned with the idea behind Halloween and what it stands for. I'm not going to get into details, but I will assure you that it's not enough to make me give up my share of candy tonight! At least not this year.

Well friends, that's my rant for today - what I said I didn't want to do, soI apologize. I think I've taken up alot of your time with my useless conversation. Regardless, I'd appreciate your advice, thoughts and prayers.

Don't eat too much candy!

Friends!!!
Thanks to all of you voting, We won!!!


For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about - here is a short explaination! We bought our bridesmaid dresses from the clothing store RW & Co. When we bought our dresses, they handed me a flyer and told me about a contest that the company runs every year. If you buy your bridesmaid or groomsman clothing from the store you can send in a wedding photo to try and win money and a store gift card. So about a month after our wedding, Sarah and I went on their website and looked at all the entries that had already been made. We took a long time but we picked a photo that showed the dresses, but was also something different than all the other entries. So we picked something that no one else had. (I'll attach the photo in my next blog.) Within the first week we were entered we had tied with the leader in the amounts of "likes" we had on their facebook page. A week later the contest ended and we got an email saying we had made it into the finals. Out of all the entries we made it into the top 12. Our picture then got put up on the RW & Co website where members of the store could vote for the one they liked the best and the winners (one bridesmaid and one groomsman) were chosen by the amount of votes received. Thanks to you all for signing up - because a week later I got the email saying we'd won!!!! Incredibly exciting!!!

In other news, we're almost finished renovating our master bedroom which we've been doing ever since we moved into the house. It'll be so exciting to have the room done and be able to actually get moved into our space!


Anyways - It's been a while since I've written, I'm hoping to try and write some more in the next couple days!
Peace.

From Hayhow to Hartholt

Friends!!!!

It has been such a long time since I have written! So many things have changed and I have much to share with you!

First I want to thank those who kept bugging me to finally update my blog. I am taking my hour long lunch break to catch up.

Well the biggest change is that I am MARRIED!!! Whoo!!!! Our wedding day, August 13th went seamlessly. Everything was just as beautiful as I had always hoped it would be! Rob and I both agreed that we would not have changed a thing. Thanks to all those who came to celebrate and who sent well wishes. It was so wonderful to have all the love and support we did that day. Rob and I went up north to the Deerhurst resort for our honeymoon which was wonderfully relaxing. It was exactly what we needed to unwind after the past few months of insanity!

When we came back, we moved into our new house!!! We bought a cute little house in Galt and we LOVE it. We are already starting some renovation work to the house but we are so happy to be living in our own place!

Even more change has taken place in the last couple of weeks and that is my job! I took a new job which I started the Monday that Rob and I returned. It's at an insurance company in Waterloo. The work is going well, however I am struggling a bit to feel like I fit in. I have alot to learn.

Despite all the change, which has all been extremely exciting, I have also been challenged. With my steady 8-4 job, I don't seem Rob as much anymore. We saw each other all the time with working together and whatnot, but now he works late hours and I'm usually sleeping simply because I have to get up early now. I've been struggling a little bit with being on my own. I work sort of secluded from everyone at my office, then I go home to an empty house. It's been good having friends to come over or meet up with, however the odd night I find myself feeling a little lonely. If anyone has tips on how to better handle these feelings....please let me know!!!!

Things have been good. There has been so much to celebrate in the last few weeks. I am blessed. My house, my job, my husband, my great friends.....the blessings continue to flow!

So there.....a short update! I promise that once I get internet in my house, I will write more again!

Peace.

Thank you's

Good evening Friends!

Well it's been 9 days since my last post which means that its only 20 days away from the wedding! I'm getting excited as I'm seeing all the little bits and pieces finally come together.

The reason I am specifically writing this post is because I wanted to send HUGE thank you's to all those who read and commented on my last post. All the advice and support from everyone was huge. It was encouraging to hear of so many people reading my blog and even more encouraging getting feedback and information from everyone. So thank you to those who took the time to write me.

Things are coming together. It's still incredibly busy but it's all worth it! I can't believe how fast these past couple of months have flown by and how little time there is before I become a wife! Insane!!!

Rob and I are both still working through some big things such as the house and work, but I'll let everyone know whats going on as soon as we hear anything!!! Hopefully we'll know in a few days.

Thanks again to all those who took the time to write me. It means more to me than I can really express over a blog posting. Just know that the small amount of time you took was an enormous blessing to me.

I truly am blessed!

A Time of change

Well friends, it's only 29 days until "The Day". Thinking of this is overwhelming. I am astounded at how fast this time has approached. I know when we started planning everyone told us it would fly by. I never really understood that until now, as I look at my calendar and realize that for the next 29 days I am going to be insanely busy. In less than one month all of this planning and preparation will all be over. I'm thrilled for that day because then I know I will have married my best friend and I look forward to starting our lives together.

Not only is this a stressful time finalizing all of the wedding plans, but we are also in search of a house. We are hoping to be able to buy our first house right away. I know, we waited until the very last possible time to go forward with something like this, but the timing has been working out really well. We've been pre-approved and now just to have move forward on that. Rob and I both take our turns to be freaking out about this but we seem to be handling it ok! It's insane to buy a house. It's a huge purchase, a lot of big numbers and a lot of "what ifs" flying around in my head. I'm excited for this prospect but I am also slightly terrified.

On top of the stress of buying a house and completing the plans for the wedding, I have been having some serious troubles at work. It's nothing I can share online nor would I like to, but please pray for me through this incredibly difficult and stressful time.

I think I needed to write this tonight. Not for the sake of the few people who read this, but more for my own healing. I'm finding myself getting overwhelmed and stressed and therefore very emotional as all this is piling up. Thanks to those who did take the time to read this over. Thank you for letting me share my feelings and emotions in a way that I know has helped me but also allowed me to be vulnerable for those who might be reading this.

Please pray for me. Pray for both Rob and I as we face some serious challenges and make some HUGE decisions in the next month. Your encouragement and prayers through this stressful time is beyond appreciated. If you have any words of advice or wisdom, please tell me! I need all the help I can get!

Despite the challenges, decision making and sheer exhaustedness, I hold in my court something that makes me strong. I cling to the One who gives me life. He is the one who will fight for me in the challenges, be my guiding light through the difficult decisions and the One who will give me rest. He knows how everything will turn out. I cling to the peace and comfort knowing that the One who created me will never leave me. He is by my side holding my hand through it all. This gives me peace.

2 years, 40 days, a necklace and a tea party

Hello friends!

I'm sorry it's been so long since I wrote! I can't believe how fast time has flown and how much we've had to do. Despite the crunch and the busy-ness of the last few weeks, I have had a fantastic long weekend! Thursday night was Rob's youngest brother Matt's highschool graduation. It was so great to witness and be apart of such an important night for him. Canada was spent visiting future family members on the Port Burwell beach. I got fried! Like every other time I go to the beach! lol. Saturday Rob and I had a few meetings and spent the morning doing some running around. Then Saturday afternoon, I was surprised by my future family with a surprise shower! I was completely shocked when I walked into the house and saw everyone standing waiting for me. Rob's mom, Astrid, had put together an entire shower for me without giving anything away! Good secret keeper, that's for sure! And I never realized how well they knew me...the shower was a tea party! All the ladies were dressed for afternoon tea! We had a beautiful selection of finger sandwiches, snacks, cakes and of course, tea!!! I felt a little under dressed as I came to the part in my jean shorts and tank top, but I had an amazing time! Thank you to everyone who kept it a secret and who came to the shower. So much fun!

Now, the reason I am really writing this blog. Today marks a big day for Robert and I. Today is our 2 year anniversary from dating! We're are very proud of ourselves! I love him even more now than I did the day that I started dating him. What's also really cool about today is that July 4th marks 40 days to the wedding!!! Next years anniversary will be celebrated just over a month later! I CANNOT believe that its only 40 days away! Incredible! How fast the time is sailing by. I got a beautiful gift from Rob for the anniversary as well as for the wedding. It's a beautiful necklace that I have been looking at for months. I'm not going to go into details about it because hopefully it will be seen on our wedding day!

Anyways, I am pretty pooped from a very full weekend. Rob and I are in the midst of making some HUGE life changing decisions as well as preparing for this wedding. I am beginning to feel slightly more overwhelmed and stressed. Any prayers and kind words are appreciated these days.

40 days....eeek!!!

2 months!

Well everyone,

We are officially only 2 months away from the "big day". INSANE!

Through all the arrangements, planning, preparations, color choices and flower decisions we are finally narrowing things down! With a limited amount of time left we are pulling bits and pieces together. I am still overwhelmed by how much we still have to do! Regardless, I am rather enjoying the planning! It's really exciting to see how everything is pulling together. Most of the plans are different than I had originally envisioned however I am completely thrilled with how they are coming together.

We've had a couple of small problems arise, but for the most part, God has provided for us all the things that we have needed. I can't wait to see how it all comes together!!!

Besides all the planning, we've been watching ALOT of hockey! Dad is a Boston fan and Rob is a Vancouver fan. Thoughout the playoffs I have been able to cheer for each team as the games came up....however, I am now in a bit of a predicament. Both teams are now in the Stanley Cup finals! Basically I just sit and shut my mouth! lol. I can't cheer anymore. Though much to Rob's dismay, I think I have a bit of a bias toward Boston - only because that's what I have grown up with! It's going to be an interesting week!

We do have a lot of bigger scale decisions to make and would appreciate your prayers as we go forward to finalize some things.

Just wanted to share the excitement of the countdown!!! (And Becky reminded me the other day that I haven't written in while! This one's for you Beck!)

Peace.

The Count Down Begins

Well friends,

The official day count down has begun! I meant to write this blog a couple weeks back when we hit the 100 day mark. Even though its a little later than I wanted, it still warrants a write up! We are now officially only 87 days away!!!!

Time is flying by! Preparations are coming along nicely! Now we are into double digit days and less than 3 months before the "big day"! The count down has begun!

We've been busy with preparations. Lots of planning, meetings, deposits. Picking things up and discussing other options. I'm not sure what all of our families are going to talk about when the wedding is over!! lol.

In other news, soccer season has begun for the summer! I am looking forward (as I do every year) to this season. I love being outside and getting the chance to play soccer with a great group of girls! This year the team is pretty new and I am really excited about getting to know them and playing on a team with each of them. I'm especially excited to have Sarah playing with me this year! It's so fun to have her on the team.

Otherwise things are going pretty well. I have a couple major decisions ahead. Rob and I both do. Please be praying for us as we prepare for our lives together!

Peace.

She Made It!

Katie and I excited to celebrate with our friend!
Rob and I
The beautiful graduate and her proud besties!
Ashleigh accepting her diploma

Hi friends,

Tonight I just wanted to write to share with you my joy and happiness for one of my dearest friends. This past weekend Rob and I were privileged to attend Ashleigh's college graduation. It was such an honor being able to be there and watch her walk across the stage to accept the certificate that she had worked so hard to get. My heart swelled with pride as I heard her name and saw her with her big beautiful smile make her way onto the stage. It was even more emotional when she won the first ever Craig Simmons Award. My eyes teared up when I read her name on the program. Such an honor for her and in my opinion they chose the most perfect first recipient of the award.

I love you Ash! I am so proud of you!!!

Time for a tune up

Good evening everyone,

I'm sorry I haven't written in a while. I have had a very eventful couple of weeks. Thanks to all those who have been praying for my family and I.

Well, I suppose that I should fill you in on the latest news. I have had some car issues the past couple of days. Early last week, my dad took my car out to do an errand and came home saying that it sounded weird and that should be looked at. So, I booked an appointment to take it in this past Saturday. Then Rob and I are heading home from work on Thursday evening and the car starts making some strange clicking noises. We move over into the far right lane where I felt a jerk in the steering wheel and vibrations through the bottom of my foot from the gas pedal. We pulled off to the only shoulder on the 427 and got out to take a look at the car to make sure nothing was smoking or flat. We attempted to start moving again and the entire car stopped. It seized up and the battery died. Instantly a toe-truck was on the scene and he towed us into a shop in Toronto. It's the shop that Rob's dad goes to and that we send our work trucks too, so we knew it was in good hands. We got a ride home from Rob's dad and arrange to borrow one of their cars to get to work the next day.

So Friday rolls around and I drop Rob off at the Ontario Food Terminal and I head over to the warehouse. We work our shifts and I leave a few minutes early to put gas in the car so we could make it to an appointment we had scheduled for 3:30 that afternoon. I picked Rob up, pulled out of the parking lot and stopped at a red light. Within a minute, we could feel ourselves flying forward and see us pushing into the car in front of us. Once we realized that we'd been hit, we pulled off to a side street with the car that hit us and the car we hit. As we filled the police report and waited for the EMS, it struck me that we weren't even driving my car. I felt terrible for ruining Rob's dad's car. I know it wasn't my fault and the insurance will pay for the car and towing etc, but still I felt bad. The car is not repairable - it was pretty crunched. Because it's an older car it will cost too much to repair. So we got the poor crunched car into the same shop that we dropped my car at the night before. Then I got some bad news about my car. The problem is with the transmission - and the shop we were at doesn't even do transmission repairs! Now we have to find somewhere to do transmission work at a reasonable price.

We're worried a little about what it's going to cost and where we're going to get that money from. Thankfully Rob and I both have a good amount of income tax money coming back to us.

All weekend we have been feeling the affects of the crash. We weren't so bad on Friday because we were both in a bit of shock. THis weekend we both had sore necks and backs. I've been to the chiropractor and have some work to do while I try to get everything back to normal.

In other news, GO AWAY SNOW! lol. I know you have all been thinking it! It's April, what the heck is the snow still falling for?! I can't wait until the warm weather comes where we can be outside doing things instead of hiding away in our warm houses!!!

I'm anxious to get outside and get moving again. Not only does my car need a tune up, but so does my body - especially before soccer season begins.

Well friends, as Easter approaches this weekend, I hope you all enjoy the short week and time with your families this weekend. Don't overlook the reason for this Easter. Jesus Christ died a horrific death and was murdered all because he stood up for the sins of you and I. He suffered because he loved.

Peace.

Day 25 - Work Work Work

Hi friends,

Sorry I haven't written in a while. I have been SO tired! I have been working like crazy. I think in total this week I am working 58 or 59 hours in total. I have been in bed early and up early.

Tonight I enjoyed a date night with my fabulous sister. We did a little window shopping and sat down to watch a movie called "Morning Glory" with Rachel McAdams, Harrison Ford and Diane Keaton. It was actually a really cute movie with alot of laughs. I think we both really needed to have this time to spend together and hang out a bit.

We've got a busy week and a busy weekend ahead. Though, I don't think that I would change any of it. Ya alot of working, but I am needing that money to help pay for the wedding this summer!

Anyways it's about bed time for me. Up at 5 again tomorrow morning! 4th day in a row!

Have a good sleep folks!

Peace.

Day 22 - Booked!!!

Hello blogging world!

I have some fantastic news! Today Rob and I paid our deposit on our reception venue!!!!!! So exciting!!!! It's such a relief to have something now set up. It's a beautiful room and I am in love with it! The Lord really did provide the perfect space for us. It's a huge weight lifted off my shoulders having paid that and now having that set up! I can't wait to see it all decorated and set up for our wedding day this August!!!

On another note, we went out today with part of our bridal party and picked out the guys' outfits! We brought Sarah and her bridesmaid dress and Nathaniel and Dan and headed to the mall. I had an idea of what I was hoping for them to wear, it was just trying to make it a reality. The first store we stopped in had exactly what I was picturing! They guys dressed up and Sarah put on the dress. It all came together so perfectly!!! I took a couple pictures and had to order in a number of the ties, but I am so impressed with how it's all come together! We are going to have the best looking bridal party!

Well, tonight between 8:30 and 9:30 pm it is Earth Hour. Where everyone is supposed to turn their lights and power off for one hour. Seeing as I have to be up at 4am tomorrow to be at work for 6, I don't think I will have a problem shutting my lights out! But everyone, take the time to turn the power off. Do something to help the beautiful planet we live in. It's nothing dramatic, but something that will make a difference.

Anyways I'm off to watch a movie with my honney. I just thought I would share the fantastic news with you!!!

Peace.

Day 21 - Wrestle Mania?

So I'm sitting at home tonight with my fabulous family. Dad, Rob, Mandy, Josh and I are watching Wrestling. Yes I know....a little strange. Though I will say, this wrestling is quite the conversation starter. We are all sitting around with bellies full of chicken and potatoes and laughing at this ridiculous show.

Despite our thrilling Friday evening, it's been a quick week filled with some emotional ups and downs.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow - paying the deposit on our reception site! Whooo!!! And we get to pick out the guys' outfits for the wedding. It's going to be a good day!

Good night world. Happy Friday Evening!

Peace.

Day 16 - Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Good morning blogging world!

I am feeling very optimistic about my day today. I had a good sleep after a fabulous day yesterday. And woke up this morning seeing the sun shinning and hearing the sweet sound of the birds singing!

I had a fantastic day yesterday hanging out with my bridesmaids. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends!! I am so happy to have such a fabulous support group walking through this process with me. Thanks girls! Love you!

This morning, I am heading off to church, then lunch with Rob's family, then an afternoon indoor soccer game. The season is almost over for this year's indoor team. Can't wait to get outside and start playing there!!!

Have a wonderful day friends. Enjoy the beautiful sun!

Peace.

Day 14 - Sleepless Night

Good evening Friends,

Thank you for once again reading my blog. I know it's nothing special, but I really do appreciate from hearing from those of you who take a look every now and then.

I don't really have much to speak of tonight. I'm heading to bed very shortly. I've been up since 4 am and am feeling a little burned out tonight. I'm looking forward to a fabulous day tomorrow. I am going to be getting together with my bridesmaids and hang out for the afternoon. It is going to be so fabulous to have everyone together hanging out for a while. I am in need of the stress relief.

We looked at another reception venue today. It was beautiful! We're just trying to get costs down so we know what we can and can't afford. I'm ready to book something and stop being worried about this! lol.

Well, I think I'm off to bed. I'm pooped and in for a long day tomorrow.

Good night world!

Day 12 - End in 'site'

Hi friends,

So, it was pointed out to me by my good friend Becky - I have failed at my idea of blogging everyday for 30 days. I apologize. I guess it would just count as excuses to say that I have been busy. But, I assure you I have been extremely busy. Rob and I have had meetings and appointments every evening when we get home from work. By the time I get home I'm ready to crash and I head to bed. So...to fill you all in....as most of you are aware, I'm getting married in the summer! (150 days! Eeek!!!) However, we've run into a huge road block....that being a reception venue. We had an original idea that did not pan out, so we moved into finding something else. This turned into a very daunting and discouraging task as we found out many places were booked and on hold. We missed the boat on a couple places, but we have finally found one! I knock on wood because we saw it tonight and have yet to pay our deposit, but as soon as we do - we've finally done it! I am going to feel extremely relieved when we have it booked. I have been very stressed and worried about financial situations but God has provided for us exactly what we needed and as close to our budget as possible. Thank you for those of you who have been praying during my freak-out period. I appreciate your patience with me! Continue to pray that nothing happens and that we are able to officially book it and have this stress off of our shoulders.

I hope to write again tomorrow! Beck - don't let me forget again!!!

Love you all!

Peace.

Day 7 - Praying for Japan

Hi friends,

I'm sure you've heard on the radio or news today about the Tsunami that has hit Japan today. Such tragedy. It breaks my heart hearing about the people of Japan many out of homes, many injured, many missing and huge numbers dead. It's at times like these that where I am incredibly grateful to live in a country where we don't have nature disasters such as the Tsunami. Today, my prayers go out to those in Japan, and people who have friends and family there. May God bring peace to such turmoil and tragedy.

Day 6 - Hold On

Tonight on my way home from work, I heard a song come on the radio. It's a Michael Buble song entitled "Hold On". I love Michael's work, so the same with every one of his songs that comes on the radio, I turned the volume up. While listening to the lyrics, I couldn't help but think of what my life would be like at this time without my amazing fiancee. I am so blessed to have such an amazing man in my life. This is a very romantic song that got me appreciating what I have so generously been blessed with.

"Hold On"

Didn't they always say we were the lucky ones?
I guess that we were once
Babe, we were once

But luck will leave you cause
It is a faithless friend
And in the end when life has got you down
You've got someone here that you can wrap your arms around

So hold on to me tight
Hold on to me tonight
We are stronger here together
Than we could ever be alone
So hold on to me
Don't you ever let me go

There's a thousand ways for things to fall apart
But it's no one's fault
No it's not my fault

Maybe all the plans we made would not work out
But I have no doubt even though it's hard to see
I've got faith in us and I believe in you and me

So hold on to me tight
Hold on, I promise it'll be alright
Cause it's you and me together
And baby all we've got is time
So hold on to me, hold on to me tonight

There's so many dreams that we have given up
Take a look at all we've got
And with this kind of love
What we've got here is enough

So hold on to me tight
Hold on, I promise it'll be alright
Cause we are stronger here together
Then we could ever be alone
Just hold on to me
Don't you ever let me go
Hold on to me, it's gonna be alright
Hold on to me tonight
They always say we were the lucky ones

Day 5 - Ash Wednesday

Ok - so it's only a week into my goal of writing each day and I have already failed. I did not post yesterday. In my defense, I had a meeting after work in the evening however I believe that constitutes as an excuse. I apologize for already failing on my task of writing.

As for today, many of you know that today is Ash Wednesday. The beginning of the lent season leading up to Easter. Typically when I consider what I should give up for lent, I usually choose something that I don't consider too serious of a loss. The whole idea of giving up something for lent is to pick something that is a challenge. Something that will cause you to think of and pray each time it pops into your mind or the temptation is near. This year however, I think it came upon me too quickly that I have yet to decide what I should give up for lent. As I sit here and consider the options, I wonder if instead of giving something up I could teach myself to be more disciplined in certain things. And each day as I struggle through whether I should move forward, it would help remind me to pray and seek God's strength to carry on. Since I will be a couple of days starting my lent practice, I will continue it right through until the end of Easter.

Any thoughts on the idea of practicing self discipline for lent as opposed to giving something up?

Day 3 - The Word in Song

"How Deep The Father's Love for us"

"How deep the Father's love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
And make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory

Behold the man upon the cross
My sin upon His shoulder
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

Why should I gain from His reward
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom"

I think these words speak for themselves. Take comfort in the fact that He lives. He paid the ultimate price. He died, yet we live. He rose from the dead to fulfill exactly what he said he was going to do. Jesus lives. And he did all he did for me. For us.

Peace.

Day 2 - The Word

Hi friends,

Being that today is Sunday, I went to church this morning. This was the first Sunday of our pastor's sabbatical, so the interm pastor was stepping in. This morning he read from Romans. It was a great message and he read one of the most fabulous passages from Romans - which is what I am going to share with you today.

Romans 8:38-39

³⁸ For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, ³⁹ neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

This passage just re-affirmed to me that no matter what happens in life, no matter how many times I screw things up. No matter what mistakes I make. No matter the stupid things I say and do. God Loves Me. There is NOTHING that will separate me from the love of my saviour. WOW. He loves me....and you. No matter what. Incredible.

Friends, take a moment to read through the passage again. Take a second to be wow-ed. The creator of the entire universe loves YOU. No matter what you've done or will do. He Loves you.

Peace.

Day 1

Hi friends!

I'm sorry it's been so long since I've written. Unfortunately I haven't had alot of free time. With working, planning a wedding and just day-to-day busy-ness I haven't made much time for blogging. So, to encourage me to get back into blogging, for the next 30 days I am going to post something. Whether it be a picture, poem, scripture, story or interesting fact - I am going to post it. I am hopeful that it encourages me to spend sometime online instead of watching TV and wasting my rare amount of spare time doing something unproductive.

So I need your help! If you are one of the people that does read my blog, and I haven't posted one one day - Contact me! Encourage me to keep up with my 30 day goal!

Looking forward to a small challenge!

Love Missy

Count down!

Wedding Site

Hi friends!

So I finally gave in and decided to start a wedding website!!! Here is the link, have a look and let me know what you think!

http://missyandrob13.weddingbells.ca/

Planning

Hi everyone!

I trust that you all had a fabulous new year celebration. I hope that this year holds much laughter and love for each of you.

I know this year is going to be full of exciting events for me. We have begun the very early stages of planning our wedding. It's very exciting, but really overwhelming. There is alot to think about! I am really excited about all the different decisions we get to make. Planning the wedding is going be fun! I'm VERY excited to start dress shopping within the next couple of weeks. It's going to fun to actually go out and try on my first wedding gowns!

Anyways I don't think that there is too much to write about. I've been busy lately with work and haven't had a ton of time do much else!

Speaking of work - for those of you who haven't heard. I got offered full time! With my part time contract coming to an end, I was inquiring as to what was going to happen with my job. They came back to me and offered me a full time position! Immediate benefits and even a small raise! I'm super excited for the opportunity and it came at perfect time! Rob has also put in bids to obtain a full time position at Loblaws. Hopefully he'll hear something soon about a possible position.

Well people - write me soon! I'd like to hang out!!!!

May you be blessed throughout this 2011.

Love you all!

Peace