The Evans Escapades

Baby Makes Three

2011-06-23T09:37:00.003-04:00

Well, yet again it's been quite a while since I've posted. I'm not going to update on what all has happened, but just one big highlight....we're having a baby! We are so excited! We truly feel blessed and can't wait for what is in store. I'm now 16 weeks and I'm feeling pretty good! The first trimester was a little rough. I was nauseated all the time and was SO tired. I swear I hit 13 weeks and it immediately went away!

Another fun fact: I've only gained 2 lbs but everything has redistributed! I am already into maternity clothes and let me tell you--they are cute AND comfortable! That really helps!

I will try to keep this updated with the progression of the pregnancy and the baby!

Here is Baby Evans at 12 weeks:

Stay tuned for more!

Worth the Wait?

2011-02-16T10:11:00.011-05:00

Wow, I'm almost embarrassed to realize that it has been 3 months since my last post. So much has happened....I'm not sure if anyone is still following me or reading this, but in case there is, I won't inundate you with all the happenings...just the highlights. I don't really do New Year's resolutions, because let's be honest, they never really last, right? Well, this year I decided I would like to try and document better....in blog and pictures. I've done better on the picture part, but obviously not on the blog part. So, I'll do an update through pictures.

We had a fun weekend skeet shooting with some friends

We celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary!

We celebrated Christmas...multiple times

Happy New Year!

I got my new monogramming machine! (For more on that adventure, follow me here)

Snow:

We also had some friends over for the Super Bowl, but I forgot to take pictures. I think that pretty much brings us up to date! I feel better now. Do you?

Thankful

2010-11-08T11:54:00.003-05:00

So, it's been entirely too long since I've last posted...So sorry! But we're coming up on my absolute favorite time of year: Thanksgiving and Christmas!!!!!! I can't keep silent now. I don't know if it's the gathering of family and memories being made and shared or the excitement that surrounds both holidays, but I love it so very much. I'm taking inspiration from a FB friend and blogging what I'm thankful for. Each person or thing that I am thankful for deserves its own post, and rightly so. Let's get started!

I am so very thankful for my Savior, Jesus. I truly don't know where I would be without His love and grace. So many times I can think back and see Him working in my life. No, I am by no means perfect but He loves me anyway. I want to be the best I can be..It's the least I can do in return. I want others to see Him through me and see what He's done in my life. Everything that I have achieved or have has been through Him. So many times I have failed and sinned, but he doesn't see that. He sees me as I am--His child. And he loves me and blesses me. He picks me up when I fall and puts me right back on my feet. I do not deserve any of it. But by His stripes, we are healed. I am so thankful that He died for me....and for you, so that we might live.

I could tell you story after story of how He has worked in my life. I never tire of telling them and can't wait to see what all He will do in my life. I thank my Nana and Mother for introducing me to His love and showing me what a true relationship with Him is. I don't know where I would be without their influences in my life. How lucky I am!

He has blessed me with a wonderful family, an amazing husband, friends and more.

Thank you Lord!

Two amazing Women of God!

Workin' 9 to 5...

2010-08-16T15:14:00.002-04:00

Or 10-6....Or whatever schedule I need to work to get things done! I cannot tell you how much I love love being at home! I get up in the morning, cook John breakfast, go to the gym (Ok, today was the first day I went in the morning but I'm making it my routine...now it's in print!), get ready and head to my office to work! I feel so blessed. My friends, family and wonderful husband are all supporting me in this endeavor and this is my chance to make it work! I know that God has blessed me with this talent and now I have the opportunity to devote 100% to this. I'm really excited with the response that I've gotten so far and with what I've produced. I know that if this is what I'm meant to do, then God will bless it and this business will prosper.

I'm going to try to keep this blog "personal" and devoted to what's going on in our lives, but I'm also going to try and update the Lindsey Lou blog with what is going on business wise. You can check it out here.

We had a wonderful weekend celebrating my Grandmother's 90th birthday. She is so amazing. I will post pictures of that soon....too much fun!

My machine is beeping at me which means that my latest creation is done! Check out the LL blog to see pics! :)

Blessings!

Lindsey

Let's play catchup!

2010-07-26T12:50:00.003-04:00

Well, it's been a long time since I've posted! A lot has definitely happened since November! Ok, I'll try to give the condensed version..... Here goes!

Well, I had a lot of time to think while John was gone. I realized that I finally would stop fighting the urge and try to start teaching. I've been fighting it since I was in college, I think. My sister-in-law told me about a potential opening in Cherokee county. I applied and actually interviewed with the principal in February. He really seemed to like me, but since I'm not certified AND he needed someone who could teach French and Spanish, I was on hold for months. We planned that I would take the Spanish GACE and then we would go from there. Well, then everything fell apart with teachers in Georgia, and the Principal didn't have an answer yet because he didn't know what he was going to be able to do, so I assumed it wasn't going to work out.

Well, then it was time for John to come home!!! Praise Jesus! I picked him up on May 26th. I don't know how to describe it other than AMAZING. It has been two months of pure happiness. :) I had just seen him in March, but to know that he was home for good was so surreal and exciting. I should also mention that I had not stopped thinking and hoping for this teaching job. My mom gave me the best words of wisdom that I will always remember.... "Give God the responsibility." Wow. What a simple phrase that holds so much power. He really wants us to come to Him with EVERYTHING. So, I figured I didn't have anything to lose! So, I let go of it and gave God the responsibility to work it out. After we got home that afternoon, I got a phone call from the principal. His exact words were "The job is yours, Lindsey, if you want it." Umm, Yes! I was scheduled to take the Spanish GACE in June but even if I didn't pass, he had it worked out where I could still teach. What a miracle! Thank you Lord! What an amazing day. Two miracles!

Well, after a week I turned in my notice at work. It wasn't too hard because I knew that I was leaving to pursue my dream (albeit a newer one) and something I was passionate about. Well, the day before my last day at work, I got an e-mail (yes, e-mail) from the principal letting me know that they had found someone more qualified with experience. Ouch. What a blow. No, I didn't have a contract yet, but I had filled out paperwork and been to the county office. As hard as that was, I had faith that something better was in store and for some reason God closed one door and then another one soon after, but that a huge window is in my future!

One blessing to come out of it is that I was able to spend a whole month at home with my husband before he went back to work. We were able to go visit friends and family and even go on vacation, while spending most every day together. Another blessing is that I have the opportunity now to start my business up full-time. Every time I think about having my own business, a passion rises up in me. I have been fortunate enough to have great work experiences where I was able to really shine....however, being at home is so great. I cook breakfast for John before he leaves for work and then come upstairs to work (and then cleaning up the house and laundry is thrown in too). I really feel that God has given me this talent and passion for crafting and having my business. So, that's what I'm working on right now. I'm not ready to launch Lindsey Lou to the world just yet, but it's coming....very soon!

To sum up the past 8 months, my life has been full of blessings and favor. No it's not perfect, but God is so good and I am blessed with a wonderful, loving and supportive husband and a great family. What more could I ask for?

Maybe a baby...... but that will come in due time. ;)

The day I picked him up!

Happy Anniversary

2009-11-22T23:19:00.009-05:00

So, Friday was our 4th wedding anniversary. What a tough day. John called on Tuesday to let me know that he had bought me 3 sessions to Spa Sydell. He told me in advance so that I could book a session for Friday. What a wonderful husband!! I was able to book an hour massage. Boy, did I need it. It was an okay work day, but just knowing that I was going home to an empty house was a little hard. So, I came home, straightened up, then went off to get pampered. After my wonderful massage, I went home to relax. At least I have the comfort that he will be home to celebrate with next year!

In case you didn't know, he was deployed when we got married. He came home on a Sunday, we got married the next Sunday and he left the following week! What a whirlwind. Here are some pictures from that wonderful time...

Seeing each other for the first time in 6 months

Yay!!

We're married!

Quick honeymoon!

Saying goodbye...

The last 4 years have been quite eventful, to say the least. It hasn't always been perfect but I wouldn't want to go through life with anyone else.

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful, loving, providing husband and best friend.

Here's to many many more!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-18T18:37:00.002-05:00

A trip to see Thomas... (taking my nephew Bo)

What's Going On?

2009-11-16T13:15:00.004-05:00

Well, once again I have fallen behind in blogging. I feel like life is on an upswing right now, so I will try to be more faithful in updating!

Not too much exciting has happened since my last post. Well, I take that back. I battled a few plagues:

A rice weevil was living in a bag of rice I bought from the store. It burrowed its way out and decided to make a home and reproduce in my cabinets. That was a fun experience. That happened about the same time that the plumbing was on the fritz.
Fleas took residence on my dogs. What a nightmare. I think they must have been living in the carpet because they kept appearing!

Now things have seemed to settle around the house. Externally, I have been staying busy with the Junior League of Atlanta, Alpha Gam (both as an Advisor and an Alum) and I've also joined a small group. Oh, I think I'm also going to be on the HOA board this time around too....Maybe one day I'll learn to say no. However, all of this activity has really helped to distract me. The time that I am home, I'm usually catching up on my tv shows (I know, super important), cleaning (this is a new one I'm trying to be dedicated to) or crafting. I have this passion for my jewelry and have a dream of owning my own business with famous people wearing my pieces and knowing who I am. Maybe one day that will happen! :)

John is also staying busy. His days are pretty filled with work, which is good. He doesn't have too much downtime. On Veterans Day, Governor Perdue was actually at John's base. John was able to meet him and also have his picture taken. Maybe that will get posted soon...

Like I said, I hope to post more frequently. Besides, who wouldn't want to know about all the super-exciting things going on!

Blessings!

This Old House

2009-09-07T22:25:00.004-04:00

So, too many crazy and I guess, funny, things have been going on here lately not to post! I'm going through some self-changes and I'm trying to focus on myself (i.e. losing weight/getting in shape, finding a church, trying to stay better in touch...), so one of my goals is to blog more often. I must say, it's quite therapeutic.

So, funny story number 1 from a few weeks ago:

Most of you (all 2 of you that read this!) probably don't know that we have someone who rents our basement. He is super nice--he came with the house! The couple that lived here before us rented the basement to a young man who they found from their church. He is a landscaper and needed a place to live. So, they took him in. He does the yard every week and pays rent. So yes, our house came with a live-in gardener! :)

Well, he knocked on the door on a Tuesday night about 3 weeks ago and told me that the water wasn't draining well in the bathroom downstairs. So, the next day I go get some Liquid Plumbr, leave it in his mailbox and then Thursday I left to go to Americus after work for my grandmother's birthday. Sunday night, he knocked on the door again (with the bottle in his hand) and said, "You need to come see this." Well, the toilet had overflowed, obviously days earlier as evident by the dried blobs on the floor (I won't go into detail, you get where I'm going) and there was water standing in the tub. It reeked. I wanted to cry because I had no idea what to do.

Well, I was able to talk to John and he reminded me that we purchased Home Warranty service...So, I called them. Only $60 to come clean the sewer line. Not bad right? Well, after a less than desirable experience with the Rooter guy, he informed me that there are roots in our line, which means we will probably need a new pipe. But it would be $300+ for the camera to see if it is busted or not. I'm going to call a different, trustworthy plumber to come check the pipe.

Well, I still had to get the issue about the cleanup resolved. I called this company that the Rooter guy suggested; minimum $1500 for cleanup. So, I called State Farm and they said they would cover it...but our deductible is $2000. So, after almost having a panic attack, I called my in-laws to see if they had any ideas. My AMAZING mother-in-law volunteered to come help clean it up. So, we put on nasty old clothes and a clean white dentist-like mask and went to work. We got it all cleaned up...for FREE! I can never thank her enough for that.

I still need to call the plumber, but everything has been ok so far. I'm growing up! :)

I'm going to try and post more often...There are way too many funny things to update on!

My Last (Pinched) Nerve

2009-07-28T15:05:00.002-04:00

Wow, so I apparently carry stress in my neck. Thursday I had this terrible neckache accompanied by a throbbing headache which also made me feel queasy. Great. Friday, it didn't get any better. I could move my head slightly and get a throbbing headache. But, my chiropractor, was of course closed. So, I had to suffer through the weekend. I barely got off the couch on Saturday, but had already planned to go to an Advisor Dinner for us to plan this upcoming year for the chapter. So, I made myself get up and take a quick shower to make myself presentable. We had a great time, but I didn't get home until around 1:30 a.m. John was of course online, starting his day. It was perfect timing! He convinced me to take a muscle relaxer. What a great idea. I had planned to go to church that morning with some neighbors, but I didn't wake up until, oh about 1:00 p.m.! Then I moved downstairs to the couch and barely left for the rest of the day.

Yesterday, I had had enough. I felt like poo (my allergies were acting up too) so I called my boss and asked for the day off. I had no energy. So, I went to the Chiropractor and told him about how this was a Pain in the Neck (literally!). He checked it out and told me that I had a pinched nerve! I figured that's what it was. So, I went back home and rested some.

I did feel much better and went back today for him to adjust more. It's still sore and there's not much I can do to help it except for using ice.

In other news, John has made it to Iraq! Yay, let the countdown begin!!!! :)

I am counting down until I can go rest and hopefully get better!

Living Single

2009-07-24T13:09:00.004-04:00

Well, John has left for his year in the desert, and I am home with Felipe and the dogs, of course.
He has been in Kuwait for about a week and will be soon moving to Iraq. If any of you would like his contact info, let me know. I have his address and Skype name. Speaking of which, how great is Skype?! I can't express how nice it has been to video chat with John. He has been going to Starbucks at like 5 am so that we can chat. :) Pretty cool. It's so nice to be able to see him and it's like having an actual phone conversation, hands free. I hope they never charge!

It's interesting being on my own. I've never lived on my own before...ever. So, when issues arise, It's up to me to take care of them now. So, I'm learning about my weaknesses and trying to improve. I can see that are some good things that will out of this time apart. I mean, I would so choose John over that, but I have to focus on the positive!

I will try to post more often...it's been super busy!

Saying Goodbye at the Airport

Left Behind

2009-06-17T23:33:00.004-04:00

So, it's been two weeks today since John (Click to follow his journey) left for his last round of training. People keep asking me if I'm okay and if it's been hard. My plan is to stay busy. I plan to do that by:

Being more socialable than ever...or at least the first in a long time
Hanging out with friends
Joining Junior League of Atlanta
Crafting projects
Baking (I know my co-workers are so upset by this b/c they benefit from it)
Babysitting a precious 3 month old
Getting to know my neighbors better
Oh, and being on the HOA Board
Alpha Gam Advisor
Alpha Gam Alumnae Group
Trying to get into shape
Playing with my dogs
Visiting family
Re-decorating the house (Yes John, you read that right...)

Just to name a few...

So far (in my two weeks), I've been doing pretty well. Last week, every day in my calendar was booked. This week is ... slowing down.

And, after a frustrating day at work plus not being able to talk to John just put things into perspective. As much as I can try to keep myself busy, I'm going to have these days. And, as strange as it sounds, I'm kind of thankful for today. When I tried to call John earlier (with no answer) and then called to say Goodnight, only to hear "I can't talk because I'm in a meeting...but I love you.", made me realize that it's starting. I need to get back into the habit of not being able to talk to him whenever I want. When he's gone, I can't just pick up the phone and call him to vent. I have to be the strong one. Lord knows that he has enough craziness and will have enough work to keep him busy, I can't distract him with my bad days or worries. I have to be the strong front; I have to put on my game face so that he can focus on his job there and not worry about me. Now I feel guilty--how selfish of me to call him and vent about something petty that I got upset about today when he is preparing his soldiers and their supplies for their upcoming deployment. He will be away from everything he knows and loves for a whole year, while being in a war-torn country, taking care of our soldiers who put their lives on the line for us everyday. Talk about a reality check.

So, that's why I have great friends that I can lean on... and, of course, my relationship with God that I can turn to as well. And if you want to be one of these friends, I'm accepting applications. :) It's these things that will get me through this next year...not to mention my long list above.

So, yes...Left Behind. But am I bitter or upset? No. I will be better for it... and so will we.

Jamaica, Mon!

2009-05-25T21:24:00.006-04:00

So, we're back from Jamaica...Yeah, mon! We had such a great time! Since John is leaving in two weeks for training, we decided to take a vacation to have some memories together before he leaves. So, a few months ago we decided to go to Jamaica! We went to the Sandals Grande Ocho Rios and we had such a wonderful time. It's so nice to have everything completely included---food, drinks and fun are already paid for! We mostly hung out on the beach during the days and enjoyed the restaurants at night. We got to see a steel drum band one night but really didn't get to the other planned activities. It was rainy off and on but we still enjoyed our time. The last day we didactually get to climb Dunn's River falls. . .which is a 600 foot climb. Yes, we climbed 600 feet up the falls. Pictures to come! And, speaking of pictures, here are a few, but I also have links to our albums too.

On our way there!!!

Fun on the beach!!

Our beautiful photo shoot!

And, this is just a teaser of our pictures. So, if you want to see more, here you go!

Jamaica album

Jamaica Photo Shoot

Welcome, John!

2009-05-11T13:48:00.003-04:00

Ok, so my hubby has decided to start a blog for his big trip to the "Beach with no Ocean," as one of our friends termed it.

So, if you would like to keep up with his journey, you can find him here.

In other news, we had a Going Away party for John this weekend. It was a great turnout! One of John's co-workers even was gracious enough to make BBQ and Brunswick Stew...as a gift. Yeah, it's a very gracious gift when there are close to 50 mouths to feed. So, that was a blessing.

Now that my Mom is retired, she is able to help out more...So, she came up on Thursday to help clean around the house. She was a tremendous help and we had fun shopping together (for the party) and preparing for the party. I absolutely could not have pulled this off without her...another blessing.

Lots of our family, friends and neighbors came to show their support for John and for us in this time. We received so many well-wishes and promises of prayers while he is gone to keep him safe and prayers for us both during the time apart...yet again, a blessing.

Not to mention a wonderful house for entertaining and the bad weather holding off so that we could host partly outside!

So, yes, we are blessed beyond belief. It's nice to stop and notice the little things. After all, it's the little things that help make it through the hard times.

A Breaking Heart

2009-05-05T19:17:00.002-04:00

So, one of my dear friends, Ashley, has a new post that almost completely broke my heart. One thing that I will never understand is how someone can abuse another human being, much less a child. I cannot begin to imagine the hurt and anger that this family must be feeling. Now, I don't have children, but I love children and have a soft heart. After having babysat for half of my life, I know that screaming babies can grate on one's nerves....HOWEVER, I don't know and cannot comprehend how one can shake a baby. What good comes from that? Anyway, before I rant further, visit this site to see their story and to pray for Baby Noah.

To read their words are quite amazing. This is a family that has such a strong relationship with the Lord. Instead of harboring anger, they are seeking forgiveness. Instead of seeking retribution, they are focusing their thoughts and prayers to God for the healing of their child.

Now, I am a Christian, and I know that I am in no way near perfect; nor can I imagine what I would even do in this situation. But this couple, that I don't even know, is an inspiration to me...and should be to us all.

My prayers are with Noah and his family.

Lindsey Lou Designs

2009-04-08T14:29:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I'm still in the process of figuring out where to house my jewelry items for sale. It seems that everyone wants a cut of the profits! So, in the mean time, I have a blog. As I get items made, I will post them on the Lindsey Lou Designs blog.

Thanks!

Too Cute Tuesday

2009-04-08T14:24:00.002-04:00

So, John loves to take pictures of me while I'm sleeping. This one, I thought, was too cute! :)

Too-Cute Tuesday

2009-03-24T22:59:00.008-04:00

So, I decided that I would dedicate my Tuesday blogs to something super cute: pictures, stories, etc.

Today's cuteness:

Well, it's more fun-cute. Our team outing at work was today at Jillian's. Durand was nice enough to appease me to a game of DDR. We both received an awesome score of "F."
Yeah, we're awesome. Have I mentioned that I LOVE my job? I mean seriously, once a quarter we get to go play or do something fun out of the office as a team...and get paid. Yeah, I love it.

So Much To Say...

2009-03-23T20:13:00.001-04:00

So, for those of you who actually read my blog, I'm so sorry that I haven't posted in a while. Quite a lot has been going on here.

First of all, we found out that John is being deployed to Iraq again. He leaves in June for Ft. Lewis and then will leave in July for a year in Iraq. (Be on the lookout for his blog!) We're not excited, of course, especially because we were just starting to talk about having children. I had even started charting (thanks Ashley!) but God had another plan in mind. Yeah, I learned there is no use in arguing a fight I won't win. :) So, we're trusting in Him. There are some better factors this time: I know what to expect, I don't hate my job, I have 2 dogs, Mom is retired, we can save some money...so, there are some positive aspects. However, I would trade it for him to stay home.

Second, I love my job but things are definitely different in this economy. Our success depends largely on companies still hiring! But, I'm thankful to have a job and to work for a company that has great values and an optimistic outlook. So, I can't complain.

Third, I guess my life isn't as exciting as I thought. That's pretty much all that has been going on in our lives. One thing that we can say is there is never a dull moment!

Just thankful to be so blessed and to have a Father that loves me and is there no matter what! I feel like such a failure sometimes, but I am so thankful that He is still there!

Philippians 4:4-8

All About Me

2009-01-28T22:06:00.000-05:00

1. I have never broken a bone in my body.

2. My front two teeth are fake--I broke my front two teeth in a 4-wheeler accident when I was 10.

3. I have a dent in my left leg from where I crashed into the side of Mt. Yonah while rappelling. Maybe that contradicts number 1.

4. I despise anything bubble gum flavored. I will get sick if I even smell it. Same for Juicy Fruit gum.

5. I love grapes, grape juice and raisins. However, I hate anything fake-grape. See #4.

6. I'm terrified of needles...I almost passed out just by waiting to give blood when I was 17. Needless to say I don't do blood drives.

7. If blood has to be taken, it MUST be taken from the top of my hand--I have small veins.

8. I can pop my hip out of joint. I would be happy to show you.

9. You can make me throw up just by making gagging noises. (I tell you this in confidence.)

10. I finally met Jimmy Carter (my lifelong dream) last summer and he kissed me on the cheek.

11. I am an excellent drummer on Rock Band. Just ask my husband.

12. At sleepovers as a child, I often kept my friends' parents up by my man-like snoring. I later had my tonsils taken out.

13. I would love to be an actress.

14. I am the worst housekeeper ever.

15. I sometimes feel like an 80 year old is trapped in my body--I love to cross-stitch and crochet.

16. I have danced since I was 4...I have an uncanny ability to remember dances..some from 9 years ago.

17. I sometimes have problems saying no when people need help or volunteers... ok so strike sometimes.

18. I am still frustrated that my parents decided to call me by my middle name. They should have rearranged it!

19. I love being in the spotlight or being on stage. That does not make me conceited.

20. I'm probably one of the most humble people you meet...I never want anyone to feel "beneath" me. I'm totally blessed--that I do know and admit.

21. I'm terribly afraid of screwing up. And 99% of the time you don't have to tell me...I beat myself up enough for it.

22. I hate snow skiing...I've only been once when I was 15. I decided I hated it when I couldn't snow plow and had to lunge myself forward to stop. A 6 yr old flew by me on a snowboard. My brother, Ryan, was a saint for sticking with me the whole way down as I was being a teenager. It was of course "the worst day of my life." Therefore, I don't ski.

23. I had a near-death experience in a canoe in Quebec with Allison. Yes, it was scary and yes we are still friends.

24. I like even numbers...If I'm pumping gas, the price should end at .25, .50, or .75 unless gas will spew all over my car. Then I'll settle for an even .30, .40, etc.

25. I am very impatient...which often leads to impulse buying.

It's Been A While...

2008-11-17T14:37:00.000-05:00

So, it's been a couple weeks since I actually posted a read-worthy posting (for those few of you that keep up). So, not much has been going on here. Just staying busy! I did, however, successfully pull off a Surprise Birthday Party for John's 30th. I was quite proud and pleased at the turn-out! He was truly surprised and was actually at a loss for words. I think that's a first! Unfortunately, he's had to work late nights every weeknight and a half-day on Saturdays. So, since then I haven't really seen him much. I'm afraid that I'm just being prepared for the upcoming year. A few months ago, I couldn't shake the feeling that he was going to go back overseas. It died down for a while, but it's back now. I really don't want him to go back and especially don't want to be away from him for another year. But I can't really fight God, if this is His plan. So, we wait! It may not happen at all, but we will know in due time.

Other than that, things are pretty much the same around here.

Just ready for the Holidays...Thanksgiving and CHRISTMAS!!!!!!

Fame!

2008-11-07T19:22:00.002-05:00

My famous girls!

Help them win!

Zoey:
Vote for Zoey in the World's Coolest

dog pictures & breed info

Vote for Zoey in the World's Coolest

dog pictures & breed info

Lexie:
Vote for Lexie in the World's Coolest

dog pictures & breed info

Vote for Lexie in the World's Coolest

dog pictures & breed info

2008-11-07T19:22:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T10:36:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween from the Evans!

Flashback!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-29T22:26:00.000-04:00

Sorry, I haven't updated my post in a few weeks. Nothing exciting is going on!

Gold Rush: 0-4

2008-10-15T23:06:00.000-04:00

So, once again, we will not be able to make it to Gold Rush this year. John was supposed to have drill last weekend, but because of the Columbus Day holiday they moved it to this weekend. I was really happy at first because that meant we could paint! But then I realized it meant that for the 4th year in a row, we can't go to Gold Rush. I at least felt better that some of the people that I wanted to see were not going to be in attendance either. So, I did find solace in being able to blame the Army for yet again interrupting our lives.

That is, until this morning. I received an e-mail update from one of my bank customers on his wife's CarePage. See, we found out at the beginning of the summer that she had some form of cancer that the doctors were never really clear about. She thought it was just a pinched nerve until it escalated into a trip to the ER. That's when they found out the news. From there, it was downhill and fast. She went through several rounds of treatment, with none really working except for making her sick. Last week he updated saying that they could no longer manage the pain at home and took her to a hospice facility in Duluth. I had a feeling it was coming, but as much as you try to mentally prepare for something like that, I don't think you're ever really ready. The good news is that they are a strong Christian family, so he is taking comfort in the fact that she is no longer in pain and is now in Glory with our Father. I honestly don't know how people can cope with the loss of a loved one without this comfort. I can't imagine..

So, I found out that the funeral is on Saturday, which I'm thankful for because I was afraid I couldn't leave work. So, I'm at peace now with the fact that I won't be at Gold Rush yet again.

I didn't need the Church BBQ or Roasted Corn anyway...

When I Paint My Masterpiece...

2008-10-13T23:39:00.000-04:00

Ok, so we didn't paint our masterpiece this weekend. We did, however, repaint our bedroom. And, I'm proud to say...We're still married! We started Saturday morning by going to Home Depot and buying our paint and necessary tools. We came home and finished taping off the trim and we were ready to start painting the primer. Now, here is a before picture.

As you can see, this was pretty dark. So, it took two coats of white primer and a night spent in the bonus room. We woke up yesterday morning, but being so tired for some reason, I fell back asleep after taking Zoey outside and John, being Mr. Fix-it, changed his brakes and oil while I was asleep. So, when he got done, we went up to paint the first coat of yellow. Let me just establish what our jobs are when it comes to painting. I mask and trim; John rolls. I have no upper arm strength, so he does better there. So, I was all ready to get to trimmin' when he told me to go ahead and run to Sam's and the other errands while he painted. How great is he?! When I got home, about 2 hours later, he was DONE!!! He is so good to me.

It turned out really well and so after Desperate Housewives, we moved the furniture back into place. It got too late, so I'll post updated pictures later!

A painted bedroom and a happy marriage...all in all I would say the weekend was a success!

Just Breathe

2008-10-07T22:27:00.000-04:00

So, I feel like I haven't been able to catch a breath since we got back from vacation. Things have been crazy at work. I have this feeling that it's not going to slow down at all. I'm just getting started and I'm not even at "full speed" yet. It is nice though to be busy throughout the day. But as bad as I may think I have it, I just think about John and how crazy things are in the financial industry right now. Not that his job is in danger, but that the market is unstable and having to calm people about their money. I just thank the Lord that He provided a way out for me before it got to this point. And furthermore, thankful that John and I both have jobs at all.

So outside of work, we have been working on the weekends around the house. I think in the first year here we were so excited to be here and have this house that we didn't really focus on the improvements that we needed to make. I mean really, we just painted the "pink room" like 2 months ago. Not to mention pulling up carpet that was laid over hardwoods just within the past few months. So, I'm trying to convince John that we need to do the rest of these improvements now! Luckily there are only cosmetic fixes that need to be made, like paint. So, since John doesn't have drill this weekend, we're painting our bedroom! Isn't that exciting?? Now, most of you may love to paint or may not mind it. For John and I, it could be detrimental. The worst fight we've ever had was when we were painting the guest room in our old house. I should mention that we were painting it red and it wasn't going very well. It was the only time we've ever gone to bed angry (or obviously angry). And honestly, I couldn't even tell you how it started. So for us, painting is not an exciting event. But, we're going to have fun and not let history take it's course!

Since drill was pushed back a weekend, that of course means that for the 3rd year in a row, we won't be going to Gold Rush. I should have known that it was too good to be true. But I did get the go-ahead to go by myself! So, I hope to see some people that I haven't seen in a while....and not gain 10 pounds by eating all of the roasted corn and BBQ!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-01T20:40:00.000-04:00

Our oh-so smart Zoey!

Was Mr. Deal Right?

2008-09-29T18:07:00.000-04:00

Wow, so what is going on? What a crazy year it has been...mortgage crisis, historical elections, failing economy, gas shortage, unapproved bailout, banks in crisis...Is this really happening?!

So, at my previous job there was a customer, Mr. Deal. He is such a nice man, probably in his 80's, and truly a Man of God. He stands in front of the Airport and always has his "tracts" in his pocket to hand out. We used to have long discussions (I mostly listened) about God, the Bible, and how he thought this was the End Times, then explaining why. I generally thought he was a little eccentric but appreciated having a faith-centered conversation in my day. So, on my way home today, after hearing everything that happened today and also considering what has been happening lately, I began to wonder if Mr. Deal was right...we're in the End Times. Ok, so I must admit that I have mixed feelings. The selfish part of me thinks, "But there is so much left I want to do and we don't even have kids yet!" And the realistic part of me thinks, "But that's ok. I'll see my Savior and all the people that I miss and what a glorious place it must be."

Ok, kind of random today, but just kind of a reflection of the craziness in my head!

My next post will probably be much more light-hearted. Like Ashley, sometimes you just need to vent!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-24T18:39:00.000-04:00

So, I liked this idea from Amanda and Stacie...

This is what our girls do best...look cute!

Pinch Me...

2008-09-22T18:00:00.000-04:00

Well, today was a wonderful first day back from vacay! I was a little nervous because today was also my first Official Full Day on the job. So, after having beach brain for a week, it took a little time for everything to come back. But, it turned out well. My certifications are not over yet (CareerBuilder is all about education!), so today was spent working on two projects to prepare me for 2/5 Certifications. Two this week, one next week and two the following week and I'm done with tests for a while! (Granted I make 90% or higher on each!) I love love love that I stay busy here. I'm the type of person that has to always have something to do and I think previously I looked at every internet site that I could access. I felt useless and would pray every morning that God would help the day go by quickly. What kind of a selfish prayer is that?! And it's not that I was lazy; I had just completed and even created all that I could. So, needless to say I'm grateful to be at a faster pace here.

Today was also the unofficial Score Reporting for the GACE. For you non-teachers, it's the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators. I took the French tests in August. What a miserable day. I drove to Athens...in the rain...felt like I totally bombed it...and was exhausted. So, I wasn't super excited to see the results today after having had a good day at work on the first day back from vacation. So, I had completely forgotten about it until I got home and opened my inbox. There it was..."GACE Unofficial Reporting." I didn't even blink or take a deep breath before opening it. There it was, plain to see................................ French Test I: PASSED I blinked then. I thought surely I had misread it or I had received the wrong e-mail. This was the test with the Oral Expression that I completely froze on!!!!! No way. So, I opened the second e-mail. French Test II: PASSED. Ok, now I'm thanking the Lord for blessing me in this endeavor because I completely put this in His hands. He truly did work through me.

So, yeah. What started out to be a not-so-promising day turned out to be more than I can express in words.

God never ceases to amaze me!

Let's Get It Started

2008-09-21T18:52:00.000-04:00

Ok, well I've finally succumbed (again) to blogging. I thought it would be a fun way to keep up with people besides MySpace and Facebook.

Let's see...here's the recap: John and I have been married for almost 3 years (in November). Time flies! We bought our first house together last September and we've enjoyed every minute of it! We already have the pitter-patter of little feet to fill up this place...eight little paws, that is. Lexie and Zoey are our two Yorkies that act very much like our children. It doesn't help that we treat them that way either! John is still loving his job as a Financial Planner, and I'm still trying to find that perfect job. So, after having done Sales and realizing I'd rather starve than do that, and then being in Banking (which I loved, but needed more opportunity for advancement), I'm still fighting teaching French and just started as an Account Manager with CareerBuilder. What a great company!!! It's been alot of work already, but just as much fun to go with it. So, after almost a month there, I think it's been a great change.

So, that pretty much sums it up. We just got back from the beach, so we're recovering today before going back to work tomorrow. Here are a few pictures from our week of fun . More to come later...