A fun little ditty. Totally appropriate for the upcoming 'holiday' or any day. Try not to smile.
Showing posts with label story of us. Show all posts
Showing posts with label story of us. Show all posts
February 11, 2013
February 14, 2012
Happy Heart Day
We got to hear a little one today so the shoe fits! Yep, it is a roaring 140 bpm. Well, it took the nurse a little while to give us a number since it was moving around so much. She said it was in between 140-160 while we were listening. Usually, it has been in the range of 155-145 so it's not too far off. This is one of my favorite sounds!
This morning Ryan and I enjoyed a homemade breakfast together (a typical day is grabbing a granola bar and fruit, kiss kiss, followed by our bodies flung out the door). It was nice to get to spend that time with each other at a slower pace than we normally proceed. I think I could get used that.
You act like it hasn't been a month since we updated you on the haps. Ha, well here is a good 'ol recap (with pictures!) for ya. Ryan has been working with Hoss on our little room. Here is a sneak peak of just two of the items in there. You'll have to wait for more pictures once we have it all together (it's getting there).
I had a bit of an unprepared meltdown the other day. I am sure if you ask Ryan now he will find it humorous, at the time not so much. I just can't believe we are 10 weeks away from meeting this little bean. I feel like we have much to do/learn in such a little bit of time. Momentary freak out was seized by Ryan and a scoop of ice cream.
Speaking of the bean... I have picked up a few things here and there. Some for the nursery (which goes either way).
Some clothing/accessory items that are gender specific. It is so hard not to get a few things you like but imagine if we knew what we were having, I would be going crazy.
What do you think? Do we have a boy that will be styling these?
Or a girl (don't worry there is more where that came from but much of it is far too cute to waste a picture of the clothing without a little one in it)?
This past weekend, the O'Sheas came to visit from Iowa City. We love having company (if you ever get the urge!) and it was a very laid back Saturday. We took a stroll around a few shops on Main Street. Andrea and I did anyway. The men quickly abandoned us and sank into the Pump Haus for beer and wings instead, which was probably a wise decision for all involved. We then hit up Tony's for an afternoon pizza. We came home hung out until we were ready to gear up for the evening. We had to show Brendan (a true Irishman) Jameson’s so we stopped there (and let me tell you the waitress was beside herself talking to Brendan) before heading to Newton's for dinner. Our final stop of the evening was at the ever famous Beer Hall (Ryan and I always met here after work on Fridays to unwind, it's super low key and has quite the array of beverages if you are the adventurous type). It was a fun little day. We didn't really have much on the agenda so we just rolled with the punches and ate a little more than intended. I think we may have convinced them to make the journey back for Irishfest this August - we are keeping our fingers crossed. Thanks for coming up to visit!
And for tonight, it's just us. I am getting ready for a work trip (don't worry it's a quick one and doctor approved) to San Diego sprinkled with entertainment from my lovely hubby in the form of stand-up. He is incredible works his day job Monday through Friday and then does this gig 7 days a week. Am I lucky or what? Anyway, we plan to get most of the heavy lifting done earlier this evening so we can relax and hang out with each other for the rest of the night.
I'll end with my favorite facebook quote from my friend Tim for Valentine's day. Don't get me wrong, I am a sucker for all things festive but this was just right on.
Happy Valentine's Day!
This morning Ryan and I enjoyed a homemade breakfast together (a typical day is grabbing a granola bar and fruit, kiss kiss, followed by our bodies flung out the door). It was nice to get to spend that time with each other at a slower pace than we normally proceed. I think I could get used that.
You act like it hasn't been a month since we updated you on the haps. Ha, well here is a good 'ol recap (with pictures!) for ya. Ryan has been working with Hoss on our little room. Here is a sneak peak of just two of the items in there. You'll have to wait for more pictures once we have it all together (it's getting there).
I had a bit of an unprepared meltdown the other day. I am sure if you ask Ryan now he will find it humorous, at the time not so much. I just can't believe we are 10 weeks away from meeting this little bean. I feel like we have much to do/learn in such a little bit of time. Momentary freak out was seized by Ryan and a scoop of ice cream.
Speaking of the bean... I have picked up a few things here and there. Some for the nursery (which goes either way).
Some clothing/accessory items that are gender specific. It is so hard not to get a few things you like but imagine if we knew what we were having, I would be going crazy.
What do you think? Do we have a boy that will be styling these?
Or a girl (don't worry there is more where that came from but much of it is far too cute to waste a picture of the clothing without a little one in it)?
This past weekend, the O'Sheas came to visit from Iowa City. We love having company (if you ever get the urge!) and it was a very laid back Saturday. We took a stroll around a few shops on Main Street. Andrea and I did anyway. The men quickly abandoned us and sank into the Pump Haus for beer and wings instead, which was probably a wise decision for all involved. We then hit up Tony's for an afternoon pizza. We came home hung out until we were ready to gear up for the evening. We had to show Brendan (a true Irishman) Jameson’s so we stopped there (and let me tell you the waitress was beside herself talking to Brendan) before heading to Newton's for dinner. Our final stop of the evening was at the ever famous Beer Hall (Ryan and I always met here after work on Fridays to unwind, it's super low key and has quite the array of beverages if you are the adventurous type). It was a fun little day. We didn't really have much on the agenda so we just rolled with the punches and ate a little more than intended. I think we may have convinced them to make the journey back for Irishfest this August - we are keeping our fingers crossed. Thanks for coming up to visit!
And for tonight, it's just us. I am getting ready for a work trip (don't worry it's a quick one and doctor approved) to San Diego sprinkled with entertainment from my lovely hubby in the form of stand-up. He is incredible works his day job Monday through Friday and then does this gig 7 days a week. Am I lucky or what? Anyway, we plan to get most of the heavy lifting done earlier this evening so we can relax and hang out with each other for the rest of the night.
I'll end with my favorite facebook quote from my friend Tim for Valentine's day. Don't get me wrong, I am a sucker for all things festive but this was just right on.
"Ladies, on this day do not be jealous of other ladies receiving flowers because it's standard protocol. Be jealous of the ones getting flowers in the middle of October for no reason."
Happy Valentine's Day!
January 10, 2012
What?!?
I am simply grateful for our 40-60 degree January. Can you believe this? The weather is amazing. I have a severe lack of photo updates and for that I apologize. I hope to have some soon! We are currently working on the nursery which will make for some fun photos when we get everything in there and set up. The room is fairly small so taking pictures of the progress really doesn't show you much.
We are truly getting excited for the little one. I can't believe how close we are getting. 25 weeks! We made some first official baby clothes/accessory purchases! I decided that we can do neutral clothing if I have some cute accessories to add on if we have a girl. This is a cute little hat I bought from Etsy. I am obsessed with it. It is so soft and just adorable! Highly recommended if you have any baby gifts to give in the near future.
We had a wonderful Christmas and just love spending time with our friends and family! I would have a better update on the holidays but again I failed to pull out the camera. Now in the quiet of the New Year, we are spending some time putting our feet up and enjoying the laughs of one another - while it is just the two of us. I soak it in, daily. Every smile, every quiet morning of sleeping in, every night when we don't have too much on the agenda. You all know we are very excited to have a baby but we are also no fools in recognizing things are going to change. Throughout continual discussions of what marriage is and needs to be, we both realize (and I am so thankful we are on the same page) that our marriage is a top priority - kids come next. Funny thing happened this weekend, we were out grabbing a bite and Ryan remembered (he is so much better at dates than I am) that we had been together for 10 years that night! Such a sweet little memory. Young and in love. Actually screw the young part, today, I have never been more in love.
One final funny for the week, we are (trying) to keep a good journal of our thoughts for our baby during pregnancy and during the first year so we can put some things in a little time capsule and give it to the kiddo when they turn 16 or 21 (rules tbd, we are just gathering the memories now). Last night it was Ryan's turn to write, here is a brief excerpt: "Dear Baby, (skipping the personal stuff)...We've been reading some to prepare for you, I'm sure the books don't tell us everything and I bet you are full of surprises... brown ones!" Ha. But seriously.
That's our update for now. Keep enjoying the 'winter'!
We are truly getting excited for the little one. I can't believe how close we are getting. 25 weeks! We made some first official baby clothes/accessory purchases! I decided that we can do neutral clothing if I have some cute accessories to add on if we have a girl. This is a cute little hat I bought from Etsy. I am obsessed with it. It is so soft and just adorable! Highly recommended if you have any baby gifts to give in the near future.
We had a wonderful Christmas and just love spending time with our friends and family! I would have a better update on the holidays but again I failed to pull out the camera. Now in the quiet of the New Year, we are spending some time putting our feet up and enjoying the laughs of one another - while it is just the two of us. I soak it in, daily. Every smile, every quiet morning of sleeping in, every night when we don't have too much on the agenda. You all know we are very excited to have a baby but we are also no fools in recognizing things are going to change. Throughout continual discussions of what marriage is and needs to be, we both realize (and I am so thankful we are on the same page) that our marriage is a top priority - kids come next. Funny thing happened this weekend, we were out grabbing a bite and Ryan remembered (he is so much better at dates than I am) that we had been together for 10 years that night! Such a sweet little memory. Young and in love. Actually screw the young part, today, I have never been more in love.
One final funny for the week, we are (trying) to keep a good journal of our thoughts for our baby during pregnancy and during the first year so we can put some things in a little time capsule and give it to the kiddo when they turn 16 or 21 (rules tbd, we are just gathering the memories now). Last night it was Ryan's turn to write, here is a brief excerpt: "Dear Baby, (skipping the personal stuff)...We've been reading some to prepare for you, I'm sure the books don't tell us everything and I bet you are full of surprises... brown ones!" Ha. But seriously.
That's our update for now. Keep enjoying the 'winter'!
December 18, 2011
Simply overwhelmed...by love
I can't help but to swirl around and be amazed by our blessings. I've got an incredible spouse, a cozy (and festive!) house, an amazing family, incredible friends... This time of year, I am reminded how different God's plan for us is yet it is far better than we could ever plan or even dream ourselves. I love the reminder that God works in the small things as well as the large. Mary giving birth to her son probably wasn't how she had always imagined it would be - in a situation that was not exactly socially acceptable, in a strange land, giving birth in a stable and laying that newborn child in a manager. Nevertheless, it held blessings far beyond her expectations.
For us this year, I am constantly reminded of how God is working. I can't be more thankful that He is in control and we aren't. I wake up every day so blessed that we are pregnant with a healthy baby. One day closer to meeting the little one. Yes, it took 16 months on the rollercoaster of trying to conceive. It is funny, the more we talk to people about some of the problems we were experiencing, the more we run into people who have similar stories. The road to parenthood can be a hard one, unfortunately it's not uncommon.
In May 2011, we found out we were pregnant which ended in a miscarriage. Our baby never grew past four weeks. This was another difficulty and a part of our plan that we just didn't understand. Just when we thought our prayers had been answered, God took us down yet another road. We had so many questions and faced a multitude of feelings - luckily, Ryan is such an amazing man. I can say through our entire journey to parenthood - our relationship has never been better (see - we couldn't have planned that!). As we (our doctors) dug a little deeper into why this was happening or what was going on, we found that I had hydrosalpinx (a tube that was blocked due to fluid). This isn't a problem if you get pregnant but can be a problem that prevents you from getting pregnant in the first place. Well, there was one answer for us! The doctor told us to wait a bit before we start trying again but to see if we can make it work without medical intervention on the tube. Sure enough, the first month we could try we found out we were pregnant again!
He knows what our hearts really need and when they really need it. It took us a while to admit that we are pregnant and to talk about it openly - believe us we wanted to scream it from the mountain but we were very protective. We can't believe we are just over the halfway hump and we couldn't be more excited to meet this little bean that God has prepared our hearts for. This Christmas, we are surrounded by love. We need nothing more.
We wish you all a wonderful Christmas, ask that you count your blessings and keep them close to you, and hope that you bust out the cake, candles, party hats, song and dance in celebration of the birth Jesus!
XOXO
The Four of Us
Ryan, Ashley, Myles and Baby
For us this year, I am constantly reminded of how God is working. I can't be more thankful that He is in control and we aren't. I wake up every day so blessed that we are pregnant with a healthy baby. One day closer to meeting the little one. Yes, it took 16 months on the rollercoaster of trying to conceive. It is funny, the more we talk to people about some of the problems we were experiencing, the more we run into people who have similar stories. The road to parenthood can be a hard one, unfortunately it's not uncommon.
In May 2011, we found out we were pregnant which ended in a miscarriage. Our baby never grew past four weeks. This was another difficulty and a part of our plan that we just didn't understand. Just when we thought our prayers had been answered, God took us down yet another road. We had so many questions and faced a multitude of feelings - luckily, Ryan is such an amazing man. I can say through our entire journey to parenthood - our relationship has never been better (see - we couldn't have planned that!). As we (our doctors) dug a little deeper into why this was happening or what was going on, we found that I had hydrosalpinx (a tube that was blocked due to fluid). This isn't a problem if you get pregnant but can be a problem that prevents you from getting pregnant in the first place. Well, there was one answer for us! The doctor told us to wait a bit before we start trying again but to see if we can make it work without medical intervention on the tube. Sure enough, the first month we could try we found out we were pregnant again!
He knows what our hearts really need and when they really need it. It took us a while to admit that we are pregnant and to talk about it openly - believe us we wanted to scream it from the mountain but we were very protective. We can't believe we are just over the halfway hump and we couldn't be more excited to meet this little bean that God has prepared our hearts for. This Christmas, we are surrounded by love. We need nothing more.
We wish you all a wonderful Christmas, ask that you count your blessings and keep them close to you, and hope that you bust out the cake, candles, party hats, song and dance in celebration of the birth Jesus!
XOXO
The Four of Us
Ryan, Ashley, Myles and Baby
June 29, 2011
The Haps
Hey there long lost friends. Sorry - it feels like it has been a long time since we have actually updated and it has been even longer since we have posted pictures so eat your heart out bloggie friends (and excuse my not-so-funny quips, they have been stocked up for so long).
Here are some of our recent happenings (or haps - get with it, kidding, i just like words that are shortened like delish, if you know me, you've heard that one before).
Playin' in the Mud
We've played mud volleyball for the past several years, it's always a fun day. This year we went 2 and 2, not too shabby since it is much more difficult than it looks. My forearms were sore for a week after, well, basically because i'm a baby.
Our Roomie
Andrea stayed with us for a few weeks while she was doing a rotation at Covenant here in Waterloo. We had so much that we wanted to show her but it turned out that we mostly had a lot of down time to hang out and catch up. She is also planning her wedding so I got a little wedding fix in while we talked about a few of her details. The wedding is in July and it's so close. We can't wait to celebrate with her and Brendan (one of Ryan's buddies from U of I - their meeting is another story for another day - probably soon, post wedding). Okay, okay she is a student so she was able to get some studying done. BUT we truly enjoyed having her around. She is going into OBGYN which is just a brilliant fit for her. Not only is she extremely intellegent, she is so down to earth and has such a heart for people. Thanks for hanging at casa de Shaw, Dre!
Here are a few pics of us since I didn't get the chance to whip out the cam while she was here. I really wish I would have done a video of her opening our shower gift, she is the best! If I could pick someone to open gifts in pure excitement for me, it would absolutely be her.
The Simon Wedding
This weekend we headed to West Liberty to celebrate our friends' (and co-worker) marriage. Jessi and Kurt are such a cutie couple and you will be blown away by some of the little details of the day. Not only did we get to celebrate with them, we got to celebrate with my other co-workers that I just love. They are so much fun and it's nice to hang outside of the office every once in a while.
NEway (yeah, haven't done that since Miss B caught us passing notes in the 6th grade) here are some pics! Congratulations Jessi and Kurt, your wedding was beautiful and we are sure the marriage will follow suit.
This ol' house
Yesterday we celebrated spending 5 years in our little house. We truly love it. Check out this post to see the before and after pics. We feel so comfy and at home here, it is our happy place.
Peace, Love, and Happy 4th!
Here are some of our recent happenings (or haps - get with it, kidding, i just like words that are shortened like delish, if you know me, you've heard that one before).
Playin' in the Mud
We've played mud volleyball for the past several years, it's always a fun day. This year we went 2 and 2, not too shabby since it is much more difficult than it looks. My forearms were sore for a week after, well, basically because i'm a baby.
Our Roomie
Andrea stayed with us for a few weeks while she was doing a rotation at Covenant here in Waterloo. We had so much that we wanted to show her but it turned out that we mostly had a lot of down time to hang out and catch up. She is also planning her wedding so I got a little wedding fix in while we talked about a few of her details. The wedding is in July and it's so close. We can't wait to celebrate with her and Brendan (one of Ryan's buddies from U of I - their meeting is another story for another day - probably soon, post wedding). Okay, okay she is a student so she was able to get some studying done. BUT we truly enjoyed having her around. She is going into OBGYN which is just a brilliant fit for her. Not only is she extremely intellegent, she is so down to earth and has such a heart for people. Thanks for hanging at casa de Shaw, Dre!
Here are a few pics of us since I didn't get the chance to whip out the cam while she was here. I really wish I would have done a video of her opening our shower gift, she is the best! If I could pick someone to open gifts in pure excitement for me, it would absolutely be her.
The Simon Wedding
This weekend we headed to West Liberty to celebrate our friends' (and co-worker) marriage. Jessi and Kurt are such a cutie couple and you will be blown away by some of the little details of the day. Not only did we get to celebrate with them, we got to celebrate with my other co-workers that I just love. They are so much fun and it's nice to hang outside of the office every once in a while.
NEway (yeah, haven't done that since Miss B caught us passing notes in the 6th grade) here are some pics! Congratulations Jessi and Kurt, your wedding was beautiful and we are sure the marriage will follow suit.
This ol' house
Yesterday we celebrated spending 5 years in our little house. We truly love it. Check out this post to see the before and after pics. We feel so comfy and at home here, it is our happy place.
Peace, Love, and Happy 4th!
June 12, 2011
hard to find the words
Luckily, God gave us multiple avenues for expression. Some of which I need to further explore - I have been dying to get back into the arts. But for now, I love music. Ryan means the world to me (obviously!) and these songs just makes my heart smile thinking about everything he has brought to our life. Without further ado, here is my mini-playlist for you, Ryan.
Brighter than Sunshine - Aqualung
Hazy - Rosi Golan featuring William Fitzsimmons
Make You Feel My Love - Adele
Simple Life - The Weepies
Without You - Keith Urban
Umbrellas - Sleeping at Last
You are the Best Thing - Ray LaMontagne
April 25, 2011
April Showers Won't Ruin Our Parade
Despite the rainy days of April, we are enjoying the days of Spring. Here is a peak into our lives as of late:
The weekend of the 16th, we QUASHed. QUASH is a scavenger hunt around UNI's Campus and the hill where teams of two to four compete in physical and mental challenges. All of the fun and funds raise go towards a good cause, the ALZ (or properly branded since I am the PR person - the Alzheimer's Association). Ryan participated with Emily and Blake as an Indiana Jones themed team, QUASHers of the Lost Ark.
This year the QUASHing was more outrageous than ever. The proof of these shenanigans is in the pictures. (Here is a fun fact for you, I chose the song because of its name - Burrito Polka, okay, continue..)
The following week (which was just last week - seems like much longer than that) was my birthday week! Ha, not that I actually need a birthday week but I do get to celebrate with friends and family all week long. Ryan spoiled me with flowers, dinner and an afternoon off to just be graced by his presence. =) I loved it, quite a nice way to ring in the big 2-8.
The weekend was filled with a trip to Des Moines to celebrate Landon's 1st Birthday (one day after mine - pretty cool little man if you ask me). We also celebrated Easter with our church and families. All and all, I'd say April has been pretty good to us.
AND it's going out with a bang - VEGAS, that is. Tomorrow we ship out to the West to enjoy some sun and time with Angie, Amy, Andrew, Derek and Jamee. I am so excited!
Much love and hope of sun in the near future!
The weekend of the 16th, we QUASHed. QUASH is a scavenger hunt around UNI's Campus and the hill where teams of two to four compete in physical and mental challenges. All of the fun and funds raise go towards a good cause, the ALZ (or properly branded since I am the PR person - the Alzheimer's Association). Ryan participated with Emily and Blake as an Indiana Jones themed team, QUASHers of the Lost Ark.
This year the QUASHing was more outrageous than ever. The proof of these shenanigans is in the pictures. (Here is a fun fact for you, I chose the song because of its name - Burrito Polka, okay, continue..)
The following week (which was just last week - seems like much longer than that) was my birthday week! Ha, not that I actually need a birthday week but I do get to celebrate with friends and family all week long. Ryan spoiled me with flowers, dinner and an afternoon off to just be graced by his presence. =) I loved it, quite a nice way to ring in the big 2-8.
The weekend was filled with a trip to Des Moines to celebrate Landon's 1st Birthday (one day after mine - pretty cool little man if you ask me). We also celebrated Easter with our church and families. All and all, I'd say April has been pretty good to us.
AND it's going out with a bang - VEGAS, that is. Tomorrow we ship out to the West to enjoy some sun and time with Angie, Amy, Andrew, Derek and Jamee. I am so excited!
Much love and hope of sun in the near future!
March 29, 2011
last chance for march
Phew, caught a chance to update before we turn the calendar to April (that month is busy - I think we have 4 days with nothing going on).
Not much has happened since our last post. We have spent time spring cleaning, organizing, dreaming of summer and relaxing.
This past weekend Ryan spent time in Iowa City for his annual Baseball Draft (cough, nerd alert). If you are unfamiliar, this blast from the past will give you a small taste of their tradition. I got to spend the weekend relaxing at home with Myles.
Here are a few things of our favorite things right now:
- baseball's opening day (ryan)
- west elm (ashley)
- bustin' out the grill and trying new recipes
- taking Myles outside #springfever
- flip flops
- golfing (ryan claims this is his year)
- vegas, coming soon!
I hope to have a few photo updates in the near future so don't go too far!
Keep Dreaming Green!
Not much has happened since our last post. We have spent time spring cleaning, organizing, dreaming of summer and relaxing.
This past weekend Ryan spent time in Iowa City for his annual Baseball Draft (cough, nerd alert). If you are unfamiliar, this blast from the past will give you a small taste of their tradition. I got to spend the weekend relaxing at home with Myles.
Here are a few things of our favorite things right now:
- baseball's opening day (ryan)
- west elm (ashley)
- bustin' out the grill and trying new recipes
- taking Myles outside #springfever
- flip flops
- golfing (ryan claims this is his year)
- vegas, coming soon!
I hope to have a few photo updates in the near future so don't go too far!
Keep Dreaming Green!
January 07, 2011
:::more holiday hoopla:::
What a whirlwind of Christmas, New Year's, Birthdays and Weddings. Needless to say, life is good. We especially love this time of year as we celebrate our relationships with family and friends. I honestly don't know where the last 3 weeks went. It has been a month of celebrations! Go ahead and enjoy a few photos from our recent activities.
As for the New Year, Ryan and I have never been big on 'resolutions', we both like the idea of learning and growing BUT it never hurts to make a few goals. So serious or not, here are some of our hopes for 2011!
Happy New Year to you!
"It matters not the number of years in your life. It is the life in your years." Abraham Lincoln
As for the New Year, Ryan and I have never been big on 'resolutions', we both like the idea of learning and growing BUT it never hurts to make a few goals. So serious or not, here are some of our hopes for 2011!
-Improve our fitness
-Increase our creative jive
-Travel (we already do this but we love it)
-Take dance lessons
-Read books together
-Ryan would like to teach me the ins and outs of hockey in hopes I will appreciate the game
- More yoga
- Begin our midwest baseball tour
- Get outside of our comfort zone
- Complete a handful of indoor/outdoor projects around the house (including the lawn in our backyard - it's sad)
- To be better listeners when our hearts are quiet
Happy New Year to you!
"It matters not the number of years in your life. It is the life in your years." Abraham Lincoln
October 14, 2010
:: 4 ::
Today marks our fourth anniversary. I'll keep this short and reserve some of the gushing for Ryan. I love thinking back about our wedding day. The fun, the details, everyone who attended to support us not only that day but from there on out and looking at Ryan, knowing he was my husband.
I am so grateful to call him my husband. I am grateful to have him back me up, support me, hang with me - on a Friday night, clean out the fridge - he is more of a leftover fan than I, make me smile, make me laugh out loud and walk this journey with me. I love every minute of it!
1 Cor. 13
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2 If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7 If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.
With Love,
I am so grateful to call him my husband. I am grateful to have him back me up, support me, hang with me - on a Friday night, clean out the fridge - he is more of a leftover fan than I, make me smile, make me laugh out loud and walk this journey with me. I love every minute of it!
1 Cor. 13
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2 If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7 If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
With Love,
March 23, 2010
This Season's Favs by ryan and ashley
We're outside on a blanket in the grass with the sun on our face and the smell of Myles' dog bone near. Lovely, if you weren't hungry when you started this, you should be.
Here is what currently makes us smile:
* Talking to our families (near and far)
* Sunglasses
* Rollin' in the car with our windows down
* Myles
* Bare feet
* Our new playlist
* Green grass
* Extended daylight
* UNI Panthers - Break out your purple, who else are you going to cheer for?
* Opening Day: Baseball - Go Twins or Cards - depending on your stance
* Our basement is finally functioning as a living space
* Reading
* Grilling
* Watching Ryan dance
* Ice Cream
Too many to list, hope you are enjoying the new season of sun as much as we are!
Here is what currently makes us smile:
* Talking to our families (near and far)
* Sunglasses
* Rollin' in the car with our windows down
* Myles
* Bare feet
* Our new playlist
* Green grass
* Extended daylight
* UNI Panthers - Break out your purple, who else are you going to cheer for?
* Opening Day: Baseball - Go Twins or Cards - depending on your stance
* Our basement is finally functioning as a living space
* Reading
* Grilling
* Watching Ryan dance
* Ice Cream
Too many to list, hope you are enjoying the new season of sun as much as we are!
December 13, 2009
Big 14
I just realized that this will be my 14th post all year. Yep, sorry about that. I can honestly say that since my last post in September, we have been busy but I didn't think it would fly by so fast. I think it is safe to say we might get around to sending out Christmas cards in 2010? The last couple of days have required that I sit around and do nothing really so I decided that the least I could do was post an update. This was better than the other option, watching Top Chef and Julie and Julia when I have a selection of food I feel comfortable eating at the moment. Another thing I found while reminding myself what we did these past few months is that I am kind of lousy at pulling out the camera. Man, strike two. Don't hold it against me.
In October, Ryan and I celebrated our third anniversary. We got a bite to eat and enjoyed each other's company. Ryan is amazing and I never seem to get over how lucky I am that God choose him to be my husband. We dated for some time before we became engaged and thought we knew quite a bit about each other. Little did I realize that there is so much about him that has yet to unravel and I love watching all of it. He is extremely caring. He is intelligent (knew that one) and has an amazing ability to remember everything. He makes me smile on a day-to-day basis, normally not intentionally but just by being him. Each year keeps getting better.
In October, we also witnessed my cousin Tyler and Megan's wedding. It was a beautiful wedding. The ceremony was extremely touching and personal. Plus, anyone who was at the reception would say that the cherry on top, was a big Hawkeye win. Congratulations you guys!
We also had a little halloween fun. As you can see from the photo. Ryan was a cowboy and I was a deviled egg. What you can't hear is the fan that was used to keep Ryan's costume up and running. Ha, it was kind of distractingly loud but I think that made it even better. As usual, we had our pumpkin carving night. The fall this year was amazing, with weather in the 60-70's we really couldn't complain and we took advantage of the lovely outdoors as much as possible.
Not too long after that, we hung out with Ian and he thought the cowboy was pretty cool so he decided to try it on himself. It fit him pretty well. 
The weekends in the fall were primarily filled with Hawkeye fun. That's right GO HAWKS! We can't wait to watch them again on January 5th. Anyway, we made it down to Iowa City for 5 of the games this season. I can say that only one of them was cold (it was the night game vs. Michigan - the theme song for the evening was the Blacked Eyed Peas 'I Gotta Feeling' seriously, I think it was played ten times). Other than that the weather was manageable. We wore t-shirts in November which we were very proud of and the Hawks came out 10-2 this season. Pretty Great!
A couple of weeks ago, we were able to travel to Arizona for Thanksgiving. We truly had a blast. We spent the first night with James, Angie, Cole and Caden. We had fun watching them decorate the tree. It was so cute, since Caden is just a little guy, he was only able to decorate the bottom of the tree but he sure went all out. Thanksgiving dinner was amazing (thanks again James, Angie and everyone else who contributed yummy food). Although it just seemed a little odd to be in 75 degree weather. We were with family so it really didn't phase us. They let us in on the tradition of the snowball fight. We had Arizona snowballs (marshmallows) and nailed each other with them for no rhyme or reason. As you can tell from photos, it got pretty intense.
Friday, Amy and Andrew had us over for a poker party. It was a really fun group of people. Steph was able to make it as well. As for the poker tourney, let's just say I have a darn good poker face so good in fact, I made it to the last table. You don't need to know much more than that. That night got pretty late, imagine middle school slumber parties but many more laughs. Ha. We all ended up staying somewhere in Amy and Andrew's house. Got up to a lovely breakfast, did a little shopping and went back to Jamee and Derek's (where we stayed for the remainder of the trip).
Saturday night, Derek, Jamee, Ryan and I were able to visit the McRae's, Steph, Patrick (of course) and Brian and Shirlee for a while. Angie and James stopped by as well. We stopped by to drop off a few things for Kate's Crazy Christmas and were able to go on a walk, play around, watch Kate's famous dance moves and get a lot of laughs in. While we were shopping for toys, we came upon whoppee cushions that we just couldn't resist getting for Olivia, Will and Kate. They had a little bit of fun with those. Will would ask, 'Excuse me, could I whoppee cushion you?'. They were just balls of energy. When we were on our walk, I was hanging back with Kate and Steph while Olivia and Cole were running ahead of us and Kate asked, 'Why does Olivia keep playing with that hot boy? Does she like him?'. Will also started teasing Derek about his shorts (which were plaid). Will kept saying, 'Hey Mr. Underpants Man, why aren't you wearing pants?' Ha. He thought Derek had his boxers on. It really was too cute. It was just a true blessing that we were able to see everyone at home, hang out with everyone we haven't seen for a while and enjoy each others company.
Sunday, we had a pretty relaxing day. We hung out with Derek and Jamee and enjoyed our last day in Sun Country. Sunday night, the four of us went out to eat with Amy, Andrew, the munchkins and Amanda and Charlie. We had such a wonderful trip, it is always hard to leave after having an amazing time and knowing that we seriously could not ask for a better family to surround us. We LOVE you all. Thanks for a wonderful reminder of the blessings we are constantly thanking God for.
Here are some photos, like I said, I am really not that great at pulling out the camera but I was able to get some and borrow a few others. Check out Amanda and Amy's Blogs for more pictures of the trip and our shenanigans.
And that brings us to December. I was well aware that it would be a crazy month with Christmas parties, get-togethers, Christmas shopping, decorating, cooking, etc. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy these activities but I need to remember to PAUSE during all of this and remember the real reason we celebrate this time of year. I love our series at church right now, its called Waiting. It is going through a few stories in the Bible that are examples of when people were waiting for God to speak to them, whether it was in the middle of crazy times or in silence. He has a plan and we are part of it. It's not the other way around. I love small reminders like that. I also love the music this time of the year, it is extremely powerful and I could listen to it for hours on end, especially when the lights from the windows are twinkling on the snow that recently fell.
Here is a pic of our little Charlie Brown Christmas tree.
This is the Christmas bouquet that my parents brought over, wishing me a quick recovery. I felt they matched this portion of the post and they were too pretty to keep to myself. Thanks again Mom and Dad!
Derek and Jamee and Curt and Chance are planning to come home for the holidays. We can't wait to see them and spend time with our family and friends. If we (I'll say that so Ryan has a little bit of ownership of the long gap) don't blog before then, have a wonderful Christmas and New Year! LoVe, love, LOvE!
In October, Ryan and I celebrated our third anniversary. We got a bite to eat and enjoyed each other's company. Ryan is amazing and I never seem to get over how lucky I am that God choose him to be my husband. We dated for some time before we became engaged and thought we knew quite a bit about each other. Little did I realize that there is so much about him that has yet to unravel and I love watching all of it. He is extremely caring. He is intelligent (knew that one) and has an amazing ability to remember everything. He makes me smile on a day-to-day basis, normally not intentionally but just by being him. Each year keeps getting better.
In October, we also witnessed my cousin Tyler and Megan's wedding. It was a beautiful wedding. The ceremony was extremely touching and personal. Plus, anyone who was at the reception would say that the cherry on top, was a big Hawkeye win. Congratulations you guys!
We also had a little halloween fun. As you can see from the photo. Ryan was a cowboy and I was a deviled egg. What you can't hear is the fan that was used to keep Ryan's costume up and running. Ha, it was kind of distractingly loud but I think that made it even better. As usual, we had our pumpkin carving night. The fall this year was amazing, with weather in the 60-70's we really couldn't complain and we took advantage of the lovely outdoors as much as possible.
Not too long after that, we hung out with Ian and he thought the cowboy was pretty cool so he decided to try it on himself. It fit him pretty well. 
The weekends in the fall were primarily filled with Hawkeye fun. That's right GO HAWKS! We can't wait to watch them again on January 5th. Anyway, we made it down to Iowa City for 5 of the games this season. I can say that only one of them was cold (it was the night game vs. Michigan - the theme song for the evening was the Blacked Eyed Peas 'I Gotta Feeling' seriously, I think it was played ten times). Other than that the weather was manageable. We wore t-shirts in November which we were very proud of and the Hawks came out 10-2 this season. Pretty Great!
A couple of weeks ago, we were able to travel to Arizona for Thanksgiving. We truly had a blast. We spent the first night with James, Angie, Cole and Caden. We had fun watching them decorate the tree. It was so cute, since Caden is just a little guy, he was only able to decorate the bottom of the tree but he sure went all out. Thanksgiving dinner was amazing (thanks again James, Angie and everyone else who contributed yummy food). Although it just seemed a little odd to be in 75 degree weather. We were with family so it really didn't phase us. They let us in on the tradition of the snowball fight. We had Arizona snowballs (marshmallows) and nailed each other with them for no rhyme or reason. As you can tell from photos, it got pretty intense.
Friday, Amy and Andrew had us over for a poker party. It was a really fun group of people. Steph was able to make it as well. As for the poker tourney, let's just say I have a darn good poker face so good in fact, I made it to the last table. You don't need to know much more than that. That night got pretty late, imagine middle school slumber parties but many more laughs. Ha. We all ended up staying somewhere in Amy and Andrew's house. Got up to a lovely breakfast, did a little shopping and went back to Jamee and Derek's (where we stayed for the remainder of the trip).
Saturday night, Derek, Jamee, Ryan and I were able to visit the McRae's, Steph, Patrick (of course) and Brian and Shirlee for a while. Angie and James stopped by as well. We stopped by to drop off a few things for Kate's Crazy Christmas and were able to go on a walk, play around, watch Kate's famous dance moves and get a lot of laughs in. While we were shopping for toys, we came upon whoppee cushions that we just couldn't resist getting for Olivia, Will and Kate. They had a little bit of fun with those. Will would ask, 'Excuse me, could I whoppee cushion you?'. They were just balls of energy. When we were on our walk, I was hanging back with Kate and Steph while Olivia and Cole were running ahead of us and Kate asked, 'Why does Olivia keep playing with that hot boy? Does she like him?'. Will also started teasing Derek about his shorts (which were plaid). Will kept saying, 'Hey Mr. Underpants Man, why aren't you wearing pants?' Ha. He thought Derek had his boxers on. It really was too cute. It was just a true blessing that we were able to see everyone at home, hang out with everyone we haven't seen for a while and enjoy each others company.
Sunday, we had a pretty relaxing day. We hung out with Derek and Jamee and enjoyed our last day in Sun Country. Sunday night, the four of us went out to eat with Amy, Andrew, the munchkins and Amanda and Charlie. We had such a wonderful trip, it is always hard to leave after having an amazing time and knowing that we seriously could not ask for a better family to surround us. We LOVE you all. Thanks for a wonderful reminder of the blessings we are constantly thanking God for.
Here are some photos, like I said, I am really not that great at pulling out the camera but I was able to get some and borrow a few others. Check out Amanda and Amy's Blogs for more pictures of the trip and our shenanigans.
And that brings us to December. I was well aware that it would be a crazy month with Christmas parties, get-togethers, Christmas shopping, decorating, cooking, etc. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy these activities but I need to remember to PAUSE during all of this and remember the real reason we celebrate this time of year. I love our series at church right now, its called Waiting. It is going through a few stories in the Bible that are examples of when people were waiting for God to speak to them, whether it was in the middle of crazy times or in silence. He has a plan and we are part of it. It's not the other way around. I love small reminders like that. I also love the music this time of the year, it is extremely powerful and I could listen to it for hours on end, especially when the lights from the windows are twinkling on the snow that recently fell.
Here is a pic of our little Charlie Brown Christmas tree.
This is the Christmas bouquet that my parents brought over, wishing me a quick recovery. I felt they matched this portion of the post and they were too pretty to keep to myself. Thanks again Mom and Dad!
Derek and Jamee and Curt and Chance are planning to come home for the holidays. We can't wait to see them and spend time with our family and friends. If we (I'll say that so Ryan has a little bit of ownership of the long gap) don't blog before then, have a wonderful Christmas and New Year! LoVe, love, LOvE!
September 30, 2009
Our SEPTEMBER Report
"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf's a flower."
The night has come to stop the fans and pull out the blankets and slippers. Bring on the apple cider!
Our month was busy but we have plenty to report.
This past weekend, I did it. I finished my first Memory Walk. We had just under 500 walkers and raised about $70,000 for the Alzheimer's Association to date. We still have donations, etc. coming in so I am confident we will get up there. These numbers just represent the walk in Waterloo (our chapter manages 3 other walks in Coralville, Cedar Rapids and West Union). I have been told that this is the biggest walk in the area yet. I hope it is true. The day started off a little rainy but by the time the actual walk came around the sun was out (great news!). I'm not going to lie, it took a lot of time and planning for a 3 hour event but it was well worth it. I had several friends and family members who were willing to help out or walk so THANK YOU! Your work is much appreciated.
With that said, I am really looking forward to next year. I heard the second year doing an event is easier and I can totally understand that. I have all of the logistics down and I can focus my attention elsewhere. I've seen it and I know it is nowhere near it's potential.
My cousin Lindsey (from Lindsey Skillings Photography) took pictures. Here are a few:
Meanwhile, Ryan was in Denver (I will let him take over from here. As a side note, he did send flowers, yes again, for missing the big day - he's pretty great). Colorado was a great time. Drew, Greg (my college roomies) and I drove to Omaha on Wed and flew into Denver on Thursday. We enjoyed good food, saw old friends and enjoyed interesting different brews at the Great American Beerfest.
On Friday, we joined up with Bret, Kelli (another college roomie and his girlfriend) Dave on a trek into the mountains to Devil's Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, outside of Winter Park for Erik and Alison Jensen's wedding. The ranch was calm and peaceful with lots to do. We enjoyed a BBQ on Friday, and hit up the wedding and reception on Saturday. We did find time to check out Iowa take down Penn St. Time flew by but it was great to see so many old friends who have moved on from college which makes it difficult to reunite outside of weddings and football games. Hopefully next time Ashley can join me.
ps: I am glad she thinks I am great.
Another big thing happened this month. Our friends Matt and Amy got engaged! If you don't know Matt, he is good at surprising people, hence his nickname Mystery. I'd say he kept a pretty good secret. We have been friends with these two for a long time and we couldn't be happier for them. Congratulations you guys!
As for the upcoming month of October, we have a few low key weekends which I am sure will be filled with Iowa games, board game nights and just enjoying this time of the year. We have a big wedding coming up (our cousin Tyler and Megan) and then we look forward to taking a trip to Arizona in November. I should be better at posting since the weather is not always drawing me outside but we'll see.
The night has come to stop the fans and pull out the blankets and slippers. Bring on the apple cider!
Our month was busy but we have plenty to report.
This past weekend, I did it. I finished my first Memory Walk. We had just under 500 walkers and raised about $70,000 for the Alzheimer's Association to date. We still have donations, etc. coming in so I am confident we will get up there. These numbers just represent the walk in Waterloo (our chapter manages 3 other walks in Coralville, Cedar Rapids and West Union). I have been told that this is the biggest walk in the area yet. I hope it is true. The day started off a little rainy but by the time the actual walk came around the sun was out (great news!). I'm not going to lie, it took a lot of time and planning for a 3 hour event but it was well worth it. I had several friends and family members who were willing to help out or walk so THANK YOU! Your work is much appreciated.
With that said, I am really looking forward to next year. I heard the second year doing an event is easier and I can totally understand that. I have all of the logistics down and I can focus my attention elsewhere. I've seen it and I know it is nowhere near it's potential.
My cousin Lindsey (from Lindsey Skillings Photography) took pictures. Here are a few:
Meanwhile, Ryan was in Denver (I will let him take over from here. As a side note, he did send flowers, yes again, for missing the big day - he's pretty great). Colorado was a great time. Drew, Greg (my college roomies) and I drove to Omaha on Wed and flew into Denver on Thursday. We enjoyed good food, saw old friends and enjoyed interesting different brews at the Great American Beerfest.
On Friday, we joined up with Bret, Kelli (another college roomie and his girlfriend) Dave on a trek into the mountains to Devil's Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, outside of Winter Park for Erik and Alison Jensen's wedding. The ranch was calm and peaceful with lots to do. We enjoyed a BBQ on Friday, and hit up the wedding and reception on Saturday. We did find time to check out Iowa take down Penn St. Time flew by but it was great to see so many old friends who have moved on from college which makes it difficult to reunite outside of weddings and football games. Hopefully next time Ashley can join me.
ps: I am glad she thinks I am great.
Another big thing happened this month. Our friends Matt and Amy got engaged! If you don't know Matt, he is good at surprising people, hence his nickname Mystery. I'd say he kept a pretty good secret. We have been friends with these two for a long time and we couldn't be happier for them. Congratulations you guys!
As for the upcoming month of October, we have a few low key weekends which I am sure will be filled with Iowa games, board game nights and just enjoying this time of the year. We have a big wedding coming up (our cousin Tyler and Megan) and then we look forward to taking a trip to Arizona in November. I should be better at posting since the weather is not always drawing me outside but we'll see.
September 07, 2009
Calm Before the Crazy Month of September
Ah, I have been spoiled. This is my second consecutive Monday off and boy, do I cherish them. Regardless of what I manage to get done, I feel rested and refreshed for the week. If only we could always have the luxury of a 3-day weekend. This weekend included a fair chunk of activities ranging from Kate and Allen's wedding, the ever so talked about UNI/Iowa game (yes, I was wearing Panther gear, I had to but I was a little nervous at the end of the game. The looming threat of a loss for Iowa was much more detrimental than one to UNI) and then attending the Anderson's century farm party and a game of golf with Blake and Amy. Sounds busy but it is really great to be able to spend times with those true friends, you know the ones who may live farther away or across the street but they aren't going anywhere.
In the midst of having an 'extra' day, I have had time to truly step back and appreciate everything that is good in life. For some reason, we are filled with a society that encourages you to want more, need more while the reality of what you actually have and what you have been blessed with is put on the back burner. It is extremely discouraging to me when all people talk about is how lousy their day was or how they wish they could be anywhere but here (if any of you know me, I am not a lover of negativity in general). I wish I could just point out to them that many people are dealing with harder days, battling for their lives, wishing they could only have one more day regardless of what the circumstances are. Far too often, I take many things for granted, the little things, the things that one day I will be glad I held on to. Sorry for the little rant.
The extra days also give me time to appreciate my favorite time of the year. The weather is perfect. The air is nice and crisp. It's football season (okay can't watch more than one game a day but...). The leaves start to turn. What's not to love?
Here are a few pictures:
Myles wanted to help us out when we were washing the car. Here's what he came up with.
The last weekend of August, we went to Alpine Valley for a Jimmy Buffett concert. I will post a video (takes a while to load the photos) on this later but for now here are a couple of pics to hold you over.
Our September is exceptionally busy. Ryan will be in Colorado a couple of times this month. I have the Memory Walk coming up, we have a birthday to celebrate (Ryan's). Ryan came home one evening with these to let me know he was thinking of me this month. So pretty.
In the midst of having an 'extra' day, I have had time to truly step back and appreciate everything that is good in life. For some reason, we are filled with a society that encourages you to want more, need more while the reality of what you actually have and what you have been blessed with is put on the back burner. It is extremely discouraging to me when all people talk about is how lousy their day was or how they wish they could be anywhere but here (if any of you know me, I am not a lover of negativity in general). I wish I could just point out to them that many people are dealing with harder days, battling for their lives, wishing they could only have one more day regardless of what the circumstances are. Far too often, I take many things for granted, the little things, the things that one day I will be glad I held on to. Sorry for the little rant.
The extra days also give me time to appreciate my favorite time of the year. The weather is perfect. The air is nice and crisp. It's football season (okay can't watch more than one game a day but...). The leaves start to turn. What's not to love?
Here are a few pictures:
Myles wanted to help us out when we were washing the car. Here's what he came up with.
The last weekend of August, we went to Alpine Valley for a Jimmy Buffett concert. I will post a video (takes a while to load the photos) on this later but for now here are a couple of pics to hold you over.
Our September is exceptionally busy. Ryan will be in Colorado a couple of times this month. I have the Memory Walk coming up, we have a birthday to celebrate (Ryan's). Ryan came home one evening with these to let me know he was thinking of me this month. So pretty.
December 03, 2008
'Tis the Season....
I can't believe how fast the weeks are flying by. Thanksgiving has come and gone, in fact, we were so busy enjoying the company and the break that I didn't get in pictures (sorry). The Christmas season is upon us and I hope among all of the crazy shopping, get-togethers, decorating, cooking, etc. we are able to take some time to breathe and enjoy what surrounds us. I understand that circumstances are unstable with current issues afloat but we have the staples: the comfort of a warm house, the surroundings of friends and family who we know aren't going anywhere and the joys of laughter and love.
I have seen this all over and received e-mails with this little survey so in the spirit of fun, here is our Christmas Quiz:
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Ashley: Wrapping paper
Ryan: Gift Bags, Why?
2. When do you put up the tree?
Ashley: After Thanksgiving, I love the Christmas season and music but is there really a need to play it 24 hours straight before Thanksgiving has arrived??
Ryan: After Thanksgiving, if you do it any earlier you confuse everyone. One holiday at a time.
3. When do you take the tree down?
Ashley: When I get around to it. When do you take the tree down Ryan?
Ryan: After New Year's, it's rude to take it down earlier. I always take the real trees down, I don't care about the fake trees.
4. Do you like eggnog?
Ashley: Yuck!
Ryan: Uh...I can only have one glass otherwise I can't drive.
5. Hardest person to buy for?
Ashley: Dad
Ryan: You!
Ashley: I am not!
Ryan: Derek, because he is a little metro and buys everything he wants.
6. Do you have a nativity scene?
Ashley: Yes
Ryan: Yea, it's right there!
7. Mail or email Christmas cards?
Ashley: I wish I mailed Christmas cards. I usually make phone calls.
Ryan: Mail, you can't put a computer on the fridge.
8. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
Ashley: Other presents yes, Christmas present... I don't think so
Ryan: Um.. I don't think so, maybe for a white elephant gift.
9. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
Ashley: Sugar Cookies out of the freezer
Ryan: My favorite thing to eat at Christmas?? I don't really associate Christmas with food.
10. Lights on the tree?
Ashley: Yes, White lights
Ryan: Yes, who doesn't have lights on their tree?
11. Favorite Christmas song?
Ashley: O Holy Night
Ryan: Carol of the Bellls
12. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's?
Ashley: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixon, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Roudolf (I typed them so Ryan couldn't hear)
Ryan: No! Roudolf, On Donner and Blitzen, How many are there? It's too late to think. Vixon, Vixon is definately one.
Ashley: There are nine, just sing the song.
Ryan: What are they?
Ashley: No you just want me to tell you the answer.
Ryan: Prancer!! Isn't he a reindeer?
Ashley: Yeah there's a movie about it! (I sang the song)
Ryan: I got all of them except Dasher and Donner and Stupid
13. Angel on the tree top or a star?
Ashley: Neither this year, sometimes a star
Ryan: An angel with a star where the heart is
14. Open presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
Ashley: Both, we have Christmas on both days for different families, Ryan doesn't let me open his present until Christmas Day, trust me, I try!
Ryan: Well we have to open presents for the 10 days around Christmas but my personal opinion is Christmas day.
15. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?
Ashley: 40 foot Santa's that blow around and scare the crap out of Myles
Ryan: The wind, it's cold out. Crazy women shoppers and... it's dark at 2 in the afternoon.
Ashley: Anything else grinch...
Ryan: Um, I don't know that's it.
16. Favorite Ornament theme or color?
Ashley: It's always different, I love creativity. This year ours is bronze.
Ryan: Red, I don't get it!?
17. Favorite Christmas Tradition?
Ashley: Cuddling with you while sitting by the lights of the tree and having apple cider.
Ryan: Hmm... leaving cookies and milk out for Santa
Ashley: We don't do that.
Ryan: Waking up and opening a gift and eating breakfast by the tree.
Merry Christmas!!!
I have seen this all over and received e-mails with this little survey so in the spirit of fun, here is our Christmas Quiz:
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Ashley: Wrapping paper
Ryan: Gift Bags, Why?
2. When do you put up the tree?
Ashley: After Thanksgiving, I love the Christmas season and music but is there really a need to play it 24 hours straight before Thanksgiving has arrived??
Ryan: After Thanksgiving, if you do it any earlier you confuse everyone. One holiday at a time.
3. When do you take the tree down?
Ashley: When I get around to it. When do you take the tree down Ryan?
Ryan: After New Year's, it's rude to take it down earlier. I always take the real trees down, I don't care about the fake trees.
4. Do you like eggnog?
Ashley: Yuck!
Ryan: Uh...I can only have one glass otherwise I can't drive.
5. Hardest person to buy for?
Ashley: Dad
Ryan: You!
Ashley: I am not!
Ryan: Derek, because he is a little metro and buys everything he wants.
6. Do you have a nativity scene?
Ashley: Yes
Ryan: Yea, it's right there!
7. Mail or email Christmas cards?
Ashley: I wish I mailed Christmas cards. I usually make phone calls.
Ryan: Mail, you can't put a computer on the fridge.
8. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
Ashley: Other presents yes, Christmas present... I don't think so
Ryan: Um.. I don't think so, maybe for a white elephant gift.
9. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
Ashley: Sugar Cookies out of the freezer
Ryan: My favorite thing to eat at Christmas?? I don't really associate Christmas with food.
10. Lights on the tree?
Ashley: Yes, White lights
Ryan: Yes, who doesn't have lights on their tree?
11. Favorite Christmas song?
Ashley: O Holy Night
Ryan: Carol of the Bellls
12. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's?
Ashley: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixon, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Roudolf (I typed them so Ryan couldn't hear)
Ryan: No! Roudolf, On Donner and Blitzen, How many are there? It's too late to think. Vixon, Vixon is definately one.
Ashley: There are nine, just sing the song.
Ryan: What are they?
Ashley: No you just want me to tell you the answer.
Ryan: Prancer!! Isn't he a reindeer?
Ashley: Yeah there's a movie about it! (I sang the song)
Ryan: I got all of them except Dasher and Donner and Stupid
13. Angel on the tree top or a star?
Ashley: Neither this year, sometimes a star
Ryan: An angel with a star where the heart is
14. Open presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
Ashley: Both, we have Christmas on both days for different families, Ryan doesn't let me open his present until Christmas Day, trust me, I try!
Ryan: Well we have to open presents for the 10 days around Christmas but my personal opinion is Christmas day.
15. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?
Ashley: 40 foot Santa's that blow around and scare the crap out of Myles
Ryan: The wind, it's cold out. Crazy women shoppers and... it's dark at 2 in the afternoon.
Ashley: Anything else grinch...
Ryan: Um, I don't know that's it.
16. Favorite Ornament theme or color?
Ashley: It's always different, I love creativity. This year ours is bronze.
Ryan: Red, I don't get it!?
17. Favorite Christmas Tradition?
Ashley: Cuddling with you while sitting by the lights of the tree and having apple cider.
Ryan: Hmm... leaving cookies and milk out for Santa
Ashley: We don't do that.
Ryan: Waking up and opening a gift and eating breakfast by the tree.
Merry Christmas!!!
October 20, 2008
Love is...
“I don't pretend to know what love is for everyone, but I can tell you what it is for me; love is knowing all about someone, and still wanting to be with them more than any other person, love is trusting them enough to tell them everything about yourself, including the things you might be ashamed of, love is feeling comfortable and safe with someone, but still getting weak knees when they walk into a room and smile at you.”
This past week, Ryan and I celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary. We had a really nice time together. He got me flowers and took me to Montage for dinner (one of my favorite places). This weekend we continued the celebration by going to the Iowa vs. Wisconsin football game in Iowa City. I honestly can't believe that it has been two years, in some ways it feels like it hasn't even been a year. In other ways it seems like we have been together for such a long time. It is funny because regardless of what we are doing, I always get a good laugh or smile. I can say that each year, day and moment is better than the last.
Finally, some of you have not had the opportunity to see Ryan play hockey. A couple of weekends ago, he played in a tournament and I was actually practicing taking a sports video when my camera died. Needless to say nothing too exciting really happens in this video but you can see him skate (#3 in the white jersey).
This past week, Ryan and I celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary. We had a really nice time together. He got me flowers and took me to Montage for dinner (one of my favorite places). This weekend we continued the celebration by going to the Iowa vs. Wisconsin football game in Iowa City. I honestly can't believe that it has been two years, in some ways it feels like it hasn't even been a year. In other ways it seems like we have been together for such a long time. It is funny because regardless of what we are doing, I always get a good laugh or smile. I can say that each year, day and moment is better than the last.
Finally, some of you have not had the opportunity to see Ryan play hockey. A couple of weekends ago, he played in a tournament and I was actually practicing taking a sports video when my camera died. Needless to say nothing too exciting really happens in this video but you can see him skate (#3 in the white jersey).
October 06, 2008
Letting the sun shine...
I have had time to clean out a lot of junk (I still have a lot to do) that Ryan and I have been hanging on to since we moved into our house. I know it was two years ago and we still have stuff to go through. It seems like we either made piles of things we would get to later or we didn't know where to put something so we formed a closet full of stuff we just didn't know what to do with. While going through items from high school, I found several journals filled with quotes. I used to love collecting quotes and journal about them. I would think about them, apply them where I could. It was my therapy.
The other day I found this quote and it hit home. "Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are" — Marianne Williamson. After thinking about it, I realized that there were (are) so many times this year, month, week where I failed to stop and recognize the moment that I was living in and appreciate it. Society seems to put a large pressure on wanting what you don't have, having what you can't afford, saying you are something you're really not, rushing through the hours, days, weeks without stopping to appreciate the point in life which you are living. There will be better days and I am sure worse but each day brings something and you are a steward of that time. There are so many people who think about the good 'ol days wishing they could go back. I want to say to them, "What are you going to think about TODAY when it is your good 'ol day 10 years from now? Don't waste it!" For me it has been a tough year, I don't go a day without missing or thinking of those I have lost, it has been a tough month full of uncertainty and although I could think (and on a bad day have thought) "Why did this happen?" or "Why didn't this go differently?" I fail to think about the times I did have, the memories I did make, the experience I did receive. I learned the tough lesson, don't hold back. If you want to say something say something, if you want to cry then cry, if you want to laugh but don't want to interrupt anyone just laugh. I have the time to appreciate what God HAS given me, what He has provided for me, the family and friends He has surrounded me with and a husband He has made for me and to be able to realize and appreciate how much I do have, I feel blessed.
The other day I found this quote and it hit home. "Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are" — Marianne Williamson. After thinking about it, I realized that there were (are) so many times this year, month, week where I failed to stop and recognize the moment that I was living in and appreciate it. Society seems to put a large pressure on wanting what you don't have, having what you can't afford, saying you are something you're really not, rushing through the hours, days, weeks without stopping to appreciate the point in life which you are living. There will be better days and I am sure worse but each day brings something and you are a steward of that time. There are so many people who think about the good 'ol days wishing they could go back. I want to say to them, "What are you going to think about TODAY when it is your good 'ol day 10 years from now? Don't waste it!" For me it has been a tough year, I don't go a day without missing or thinking of those I have lost, it has been a tough month full of uncertainty and although I could think (and on a bad day have thought) "Why did this happen?" or "Why didn't this go differently?" I fail to think about the times I did have, the memories I did make, the experience I did receive. I learned the tough lesson, don't hold back. If you want to say something say something, if you want to cry then cry, if you want to laugh but don't want to interrupt anyone just laugh. I have the time to appreciate what God HAS given me, what He has provided for me, the family and friends He has surrounded me with and a husband He has made for me and to be able to realize and appreciate how much I do have, I feel blessed.
September 21, 2008
Happy Birthday Ryan
We celebrated Ryan's 26th birthday on Wednesday night. Our parents met us at the Brown Bottle in Waterloo and we enjoyed a nice evening. He was spoiled (as usual) with gifts. Ryan also got Friday off and we had so much fun (please note the sarcasm) doing house and yard work that needed to be done (although I must say when it was finished it was quite rewarding).
April 27, 2008
The New Member of Our Family
This weekend we adopted a puppy. His name is Myles and he is 3-4 months old (they can't be sure of his actual birth date). He is part lab and part cocker spainel. This far he has been very calm and a lot of fun (with the exception of house breaking). He is a cutie!!
We adopted Myles from the Cedar Bend Humane Society, check out the link if you are interested. http://www.cedarbendhumane.org
We adopted Myles from the Cedar Bend Humane Society, check out the link if you are interested. http://www.cedarbendhumane.org
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