tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21852472470706301552024-03-05T06:17:37.865-05:00One Tiny Mustard Seed"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Matthew 17:20Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-72934855603419405592009-07-30T09:58:00.003-04:002009-07-30T11:38:28.691-04:00Ian hits a homerun...From time to time I find a video worth sharing. This past week, my friend, Ian Holmes, performed the National Anthem at the ballpark and knocked it out of the house! I am so thankful for Ian and all he has done for my family and I over the years. Some of you might remember Ian performed in my wedding and was also in the top 40 on American Idol Season 4. <br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zBgiuFdzvDE&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zBgiuFdzvDE&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-72094239180855353442009-07-21T11:23:00.008-04:002009-07-28T12:25:37.063-04:00Summer VacationFor most newlyweds, a wedding is usually followed by the much anticipated honeymoon. But as a military wife one of the greatest perks is the idea of having mulitple honeymoon getaways. For Robert and I we chose to celebrate his return home from deployment and our 3rd wedding anniversary by treating ourselves to what we like to call our "second honeymoon." (this time around we actually remembered to take pictures!)<br />Our first stop was Montreal, Canada (Rob's pick). Since Robert has become quite good in holding conversations in French, I thought it'd be a nice chance for him to test out his skills. While in Montreal we stayed at The Bons Matins Bed & Breakfast. The B&B offered delicious breakfasts, beautiful artwork and a great sanctuary for escaping from the hustle and bustle of city life. Montreal struck me as being quite similar to New York City. It has it's on "5th Avenue" lined with designer shops as well as it's own version of the the "West Village" filled with outdoor cafes and college students. We were even able to find Chinatown Montreal...Robert bought a Chinese Pork Bun and I opted for a Mango Bubble Tea. Delicious!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvAzHDPP8Sb40u1YJP2Qo2Y-0a2PwrfcTXXjcPUOK2ntKpq9ZRdugLlXlMJgLjbelfeXEb6Zsoxe50C2YdCr9pWLf57UF8cG5OFfsNiwnMlGkAnw1Zn6Ku7IDPMnWtbPJJUumx4WN4MsQ/s1600-h/bubble+tea.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 153px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvAzHDPP8Sb40u1YJP2Qo2Y-0a2PwrfcTXXjcPUOK2ntKpq9ZRdugLlXlMJgLjbelfeXEb6Zsoxe50C2YdCr9pWLf57UF8cG5OFfsNiwnMlGkAnw1Zn6Ku7IDPMnWtbPJJUumx4WN4MsQ/s200/bubble+tea.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363524036444105522" /></a><br />It just so happened that while we were in Montreal the Annual Montreal Jazz Festival was also taking place. This year marked the 30th Anniversary and was filled with several hundred musicians and performers. We had the chance to check out several of these groups as well as the parade which graced the stage daily. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQ2ldtP45GfoTMvGnlC-2eAj89Jlf-a4McndiR8xLxIRliSYGWKIHUZ0v9ombVa-nsTczdLPQQFHTFJdXEwVs3P_x0RIxgox0GBbIUXBiCjPLiIFxYGHNaa-vxW6ZYnq8CZn6gfhVFk0/s1600-h/band.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQ2ldtP45GfoTMvGnlC-2eAj89Jlf-a4McndiR8xLxIRliSYGWKIHUZ0v9ombVa-nsTczdLPQQFHTFJdXEwVs3P_x0RIxgox0GBbIUXBiCjPLiIFxYGHNaa-vxW6ZYnq8CZn6gfhVFk0/s200/band.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363526811343300418" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQI-Fp9QUPQ9yspYLo_gknjAv1vUuZYd8999n_OFCt4GnaAzP_H4BMowbmeVrTGW-8LfxLOD_7FaUCqZTF_BpA4ZlEXYSfRiq1BoSQH7rEI3iawxutAE_ty_pdpXcZgsDy6-HVTWoq1A/s1600-h/rob+and+friend.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQI-Fp9QUPQ9yspYLo_gknjAv1vUuZYd8999n_OFCt4GnaAzP_H4BMowbmeVrTGW-8LfxLOD_7FaUCqZTF_BpA4ZlEXYSfRiq1BoSQH7rEI3iawxutAE_ty_pdpXcZgsDy6-HVTWoq1A/s200/rob+and+friend.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363527049016017458" /></a><br />Amongst some other highlights of our visit were seeing the Biodome and museums, Botanical Gardens and incredible architecture the city had to offer. <br />From Montreal, we continued on to Ogunquit, Maine. Having never travelled north of Rhode Island, I thought it was time to venture out a bit and vowed to myself that one day I would get to try a true Maine lobster. My dream became a reality! <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3JMX_NNGFDa71L4ddqWQZDHF6KTmX-2WxVc34bo5mZtTHwmQHT4S9GW643yitl9EjAFKPjAZ4GMiLgdctzIXt200EdTw6kczQqPSiGKOLSjbYuJGHgF7eNp_LnvVFKSsXIaqO7x6A92w/s1600-h/lobster.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3JMX_NNGFDa71L4ddqWQZDHF6KTmX-2WxVc34bo5mZtTHwmQHT4S9GW643yitl9EjAFKPjAZ4GMiLgdctzIXt200EdTw6kczQqPSiGKOLSjbYuJGHgF7eNp_LnvVFKSsXIaqO7x6A92w/s200/lobster.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363529134352229874" /></a><br />Much of our time in Maine was spent simply relaxing. And what an amazing place to do so...the beaches were absolutely beautiful (although the water was freeeeeeeeeezing). One of the greatest landmarks of the area to see was the Nubble Lighthouse which sits just off the coast of the mainland. After searching long and hard for it, we were able to find it and I'm so glad we did. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUgXn6ivgC-1rmeUYQDfsyumt6GyBb2K1m2r_Heqa1BjPoKcADbxXPmwc-iejkS7ySjqcowAXDTiKsDDrI3vE-24IhtpkcxGhkE8fvKn8LaueHnNHeP8P9ZfHGOjQuoTsaVkeKUjlboRk/s1600-h/coast.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUgXn6ivgC-1rmeUYQDfsyumt6GyBb2K1m2r_Heqa1BjPoKcADbxXPmwc-iejkS7ySjqcowAXDTiKsDDrI3vE-24IhtpkcxGhkE8fvKn8LaueHnNHeP8P9ZfHGOjQuoTsaVkeKUjlboRk/s200/coast.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363534017556507586" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wI9l6y7L0_TiECyXurP31bu1iZnZfhyphenhyphen79z1ChD96hsvHfQG1yaPhgOpFAH5m9AmuZIy78f07WGqsIroJ11W5xumDwmTKNayJT9RrS9aUWCKeG_kCE43ZCGWNCvMlR-7r8CZfAITzVMw/s1600-h/lighthouse+2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wI9l6y7L0_TiECyXurP31bu1iZnZfhyphenhyphen79z1ChD96hsvHfQG1yaPhgOpFAH5m9AmuZIy78f07WGqsIroJ11W5xumDwmTKNayJT9RrS9aUWCKeG_kCE43ZCGWNCvMlR-7r8CZfAITzVMw/s200/lighthouse+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363534009992684306" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibD-pDR_eF8XsrZf-mmfupS0iNRUZSfqbTkUl1-RhwFBd9fmGwAIaxNesiWyc1x8lpjnp4VCSPjHOUG-xpKBIioJ8xPnDqYFIgtvGkOVbaQCCtZW2e9-1ZXyysB0Hlbh4_E89PggbiJhg/s1600-h/lighthouse.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibD-pDR_eF8XsrZf-mmfupS0iNRUZSfqbTkUl1-RhwFBd9fmGwAIaxNesiWyc1x8lpjnp4VCSPjHOUG-xpKBIioJ8xPnDqYFIgtvGkOVbaQCCtZW2e9-1ZXyysB0Hlbh4_E89PggbiJhg/s200/lighthouse.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363534005201395554" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-31036506041852885332009-06-18T09:51:00.003-04:002009-06-18T10:56:18.094-04:0040 Days in the Desert...While I had every intention of becoming a true "blogger," I've realized that I'm the worst with remembering to write updates. Much has happened over the past six months and I've come to think of the time as my "Forty Days in the Desert." Like the Israelites who traveled in search of their beloved Promised Land, I too have found myself trying to discern God's direction during this past year. <br /><br />With Robert's deployment now finished, many people have begun asking me what I've learned through the time apart and while I've tried to perfect a cookie-cutter response; recounting experience after experience and emotion after emotion, I've realized that it can all be summed up four words: "God's grace is sufficient." While I once prided myself in being self-sufficient, I've come to realize that I am FULL of weaknesses. Yet I've taken such comfort in knowing that God's grace is sufficient for me, for His power is made perfect in my weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me (taken from 2 Corinthians 12:9).<br /><br />I've realized that many of the events I've gone through in just one year, many people will never even experience over their lifetime. I wanted to share with you all a portion of an email I had once written to a fellow military wife. I don't mean to offend anyone, but rather to move you to pray for our soldiers, their families and our country. <br /><br />"First of all thank you so much for your continued prayer support. Prayer has sustained us so much this past year. I've often given much thought to how I as an Army wife would share my experiences on deployment with another. It's been a crazy journey...many of my experiences will differ greatly from yours, but I'd imagine there will be a lot that you will go through that many other wives have dealt with as well.<br />I can remember sitting in a church pew last Memorial Day alongside my husband, knowing that it would only be a matter of weeks before he would mobilize and head off to war. At the time I knew very little about military operations, abbreviations, rank, etc. All I could understand was that my husband would soon no longer physically be there which was enough to drive me to tears. <br />Early in the deployment, I can remember being so upset and frustrated over the issue of "confidentiality." I realized that many of the questions I'd ask Robert he could not and would not answer because he had a responsibility to protect his soldiers. As a Christian I'd want to know things about how God was working and lives being saved and just a little about some of the soldiers my husband was developing friendships with so I could pray for them. Much of this info he wouldn't talk about to me and I soon grew bothered by the fact that it seemed like my very own husband didn't trust me enough. It would soon become something I would understand, but it took a lot of time to realize that I needed to not ask him "what he was doing" but rather "how he was doing." A great piece of advice a soldier had once told me.<br /><br />Looking back at the deployment, it seemed as though I went through many phases which resulted in many mixed emotions. About 4 months into the deployment I hit what I often think of as a "routine phase" where I found my niche. It was at this point that I realized if I were to stay connected to him, I needed to come up along side him and serve by whatever means possible. I realized there was much I could do from home so I decided to kick off an adopt-a-soldier ministry and create a daily prayer calendar. The more I was able to see people around me actively taking an interest in his unit the more I felt comforted. <br />One of the hardest things through out the deployment was sometimes the "lack of support" I would receive. It seemed early in the deployment many people would call or send a card which let me know that they were simply thinking of me or the situation. But living off a base I came to realize there would be many that didn't understand how hard it was to be separated for such a long time. I'd hear prayer requests of women who's husband's were away on business for a week and how much they missed them and think to myself "how lucky are you to even get to see him." To try and make people understand my situation was a feat in itself. There would be some people who would ask me if I missed my husband or how I could even go through this because it just seemed so hard to do. I sometimes found myself having to defend myself, the military and my marriage. And at times, I seemed to have a love-hate relationship with the military. <br />I love my freedom as an American and the military for defending Justice. I love the fact that I have married a soldier who values our country enough to serve and defend. But, I often find myslf viewing it negatively for at times being the cause of disagreements within my marriage and the cause of so many broken marriages that exist. My heart once broke for a little girl I observed while at a stocking-stuffing party. This little girl's mom was deployed with Rob's unit and I realized how hard it must have been for them both to be separated for such a long time. <br />For Robert and I, life seems to have put on hold. Thoughts of serving as missionaries, having children, buying a home or even taking that summer vacation all flood my mind and I realize they will all just have to wait. Waiting...learning hard lessons in patience, but growing in faith along the way.<br />So what have I learned? I've learned that God grows us where He plants us." He has a plan for our lives that far outweighs any plans of our own. His thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9) and for that I can rest and be content.<br /><br /><br />For those of you who have stuck by our sides through this crazy journey, THANK YOU...your love, devotion, wisdom and friendship have taught us so much!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-29269685833261930732008-12-22T21:36:00.002-05:002008-12-23T05:44:32.897-05:00"I Am Second"<object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GrT90EgrnTc&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GrT90EgrnTc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />"I Am Second" is a new advertising campaign that was recently launched down in Texas. It's goal is to tell the stories of men and women who's lives have been changed because they have decided to put themselves second and chosen to put God first. <br />Check out one of these video segments of none other than my favorite American Idol contestant, Jason Castro, as he talks about his faith. It's awesome!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-48341832883857321462008-12-19T14:26:00.003-05:002008-12-19T14:46:05.124-05:00Baby Blankets<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioiTvLuA0x2MAAFQTnm7hoZphA5kFyImFkuVq9Gk0LtUG9dZyUnDzKvI2PQpwSAPANK0f_R70AL4aMuoVPTc9dfVHExuGsPEMmXA_vc54k0hCDCCrcR5pKujmr4kBQ1XOHQvwx6ET6nBI/s1600-h/CIMG2940.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioiTvLuA0x2MAAFQTnm7hoZphA5kFyImFkuVq9Gk0LtUG9dZyUnDzKvI2PQpwSAPANK0f_R70AL4aMuoVPTc9dfVHExuGsPEMmXA_vc54k0hCDCCrcR5pKujmr4kBQ1XOHQvwx6ET6nBI/s200/CIMG2940.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281589224266040066" /></a><br />As this Christmas continues to draw closer, I am reminded that it will be different. It will be the first Christmas over the past three years that I will not have Robert home to enjoy it with. But, I realize I am not alone. There are thousands of other families that will be separated as their loved ones continue to serve overseas with the military. <br />In an attempt to bring joy to a few other military families this holiday, I thought long and hard about how I, as one Army wife, could best serve another. I searched for tangible ways I could show love and that's when I realized that many of the soldier's wives in Robert's unit were expecting babies. It was a foreign thought for me to understand the amazing blessing of giving birth to a child and yet not being able to have your spouse around to enjoy the event with because he/she continues to serve on the frontlines. Christmas....a time of year when we as Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus. A beautiful baby boy, yet both the Son of God and the Son of man born in a manger. <br />This Christmas, I have decided to reach out to these expectant mothers. Thanks to a wonderful group of ladies from my church, each expectant mother will be receiving a personalized, handmade baby blanket. We praise God for the blessings of these new births and for the mothers who sacrifice so much because freedom is never free.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-54826969550669069502008-11-10T09:28:00.003-05:002008-11-10T10:06:17.668-05:00War Whiskers...There are a few things in life that I truly despise that often send chills up my spine and cause me to become a bit queezy.<br />A few nights ago, Robert and I were having our weekly Skype date over the computer. Skype not only allows me to talk to and hear Robert, but also allows me to see him face to face. <br />As we were conversing, my eye became fixated on this dark line which appeared to be above his upper lip. Thinking it was a smudge on my computer screen I grabbed a tissue and thought I could solve the problem. But it wasn't a smudge. <br />Perhaps the connection was just bad and the picture was a little fuzzy? Nope not the case. <br />"Robert," I asked, "do you have something on your face." To my dismay he replied, "I sure do, it's 'No Shave November!"<br />Oh the dreaded mustache! I had forgotten that while the Army does not permit long hair and beards, mustaches are allowed. <br />So for the next few weeks as November rolls along, Robert will be growing a mustache along with several other young soldiers who he was able to pursude to join in. And for the next few weeks, I will have to view this monstrasity every time we now talk.<br />Good thing November is almost half way through....but he's already begun bragging about "Facial Hair February!" AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-5239390993336140332008-10-15T14:36:00.006-04:002008-10-15T15:17:38.523-04:00Fall Fun...I feel like it's been so long since I last updated this blog. Time's flying and the clock continues ticking....every day that passes in one step closer until I get to see Robert! <br />Much has happened and God continues to remind me of his overflowing blessings even in the midst of some crazy and unexpected events. Lots of life lessons have been learned for sure.<br /><br />This past weekend officially kicked off the season. My sister-in-law, Catherine, visited from Virginia and we spend the weekend enjoying some fun things. Thanks to an overwhelming number of pumpkins we received at work, I was able to bring one home for Catherine and I too decorate! Meet our little creation, "Charlie."<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmUhQcE-xV09p9eX83Wj7pbHKnB_BWIr-bvFX9O724kzBsb5mrSQAGw_npItK4w4Z6LMnk2HMInBs48_NSHYMB4bc3qSQlaaG0EYb32Jep2bP5WwIPoCn-Y46yrJbsLhMtdO7QTjtQLM/s1600-h/carving.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmUhQcE-xV09p9eX83Wj7pbHKnB_BWIr-bvFX9O724kzBsb5mrSQAGw_npItK4w4Z6LMnk2HMInBs48_NSHYMB4bc3qSQlaaG0EYb32Jep2bP5WwIPoCn-Y46yrJbsLhMtdO7QTjtQLM/s200/carving.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257456356833721218" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASgqlCRk7XW7hGhUzBa2herHC5bLMzuT5Yyc8PPZPZgzFItdrSYntKzI7ZZtT9qdCmSF8D3l-0PkiaFqA5uEVojTEmFoIwavFjP_0S1bJ1IfZP6jt5enZe4f0SlzHY5oNYcps5YXkUDc/s1600-h/pumpkin.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASgqlCRk7XW7hGhUzBa2herHC5bLMzuT5Yyc8PPZPZgzFItdrSYntKzI7ZZtT9qdCmSF8D3l-0PkiaFqA5uEVojTEmFoIwavFjP_0S1bJ1IfZP6jt5enZe4f0SlzHY5oNYcps5YXkUDc/s200/pumpkin.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257456355858772882" /></a><br /><br />The Fall wouldn't be complete with cooking smores in the backyard. Tracy has almost perfected making a fire and now we can roast marshmellows all the time. It's made for some wonderful nights to share with friends.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGw0rzZyiRH40rAv1aq1-_tYKVcmzjulQN0hLm9AIYM7cuSClXknyv0G1rIG07zN-NsY1MFyi68B0-Cuyd5oejZ-YGAoMWTTGEuF9UfjokSxDyoCvo1eHStNIcWjTpGJt4SUiJdMHlpRk/s1600-h/campfire.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGw0rzZyiRH40rAv1aq1-_tYKVcmzjulQN0hLm9AIYM7cuSClXknyv0G1rIG07zN-NsY1MFyi68B0-Cuyd5oejZ-YGAoMWTTGEuF9UfjokSxDyoCvo1eHStNIcWjTpGJt4SUiJdMHlpRk/s200/campfire.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257459778477520754" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAs41Vd0li9y66VxJSOlxhIUuxHOOm6h4NGcP6dLqLabH76UJcAM5q55BftvLk2RPUyD7aTU-A3p9Luy-nVuY39a8TW_IeSAjP1XinY8v3hQ_X4xNn8smB5VDLSme8bO5xON560IJBzow/s1600-h/smores.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAs41Vd0li9y66VxJSOlxhIUuxHOOm6h4NGcP6dLqLabH76UJcAM5q55BftvLk2RPUyD7aTU-A3p9Luy-nVuY39a8TW_IeSAjP1XinY8v3hQ_X4xNn8smB5VDLSme8bO5xON560IJBzow/s200/smores.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257459785201508434" /></a><br /><br />No Fall would be complete without the annual visit to the Renaissance Faire. <br />The Faire allows people to come and experience life during the 16th century through a 35-acre Elizabethan village inhabited by hundreds of colorfully costumed merriemakers, musicians, artisans and even Queen Elizabeth. Not to mention, it also has the most delicious foods! I tried the popular turkey leg....just a few bites is enough to fill you up. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYoKzpMVVZvAzZI7lP7K7VQZLKFqHXq65PHH_ZcYdbHESt1m8BFbSnMR2309A-N-i_y1Z1FWKynfpLNsH5PmNspVAnAzB1Vb5CQofSsSjFGGdBpbzD3riej9kcyux2nKfXskuW3WmSq4/s1600-h/turkey.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYoKzpMVVZvAzZI7lP7K7VQZLKFqHXq65PHH_ZcYdbHESt1m8BFbSnMR2309A-N-i_y1Z1FWKynfpLNsH5PmNspVAnAzB1Vb5CQofSsSjFGGdBpbzD3riej9kcyux2nKfXskuW3WmSq4/s200/turkey.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257461429175919730" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcfcFr7gSpo8m_eB3__GUwZPayavUx3Cxvshzy8Amb9RBwKZGvjNwgz8C1lREF8bvQHSS7kQOng6I2WUXm4k3nZXyIG50wZmC4o0u_6xMRyU1zYo_Ohh0T_cgGLKlKPNxU9PlTdSAa8U/s1600-h/faire.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcfcFr7gSpo8m_eB3__GUwZPayavUx3Cxvshzy8Amb9RBwKZGvjNwgz8C1lREF8bvQHSS7kQOng6I2WUXm4k3nZXyIG50wZmC4o0u_6xMRyU1zYo_Ohh0T_cgGLKlKPNxU9PlTdSAa8U/s200/faire.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257461431176066594" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-36186930690086050592008-09-23T08:54:00.005-04:002008-09-23T10:04:53.665-04:00Changing the World One Cup at a Time...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVICnotc1gudB3vBrKhcNL2RJgPxe2-PsRRdO2J7UPMN5TZ3iWdAES5S5BNlZd4svu5fka5sdONGbq_FfDG07xH77lepH2fzabJEpckMVZcJhoTyQcVQDxr4HKZi6PSexBnsF4J3s3haU/s1600-h/sammy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVICnotc1gudB3vBrKhcNL2RJgPxe2-PsRRdO2J7UPMN5TZ3iWdAES5S5BNlZd4svu5fka5sdONGbq_FfDG07xH77lepH2fzabJEpckMVZcJhoTyQcVQDxr4HKZi6PSexBnsF4J3s3haU/s320/sammy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249209645014761026" /></a><br /><br />Five years ago, I had the opportunity of serving along side one crazy and yet incredibly amazing brother in Christ, Sammy Adebiyi. Sammy has an amazing testimony of how God brought him from his homeland of Nigeria all the way to Toledo, Ohio to going on a tour with the band, "Sanctus Real." <br /><br /><br />As Sammy has been traveling with the band, he has been getting the opportunity to challenge our generation to go deeper and think BIG. "Do you believe our generation could change the world?" he asks. "A child will die every three seconds in Africa because they do not have access to clean water!" I can't even fathom that.<br />He has partnered with a ministry called "Mocha Club" which connects communities here in the U.S. with communities in Africa that have been plagued with issues of poverty, famine and disease. For $7 or the price of 2 mochas, we can provide food, water, education and hope to these people. The organization is definitely worth checking out and learning more about https://www.mochaclub.org/mochaclub/welcome<br /><br />For $7 you can feed 1 person for a month!<br />For $7 you can educate 2 children for one school term!<br />For $7 you can save 1 person's life from Malaria!<br />For $7 you can provide clean water to 7 Africans for a year!<br /><br />That's pretty incredible stuff! If you're interested in making a difference and getting on board let me know and I will get you more info.<a href="https://www.mochaclub.org/mochaclub/welcome"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwxQ7_mm0gk"></a><br /><br />(Photo courtesy of Sammy Adebiyi)Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-66818097306769844472008-09-18T11:34:00.002-04:002008-09-18T11:57:39.016-04:00"Adopt-A-Soldier" Up and Running...I've been super busy over the past few days as I've been working to get things underway for the "Adopt-A-Soldier" campaign. As some of you are aware, Robert and I have been working to ensure that the soldiers in his unit are taken care of while they serve during their deployment. <br /><br />Robert had sent me the of names of soldiers and as I looked over the list, I prayed that God would give me wisdom in pairing them up to individuals and families here in the states. It's been so fun to have an inpouring of friends and family who are committing to this endevor and it's exciting to hear stories of God at work. There are still soldiers waiting to be adopted so if you or anyone you may know of is interested, please let me know!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-61642888700621012592008-09-14T21:48:00.004-04:002008-09-15T12:02:06.077-04:00Congrats Randy & Crystal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7LRk0fQpVHnTkSDPrVLClYXqCNSPfb7PMF2IT04NM8e5z2GDM6Y2oXAQlpUFkq017ZwUUUEnHv7dG7ATowU-MOxMOOd4EPAORKXQehMvhLVvYDfWR20NOZ2zQVEPvzQDnmY2FnnPx5g/s1600-h/CIMG2814.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7LRk0fQpVHnTkSDPrVLClYXqCNSPfb7PMF2IT04NM8e5z2GDM6Y2oXAQlpUFkq017ZwUUUEnHv7dG7ATowU-MOxMOOd4EPAORKXQehMvhLVvYDfWR20NOZ2zQVEPvzQDnmY2FnnPx5g/s320/CIMG2814.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246060406681452114" /></a><br />Wedding bells were ringing this past weekend as my friend, Randy, and his lovely bride, Crystal, vowed before God as well as friends and family to spend the rest of their lives together as husband and wife. Not only was it a blessing to share in their special day, but it was also a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with some of my NYC friends. It's funny how much I've missed all of them.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-42395415606994705462008-09-08T15:03:00.004-04:002008-09-08T22:04:07.862-04:009/11 Remembered...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIwCdooaV8coOHmUQO06nW5CzpCpWWbWKRI-gTPVy_quhKP_RKDJhsID5ED8EG0Wgwz7vZ_D22lllLKSIzbUin3s-I4eOdR52w_-bnroE_Bd-g4Vc2Cs9XF0F3MAlxRW3_mubQehslWg/s1600-h/WTC%2520Flag%2520Raise.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIwCdooaV8coOHmUQO06nW5CzpCpWWbWKRI-gTPVy_quhKP_RKDJhsID5ED8EG0Wgwz7vZ_D22lllLKSIzbUin3s-I4eOdR52w_-bnroE_Bd-g4Vc2Cs9XF0F3MAlxRW3_mubQehslWg/s320/WTC%2520Flag%2520Raise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243735705904530402" /></a><br />I caught myself having one of those "remember when" moments this afternoon and was reflecting upon the fact that for the past seven years, this week has been one which has always been near and dear to my heart. <br />Exactly seven years ago, I found myself, a freshman, in the middle of one of the largest and most influential cities in the world...New York City. It had always been my dream live there and as I found myself learning to adjust to college life and classes, I would soon come to find that I would be forced to endure one of the greatest tragedies and devastations our nation has ever experienced when terrorism became a haunting reality. Left with the option of transferring out of the city and to another college, I decided that the God I served was bigger than the evil schemes of man.<br />As September 11 rolls around this year, I am reminded once again that there is a war raging not only a physical war, but a spiritual war. Please, take the time to keep the families and loved ones of all those who lost their lives on 9/11/01 in your thoughts and prayers. Don't forget the many soldiers who are presently serving overseas to protect and defend because "freedom is not free."<br /><br /><blockquote>... for those of us who lived through these events, the only marker we’ll ever need is the tick of a clock at the 46th minute of the eighth hour of the 11th day. -President George W. Bush </blockquote<br /><br />(Picture courtesy of http://www.mnforsustain.org)Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-15703785363758104212008-08-28T22:51:00.003-04:002008-08-29T08:24:54.419-04:00Adventures at the ballpark<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFq4UUuFCiJ7ltd5M1uw99vIzAdGd4YFgXFo3yRDF2swiFX7f_U4pL0pQM_D2tb93raKJwv6pzI34-KC0So5bfiEbWkKZZuUXauFOSuYcUjQCi0vNulhGFDhobFu52Ct0FfHfvvz4oCKA/s1600-h/CIMG2773.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFq4UUuFCiJ7ltd5M1uw99vIzAdGd4YFgXFo3yRDF2swiFX7f_U4pL0pQM_D2tb93raKJwv6pzI34-KC0So5bfiEbWkKZZuUXauFOSuYcUjQCi0vNulhGFDhobFu52Ct0FfHfvvz4oCKA/s320/CIMG2773.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239768613252677266" /></a><br /><br />"All good things must come to an end," or so the saying goes. This past summer I took on a little side job working at our local ballpark in an attempt to keep busy. I, along with the help of some friends, worked at a little kiosk behind homeplate where we prepared and sold the most delicious cinnamon roasted nuts. The whole experience proved to be a lot of fun and one in which I enjoyed doing. Well, 73 games later, the season is wrapping up and the end is in sight. It's time to retire my apron until next season. <br />But, what fun is it if you don't go out with a bang?! Tonight, our stand sponsored a "Wawa Gas Give-away" in which we sold 1000 bags of nuts and raffled off a gas gift card. Lucky number 375 was the winner in the drawing. The crowd got really into it all and made the night so much fun.<br />Pictured is none other than the beloved mascot of the stadium, Ferrous the pig, as he drew the winning number.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-81891881435117014082008-08-24T21:10:00.003-04:002008-08-24T21:18:44.757-04:00Family Visits...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqq_NUp1fOZmUV0i8iYfT3UddPag114tSrhjuh2EzIgbPjUwmHSFUPrKtDZHREqFOk-hrdVA78bGCd6ApLCHPc2BTDbPyM0B36ZA8nba4X7UWS45vFsEbKqXS1acb_8shrgUbrNJxBiUY/s1600-h/CIMG2766.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqq_NUp1fOZmUV0i8iYfT3UddPag114tSrhjuh2EzIgbPjUwmHSFUPrKtDZHREqFOk-hrdVA78bGCd6ApLCHPc2BTDbPyM0B36ZA8nba4X7UWS45vFsEbKqXS1acb_8shrgUbrNJxBiUY/s320/CIMG2766.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238257097727291538" /></a><br /><br /><br />I had a free weekend this past week and decided to accompany my parents on a little roadtrip to visit family and friends up North. It was a wonderful time of catching up and getting to see my Aunt and grandparents, who I unfortunately don't get to see all that often. Pictured is my Aunt Pat, myself and my mother.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-83530937883572330912008-08-20T19:00:00.004-04:002008-08-24T21:09:46.720-04:00Baby Nathaniel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSBuh7v_Xh3CrYh6-rLmMiEdn6dXfyfgghycdZcOVmlDmwxMFCbSl5hg6K5kluVC53Tkzp5YEklSJ2zXQ6uG-8Aa-1C93DNHA_O7KK3EtuYCmBlwZ-O3w3Sz0nFZYl_5TlqKo9777EBg/s1600-h/038.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSBuh7v_Xh3CrYh6-rLmMiEdn6dXfyfgghycdZcOVmlDmwxMFCbSl5hg6K5kluVC53Tkzp5YEklSJ2zXQ6uG-8Aa-1C93DNHA_O7KK3EtuYCmBlwZ-O3w3Sz0nFZYl_5TlqKo9777EBg/s200/038.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238256030668560066" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_KqjJ3WpyIA9ip83pK_iz8Fv20-WjgSNjlwLFYPuHXnCAKqyyMfpWuKo6Evmzt2ahFpwKIfEIH2IC0p5-YwxQgTpmGknZ4mikr9_dW_MYt5MjyLy8cjiW-jPZmtgp8T41z0eysYd7wg/s1600-h/Nathan+Bowls.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_KqjJ3WpyIA9ip83pK_iz8Fv20-WjgSNjlwLFYPuHXnCAKqyyMfpWuKo6Evmzt2ahFpwKIfEIH2IC0p5-YwxQgTpmGknZ4mikr9_dW_MYt5MjyLy8cjiW-jPZmtgp8T41z0eysYd7wg/s200/Nathan+Bowls.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236739878640569842" /></a><br /><br />Welcome Baby Nathaniel James! Today Robert's sister, Laura, delivered this precious little one. He was born at 15:41 and weighs 7 lb 9 oz. We are excited to have a new nephew!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-37034230078386511482008-08-20T11:34:00.009-04:002008-08-20T14:55:02.396-04:00Are you kidding?!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrk1f3yRpcI-SmYaYs674S2TkU6OgzjboCDLeEyI6jsPNIu9e30G1j2DQ4rDfcdU66oOlDZFFrm1SS9gmIjia_V3VHdHXlWaB1GFeoSihS7LlE-rgK35zto84DIRhNJKNSkMoVHgPmKk/s1600-h/n729075925_1499922_5051.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrk1f3yRpcI-SmYaYs674S2TkU6OgzjboCDLeEyI6jsPNIu9e30G1j2DQ4rDfcdU66oOlDZFFrm1SS9gmIjia_V3VHdHXlWaB1GFeoSihS7LlE-rgK35zto84DIRhNJKNSkMoVHgPmKk/s200/n729075925_1499922_5051.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236625320531579170" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoDySpfFH3bSzIV_R-qYZhFIj2NDorhj-3A65KVfs0_czaJ-bGS8ejd2Vd1jmau2q2I6gN1Q2gttfLbkW21Ss7jLQe1reE3kU-ClFwM-gyrK0hJ58-sDuHPDa2Ws87RjxHF8OlIJo-Ig/s1600-h/flatjason.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoDySpfFH3bSzIV_R-qYZhFIj2NDorhj-3A65KVfs0_czaJ-bGS8ejd2Vd1jmau2q2I6gN1Q2gttfLbkW21Ss7jLQe1reE3kU-ClFwM-gyrK0hJ58-sDuHPDa2Ws87RjxHF8OlIJo-Ig/s200/flatjason.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236624987253721490" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Once in awhile I'll come across something that is so amusing I find myself laughing simply because I find humor in the most bizzare off the wall things in life. Almost pathetic really. While this isn't really bizzare, I couldn't help but laugh when I saw this online. As many of my readers know, I was an avid American Idol fan this past season and grew a liking for none other than Mr. Dreadhead himself, Jason Castro. I always joked that he and Robert were clones because they held so many things in common. Well, a few months ago, two of my friends decided to create "Flat Rob," a way for me to carry him along while he remains so far from home. Clever idea. Now it seems good 'ole Jason is on the same page.<br />(Picture courtesy of www.castrocopia.com)Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-69101635567046963452008-08-15T21:37:00.003-04:002008-08-18T08:24:17.992-04:00OPERATION 365When God's people pray amazing things happen...Moses prayed and God delivered the Israelites out of Egypt, Elijah prayed and God revealed His glory, Hannah prayed and she bore a son, Jonah prayed and he was rescued from the belly of a whale, and even Jesus prayed as he bore our sins on the cross and the way of salvation became known... <br />God values the prayers of His people. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">OPERATION 365</span> is a way for friends and family to lift up Robert as well as the soldiers in his unit he serves alongside in prayer on a daily basis. Because I know it is hard to remember to pray for them each and every day, I am looking for people to commit to pray for one or more days during this next year (September 08-September 09). If you are interested in participating and seeing God's hand at work, please email me at nintzeL6@yahoo.com with the day(s) you would like to commit to pray. I will email you back some specific prayer requests as your date draws near.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-18851347050836074622008-08-11T23:15:00.006-04:002008-08-11T23:34:08.896-04:00Texas Trip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUwuwoohybftFhkTyJBTjggtLGG_U5bSJx3-vqlcysgJI7AAzbLOCpeuVwj9V2C7J5EXPfKBoGTCuud6AfEk5gceLobNitxoyMVQ3o2xByCypw7V39jG8V6xOh1mHLo2jc7wjoBO3cLKs/s1600-h/CIMG2585.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUwuwoohybftFhkTyJBTjggtLGG_U5bSJx3-vqlcysgJI7AAzbLOCpeuVwj9V2C7J5EXPfKBoGTCuud6AfEk5gceLobNitxoyMVQ3o2xByCypw7V39jG8V6xOh1mHLo2jc7wjoBO3cLKs/s200/CIMG2585.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233469018644151602" /></a><br /><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7U4ZN_WjjxSumrXZcU32CbkI3P2vxQN2tOkayOSSxkp6oB3wQK1MWKXFc5HQfdivnZAf7XLuec4sUV3EhJLaimqph9Sr2oqN6_Y6BYdpVKz-6oa3yZvlsq23AkVpRlUBmP0d2f0XUeU/s200/CIMG2612.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233466394180918130" /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphXL1qjxD9Afu3dri_DyNVG_hN9PQF-y_fOlOOD4zmdqhazfGJTvX5liob9jvblynfDwgE79rpESx0hJ1KBLahanoZgSWRBsaodhh0Votm_W4VbLohCLnCv_EKUwrDXMXV9OQcIylj84/s1600-h/CIMG2621.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphXL1qjxD9Afu3dri_DyNVG_hN9PQF-y_fOlOOD4zmdqhazfGJTvX5liob9jvblynfDwgE79rpESx0hJ1KBLahanoZgSWRBsaodhh0Votm_W4VbLohCLnCv_EKUwrDXMXV9OQcIylj84/s200/CIMG2621.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233467278782069058" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br />This past week, I had the opportunity to visit Robert in Texas before he heads over to the sandbox. Having never visited Texas before or traveled that distance alone, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. My parents dropped me off at the airport Tuesday morning with luggage and boarding pass in hand and waved goodbye. I made it to the gate with tons of time to spare and ended up running into another military family from Robert’s unit. I recognized them right away and we ended up chatting for quite awhile. It was wonderful to find out that we shared the same flights, which made the trip a lot easier to navigate and allowed for lots of fun conversations along the way. After a brief lay over, we arrived at the Texas airport and Robert was waiting there (wearing sandals) to greet me with roses in hand! It was such a treat and was absolutely wonderful to see him out of uniform and back in shorts. From the airport, we made our way onto the army base where we had made arrangements to spend the night. Having never really spent much time on a “fully functioning” base before, I was in awe at how much a base can take on the appearance of a city… from grocery stores and malls to fast food restaurants and banks they have it all. Unfortunately, by the time we got settled that night, it was pretty late and any attempts of ordering delivery were a no go. <br />Wednesday morning we rose early and began the 9 hour journey to Flagstaff, AZ. On the way we made a few stops at some roadside tourist shops and got to see the scenic landscapes. There were a few hours that went by when all we saw were dry and barren fields with a random cactus here and there. It makes one wonder how anything could ever survive under such conditions. Before arriving in Flagstaff, Robert and I decided to check out a place called Montezuma’s Castle, which was located on an Indian reservation. The castle was actually a primitive housing unit that was built into the mountains hundreds of years ago by an Indian tribe. It was a fascinating site and one which Robert seemed to really enjoy. While there, he also made friends with a French family and was excited to break out his French speaking skills. <br />After spending the night in Flagstaff, we woke up nice and early and headed on to the Grand Canyon. This had been something both of us had looked forward to and proved to be well worth the long journey. I must say that when I first stepped out onto the look out deck of the Canyon’s South Rim, I thought I was going to pass out. I don’t consider myself to be one who’s scared of heights, but it took my breath away and took me quite awhile to feel comfortable with stepping to the edge. The view is truly like nothing I’ve ever experienced before and made for some wonderful pictures too! Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see much wildlife while there besides the native squirrels and tiny lizards that creep around. <br />While in Arizona, we decided to also visit a place called Sedona. A friend had recommended it to us so we thought, “When in Arizona do like the Arizonians” and took the advice. Sedona is one of those places you don’t ever see coming. You’re just driving along a hillside and all of a sudden you come to a cliff and look out to see an enormous valley that drops thousands of feet below you. As we followed the long road to the bottom, I was so thankful that I wasn’t the one driving around all the sharp curves. Once we reached the bottom of the mountain range, we realized we had driven right into the middle of a tourist town lined with cute shops and little cafes. It was also filled with tons of mountain trails to climb. It truly is a city hidden by mountains. As the week progressed, we made our trek back towards Texas and decided to make one last stop in Tucson, Arizona. I can’t say we found much to do while there, but we did find an amazing family-owned Mexican restaurant. It seemed to be a hot spot for all the locals and the food was out of this world. <br />The trip seemed to fly bye so fast and before I knew it, I was dropping Robert off again with the rest of his unit, finding myself having to say my goodbyes once again. Goodbyes don’t get easier the more you do them and it’s hard to think that this time it will be months till I see him again when he returns for his R&R. Holidays will have passed, our nephew will have been born, friends will have gotten married. Military life is not easy, but it is rewarding and it continues to remind me that freedom isn’t free. Before Robert left, I had asked him what he would be looking forward to the most while on deployment and his answer didn’t surprise me. He replied without hesitation, “Hanging out with the dudes.” I seemed to know exactly what he meant by that. <br />I wish I could say my trip back to PA was easy, but it was a lesson in patience. My flight out of Texas ended up getting delayed due to weather conditions and my layover went from an hour to an entire day. It did however allow for time to visit the USO, which is basically a rest stop for members of the armed forces and their families. As I spent my time there I looked around at the soldiers dressed in uniform and their children running around and realized that “I’m not alone.”Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-66226308992289277952008-08-02T23:27:00.002-04:002008-08-02T23:32:42.882-04:00Hi Friends<span class="a">www.<b>skype</b>.com/<br /><br />Lauren allowed me to make a post which I am turning into an advertisement for skype. Basically I should have decent internet overseas and so if people would like to talk, play chinese checkers, or even see video chat skype is probably going to be the best and easiest means of communicating outside of email. Our training actually ends in two days before we get our much anticipated pass. I'm looking forward to posting some pictures from sunny arizona and hope to hear from everyone soon God Bless robert<br /></span>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-2399170291478705582008-07-27T20:19:00.004-04:002008-12-08T20:37:04.623-05:00Harvey's Lake Weekend...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_j_R9BCzZe8T_7V_l-HJtLQXUXI8Cl0JkohW9hMRlGbvWDj4hRudfWph_uJI5g-vDEvKZhzCiADbbpZ6jFY3hfdY-u7LsSxK-dKOzfiw9wcceaY2OllHS5GpwR8Q6x5EvB2XzWfDIglo/s1600-h/CIMG2480.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227855718983673650" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 258px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 194px" height="200" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_j_R9BCzZe8T_7V_l-HJtLQXUXI8Cl0JkohW9hMRlGbvWDj4hRudfWph_uJI5g-vDEvKZhzCiADbbpZ6jFY3hfdY-u7LsSxK-dKOzfiw9wcceaY2OllHS5GpwR8Q6x5EvB2XzWfDIglo/s320/CIMG2480.JPG" width="269" border="0" /></a>This past weekend my friend Heather and I took a road trip to Harvey's Lake, PA. It had been a trip we had planned months ago and something I had eagerly anticipated all summer. Having never been to the area, I was quite impressed by its natural beauty. Harvey's Lake boasts of being the largest fresh water lake in the state of PA and is surrounded by mountains which enclose its quaint little town. It proved to be a wonderful place for getting in some much needed relaxation<br />We were able to stay with Heather's Aunt Ellen who graciously housed us at her summer cottage.<br />Most of the weekend was spent hanging out at the waterfront soaking up some sun and enjoying the refreshing breeze. Heather and I decided to spend most of our time water tubing, which was lots of fun. There's nothing like hanging on for dear life as you're being whipped around on a plastic inflatable. We had a great time and enjoyed lots of laughs. I think I'll be sore for awhile though. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227856272223732626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="157" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiESVyImxFFSHeL9n6x2xSygpbenbzG5u2Pd3zr9_7tyvwt7hVZDu9eJclLCPqrHsXQrRk4gMzjpWeCkGP9WdC9sfg-9m-LH0rEOw6TLaDDkjfUXUIWdzFuR931pjQrWkz4uLSzu4OVWZ4/s200/CIMG2489.JPG" width="210" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div> </div><div></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-42503766927784386862008-07-17T12:33:00.003-04:002008-12-08T20:37:04.788-05:00Treats...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tI5uObYWucEbgpUMZaoLkqXarH3tYNkJSw6JWRX6AWUHudgu7j3250dBJ9v7e8qJwNr9Wq6DiDPXNsr9ZHkLPD_9_vZneKOexyC1zilBs9g8NV5-RsRlUQZhXRqavoESbUup9GTD-xc/s1600-h/IMG_2119.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tI5uObYWucEbgpUMZaoLkqXarH3tYNkJSw6JWRX6AWUHudgu7j3250dBJ9v7e8qJwNr9Wq6DiDPXNsr9ZHkLPD_9_vZneKOexyC1zilBs9g8NV5-RsRlUQZhXRqavoESbUup9GTD-xc/s320/IMG_2119.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224023019937898082" /></a>Robert has been enjoying receiving care packages. Cute rice krispie treat men make for wonderful snacks. I was able to send one to each of his roommates and they didn't seem to last long.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-61274510972081071052008-07-16T08:05:00.005-04:002008-12-08T20:37:05.093-05:00Flat Rob...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iGnTgi9TIU44whjITWHoMupjoiJFvrNxZcjR5CSHNrRWizDe8wGGC86GnuEWEp7Cho4766XQffE9509G0T_UL1exNW4mC3nqo80FjwPU46Rh59hLY4ne6DPCpGvS7xTN3RuqaL6b2oc/s1600-h/flat+rob.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223584931434293138" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iGnTgi9TIU44whjITWHoMupjoiJFvrNxZcjR5CSHNrRWizDe8wGGC86GnuEWEp7Cho4766XQffE9509G0T_UL1exNW4mC3nqo80FjwPU46Rh59hLY4ne6DPCpGvS7xTN3RuqaL6b2oc/s200/flat+rob.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div> It never ceases to amaze me what far fetched and yet overwhelmingly creative ideas my friends will come up with. Last night as I sat at a meeting, my friends Janelle and Tracy were busy in their little workshop (aka Janelle's kitchen table) devising a clever way to keep Rob's presence alive while he's so far from home. The result? Flat Rob. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9qIL3-vWoetVy_mNqtWj7Nc_kSXCgKnC3oUzN-K1jUJHve8VJqANnLFgMKfn1MRhEPlBaEMYo54BUXe5durGi-rIrLBfjEYLfoW1Q5mmPOuptmVnAKotvGKhX07bfBKb5kAPInOpEWg/s1600-h/flat+rob+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223583261328621282" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9qIL3-vWoetVy_mNqtWj7Nc_kSXCgKnC3oUzN-K1jUJHve8VJqANnLFgMKfn1MRhEPlBaEMYo54BUXe5durGi-rIrLBfjEYLfoW1Q5mmPOuptmVnAKotvGKhX07bfBKb5kAPInOpEWg/s200/flat+rob+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Flat Rob has the ability to travel anywhere and everywhere. Standing about 12 inches tall he comes with three custom outfits: GMU hoodie, Boy's Brigade uniform and my absolute favorite...American Idol's Jason Castro fan t-shirt. So clever!<br />Over the next year, I plan on photographing my Flat Rob and posting the pictures on this site so others can track his journey.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-86223909829838957232008-07-12T17:05:00.005-04:002008-07-12T21:41:18.944-04:00Satisfied...For the past few months I've been wrestling with the idea of being completely <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">satisfied</span>. Satisfied with who I am, where I'm at and what's in store for the future. I've often questioned God's purpose with keeping me in the states rather than overseas and trying to discern my role as an army wife, when I myself know very little about the military. I have often looked at my present situations as being filled with limitations rather than opportunities. <div>I was reading through some of Elisabeth Elliot's writings today and she said something that really spoke to my heart. She was recounting a story she heard of a woman by the name of Gladys Aylward, "the small woman" of China. As a child, she had two great sorrows. One, that while all of her friends had beautiful golden blonde hair, hers was black. And that while her friends were still growing she had stopped and remained four foot, ten inches tall. Oh how I can relate! But when she at last reached the country which God had called her to be a missionary she stood in Shanghai and looked around at the people whom He had called her. To her surprise every single one of them had black hair and and were her size. And she said to herself, "Lord God, You know what you're doing!" </div><div>How often I forget that. I fail to stop and realize that I serve the God of purpose who has a perfect plan. And while I may not see the big picture, the One I serve does.</div><div><br /></div><div>Satisfied.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-4246088509215603322008-07-10T09:49:00.003-04:002008-07-10T10:14:13.147-04:00Leaving on a Jetplane...It's official...my plane ticket's booked and in less than one month I will get to see Robert!<br />The army will be allowing all family members one last visit before the soldiers deploy overseas and I'm taking full advantage of every opportunity I can get.<br />I had originally thought all chances of going were slim, but God is good and He has provided a way for me to get time off from work and financially pay for the travelling costs.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-29627555097212967012008-07-07T08:03:00.005-04:002008-12-08T20:37:05.200-05:00Best Investment Ever...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBbMVCrwqkk2qtYmwnIFoBP5wytJbGfgXiQFjIeXhqhJ6ya2ZOXfPlSk1GQQFRoQcacXJemZm1WiveYseQhd08N9m2q8Qqj2ObGKAqSojHyrute49jx6QPhVwfgg6UezBjrByIBOIHJwE/s1600-h/computer.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220248762019982674" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBbMVCrwqkk2qtYmwnIFoBP5wytJbGfgXiQFjIeXhqhJ6ya2ZOXfPlSk1GQQFRoQcacXJemZm1WiveYseQhd08N9m2q8Qqj2ObGKAqSojHyrute49jx6QPhVwfgg6UezBjrByIBOIHJwE/s200/computer.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong>***It was brought to my attention today by my cousin Chris, (perhaps this blog's biggest fan) that I haven't been posting near enough. Apparently, he frequents this site quite often through out the day and thinks there should be a constant flow of new updates. Well Chris, this one's for you...</strong></div><div></div><div></div><div>This past weekend I decided to finally buy a laptop. I had been wrestling for quite some time on whether or not to go ahead and do it and finally realized that it would be a good investment. Not knowing a whole lot about computers, I did my research and asked a bunch of my computer savvy friends who all told me the same thing...get a Mac. The thought scared me since I've grown so accustom to using pc's over the years and I decided to take a trip to the nearest Apple store to get a first hand look for myself. Needless to say I was impressed and walked out of the store with a new Mac computer and a huge hole in my pocket. </div><br /><div>The purchase has proven to be the greatest thing for Robert and I to communicate during his deployment. Last night we were able to have our first official "video chat" over the computer. It was crazy seeing his face pop up on my screen and to hear his voice come through so clear. I even got a virtual tour of his bedroom and met some of the other soldiers...all over the computer. I'm so easily amused by technology! </div><br /><div>For those of you who are looking to communicate with Robert when he heads overseas, video chats may be a good option to consider. Plus, they're free!</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2185247247070630155.post-71364366101741656842008-07-02T11:37:00.004-04:002008-12-08T20:37:05.448-05:00Familiar Sight...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcmw7FFxXT0PNZO6uhATt1SxqmGw_XwJ6FtiXPVTLUG_u4I-lQ3mlXaclCWJUmCWM1Zu2nAuBqUM7S1T4dbd-H7oJEzlqwBaA7zQBDgockg4yW8IqsaY6U-ntIh6UvtpSMtFYYYRPBys/s1600-h/sandals.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218442270536918546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcmw7FFxXT0PNZO6uhATt1SxqmGw_XwJ6FtiXPVTLUG_u4I-lQ3mlXaclCWJUmCWM1Zu2nAuBqUM7S1T4dbd-H7oJEzlqwBaA7zQBDgockg4yW8IqsaY6U-ntIh6UvtpSMtFYYYRPBys/s320/sandals.JPG" border="0" /></a>I had asked Robert to email me a picture of his life on an army base to see that he was doing well. And this is what he sent. Those of you who know Robert know this picture basically sums it all up. I'd say he's doing just fine...<br /><div></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01516575994097821295noreply@blogger.com1