51. I use two Q-Tips every day when I get out of the shower. I use one whole swab to clean each ear: one end for inside, and one end for outside.
52. I ONLY use Q-Tips…no other cotton swab will do.
53. I am a ranch dressing snob. I will only buy Hidden Valley…no other ranch will do.
54. I’m also picky about my Caesar dressings. My favorite is Cardini’s (but not the lite…that sucks).
55. I love talking about cooking and food. I really like bringing interesting food to gatherings where I know people will ask me what the dish is. Sometimes this blows up in my face though. (For the 50th time, it’s not rice Grandma…it’s COUSCOUS!)
56. As much as I love to cook, I really don’t do well with baking. I think it’s because I don’t really like to measure things…that’s baking suicide!
57. I spend a lot of time at work taking care of personal business.
58. I clench my teeth when I sleep…so much so that I have broken parts of teeth off in my sleep, and not even known it. I have to sleep with a sexy little Mouth Guard to keep me from breaking more.
59. I have a closet full of clothes, and nothing to wear.
60. I love to buy purses and shoes. It seems like no matter how much weight I gain or lose, purses and shoes always fit.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
100 Things - Part Cinco
Trudging along down this 100 Things road...
41. I am quickly falling in love with The Container Store…
42. I count things in fives. If I tap one finger, I have to tap it five times. Then (in an effort to not leave anyone out) I tap the remaining four fingers five times. If I accidentally tap one six times instead of five, I go ahead and tap four more times to bring it to ten, then tap the other fingers enough times to bring them to ten as well. I used to count my steps in groups of five when I was younger, but then marching band happened, and threw me off my game.
43. I’m not as neurotic as #42 makes me seem.
44. I played flute through middle and high school, and even played a little in college too. Marching band, symphonic band, jazz band, orchestra, musicals, pep band…you name it, I did it, and loved every minute of it.
45. I have hardly touched my flute since Matt and I got engaged. I don’t know why, but I lost the desire for some reason. Maybe I’ll pick it back up someday, but I think I’m okay if I don’t.
46. I love to sing, but I’m not that great at it. If I had my way, I would be the Christian version of Bonnie Raitt. Is anyone else out there in agreement that Christian music needs more blues music?
47. I will eat anything once. (Just ask my friends from SIFAT. We experienced lots of weird food together – pork brains, gopher, rabbit, etc.)
48. I really hate the Times New Roman font…
49. I love shopping at Trader Joe’s. Not only do they have fun food to buy at great prices, I also feel about 25% cooler when I walk in the door. Don’t ask – I know it’s stupid.
50. I have had a hard time coming up with 50 things. I can’t imagine how long it will take me to finish this list!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Three Years...
Three years ago today, my little sister transitioned beautifully from a Miss to a Mrs. From the moment we met him, we all were convinced that he was the one for her, and the look on his face as she walked down that aisle made it obvious to all that he was convinced of it too.
I love you Kelly & Brandon. Happy Anniversary!
100 Things - Part FORE!
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Let the fun continue!
100 Things About Katie
Part Two
Part Three
Let the fun continue!
100 Things About Katie
1. I don’t really eat ice cream a lot, but you can always find at least two different flavors of ice cream in my freezer. In Kentucky our friend MK would sometimes come over and head straight to the freezer, so I think I keep it stocked just in case she pops by (you know…all the way from Texas).
2. I love to do my hair and makeup, but rarely feel like doing it in the morning before work.
3. If you say something that could in any way be construed as dirty, I laugh like a teenager in my head.
4. I don’t floss as much as I should, even though I know and realize the benefits of doing so.
5. I sometimes miss my maiden name: Kermeen
6. I have been using Bonnie Bell Lip Smackers since I was a kid, and I still love it to this day! My favorite flavors, peppermint and apple, have disappeared, but I still love strawberry, tropical punch, kiwi, pink lemonade and (most of all) Dr. Pepper. Starfruit and orange pop are great too, but hard to find.
7. That being said, I DO NOT use any of the sparkly Lip Smackers.
8. And I do use other lip items – I have more lip gloss, lip stick, lip spackle than anyone else I know.
9. My bedroom is a mess! I have stuff all over my dresser, books and magazines on the floor, cat fur everywhere, etc. Don’t even get me started on my piles of clothes and shoes…
10. Speaking of shoes, there are always at least three pairs of shoes kicked off under the coffee table in our living room. They’re usually mine, but Matt often has a pair or two there as well.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
100 Things - Part Three
Part One
Part Two
Keep reading for more randomness!
100 Things About Katie - Part Three
21. I cuss like a sailor sometimes…but I’m trying to get better!
22. I love to get the mail. I live for days when I receive things that aren’t bills or junk!
23. I have a serious crush on Jim Halpert from The Office.
24. I wear a size 12 shoe. I love shoe shopping, but rarely am able to find shoes in my size.
25. I have only seriously dated three guys in my life, and that’s two too many!
26. I drive 18 miles to get to my office, and hate every mile of it. I wish I could work from home!
27. I used to think I was a really interesting person, but as I age I meet lots of people who make me feel otherwise.
28. I have lived in three states: Indiana, Alabama and Kentucky. I feel most at home in Indiana, but sometimes wish for the other two as well.
29. I think I was a southerner in my former life. I love to drink sweet tea and eat fried pickles, collard greens and cornbread.
30. I love to read, but sometimes go through phases where I don’t read at all. At any given time, I could have up to three books on my nightstand that I am trying to get through. Right now I’m reading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell and Bright Lights, Big Ass: A Self-Indulgent Surly, Ex-Sorority Girl’s Guide to Why if Often Sucks in the City, or Who are These Idiots and Who Do They All Live Next Door to Me? by Jen Lancaster. I have an eclectic taste, no?
Part Two
Keep reading for more randomness!
100 Things About Katie - Part Three
21. I cuss like a sailor sometimes…but I’m trying to get better!
22. I love to get the mail. I live for days when I receive things that aren’t bills or junk!
23. I have a serious crush on Jim Halpert from The Office.
24. I wear a size 12 shoe. I love shoe shopping, but rarely am able to find shoes in my size.
25. I have only seriously dated three guys in my life, and that’s two too many!
26. I drive 18 miles to get to my office, and hate every mile of it. I wish I could work from home!
27. I used to think I was a really interesting person, but as I age I meet lots of people who make me feel otherwise.
28. I have lived in three states: Indiana, Alabama and Kentucky. I feel most at home in Indiana, but sometimes wish for the other two as well.
29. I think I was a southerner in my former life. I love to drink sweet tea and eat fried pickles, collard greens and cornbread.
30. I love to read, but sometimes go through phases where I don’t read at all. At any given time, I could have up to three books on my nightstand that I am trying to get through. Right now I’m reading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell and Bright Lights, Big Ass: A Self-Indulgent Surly, Ex-Sorority Girl’s Guide to Why if Often Sucks in the City, or Who are These Idiots and Who Do They All Live Next Door to Me? by Jen Lancaster. I have an eclectic taste, no?
Monday, August 25, 2008
ChaCha
Have you heard of ChaCha yet? If not, I don't know where you've been. This little service seems to be making its mark everywhere!
I'm the girl who flies by the seat of her pants when picking restaurants. Hubby and I will be on our way to one place, when I think of something else that's way better. "OOOH! We haven't had Q'Doba in a long time! Let's go there instead!" (That is a total lie, by the way. We eat at Q'Doba all the time. I have a minor obsession...) Hubby then will look at me and say, "Okay, where's the nearest one?" We usually don't know, so we end up going somewhere else instead. Frustrating? You bet! This is where ChaCha now thrusts itself immediately to the top of my BFF list. I simply send a text to ChaCha (242242) that says, "Where is the nearest Q'Doba to this intersection?" Someone (a real person) texts me back to say, "It's here...do you want directions?" Isn't that awesome? Best of all, it's FREE! (Standard text fees apply.) I love it.
And you can use it for anything! Want to know who the prime minister of Malaysia is? Ask ChaCha. Need showtimes at your local theater? Ask ChaCha. Hours of that favorite store towns away? ChaCha. I know...I'm amazed.
Check it out, and start using it! I love it...
I'm the girl who flies by the seat of her pants when picking restaurants. Hubby and I will be on our way to one place, when I think of something else that's way better. "OOOH! We haven't had Q'Doba in a long time! Let's go there instead!" (That is a total lie, by the way. We eat at Q'Doba all the time. I have a minor obsession...) Hubby then will look at me and say, "Okay, where's the nearest one?" We usually don't know, so we end up going somewhere else instead. Frustrating? You bet! This is where ChaCha now thrusts itself immediately to the top of my BFF list. I simply send a text to ChaCha (242242) that says, "Where is the nearest Q'Doba to this intersection?" Someone (a real person) texts me back to say, "It's here...do you want directions?" Isn't that awesome? Best of all, it's FREE! (Standard text fees apply.) I love it.
And you can use it for anything! Want to know who the prime minister of Malaysia is? Ask ChaCha. Need showtimes at your local theater? Ask ChaCha. Hours of that favorite store towns away? ChaCha. I know...I'm amazed.
Check it out, and start using it! I love it...
100 Things - Part Deux
The best place to start this list is at the beginning...
Onward to part two!
11. Twins run in my family, but I am having trouble conceiving.
12. For almost 15 years, my toenails have not been naked for more than 10 minutes or so between color changes. I only just recently wore them naked for almost an entire day, and felt like I was walking around with no shirt on.
13. I rarely make my bed.
14. I have two cats named after characters on Arrested Development – Buster and Lucille.
15. Because of the gracious nature of my husband, I rarely have to clean the litter box.
16. I also rarely have to take out the trash.
17. Or do dishes.
18. And he kills bugs without complaining.
19. Also – he cleans up the mess when the kitties hack up hairballs.
20. I have an awesome husband!
Onward to part two!
11. Twins run in my family, but I am having trouble conceiving.
12. For almost 15 years, my toenails have not been naked for more than 10 minutes or so between color changes. I only just recently wore them naked for almost an entire day, and felt like I was walking around with no shirt on.
13. I rarely make my bed.
14. I have two cats named after characters on Arrested Development – Buster and Lucille.
15. Because of the gracious nature of my husband, I rarely have to clean the litter box.
16. I also rarely have to take out the trash.
17. Or do dishes.
18. And he kills bugs without complaining.
19. Also – he cleans up the mess when the kitties hack up hairballs.
20. I have an awesome husband!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
100 Things - In the beginning
Since I'm starting to get a little more serious about my blogging, I thought I'd would go ahead and do a little "100 Things" post. I know, every blogger in the universe has done one of these, and they're like, SO five minutes ago - but give me a break. It's been kinda fun to put this together, and it really makes me see how uninteresting I am.
In an effort to not bore you to tears all at once, I am breaking this list up into 10 installments. Hubs suggested I might make the last one my "Top Ten" list or something. I immediately scoffed at the idea, but now I think it's not so bad. (Thanks for the tip babe!)
I know you're excited about getting started, so without further ado...
100 Things About Katie
1. I have 5 beauty marks on my left ankle that form the shape of a cross.
2. I have two tattoos, and am thinking of getting another when I turn 30.
3. I hate talking on the telephone. I would much rather e-mail.
4. My all-time, Top 5 favorite movies are: West Side Story, Dirty Dancing, High Fidelity, Beauty and the Beast and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
5. I am the wife of a United Methodist pastor. This fact surprises no one more than it surprises me.
6. I love to cook, sing, craft, write, design, etc., but am not outstanding in any of these areas. I am a jack of all trades, but a master of none.
7. I know each of my 258 Facebook friends in real life, but I still often feel very, VERY lonely.
8. I have known my husband, Matt, since I was 7 years old.
9. We dated twice in high school, and I broke up with him both times. (I think I’ve made it up to him by now though…)
10. I have a half-sister who is ten years older than me. I didn’t meet her until I was almost 16. We keep in touch, but are merely casual friends at this point.
In an effort to not bore you to tears all at once, I am breaking this list up into 10 installments. Hubs suggested I might make the last one my "Top Ten" list or something. I immediately scoffed at the idea, but now I think it's not so bad. (Thanks for the tip babe!)
I know you're excited about getting started, so without further ado...
100 Things About Katie
1. I have 5 beauty marks on my left ankle that form the shape of a cross.
2. I have two tattoos, and am thinking of getting another when I turn 30.
3. I hate talking on the telephone. I would much rather e-mail.
4. My all-time, Top 5 favorite movies are: West Side Story, Dirty Dancing, High Fidelity, Beauty and the Beast and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
5. I am the wife of a United Methodist pastor. This fact surprises no one more than it surprises me.
6. I love to cook, sing, craft, write, design, etc., but am not outstanding in any of these areas. I am a jack of all trades, but a master of none.
7. I know each of my 258 Facebook friends in real life, but I still often feel very, VERY lonely.
8. I have known my husband, Matt, since I was 7 years old.
9. We dated twice in high school, and I broke up with him both times. (I think I’ve made it up to him by now though…)
10. I have a half-sister who is ten years older than me. I didn’t meet her until I was almost 16. We keep in touch, but are merely casual friends at this point.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
100 Things Every Omnivore Should Try...
Here’s a chance for a little interactivity for all the bloggers out there. Below is a list of 100 things that I think every good omnivore should have tried at least once in their life. The list includes fine food, strange food, everyday food and even some pretty bad food - but a good omnivore should really try it all. Don’t worry if you haven’t, mind you; neither have I, though I’ll be sure to work on it. Don’t worry if you don’t recognize everything in the hundred, either; Wikipedia has the answers.
Here’s what I want you to do:
1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating.
4) Optional extra: Post a comment here at www.verygoodtaste.co.uk linking to your results.
The VGT Omnivore’s Hundred:
1. Venison
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros
4. Steak tartare
5. Crocodile (does alligator count?)
6. Black pudding
7. Cheese fondue
8. Carp
9. Borscht
10. Baba ghanoush
11. Calamari
12. Pho
13. PB&J sandwich
14. Aloo gobi
15. Hot dog from a street cart
16. Epoisses
17. Black truffle
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes
19. Steamed pork buns
20. Pistachio ice cream
21. Heirloom tomatoes
22. Fresh wild berries
23. Foie gras
24. Rice and beans
25. Brawn, or head cheese
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper
27. Dulce de leche
28. Oysters
29. Baklava
30. Bagna cauda
31. Wasabi peas
32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl
33. Salted lassi
34. Sauerkraut
35. Root beer float
36. Cognac with a fat cigar
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O
39. Gumbo
40. Oxtail
41. Curried goat
42. Whole insects
43. Phaal
44. Goat’s milk
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more
46. Fugu
47. Chicken tikka masala
48. Eel
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut
50. Sea urchin
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. Abalone
54. Paneer
55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal
56. Spaetzle
57. Dirty gin martini
58. Beer above 8% ABV
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores
62. Sweetbreads
63. Kaolin
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. Frogs’ legs
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake
68. Haggis
69. Fried plantain
70. Chitterlings, or andouillette
71. Gazpacho
72. Caviar and blini
73. Louche absinthe
74. Gjetost, or brunost
75. Roadkill
76. Baijiu
77. Hostess Fruit Pie
78. Snail
79. Lapsang souchong
80. Bellini
81. Tom yum
82. Eggs Benedict
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant.
85. Kobe beef
86. Hare (does rabbit count?)
87. Goulash
88. Flowers
89. Horse
90. Criollo chocolate
91. Spam
92. Soft shell crab
93. Rose harissa
94. Catfish
95. Mole poblano
96. Bagel and lox
97. Lobster Thermidor
98. Polenta
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
100. Snake
I'll try anything once, but apparently I haven't tried much! Enjoy the fun...
Here’s what I want you to do:
1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating.
4) Optional extra: Post a comment here at www.verygoodtaste.co.uk linking to your results.
The VGT Omnivore’s Hundred:
1. Venison
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros
4. Steak tartare
5. Crocodile (does alligator count?)
6. Black pudding
7. Cheese fondue
8. Carp
9. Borscht
10. Baba ghanoush
11. Calamari
12. Pho
13. PB&J sandwich
14. Aloo gobi
15. Hot dog from a street cart
16. Epoisses
17. Black truffle
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes
19. Steamed pork buns
20. Pistachio ice cream
21. Heirloom tomatoes
22. Fresh wild berries
23. Foie gras
24. Rice and beans
25. Brawn, or head cheese
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper
27. Dulce de leche
28. Oysters
29. Baklava
30. Bagna cauda
31. Wasabi peas
32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl
33. Salted lassi
34. Sauerkraut
35. Root beer float
36. Cognac with a fat cigar
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O
39. Gumbo
40. Oxtail
41. Curried goat
42. Whole insects
43. Phaal
44. Goat’s milk
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more
46. Fugu
47. Chicken tikka masala
48. Eel
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut
50. Sea urchin
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. Abalone
54. Paneer
55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal
56. Spaetzle
57. Dirty gin martini
58. Beer above 8% ABV
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores
62. Sweetbreads
63. Kaolin
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. Frogs’ legs
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake
68. Haggis
69. Fried plantain
70. Chitterlings, or andouillette
71. Gazpacho
72. Caviar and blini
73. Louche absinthe
74. Gjetost, or brunost
75. Roadkill
76. Baijiu
77. Hostess Fruit Pie
78. Snail
79. Lapsang souchong
80. Bellini
81. Tom yum
82. Eggs Benedict
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant.
85. Kobe beef
86. Hare (does rabbit count?)
87. Goulash
88. Flowers
89. Horse
90. Criollo chocolate
91. Spam
92. Soft shell crab
93. Rose harissa
94. Catfish
95. Mole poblano
96. Bagel and lox
97. Lobster Thermidor
98. Polenta
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
100. Snake
I'll try anything once, but apparently I haven't tried much! Enjoy the fun...
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
In which I make a complete jerk of myself...
Almost three years ago Matt and I decided that we wanted to start a family. We quit our birth control methods (which were at best questionable anyway), talked about baby names and had sex a lot. A couple months passed by with no pregnancy, but we weren't worried. Then one night my little sister (who had only been married for three months at this point) called us at home to break the news. "Hi Aunt Katie!" I was going to be an aunt.
I was flabbergasted, excited, shocked, all of the things that people usually are when their sisters get pregnant, but I was also really jealous. I am the oldest child! I have been married the longest! I should get to have the first baby!!! I got over that fairly quickly (after all, I was the first to do everything else in our family - I could let her have this one thing, right?). Kamryn came along a few months later, and she has been a huge blessing to us.
Matt and I have continued to try to have a baby of our own with no luck. Now and again I can't help but look at Kamryn and think, "If we had conceived when we first started trying, our child would be her age/her height/saying those cute things/wearing that outfit/etc." It's so hard to love my niece so much, and at the same time grieve the situation we find ourselves in. Every milestone for her is a milestone for the baby that hasn't been introduced to us yet.
I have asked Kelly when she thinks they might have another. "When Kamryn is potty trained, I think we'll be ready for another," has been her response. I love my sister, and am genuinely curious about her life and want to invest in her family, but I recently realized that I have been counting down my reproductive cycles to the day when Kamryn is potty trained. Somewhere inside, I have turned this into a goal - to be pregnant before my second niece or nephew is on the way. Maybe if I can reach this goal, I won't feel like a complete fertility failure.
These past three years have been SO. HARD. I have sat back and watched as countless friends and family members have had babies, and I have always been excited and supportive of them. I have to admit, though, that at the same time, I am completely jealous, and each one of their joyous announcements sends my heart reeling into a dark place I don't like to visit very often. The last few pregnancy announcements I have been given, have been followed by, "I'm so sorry - it will happen soon for you. I'm praying for you!" I don't want to be that person. I don't want people to feel like they have to do that for me!
Anyway - on to how I made a jerk out of myself. We were at my mom and dad's last night celebrating Kamryn's second birthday. My sister was wearing a really cute jersey cotton dress that had a rouched empire waistline. I was sitting on the floor, and she walked in front of me, stepping over my leg to get to her spot on the couch. Some combination of the lighting, the rouching on her dress and the growing desperation in my uterus made me think she might be pregnant. Not one to keep things to myself, I mouthed to her, "Are you pregnant?" She quickly said "No, but thanks...now I feel really confident." Shit. Now I'm not only deranged with baby fever, but I'm that jerk that thinks non-gestating women are pregnant! I'm such an ass...
I don't think my sister reads my blog, but if she does, SORRY KELLY...I'm sick in the head, and you're beautiful.
I was flabbergasted, excited, shocked, all of the things that people usually are when their sisters get pregnant, but I was also really jealous. I am the oldest child! I have been married the longest! I should get to have the first baby!!! I got over that fairly quickly (after all, I was the first to do everything else in our family - I could let her have this one thing, right?). Kamryn came along a few months later, and she has been a huge blessing to us.
Matt and I have continued to try to have a baby of our own with no luck. Now and again I can't help but look at Kamryn and think, "If we had conceived when we first started trying, our child would be her age/her height/saying those cute things/wearing that outfit/etc." It's so hard to love my niece so much, and at the same time grieve the situation we find ourselves in. Every milestone for her is a milestone for the baby that hasn't been introduced to us yet.
I have asked Kelly when she thinks they might have another. "When Kamryn is potty trained, I think we'll be ready for another," has been her response. I love my sister, and am genuinely curious about her life and want to invest in her family, but I recently realized that I have been counting down my reproductive cycles to the day when Kamryn is potty trained. Somewhere inside, I have turned this into a goal - to be pregnant before my second niece or nephew is on the way. Maybe if I can reach this goal, I won't feel like a complete fertility failure.
These past three years have been SO. HARD. I have sat back and watched as countless friends and family members have had babies, and I have always been excited and supportive of them. I have to admit, though, that at the same time, I am completely jealous, and each one of their joyous announcements sends my heart reeling into a dark place I don't like to visit very often. The last few pregnancy announcements I have been given, have been followed by, "I'm so sorry - it will happen soon for you. I'm praying for you!" I don't want to be that person. I don't want people to feel like they have to do that for me!
Anyway - on to how I made a jerk out of myself. We were at my mom and dad's last night celebrating Kamryn's second birthday. My sister was wearing a really cute jersey cotton dress that had a rouched empire waistline. I was sitting on the floor, and she walked in front of me, stepping over my leg to get to her spot on the couch. Some combination of the lighting, the rouching on her dress and the growing desperation in my uterus made me think she might be pregnant. Not one to keep things to myself, I mouthed to her, "Are you pregnant?" She quickly said "No, but thanks...now I feel really confident." Shit. Now I'm not only deranged with baby fever, but I'm that jerk that thinks non-gestating women are pregnant! I'm such an ass...
I don't think my sister reads my blog, but if she does, SORRY KELLY...I'm sick in the head, and you're beautiful.
How the Bitch Stole Christmas
We went to my mom & dad's last night to celebrate Kamryn's (my neice) 2nd birthday. We had pizza, ate a giant cookie cake thing, and looked at Kelly and Brandon's pictures from their recent trip to Disney World. It was a great night with family that I've really been missing lately.Dad and Kamryn have this weird little game they play where she will grab the "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" DVD off the shelf, run to Dad, smack him in his knee with the case, and he'll smack his other knee. She laughs and laughs and LAUGHS, and then Dad laughs and laughs and laughs while we all look on wondering what the heck is so funny. It's really kind of cute...
Last night Dad was the first to get the DVD out, and he brought it to Kamryn, obviously wanting to play (isn't this adorable?). She then proceeded to tell us all about the "Bitch" who stole Christmas. Um...WHAT?
Of course, we kept asking her to repeat herself. (Some said they wanted to make sure they were hearing her right, but I just wanted to hear that sweet little voice say "bitch" over and over!) We soon corrected her, and after a few tries, she finally got it.
Have any fun cussing kids stories? Do tell...
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Growing Pains
This is a hard post for me to write. I am always so open and honest with you guys, but I have to admit that this is a tough one. It's been stewing for a few weeks though, so I think it's best to go ahead and write the darn thing. Here goes...
About a month ago, Matt and I took a trip with some of our youth group kids to Kings Island for Spirit Song, a Christian music festival. We camped for three nights, went to the park every day, enjoyed the music and all came home with sunburns. It was EXHAUSTING for the adults, but I'm sure the kids thought nothing of it.
The youth that were there seemed to be so amped up - acting crazy, doing everything EXCEPT what they were told, being mean to each other, running, yelling, AAAAHHH! I felt like I was just chasing after these kids scolding them, keeping order etc. Towards the end of the trip, I had a SERIOUS. MELTDOWN.
I remember sitting in one of the only air conditioned buildings in the park, saying to Matt, "I don't think the kids like me very much." I was expecting him to tell me that I was just being paranoid, that I shouldn't be silly - of course they like me! That is not what he said. Instead, he said, "Well, you ARE being pretty bossy." Oh yeah. He did. That's when I got up, and marched right out of that amusement park. (Can I just say, that this was no small walk of shame here...it's probably at LEAST 1/2 mile or so from where we were to the car. HUGE walk of shame...HUGE!)
We got to the car, got in, and I proceeded to FLIP OUT! How DARE he side with THEM and not ME? I am his WIFE! Doesn't he understand how much I have sacrificed for HIM to be in ministry? Doesn't he remember that I am giving up PRECIOUS vacation time from work to be subject to this CRAP? Blah, blah, more "woe-is-me-I'm-such-a-victim" crap, blah...
That's when he let me know that he didn't ask me to come on this trip to be "the enforcer" - he invited me to be a presence in the lives of our youth for a few days. To enjoy them. To have fun with them. To let them be themselves, and be okay with it.
OUCH. He was right.
He also made it clear that I had been mean to HIM on this trip too. Oh yeah...I bossed him around just like I did those kids. He let me know that it pissed him off when I did crap like that. That every time I did something like that, it underminded his authority to the youth group.
OUCH. Right again. I hate it when he's right (but I secretly think he's sexy when he stands up for himself...don't tell him I told you that).
I realized that this hell I was living in was mostly my fault. I WAS being a pain in the butt. I WAS being mean and bossy - to everyone! I straightened up pretty quick.
The next day I had some of the more challenging guys in my car. I was a little worried about how the two hour trip home would go. I just tried to keep in my mind that I am there to enjoy them, to be Jesus for them, not to be a drill sargent. I decided that I was going to talk to them about what they liked, listen to the music that they listened to, etc. And wouldn't you know it...
...I had a GREAT time!
It's been a good summer ever since. Youth ministry is HARD. I mean...HARD! But these youth are so enjoyable - I just can't help but love them all.
Growing like this is really painful, but it's really worth it too.
About a month ago, Matt and I took a trip with some of our youth group kids to Kings Island for Spirit Song, a Christian music festival. We camped for three nights, went to the park every day, enjoyed the music and all came home with sunburns. It was EXHAUSTING for the adults, but I'm sure the kids thought nothing of it.
The youth that were there seemed to be so amped up - acting crazy, doing everything EXCEPT what they were told, being mean to each other, running, yelling, AAAAHHH! I felt like I was just chasing after these kids scolding them, keeping order etc. Towards the end of the trip, I had a SERIOUS. MELTDOWN.
I remember sitting in one of the only air conditioned buildings in the park, saying to Matt, "I don't think the kids like me very much." I was expecting him to tell me that I was just being paranoid, that I shouldn't be silly - of course they like me! That is not what he said. Instead, he said, "Well, you ARE being pretty bossy." Oh yeah. He did. That's when I got up, and marched right out of that amusement park. (Can I just say, that this was no small walk of shame here...it's probably at LEAST 1/2 mile or so from where we were to the car. HUGE walk of shame...HUGE!)
We got to the car, got in, and I proceeded to FLIP OUT! How DARE he side with THEM and not ME? I am his WIFE! Doesn't he understand how much I have sacrificed for HIM to be in ministry? Doesn't he remember that I am giving up PRECIOUS vacation time from work to be subject to this CRAP? Blah, blah, more "woe-is-me-I'm-such-a-victim" crap, blah...
That's when he let me know that he didn't ask me to come on this trip to be "the enforcer" - he invited me to be a presence in the lives of our youth for a few days. To enjoy them. To have fun with them. To let them be themselves, and be okay with it.
OUCH. He was right.
He also made it clear that I had been mean to HIM on this trip too. Oh yeah...I bossed him around just like I did those kids. He let me know that it pissed him off when I did crap like that. That every time I did something like that, it underminded his authority to the youth group.
OUCH. Right again. I hate it when he's right (but I secretly think he's sexy when he stands up for himself...don't tell him I told you that).
I realized that this hell I was living in was mostly my fault. I WAS being a pain in the butt. I WAS being mean and bossy - to everyone! I straightened up pretty quick.
The next day I had some of the more challenging guys in my car. I was a little worried about how the two hour trip home would go. I just tried to keep in my mind that I am there to enjoy them, to be Jesus for them, not to be a drill sargent. I decided that I was going to talk to them about what they liked, listen to the music that they listened to, etc. And wouldn't you know it...
...I had a GREAT time!
It's been a good summer ever since. Youth ministry is HARD. I mean...HARD! But these youth are so enjoyable - I just can't help but love them all.
Growing like this is really painful, but it's really worth it too.
Not dead...just tired
Hi there internets...I'm Katie. Remember me?
I remember you, and I promise I haven't dropped off the face of the planet. I have mucho blogs stewing in my little brain, and they will surface soon. Until then, why don't you read some of my friends over there in my linky list? Go ahead...you know you want to...
I remember you, and I promise I haven't dropped off the face of the planet. I have mucho blogs stewing in my little brain, and they will surface soon. Until then, why don't you read some of my friends over there in my linky list? Go ahead...you know you want to...
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Introducing...
...LUCILLE!
This is our newest family member...Lucille. Isn't she precious?
She looks precious, but she's actually quite feisty. She's giving Buster a run for his money! She's sweet too, and she's starting to fit in just fine. We got Lucille from our friend Debbie's nephew. He was no longer able to keep her, and really didn't want to take her to the shelter. We were happy to take her for him!
(Buster is named after Buster Bluth on Arrested Development. We thought it was only fitting that we name his new girlfriend Lucille, after Buster's girlfriend on the show.)
Enjoy her cuteness...we do! (P.S. I got a little carried away on Picnik.com...but I love this picture!)
This is our newest family member...Lucille. Isn't she precious?
She looks precious, but she's actually quite feisty. She's giving Buster a run for his money! She's sweet too, and she's starting to fit in just fine. We got Lucille from our friend Debbie's nephew. He was no longer able to keep her, and really didn't want to take her to the shelter. We were happy to take her for him!
(Buster is named after Buster Bluth on Arrested Development. We thought it was only fitting that we name his new girlfriend Lucille, after Buster's girlfriend on the show.)
Enjoy her cuteness...we do! (P.S. I got a little carried away on Picnik.com...but I love this picture!)
Monday, August 04, 2008
Random Memory
Matt and I were at a friend's house last night for youth group pool party. On our way home, he didn't exactly stop at a railroad crossing, and I made a comment akin to "smooth move ex-lax!" As images of my car smashed by a train entered my brain, a random childhood memory popped in, and I thought I'd share with you. (Aren't you so lucky?)
I grew up on the south side of Indianapolis - just 7 miles from downtown. There was a train track right near our neighborhood that crossed over a busy road. Years and years ago, everyone in the neighborhood got a letter from the city saying that there would be a public service announcement filmed RIGHT IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD! Something about people racing to beat trains, blah, blah, blah.
Everyone in the 'hood packed coolers, folding chairs, etc. and made the trek to the end of the street to watch the filming. Traffic was stopped both ways, and an old junker car (occupied by two crash-test dummies) was placed on road in the path of the train. The tension built as we saw a train slowly move up and stop about 100 yards from the car. When it was time, the train sped up to what looked like 25 miles an hour and KABLOOIE! smashed that car to smithereens. It was an exciting day...
I'm not sure how old I was, but I know I was old enough to realize that we all looked like stupid rednecks watching this take place. I still think of those poor crash-test dummies being killed as we all watched. So...um...don't race the train! Stop at the tracks. PSA out.
I grew up on the south side of Indianapolis - just 7 miles from downtown. There was a train track right near our neighborhood that crossed over a busy road. Years and years ago, everyone in the neighborhood got a letter from the city saying that there would be a public service announcement filmed RIGHT IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD! Something about people racing to beat trains, blah, blah, blah.
Everyone in the 'hood packed coolers, folding chairs, etc. and made the trek to the end of the street to watch the filming. Traffic was stopped both ways, and an old junker car (occupied by two crash-test dummies) was placed on road in the path of the train. The tension built as we saw a train slowly move up and stop about 100 yards from the car. When it was time, the train sped up to what looked like 25 miles an hour and KABLOOIE! smashed that car to smithereens. It was an exciting day...
I'm not sure how old I was, but I know I was old enough to realize that we all looked like stupid rednecks watching this take place. I still think of those poor crash-test dummies being killed as we all watched. So...um...don't race the train! Stop at the tracks. PSA out.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
The "I've peaked, and I'm kidding myself" Party
My 10th high school reunion was last night. WHEW!
The planning nearly killed me at times, but last night ended up going really well. We had well over 100 people there, and I think they all had a great time. We had a money shortage, but everyone was AWESOME about throwing cash into the donation basket to help out. We’re still about $150 short, but that’s WAY better than $600.
This was my first reunion, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I feel like I have changed so much since high school, so I guess I assumed a lot of other people would have too. I was so wrong! From what I could tell, everyone is still basically the same. The jerks were jerks. The nerds were nerds. The pretty girls were still pretty…prettier actually. (Am I really the only one who has gained wait since high school??? SERIOUSLY!)
I actually found that I didn’t really fit in with many people anymore. A couple of my band friends were there, and they are good friends I have kept in touch with over the years. Other than those folks, I had a hard time feeling like I was connecting with anyone. People were really nice, appreciative for the planning I had done, and they feigned the expected interest in my life (Married? Kids? Job?). We reminisced about high school (middle school even!), laughed about the stupid things we had seen each other do, etc. I still felt like a stranger. It was weird.
It has been ten years…ten long, life-changing, interesting years.
(Fun blog connection: my classmate’s wife came up to me last night to let me know she reads my blog and even asked about how Buster was doing! Isn’t that funny? If you’re still reading, Melissa: It was great to meet you last night!)
The planning nearly killed me at times, but last night ended up going really well. We had well over 100 people there, and I think they all had a great time. We had a money shortage, but everyone was AWESOME about throwing cash into the donation basket to help out. We’re still about $150 short, but that’s WAY better than $600.
This was my first reunion, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I feel like I have changed so much since high school, so I guess I assumed a lot of other people would have too. I was so wrong! From what I could tell, everyone is still basically the same. The jerks were jerks. The nerds were nerds. The pretty girls were still pretty…prettier actually. (Am I really the only one who has gained wait since high school??? SERIOUSLY!)
I actually found that I didn’t really fit in with many people anymore. A couple of my band friends were there, and they are good friends I have kept in touch with over the years. Other than those folks, I had a hard time feeling like I was connecting with anyone. People were really nice, appreciative for the planning I had done, and they feigned the expected interest in my life (Married? Kids? Job?). We reminisced about high school (middle school even!), laughed about the stupid things we had seen each other do, etc. I still felt like a stranger. It was weird.
It has been ten years…ten long, life-changing, interesting years.
(Fun blog connection: my classmate’s wife came up to me last night to let me know she reads my blog and even asked about how Buster was doing! Isn’t that funny? If you’re still reading, Melissa: It was great to meet you last night!)
Friday, August 01, 2008
Seeking His Face...
We were in Texas last week with our youth group. We took 14 teenagers to a small town named Carthage (just 2 hours east of Dallas) to do ministry in any way we could. We shoveled rocks in 103 degree heat. We helped host a kids Day Camp at a church in town. We played bingo with people at a nursing home. We painted shelves for a day care. We loved and cared for the people in that town the best way we knew how.
We were hosted by a group called YouthWorks. This group does an AMAZING job at organizing mission trips for groups just like us. If you are wanting to take a group on a mission trip, you should check them out.
At night, after we had worked hard all day, we gathered for "Club" where we thanked God for what he had done in our lives that day, worshipped in song, listened to a lesson, etc. Afterwards we would have time with our church groups for some more discussion, prayer, etc. Each night our group wanted to sing some songs. Thankfully our friend Jeremy brought his guitar, and he was able to lead us in some great songs. One of my favorites we sang last week is this one, "Give Us Clean Hands" by Chris Tomlin...
Thursday night was our last in Texas. At Club time, the YouthWorks staff had arranged a foot washing service. The staff washed the feet of the adult leaders, then we got to turn around and wash the feet of our kids and pray for them individually. Matt and I were washing kids feet, praying for them, etc. when we noticed a commotion going on around us. We turned around to find our kids praying for each other. These kids were gathering around each other (and us), laying hands on each other, praying for each other like we have never seen before. They were all crying, all speaking words of truth to each other...and they knew that Jesus was there. They knew it! It was like a mini-revival just for our group. There they were, seeking God's face, just like we had sung.
That night was such an answer to prayer! This year has not been easy for me and Matt, and there have been times when I have wanted to call it quits. That night made all of that pain and frustration worth it. After everything was coming to an end that night, I just collapsed on Matt's shoulder and sobbed. Thank you Jesus...this is so worth it.
We were hosted by a group called YouthWorks. This group does an AMAZING job at organizing mission trips for groups just like us. If you are wanting to take a group on a mission trip, you should check them out.
At night, after we had worked hard all day, we gathered for "Club" where we thanked God for what he had done in our lives that day, worshipped in song, listened to a lesson, etc. Afterwards we would have time with our church groups for some more discussion, prayer, etc. Each night our group wanted to sing some songs. Thankfully our friend Jeremy brought his guitar, and he was able to lead us in some great songs. One of my favorites we sang last week is this one, "Give Us Clean Hands" by Chris Tomlin...
Thursday night was our last in Texas. At Club time, the YouthWorks staff had arranged a foot washing service. The staff washed the feet of the adult leaders, then we got to turn around and wash the feet of our kids and pray for them individually. Matt and I were washing kids feet, praying for them, etc. when we noticed a commotion going on around us. We turned around to find our kids praying for each other. These kids were gathering around each other (and us), laying hands on each other, praying for each other like we have never seen before. They were all crying, all speaking words of truth to each other...and they knew that Jesus was there. They knew it! It was like a mini-revival just for our group. There they were, seeking God's face, just like we had sung.
That night was such an answer to prayer! This year has not been easy for me and Matt, and there have been times when I have wanted to call it quits. That night made all of that pain and frustration worth it. After everything was coming to an end that night, I just collapsed on Matt's shoulder and sobbed. Thank you Jesus...this is so worth it.
Not If...only WHEN
I got an e-mail from an old SIFAT friend of mine this morning. We had lost touch for a couple years, but we’ve recently reconnected. Here is his e-mail:
"Not if, only WHEN."
The exact words the Lord laid on my heart today when I was praying, words He told me to share with the ones I prayed for.
I know we haven't had much chance to talk yet about a lot of things since we've reconnected, but you should know Karen and I have been praying diligently for you both in the matter of having a child, and today was one of those blessed Holy Spirit moments when God's voice rings crystal clear. Just thought you might want to know. :) Hang in there, both of you...the plan is always His.
Seth
Once again, God has my attention!
We didn’t really talk with Seth about our baby situation. He knows what you all know from reading this blog. He doesn't know that over the past year, I had changed my language from "When we have kids..." to "If we have kids..." because of the hopelessness and doubt I have felt. I have been trying to be intentional about saying "When" lately, because we have received a lot of neat encouragement from God through other people. Dreams are being had, prayers are being said, and hopes are being realized again. I am so blown away that people would even pray for us, but even more so that God would speak to us through these friends of ours.
God's words for us today are an encouraging command to TRUST that He has our family in His hands. It's not up to us to know when this promise will come to fruition. It's only up to us to trust God, place hope and faith in Him, and live in Him as we continue to dream. Our hope is being restored...
Thank you Lord for this awesome word today! It's starting to sink in that we WILL have a family. We WILL be given the opportunity to raise up children in your name. Awesome!
"Not if, only WHEN."
The exact words the Lord laid on my heart today when I was praying, words He told me to share with the ones I prayed for.
I know we haven't had much chance to talk yet about a lot of things since we've reconnected, but you should know Karen and I have been praying diligently for you both in the matter of having a child, and today was one of those blessed Holy Spirit moments when God's voice rings crystal clear. Just thought you might want to know. :) Hang in there, both of you...the plan is always His.
Seth
Once again, God has my attention!
We didn’t really talk with Seth about our baby situation. He knows what you all know from reading this blog. He doesn't know that over the past year, I had changed my language from "When we have kids..." to "If we have kids..." because of the hopelessness and doubt I have felt. I have been trying to be intentional about saying "When" lately, because we have received a lot of neat encouragement from God through other people. Dreams are being had, prayers are being said, and hopes are being realized again. I am so blown away that people would even pray for us, but even more so that God would speak to us through these friends of ours.
God's words for us today are an encouraging command to TRUST that He has our family in His hands. It's not up to us to know when this promise will come to fruition. It's only up to us to trust God, place hope and faith in Him, and live in Him as we continue to dream. Our hope is being restored...
Thank you Lord for this awesome word today! It's starting to sink in that we WILL have a family. We WILL be given the opportunity to raise up children in your name. Awesome!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Bye Bye July...
July is ALMOST over! It has been so crazy for us, and I can't believe we've actually survived this madness. For those who missed it, here is a recap:
-My friend Lisa got married (wedding, bachelorette party, etc.)
-Awesome July 4th party with youth group and their parents
-Camping, Kings Island (amusement park) and Christian music festival for four days with youth group
-My friend Courtney got married, but I couldn't go. Extreme guilt sets in.
-Dad turned 57, so we got together to celebrate (read - eat A LOT)
-Family visited from Florida, so we got together to celebrate (read - eat A LOT...again)
-Buster got a urinary tract infection that took us to the emergency room in the middle of the night.
-Buster got a urethral obstruction, has to be at vet (again) for two days.
-We go to Texas with 14 teenagers for a week-long mission trip (post coming soon). Insanity begins.
-Our niece Tayla turns 12, but we are out of town. More guilt sets in.
-We return from Texas, fairly unscathed, but definitely pooped.
-We have our SIXTH wedding anniversary. We celebrate by getting Chinese take-out, and eating in front of the couch. I can feel your jealousy...
-Mom has an emergency appendectomy. Long, boring stays at hospital commence. Work ceases.
-Old friends from SIFAT get in touch to let us know they're coming through Indy, and can they stay at our house? Absolutely - insanity continues.
-Mom is released from the hospital, so I spend a day waiting for discharge papers, shopping for groceries and filling prescriptions.
You may notice that the above list does not contain any of the following:
-House cleaning
-Laundry
-Church Services
-Weekly youth events
-Sleeping
-Daily hygiene
The house is NOT clean, I'm barely keeping up with laundry, sleeping is fitful, hygiene...what's that? I have been brushing my teeth, but it's always while I'm on the toilet and applying deoderant at the same time (I'm mastering this multi-tasking stuff). And church? Does. Not. Stop. EVER.
I have my class reunion this weekend, family visiting from Iowa, Tayla's birthday celebration with us (called "Tayla Day" - we're going for pedicures), and THEN I get my vacation...I think. We are currently planning on going to St. Louis next week for a Cardinal game, Tom Petty concert, sightseeing, SLEEPING, etc. We may end up missing out if Mom isn't feeling well, but her doctor said this morning, "No way in hell would I let some appendectomy keep me from seeing Tom Petty." Well said Dr. Browne.
SO - If I can just get through the next few days, I am set. The good news is that the next few days are full of fun things. I just wish the fun was more spread out.
When I do a post in September about how boring my life is, will you please slap me across the face with this dead fish I'm posting today to WAKE ME UP?
How scatter-brained was this post? Sorry about that...this is a glimpse into my brain right now! :)
-My friend Lisa got married (wedding, bachelorette party, etc.)
-Awesome July 4th party with youth group and their parents
-Camping, Kings Island (amusement park) and Christian music festival for four days with youth group
-My friend Courtney got married, but I couldn't go. Extreme guilt sets in.
-Dad turned 57, so we got together to celebrate (read - eat A LOT)
-Family visited from Florida, so we got together to celebrate (read - eat A LOT...again)
-Buster got a urinary tract infection that took us to the emergency room in the middle of the night.
-Buster got a urethral obstruction, has to be at vet (again) for two days.
-We go to Texas with 14 teenagers for a week-long mission trip (post coming soon). Insanity begins.
-Our niece Tayla turns 12, but we are out of town. More guilt sets in.
-We return from Texas, fairly unscathed, but definitely pooped.
-We have our SIXTH wedding anniversary. We celebrate by getting Chinese take-out, and eating in front of the couch. I can feel your jealousy...
-Mom has an emergency appendectomy. Long, boring stays at hospital commence. Work ceases.
-Old friends from SIFAT get in touch to let us know they're coming through Indy, and can they stay at our house? Absolutely - insanity continues.
-Mom is released from the hospital, so I spend a day waiting for discharge papers, shopping for groceries and filling prescriptions.
You may notice that the above list does not contain any of the following:
-House cleaning
-Laundry
-Church Services
-Weekly youth events
-Sleeping
-Daily hygiene
The house is NOT clean, I'm barely keeping up with laundry, sleeping is fitful, hygiene...what's that? I have been brushing my teeth, but it's always while I'm on the toilet and applying deoderant at the same time (I'm mastering this multi-tasking stuff). And church? Does. Not. Stop. EVER.
I have my class reunion this weekend, family visiting from Iowa, Tayla's birthday celebration with us (called "Tayla Day" - we're going for pedicures), and THEN I get my vacation...I think. We are currently planning on going to St. Louis next week for a Cardinal game, Tom Petty concert, sightseeing, SLEEPING, etc. We may end up missing out if Mom isn't feeling well, but her doctor said this morning, "No way in hell would I let some appendectomy keep me from seeing Tom Petty." Well said Dr. Browne.
SO - If I can just get through the next few days, I am set. The good news is that the next few days are full of fun things. I just wish the fun was more spread out.
When I do a post in September about how boring my life is, will you please slap me across the face with this dead fish I'm posting today to WAKE ME UP?
How scatter-brained was this post? Sorry about that...this is a glimpse into my brain right now! :)
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Appendectomy...
Below is an e-mail I sent out to family and friends tonight. Thanks for praying for Mom...
Mom went to the emergency room last night because she was having pain in her side. The doctors did a cat scan, and found that Mom had appendicitis. They did an emergency appendectomy this morning. She is doing fairly well, all things considered. We got to the hospital this morning around 9:00, and she has been resting ever since. As long as she doesn't move too much, she isn't feeling much pain. She does feel quite a bit of pain when she takes deep breaths, moves, etc. The doctors are trying to keep her lung capacity up with some breathing exercises. They're also trying to get her moving, sitting up more, etc. She has been drinking plenty of water (always her cure-all when I don't feel well...it's good to see she can actually take a dose of her own medicine!). She isn't eating much, but they are giving her nutrients through an IV.
They are keeping her tonight, and are expecting to send her home tomorrow. We were there with her until about 8:00 this evening, and she seemed to be pretty stable. She's really groggy from her pain meds, so that has been interesting! Please be praying for her. I know this isn't fun at all, and recovering from surgery isn't going to be easy. The last time she was in a hospital was over 22 years ago when she gave birth to my brother! She's probably going to be in pain for a good while, and won't feel up to her normal schedule for some time. I don't know when she'll be going back to work. If anyone would like to put together a meal for Mom, Dad and Robert, I'm sure they would appreciate it. Dad and Robert are practically useless in the kitchen (unless you want a frozen pizza or chili, but I'm sure that will get old fast!). They aren't allergic to anything, and love eating just about anything! :)
I'm going to be with Mom tomorrow to help her get settled at home, but after that I really have to get back to work. If anyone feels like going over to check on her or help her with anything, I'm sure she'd love that too.
Thanks for your prayers. Your love and care means so much to me and to my family!
Katie
Here is a picture of me and Mom on my wedding day...
Mom went to the emergency room last night because she was having pain in her side. The doctors did a cat scan, and found that Mom had appendicitis. They did an emergency appendectomy this morning. She is doing fairly well, all things considered. We got to the hospital this morning around 9:00, and she has been resting ever since. As long as she doesn't move too much, she isn't feeling much pain. She does feel quite a bit of pain when she takes deep breaths, moves, etc. The doctors are trying to keep her lung capacity up with some breathing exercises. They're also trying to get her moving, sitting up more, etc. She has been drinking plenty of water (always her cure-all when I don't feel well...it's good to see she can actually take a dose of her own medicine!). She isn't eating much, but they are giving her nutrients through an IV.
They are keeping her tonight, and are expecting to send her home tomorrow. We were there with her until about 8:00 this evening, and she seemed to be pretty stable. She's really groggy from her pain meds, so that has been interesting! Please be praying for her. I know this isn't fun at all, and recovering from surgery isn't going to be easy. The last time she was in a hospital was over 22 years ago when she gave birth to my brother! She's probably going to be in pain for a good while, and won't feel up to her normal schedule for some time. I don't know when she'll be going back to work. If anyone would like to put together a meal for Mom, Dad and Robert, I'm sure they would appreciate it. Dad and Robert are practically useless in the kitchen (unless you want a frozen pizza or chili, but I'm sure that will get old fast!). They aren't allergic to anything, and love eating just about anything! :)
I'm going to be with Mom tomorrow to help her get settled at home, but after that I really have to get back to work. If anyone feels like going over to check on her or help her with anything, I'm sure she'd love that too.
Thanks for your prayers. Your love and care means so much to me and to my family!
Katie
Here is a picture of me and Mom on my wedding day...
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