Life in the Fast Lane

Your Love Never Fails

2010-07-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

This song has been getting me through some pretty tough times here lately. So, whatever you're going through in life just remember His love never fails and He makes all things work together for your good!

"Your Love Never Fails"

Nothing can separate
Even if I ran away
Your love never fails

I know I still make mistakes
But You have new mercies for me everyday
Your love never fails

You stay the same through the ages
Your love never changes
There maybe pain in the night but joy comes in the morning

And when the oceans rage
I don't have to be afraid
Because I know that You love me
Your love never fails

The wind is strong and the water's deep
But I'm not alone in these open seas
Cause Your love never fails

The chasm is far too wide
I never thought I'd reach the other side
But Your love never fails

You make all things work together for my good

Grace and Peace,

Long time, no blog

2010-03-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile once again! I just do not feel much like blogging when I get home from work or even on the weekends. So, my posts will probably be few and far between. Oh well!

Well, I thought I would recap my wonderful and restful spring break. Last week was spring break for most in the Houston-area and boy was it much needed! Rather than writing a long post about everything I did, I will list.

Over spring break, I...

got cavities filled (yuck!)

got my hair cut

had Ritter's with friends for the 1st time this year

got a mani and pedi

spent a day with my husband looking at cars and then just deciding to get his fixed

at my first snowcone of the year

randomly saw my good college friend/roommate, Hannah (in Waco of all places)

slept in late

ate a Might Fine burger AND a Round Rock donut (both in Round Rock)- OH MY GOODNESS!!

bought an early birthday gift for myself, another Coach purse

hung out with my mom, dad, and best friend in WaCo

All in all, I enjoyed my break and now I am counting down the days for my next break, SUMMER!!

Until we meet again,

From the desk of a 6th grade teacher...

2010-02-03T16:09:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: It's been awhile, I know. Just haven't felt much like blogging until today. I just have to share this funny story with you...

Currently, in my class, we are writing "how to" papers and many of my students are baking something as their examples. Well, one of my students is making brownies and the recipe yields 12 and we have 24 students in that class. He was worried about having enough for everyone, so I told him to double the recipe.

Teacher: "So, you will just double everything. Instead of 2 cups of flour, it will be 4 cups....."

Student: "Okay."

5 minutes later....

Student: "Mrs. Fast, since I am doubling everything, will I need to double the temperature too? To 650 degrees?"

Teacher: Laughing hysterically, "No, sweetheart, the oven doesn't even go up that high. Just double the ingredients and put them into two pans."

Student: "Okay....."

It's moments like this that make teaching SO much fun! I suppose it is a logical question. Gotta love 6th graders! :)

Baby, it's cold outside!

2010-01-06T16:34:00.000-08:00

And it's going to get colder! The weatherman keeps talking about the "arctic blast" that is coming this way. Well, I personally like the cold and look forward to the colder weather. I, do, however have several musts for keeping myself warm during this article blast.

I must eat plenty of this simple taco soup for dinner.

After dinner, I must have a copious amount of Annalee's yummy hot cocoa!

And I must keep warm by wearing this adorable green and polka dot union suit from Target!

How are you staying warm in the coooooooold?

2009 Favorites

2009-12-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my favorite things from 2009...

Top 5 Favorite Movies of 2009:

"The Blind Side"

"Up"

"Where the Wild Things Are"

"Whip It"

"(500) Days of Summer"

Top 5 Favorite Albums that came out in 2009:

"It's Blitz!" The Yeah Yeah Yeahs

"Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix" Phoenix

"Horehound" The Dead Weather

"Wilco" (the album) Wilco

"Merriweather Post Pavilion" Animal Collective

Favorite new clothing item:

Skinny Jeans

Favorite new accessory:

My i-Phone

Favorite moment of 2009:

Reaching the top of the Grand Canyon after it about killed us all! My words exactaly, "Daniel, I think I'm more excited right now than at our wedding!"

2009 flew by so FAST, especially for this Fast. I hope everyone had a wonderful 2009, but will have an even better 2010! I can't wait to see what God has in store for 2010!

Well, at this very moment, we, in Central Time, are 3 mins from 2010. Gotta go kiss my husband!!!

May your new year be blessed and full of joy!

Happy New Year,

Spuriffic Weekend

2009-12-21T14:44:00.000-08:00

This little Spurs fan went to her first game in San Antonio.

She got to see Ginobili and Bogans up close (and Bogans' autograph).

This little Spurs fan hooted and hollered for her favorite NBA team against the Pacers.

She got to see Duncan score the last winning point, giving them a 1 point lead. 100-99

This little Spurs fan enjoyed the beautiful lights on the river walk and sweet time with her husband and family.

GO SPURS GO!!!!!

A few of my favorite (Christmas) things:

2009-12-10T07:39:00.000-08:00

These are just a few of my favorite things at Christmastime (besides the obvious- Jesus)...

1. Sufjan Stevens' Christmas album. It's full of tradition Christmas hymns Sufjan-style and a few of his own Christmas songs. It includes 5 disks of fun, and it's sure to put you in the holiday spirit!

2. "Elf". Who doesn't love this movie?!?! I mean "Elf" is becoming a classic Christmas movie. It's super funny, sweet, and heart-warming. I love breaking this movie out after Thanksgiving- it just gets me in the Christmas spirit!

3. The college bowl games! I know this happens after Christmas or on, but still, it's exciting!! One bowl I am especially excited about is the Independence Bowl! The reason why is because my favorite college team, the Georgia Bulldogs, are playing A & M Aggies, and I am going!!! I am thrilled to not only go to my first bowl game, but to my first Georgia game (maybe only). No offense to the Ags, but UGA has a pretty good chance of winning! Go Dawgs!!

4. All the parties and celebrations. Last night, Daniel and I went to his company's Christmas party. It was nice. Today, I went to a cookie decorating party that my cheerleaders hosted. Very fun! And tonight, Daniel and I, his parents, and our friends, Dennis and Alecia went to Houston's First Christmas celebration. It was complete with a flying Santa, an elephant, a camel that fell on people, and a wonderful representation of Jesus' life. It was pretty impressive and beautifully done. (I had a busy, but fun-filled weekend!)

5. A break from school!!! Need I say more?!?!

What are your favorite things at Christmas?

6 years of bliss

2009-12-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

Six years ago, today, Daniel and I started dating. Wow, how time goes by so FAST! It's hard to believe we've been together that long. It feels like we just started dating last year. Married 1 1/2 and together for 6- wow! I could not have asked for a better man to spend my life with. We have been through a lot in these past 6 years, and we sure have grown up a lot!

Before becoming "official", we were friends for 4 months and spent a week praying and fasting about our relationship. We knew we wanted our relationship to be centered around Christ. Though we're not always where we want to be in our walk, Christ is still the head of our relationship. Thank you, Jesus for giving me six years of bliss. Six years of tough times, but good times too! Here's to many more years together....

Some of the earliest pictures I have on my computer. Enjoy a good laugh!

My man with green hair. (4/04)

BYX Banquet with some green still present (5/04)

I love you, D!

Please Pray!

2009-12-01T13:47:00.000-08:00

I just read this post last night and it broke my heart.

Matt Chandler, a pastor up in Dallas, has a mass or something (they're not sure) in his brain. I have read the Chandler's blog for several years now and though I don't know them personally, I can guarantee they are one amazing, beautiful (it's obvious in pictures), and godly family. My hurt just aches for this precious family. Matt Chandler is such an amazing man, godly, godly man. If you've never listened to any of his sermons, you need to download his

right now! Seriously! Right now!

I just want to lift this family up in prayer right now. Would you join me?

Jesus, I just lift up the Chandlers to you right now. I pray you would give them an overwhelming peace. I pray that you would let them know sooner than later what is going on with Matt. I ask that whatever it is-it is nothing serious and that you would heal him. Father, wrap your arms around them like a winter fog. We know You work all things out for Your glory- so we know You will be glorified through this. Have mercy on this precious family and give them grace where they need it. Give them peace and comfort and this very moment, Jesus. I praise you for the Chandler's faith through out this scary time- continue to bless them with faith in You. I love you, Lord and ask all of these requests in Jesus' name. Amen.

Praying without ceasing,

Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T17:30:00.001-08:00

Caramel Apple Pie in the oven, table set, Mom here and making her famous dressing, cool weather, thankful heart, house full of crazy dogs, other family members en route- it is the eve of Thanksgiving and I am at peace!

Thanksgiving- a prayer expressing gratitude. I am so very thankful and grateful for all of God's blessings. I sometimes don't always see His provision or understand it, but I know He has my best interest. Thank God for sending Jesus for me. Thank God for my family-especially my husband Daniel. Thank you God for good, godly friends, and friends that you've put in my life to minister to. Thank you for a roof over my head, clothes on back, and food in my belly. Thank you Jesus for being so much better than Edward Cullen; you are everything, Jesus! I love you, Lord and praise you! Thank you now and forever!

I hope everyone has a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving! I pray we will all have a heart of thanksgiving every day, not just tomorrow!

Grace and Peace,

Team Edward vs. Team Jacob!

2009-11-19T19:21:00.000-08:00

I am literally walking out the door right now to the midnight showing of "New Moon". I am SO pumped right now!!

I joined Team Edward fall 2007 when I was in Methods block. I was teaching 7th grade English and some of the students (and teacher) were obsessed with the Twilight saga. I decided to give it a shot and couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see how "New Moon" the movie, compares to the book; hopefully it will be better than "Twilight" was.

I am joining three other teachers for this special occasion. Well, I better go join the crazy teenagers! Here's to hoping it's better than "Twilight"....

Edward, here I come!!

Daniel's 25th Halloween Birthday Bash

2009-11-04T16:47:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday Daniel turned the big 2-5! So in honor of his big day, I threw him a party on Halloween night. It was a night full of laughter, good and cute food, time with old friends, and fun, of course!

My sweet bestie Amanda and her boyfriend came down Friday night to help get everything ready. That night we had a lovely Italian dinner complete with a piece of chocolate cake!

Saturday, all day, Amanda and I ran around getting everything ready for the party. We baked, cooked, shopped, stood in long lines, cleaned, and somehow had time to get ready.

Some items on our menu included:

Witch's Brew (Paula Deen's punch with Rum and dry ice for effects)

Popcorn Madness

Mummy Wraps (Precious. Wieners cut in half with crescent roll dough cut thinly and wrapped around)

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

Peanut Butter Eyeballs

Witches' Wands

Pimento Cheese "finger" sandwiches

Amanda and I went as the witches from Wicked. Amanda was Elphaba (the bad witch) and I was Ga-linda (the good witch); although I ended up looking more like a prom queen or something. :(

Here are some pictures from the night and night before (my camera is dead to the world, so these are Amanda's):

25 years old?!?!

Our inspiration

Pretty good?

Aren't these SO cute?!?!

How was your Halloween,

Fun-filled, Fall weekend

2009-10-26T14:06:00.001-07:00

My weekend was full of fun and the enjoyment of the fall weather!

It all started on Friday when Daniel and I celebrated our friend, JoLyn's 25th bithday at Howl at the Moon. We enjoyed ourselves. I was a bit sad that we weren't able to try Cyclone Anayas. Oh well, next time!

Me and Miss Jenny

Me and the birthday girl!

Saturday evening was a complete blast! We meet our Sunday school class at Dewberry Farm for some good, Fall fun! We had a pit fire complete with hot dogs, s'mores, and other junk food. After our bellies were full, we headed to the corn maze with our flashlights and our guides (the men). We got lost. It took us an hour-but it was well worth it! After that, we decided to check out some Jack O'Lanterns. Sad to say, the pumpkins were fake, but still very cool and took some talent. All in all, Daniel and I had a great weekend!

Daniel was excited to break out the flannel!

Are y'all enjoying this weather or what?!?!

Secrets I have hid

2009-10-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

Because of an old friend's really, really (x 10) bad choice, I am reminded of the fact that we are all sinners and fall short of the glory of God. We all screw up and make bad decisions; our decisions/sins just aren’t on the 10 o’clock news. I am no different than my friend, I have sin in my life. If you got inside my head, you would be shocked.

I am reminded of this Sufjan Stevens’ song that to many is probably very disturbing, but to me it’s powerful. It reminds me daily of how I am no different than Charles Mason or Hitler, expect I have the blood of Christ! Praise God for that! The fact is, we all deserve hell, but because of God’s grace and mercy, we, the believers, are not going to hell. Sorry, I am not trying to be preachy or anything. I just want to remind myself that I am NO DIFFERENT, even on my best days.

In this song, “John Wayne Gacy, Jr.” it speaks about the serial killer, John Wayne Gacy, Jr. He did many horrible things. But what Sufjan wants us to know is that if you look “underneath the floorboards” you will find secrets we have hid. We all have sin (secerts), but we have a loving God that forgives us. I will let the lyrics speak for themselves.

His father was a drinker
And his mother cried in bed
Folding John Wayne's T-shirts
When the swing set hit his head
The neighbors they adored him
For his humor and his conversation
Look underneath the house there
Find the few living things
Rotting fast in their sleep of the dead
Twenty-seven people, even more
They were boys with their cars, summer jobs
Oh my God

Are you one of them?

He dressed up like a clown for them
With his face paint white and red
And on his best behavior
In a dark room on the bed he kissed them all
He'd kill ten thousand people
With a sleight of his hand
Running far, running fast to the dead
He took off all their clothes for them
He put a cloth on their lips
Quiet hands, quiet kiss
On the mouth

And in my best behavior
I am really just like him
Look beneath the floorboards
For the secrets I have hid

A "Wild" Weekend

2009-10-18T17:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a recap of my "wild" weekend:

Friday: After school, I met some of my co-workers for drinks at a local hangout. We talked, complained, laughed, and enjoyed the nice weather outside. After that, Daniel and I headed in town for dinner and a movie. We saw, you guessed it, "Where the Wild Things Are". I have several things to say about the movie. 1, it is NOT a kids movie, I repeat not a kids movie. I would not take a child under the age of 9. The movie isn't bad, it just deals with some heavy stuff. Very deep movie. 2, this not a cutesy, kiddy movie. Most of you will probably not like the movie and say "it was really weird" or "how did they get that from the picture book". I, personally, loved it! It is, once again, a very deep and emotional movie. I connected with Max in many ways. Not because I was a boy and "wild", but because of the isolation he deals with and the hurt from his family situation. By the way, the boy that played Max, Max Records (cool name, huh?), is absolutely adorable! See it, but without any expectations! Awooooo!!!

Saturday: Slept late. Went to mall for a birthday gift. Went grocery shopping at the HEB. Came home and bathed dogs, followed by taco soup and pumpkin gingerbread making. Click here for recipe. This day not so wild.

Yummy!!

Sunday: Church. New Sunday school class that I don't think we'll be visiting again. After church, we headed to a Houston Dynamo's game! Guess what?? I got to see David Beckham up close and personal (we had really good seats)!!! He has a beard now, which was a little weird to me. Many people did not like him there. Best line I heard was, " Hey Beckham, tell me what you want, what you really, really want". The game was awesome, even though they tied 0 to 0. I think I'll go to more football (soccer) games in the future. While leaving the game, we got in a little wreck. Daniel and I were riding with our friends in their car. Everyone was okay, but needless to say, it was mine and Daniel's first wreck. Pretty scary.

Ash and me

Becks!

I guess my weekend wasn't really wild until Sunday. Well, I am off to grade lots of work!

Furry Frights

2009-10-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from....

Cohen and Susie!

The witch and...

...the golfer!

Daniel and I entered them in a costume contest for pets. Click here if you want to enter your furry friend in it. You could win $500! Or you can vote for Cohen and Susie on October 19th- please do!!! :)

What are your furry friends dressing up as for Halloween?

Vera, Vera

2009-10-12T10:11:00.001-07:00

It's been awhile since I have seen a Vera Bradley print that I must have. Well, I must have this one....

Symphony in Hue!

Hoping I will get this in a large duffel for Christmas,

Blast from the Past

2009-10-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a “blast from the past”. I went home to Waco for a high school friend’s wedding. I was a bit apprehensive about attending because I knew I was going to see many high school ~~friends~~ acquaintances. Luckily, I had Daniel with me to soften the blow.

Before the wedding, on Friday, I saw “Whip It” with Daniel and my bestie, Amanda! I just loved “Whip It”. It was fun and entertaining. I enjoyed all the Austin scenes, watching the cuteness of Ellen Page, and learning about the sport of roller derby. Kind of made me want to “put on a pair of skates and be my own hero”. Needless to say, it got me thinking about high school and how much I loathed it! I was a bit of an outsider, a lot like the main character Bliss in “Whip It”. Bliss lived in a small town with a small town mentality- a lot like the wonderful town of Valley Mills that I grew up in. So, it was very easy for me to relate to Bliss when she so badly wanted to get of her small town and do something that was more or less different than what everyone else was doing. So, that of course, made me even more nervous to attend the wedding on Saturday. I was afraid to see all of these people I haven’t seen in over 6 years, and I knew that since I had moved on and out of VM, that I would no longer share things in common with these people. Basically living in VM was all I shared with many of these people.

Well, the wedding was beautiful and emotional for me because of Lauren’s past. I almost cried on many different occasions. At the reception, which was so fun, I caught up with old ~~acquaintances~~ friends , and it was simply enjoyable and refreshing. I did not hold any animosity towards any of them. I just enjoyed seeing all of them and where they are in life now. Many of them still live in the Waco area and many of them act exactly the same way they did in high school (big surprise). Many of my girlfriends are now mothers and wives-it’s so weird! It was a blast from the past for me, though. It reminded me of what I am not missing. High school was a season of life, and it is a season that will thankfully not be relived. I will cherish those friendships made and rejoice in their accomplishments, but I am not ever going back to VM; it is not my home and it does not define me.

A picture from the past. One when I wasn't much of an "outsider"!

9th grade (I'm at the top)

Obsessed (edition 1)

2009-09-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

I am currently obsessed with the following things:

I have one pair of skinny jeans (as of now) and I heart them! I feel trendy, yet mature and young all at the same time. Does that make sense? Anyway, I just really like the way I look and feel in them. These jeans have probably been the best looking jeans I've ever had.

I have really enjoyed watching this show, except for last week's episode, it was kind of boring. I love the musical arrangements, the humor, and the dancing. I think it's super cute, and I hope it doesn't end up getting an "L" for lame.

I am loving Yeah Yeah Yeahs' new album, It's Blitz! It is so fun and dance-tastic!! Think modern-day Blondie. It's fabulous, and you will just want to "dance, dance, dance till you're dead".

I love this (new) pomegranate apple sauce-like love it!! It is sweet, yet refreshing, and not to mention, all nat-u-ral! If you haven't tried this, I highly recommend it! Yum. Yum.

And this song (cute video BTW). Thank you "Whip It" preview!

What are you currently obsessed with,

Dreaming of ACL....

2009-09-25T14:05:00.000-07:00

A year ago I was headin' to Austin City Limits music festival, well on the 27th. It was my 2nd year to go, and next weekend would have been my 3rd year. I am so sad I have to miss out this year. :( Daniel and I just thought it was wiser to save money for our Breckenridge trip. I will miss it for many reasons...

1- Of course the music! Especially since I know more bands this year because of my indie music station I enjoyed for 4 months with XM radio. 2- It was going to be a tradition to go every year. 3- My bestie lives in Austin and I would have loved to stayed with her and gone. :(

Oh well. I guess I'll just have to write a letter expressing my sadness. Next weekend, in honor of ACL, I will listen to only music from the bands performing.

Dear ACL,

I will miss getting all hot and sweaty. I will miss smelling a mixture of B.O., marijuana, and fried food. I will indeed miss the yummy food from all the Austin hot spots. Karen O, I am SO sad I don't get to hear you sing "Zero" and act all crazy. Ghostland, what can I say? I mean, I am so sad to miss out on that performance. Phoenix, I really, really, really like you guys now. I probably couldn't have seen you anyway since you're performing Friday afternoon. :( Oh, KOL, my grand canyon music, I would have enjoyed it. The Dead Weather, the new Jack White band, how cool would've it been to see you, Jack? Daniel and I are both way bummed about missing that one. To all my other bands (there are so many), I am so sorry I will not be there to enjoy your art. I will miss all the Austin "freaks", that I so dearly love! So, if you're going to ACL this year, enjoy the wonderful array of music that I so much love. Enjoy a nice, cold cup of Amy's ice cream for me, too! "And dance, dance, dance till you're dead."

Peace and Love,

Your faithful and sad fan

First year

Second year (look how dusty it was)

Check it out!

2009-09-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

Check out this awesome chance to win a blog makeover, but more importantly, it's for a great cause!

Go to Shannon's website to enter in this awesome giveaway!

Check out the cause too! Dry Bones Denver

Good luck to ya!!

So yeah.............

2009-09-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

So, I apparently have major issues with blogging. I just NEVER have the desire, to be honest. I think I enjoy reading, rather than writing. It makes me sad because I would like to journal my thoughts more. I think if I could trade my iMac in for a Macbook, that could help. Hmmmmmm....... perhaps!

Update on my oh, so busy life (ha!):

Got to spend some time with my dad and his wife, Georgette, before they made their move to Africa. Dad visited Dan and me the weekend before school started. We ate lots of goooood food (Taste of Texas), shopped (thanks, G), saw "Julie and Julia" (cute), and enjoyed the little time we had with each other. I really enjoyed my time!

Started school. Had a CRAZY first week full of drama. I just finally feel like I got my groove back. My kids are SUPER sweet; they just aren't my last group. I miss my Kellen, Daniela, and of course, Draven!

Someone else started school in my house......Daniel!! Yep, Daniel is going back to school. Right now he is working on getting some prereques needed for the master's program. We don't know where he'll be yet...could be A&M, UT, UofH, who knows? Daniel will be working on his masters in Geology. So, hopefully he'll make the big bucks some day

My cheerleaders had their first game last Tuesday-they did great! So far, I really like being a cheer sponsor. It does, indeed, keep me busy though!

So, speaking of my dad moving back to Africa. I think my sister and I have decided that we're going to visit him this summer! T and I will meet them in Kenya for a week or two long safari. I am super stoked! I have wanted to visit Africa for about 7 years now. I am just praying it will work out, and that most importantly, the Lord will use me on the trip. Though it's not a "mission trip" but more of a vacation, I can still witness and I plan to!

So, to wrap it up...maybe I will do better, maybe not. Perhaps Daniel can get a MacBook since he's going back to school, and then, I will become a better blogger! Ha!

Cheering for my dawgs tonight and every game day!!

Go Dawgs!!!

Beat the Hogs!!!

Children books into movies

2009-08-22T07:22:00.000-07:00

I am very excited about some children books being made into movies. It seems to be the theme right now. Children books make good movies. Have you heard of these?

Let's see, we have.....

"Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" coming out 9/15/09

This looks pretty cute!

"Where the Wild Things Are" coming out 10/16/09

Great picture book. Looks like a very interesting interpretation of the book. I look forward to seeing how they turn a 10 page picture book into a 1 and 1/2 hour movie.

"Fantastic Mr. Fox" coming out 11/13/09

I am simply thrilled about this one! The main reason I can't wait to see this one is because one of my favorite directors is directing it! Wes Anderson is directing this movie based on Roald Dahl's novel. I love Wes Anderson's movies (Life Aquatic, The Royal Tenenbaums, The Darjeeling Limited); they always have a certain look and theme to them. He likes to use the same actors, similar music, lighting, etc. This movie just looks fun! So excited about this gem!

"Alice in Wonderland" coming out 3/5/10

(Doesn't he look a bit like Elijah Wood?)

I am most excited for this movie. One, Tim Burton is the director. I love Burton's direction in movies. I like the dark, goth-like look of his movies. Burton is also good at staying true to the book. For example, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" was very much like the book; unlike the 70's version, which I do still love, "Willy Wonka and the Chocoalte Factory". Two, Johnny Depp is the mad hatter!!! I mean, who doesn't love Johnny Depp? I think he is one of the best actors of our time. Three, the book, Alice and Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, by Lewis Carroll is a fabulous book, and I know Tim Burton's movie will stay true to it. It will be no Disney movie (even though it is), that's for sure. Read the book- it's really not a children's book, in my opinion

Georgia Peaches and Carolina Girls

2009-08-11T14:58:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed my trip(s) to Georgia and South Carolina. I loved spending time with some of my favorite people in the world: my sister, Tanya; my nieces, Allie Grace and Saylor; and Grandma! Time just flew by so quickly. I already miss them SO much! :(

Some of my favorite things I did while in GA and SC were...

...going to Georgia Aquarium, in ATL (which is the world's largest) and to the World of Coca-Cola (haven't been since I was a kid). Tanya and I rounded up the two little girls and one big girl, Grandma. Our day was long and tiring. All was worth it when we saw the whale sharks at the aquarium. After our visit to the aquarium and WoCC, we headed over to the CNN building to hang with our cousin, Tiffany. All in all, it was a great day!

...playing at the beach and pool with Tanya and the girls. I loved seeing Allie Grace swim-I swear she's a fish! And playing with Saylor in the sand was a pure joy of mine! I will cherish this time always and forever.

Umm, could she be any cuter?

She's my little mermaid!

"I believe I can fly!!"

....shopping, eating, seeing movies, laughing, and dancing with my sister! This is by far, is one of the best times I've spent with Tanya. We talked and opened up so much more this time. I just had an awesome time with you, T! We got to see two good movies- (500) Days of Summer (soooo good! loved it!) and The Perfect Getaway (pretty good. good twist at the end).

How cute is my big sis?

Overall, I just had a great time with everyone. I love my sweet nieces and can't wait to see them again! In February, Daniel and I will be meeting Tanya and her husband, Chad, in Breckenridge, CO!! We can't wait! Love you all, my sweet (tea) southern family!!!

15 cheerleaders, one amazing mother-in-law, one new haircut, a wedding, and South Carolina

2009-08-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

What do 15 cheerleaders, one amazing mother-in-law, one new haircut, a wedding, and South Carolina have in common?

Me!!!!

Tuesday-Thursday I was at cheer camp for the junior high cheerleaders. My friend Ashli and I are the new cheer sponsors (coaches) for the 7th and 8th grade squads. Camp was long, tiring, and full of drama. I like to call those moments full of drama, DQ (drama queen) moments- which we had lots of! Overall, our girls really improved a lot! There are definitely other schools that would simply blow your mind!!! All in all, we had a great time, and I think coaching these girls is going to be a blast (and hard work)!

The cheer sponsors: Ashli and me!

Our girls doing what they do!

On Friday, after a long week of camp, my mother-in-law, Lynne and I went to Urban Retreat for a spa day! Lynne got a facial and a pedi, and I got a hi-lite and cut! Let me tell you, Urban Retreat is NOT cheap. I will not be able to afford going back for another cut or color. Haircuts run from about $80-120 and color from about $100-200 (and these are separate costs!). However, right now they have a promotion!!! If you've never been there for color, then you can set up an appointment for a cut and color and just have to pay for the cut. So, I really got off good. Normally I pay about $100 or so for color and cut. Check them out! UR is in the River Oaks area. VERY NICE AND SWANKY!

After our time at the spa, Lynne and I ate lunch at Potbelly's- yummy and had ourselves some cupcakes at you guessed it, Crave!!! I love me some Crave cupcakes!!! :) I had a great time with my great mother-in-law. The Lord has truly blessed me with one amazing mother-in-law. I could not ask for a better relationship with her. Thank you, Lord!!

Enjoying our cupcakes

Tonight I was at my college friend, Laura and Adam's wedding. Miss Lindsee Lou went with Daniel and me. I enjoyed catching up you, Linds! Can't wait to take you to Crave! The wedding was very nice and lots of fun. Wedding cake was a-mazing, which is saying a lot considering I am a wedding cake connoisseur! I enjoy going to weddings with my hubby. It's a nice reminder of what marriage is about. I fall in love all over again. Congratulations Laura and Adam!!!

Me and my sweet Linds

I heart my hubby!

The happy couple!

"I am leaving on a jet plane"......tomorrow morning and heading out to Charleston, South Carolina, to see these beautiful girls....

My nieces, Allie Grace and Saylor!!!!!!!!!

Just haven't been in the mood

2009-07-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

I have been in a "blog funk" lately. I haven't felt like posting or commenting much on other's. I don't know what it is sometimes. Oh well...... I will press on.

I guess I'll go ahead and finish up my "Visiting the West" trip. Our last stops were to Zion National Park and Arches National Park.

Zion was absolutely beautiful. We did not do any major hiking. We just relaxed, went to Ranger Talks, ate s'mores, and enjoyed the stars at night.

Zion pictures:

Yummy s'mores!

Love in a canyon

Daniel's wonderful work (same place from above. it's amazing what a good film camera/photographer will do.)

The Patriarchs. L to R: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

While in Moab, Utah, we went white water rafting, shopped in the cute town of Moab, ate ice cream, and visited Arches. That makes three national parks that we visited over the trip! National parks are something else! I highly recommend you visit at least one in your life.

Moab:

This one reminded all of us of The Never Ending Story

The Delicate Arch (the most famous one)

Our rafting friends from Missouri

Christy loves ice cream!!!!!!

It's over!!!!!!!!

We're home and alive!!!!

2009-07-05T16:23:00.000-07:00

Well, we got home Thursday, July 2nd, at around 7 p.m. Boy, were we exhausted (and still are). We had a great Fourth of July. We had brisket, made ice cream, laughed with friends, cried and prayed with friends, and just enjoyed togetherness. Today we didn't go to church, we're still just so tired, but we met up with Daniel's parents and their friends for lunch at my favorite burger place, Five Guys!!! Hope you all had a great 4th!

So, I will start this post with the drive leading up to the Grand Canyon and the actual Grand Canyon endeavor. Over the next couple of weeks, I will post about the other adventures in our trip through the West.

On Tuesday, the 23rd of June, we started by hiking down the South Kaibab Trail (would not recommend), a 6.8 mile, no shade or water, ridge-line descent to the bottom. This trail was extremely steep and we descended 4,780 feet in elevation. Yay, that's right. It sucked. I got a bit dehydrated (threw up 3 times), and Daniel did not eat enough salty snacks and got pretty weak towards the end. One of the most important things we didn't know going down was how important it is to eat salty snacks. Not just any food, but salty. The reason why, is because you lose so much salt from sweating. We didn't even know we were sweating because it is so very dry in Arizona, sweat evaporates immediately. Needless to say, we were assisted down with a ranger. A very special ranger named Ed. We love Ed. We made it to the bottom at 7:30 p.m. and we started down at 5:30 a.m. (not that great).

We camped at the bottom, Bright Angel Campground, for two nights. We enjoyed just relaxing in the 105 degree heat. And at night we slept out under the stars at a cool 90 degrees.

On Thursday, the 25th of June, we started our hike back up to the top. We hiked much better that day. We made it to Indian Garden Campground, a 4.8 mile hike with an elevation change of only 1,320 feet, in just 4 1/2 hours! This time, we stopped regularly, kept wet and hydrated, and ate salty snacks. At camp, we saw a very rare, Pink Canyon Rattlesnake, and it rained. Christy and I slept on top of the picnic table (not so comfortable), while Daniel slept on the ground with the mice. Fun. Fun. Fun!!

On Friday, the 26th of June, we began our journey back to the top of the South Rim. We knew getting to the top would be a victory in our lives (and it was). The hike to the top was 4.5 miles, with a 3,060 foot elevation gain. We made it to the top in 7 hours. The last mile and 1/2 was the steepest. We gained 1,140 feet in elevation. Once we reached the top, I felt like crying and laughing all at the same time. I told Daniel, "I think I'm happier today than on our wedding day!" Never have I felt so tired, yet so joyful all at the same time. Would I do it again? Yes, just not in the summer. God was very present on this trip, and he changed my life and our marriage-that's fo sure!!! I praise Him for his grace and mercy on this journey.

I can sum up this experience in these words: hard. rewarding. tiring. God-glorifying. beautiful. emotional. painful. amazing. life-changing. unforgettable. well worth it. wow.

Car was packed to the max!

Yum-O! CK Fried Steak at The Stockyard Cafe, Amarillo, Tx

Cadillac Ranch

Our KOA Kabin in New Mexico

Our view

GC!!!

Pictures do not do justice

This is us, happy, the morning of the long adventure

I mean WoW!

Our favorite ranger, Ed!

We knew once we saw this second keyhole-we had made it!

Well, now I am off to Waco to spend some time with my mom and AMANDA! I will post more later.

Thanks to this trip I am now addicted to MGMT!! New favorite band, fo sure! And the Sookie Stackhouse books-thanks Mom! It's like an adult Twilight book. I have a thing for those darn vampires!

Peace!

We're off...

2009-06-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

We're off to see the canyon, the wonderful, grand canyon of Utah/Arizona.

Because, because, because, because, because

Because of the wonderful thing it is!!

Well, Daniel, Christy, and I will be following the yellow brick road, by that I mean the gray interstate, to see the Grand Canyon!! Tonight we'll be spending the night with my parents in Waco (to get an early start). Then, we'll be getting up early and heading to New Mexico.

We should hopefully arrive in Arizona, Sunday, at about 5:00 p.m. or earlier. We'll be back around July 3rd. Our days will be filled with driving (a lot), hiking and staying down in the Canyon, hanging out in Flagstaff, visiting Zion National Park, hiking some more, water rafting, sweating, taking pictures, experiencing God's creation, and driving some more!

Pray that we have a safe trip there and back, and that nobody gets hurt/overheated. Also, please pray that we do not see any snakes. I am pretty sure I will have a heart attack if I see one. Even though I grew up in the country, I HATE snakes and am deathly afraid!

I shall return with beautiful pictures and great stories!

Enjoy the rest of June!

Via San Antonio!

2009-06-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

Daniel and I had a great time celebrating our one year anniversary in San Antonio. The weekend was full of rest and relaxation, shopping, eating, walking, singing, and enjoying. I really felt like I was on a "real" vacation.

Daniel surprised me with where we were staying for the weekend. We stayed at this B&B, Riverwalk Vista. This B&B is right in the heart of Downtown San Antonio. You can get just about anywhere from this hotel. Very nice, big and homey rooms. Everyday at 3:00 they serve lemonade and fresh cookies, and everyday at 5:00 they offer complimentary wine! We enjoyed our stay there and would definitely stay there again!

Some pictures of our room:

Our views:

Day

Night

We enjoyed some great restaurants in San Antonio. Friday night we ate at a Mexican restaurant called Acenar. This restaurant had a very hip, modern feel to it. Food was good, not great, but good. I would go there again. The ambiance is what made this place fun. Saturday night we enjoyed a romantic dinner at an Italian restaurant called Dolores Del Rio. This restaurant was nestled in the back of the riverwalk. This place was EXTREMELY small, but that's what made it kind of romantic and gave it a more European feel. Daniel and I split the ravioli, which was big enough for two, and it was very good! Dolores Del Rio is known for the belly dancers and jazz music. Unfortunately, we did not get to enjoy that entertainment because we had another form of entertainment to get to (Wicked)!

Here we are enjoying our dining experiences:

Acenar

Dolores Del Rio

Daniel and I had ourselves a gay 'ol time in San Antonio! I really just had so much fun. Friday night, after dinner, Daniel and I decided to go to Howl at the Moon. OH MY GOODNESS, it was SO MUCH F-U-N!!!!! We got there about 9:30 and didn't leave until about 12:30. We stood for half our time there. For those that do not know what Howl at the Moon is, it is a dueling piano bar. The entertainers take requests all night long, and it ranges from classics to modern songs. It's a lot like karaoke without the embarrassment. You have to be willing to be involved or it's not fun. I HIGHLY recommend you check it out! There is also one in Houston.

The other exciting thing we did (the reason we went to SA) was see Wicked!!! In honor of Wicked, I am changing my text to green. If you notice, back at the picture of us at Dolores Del Rio, Daniel is sporting a green polo. I picked that out for him in honor of Oz. All I have to say is Wicked was wicked awesome!!!!!! I enjoyed it oh, so much. The singing, the special effects, the acting, the set, it was all so great. I have to give a shout out to our Glinda, Katie Rose Clarke, she graduated Sam Houston State. Eat 'em up Kats! The entire cast did an outstanding job. Of course, it was not Idina or Kristin worthy, but still very, very good! After 4 years of wanting to see Wicked and missing it in Houston a couple years back, I was thrilled and not disappointed. Another thing I HIGHLY recommend you check out!!

First year anniversary gift= paper

Paper= Wicked tickets

L-O-V-E-D it!!!

SUMMER GIVEAWAYS!!!!

2009-06-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hello all!!! Here are few summer giveaways, you should definitely know about:

If you are in need of a blog makeover, please go to RedBud Designs and enter the chance to win a new blog!!

Also, if you're in the need for a cute cake stand, go to Fancy Schmany Designs for a chance to win a SUPER CUTE, Polka Dotted, Monogrammed cake stand!!

Yay for giveaways!!!! Thanks Annalee!!

Happy Summer and Good Luck!!! :)

One Year

2009-06-07T16:01:00.000-07:00

“Happy marriages begin when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry.” Tom Mullen

It is amazing to me how fast time goes by. People tell you this and you never believe it, but it is so true! I cannot believe I have been married a year! It feels like yesterday that I was getting ready to walk down the aisle. I can still remember everything about the day. I was so happy and joyful. No tears were shed, just laughs. I have to say, this first year has not been hard. I think it’s due to the fact that Daniel and I have been together 5 ½ years and we practically grew up together. We have gone through a lot together. Getting married was the easiest thing I’ve ever done. I just love being married.

In honor of our wedding date, 6-7-8, I have decided to list 6 things I love about being married, 7 things I have learned from being married, and 8 things I look forward to in the next year of marriage.

6 things I love about being married…

Waking up with Daniel every morning

Cooking together

Not having to drive as much- Daniel does most of the driving

Praying and worshiping together

Having combined incomes

Just the safety and comfort

7 things I have learned about being married…

Being selfless is hard and being selfish is easy

You don’t always get what you want (you get what you need)

Communication is key

How important it is to put God first in marriage

My husband H-A-T-E-S washing the dishes

You don’t always agree on how to spend money

How rewarding and fulfilling being married really is

8 things I look forward to in the next year of marriage…

Traveling to places like…Colorado, Europe, California, etc.

Becoming better stewards of our money

Graduating from the NWC class and moving on to the next stage-of-life Sunday school class

Growing and building a more Christ-centered marriage

Fixing up our house more

Celebrating a milestone birthday- Daniel will turn 25 in Oct. and I will in April!

Building better relationships with our married friends

Just enjoying whatever life hands us!

Today we got up and went to church. Today was our first day to volunteer in the pre-school. We served in the 15 month room. I loved every minute of it (of course)! One of my favorite moments was watching Daniel with this little boy (the only boy in the class). Daniel held him and played with him, he made faces that made the little boy laugh- it was the cutest and sweetest thing ever! I have heard many women say their love for their husbands grow when they become fathers. After what I witnessed today, I definitely get it. My heart was mush.

After church, we headed to Buffalo Grille (my new favorite) for brunch. This was our second time there, thanks to Annalee, I would have never know about this gem. Food was good and did not disappoint. After brunch, Daniel and I headed home for a nice, Sunday nap.

Later that afternoon, Daniel's parents came over and surprised us with two chairs for our patio. They are just so sweet and thoughtful. We decided to have a piece of our cake with them. The cake was surprisingly good! After they left, we headed to H-E-B to grab some steaks for tonight. We got home and grilled steaks and corn on the cob. Along with that, we had green beans, rolls, and champagne! And of course, our year old, wedding cake for dessert. Tonight was nice and relaxing- a lot like our marriage is! Next weekend we'll be heading to San Antonio to celebrate!

After brunch at Buffalo Grille

Our new chairs

Our wedding cake topper

Just like we did it a year ago

Our anniversary dinner

Cheers! To many more happy years together...

I did it!!!!

2009-06-02T15:20:00.000-07:00

That’s right, I did it! I bought a new car!! Oh my goodness, was it an experience. This was my first time to ever buy a car, without parents, just Dan and me making all the decisions-it was a bit terrifying.

It all started Friday when I decided to test drive the Traverse again. I was feeling a bit apprehensive about it simply because I did not like the back or the way it handled. If you’ve seen the Traverse, you know it slants a lot and the back is really small and slanted, making it very hard to see out the back. After leaving the Chevrolet dealership, which we did not like, we headed over to CarMax just to check out some used SUVs. I looked at several and test drove a couple, but still didn’t feel 100% about it. The ones at CarMax were pretty comparable to the one I currently had, so I thought, we would I get a new one then? I knew I wanted a third backseat and “bucket seats” in my future car. I am thinking future and long term (for when we have babies). Went to bed that night thinking about everything, not feeling great about any of the ones I had looked at. Then, I told Daniel that we should check out the GMC Acadia tomorrow morning. Two teachers just got one at my school, Annalee just got one and said it was great, they’ve been around longer, and from what I understand GMC is a step up from Chevrolet.

So, Saturday morning, Daniel and I got up and headed to Beck and Masten (great experience) to check out the Acadia. We got there, met our very nice and helpful dealer, he got a copy of my license, handed me the keys and said “see ya later”, and I was off! I came back in love. It was just what I was looking for, and it did drive differently than the Traverse, and it does look nicer, and I just really liked it better. So, we went inside to see what kind of deal we could get. You know the process……after 5 hours (I kid you not), we had purchased our first car! Wooo, I got to tell you, it was stressful thinking about everything and signing papers and answering questions. I was ready for a nap. We did get a great deal with great financing and that’s why we did it now. My dad at Chevrolet offered me the same price, basically, but with a higher interest rate. So, it worked out for the best!

After thinking, praying, choosing, and deciding….meet my new, beautiful, red Acadia!

How to throw a fiesta:

2009-05-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

1- Have a reason. Okay, I guess you never need a reason to party, but our small group threw one for our friends, Brian and Kate. Brian and Kate are leaving in a couple weeks to work in a missionary school in Puebla, Mexico. We are all so excited for them! They are one amazing couple and will be missed. This was their "Adios" party!

2- Celebrate with friends! We just love our small group. Daniel and I were so sad when it ended in April. Our group is just so close and transparent-they're awesome! We hope to continue our friendship with everyone.

Everyone minus Sarah and Marvin, and Ashley and Luke

3. Have great food! We had such yummy food. We had creamy chicken enchiladas (recipe at bottom), taco salad, rice and beans; it was all so tasty.

4. Tres Leches Cake!!!! What fiesta is complete without an authentic Mexican dessert? I love Tres Leches Cakes, my favorite being Pappasito's. Well, I found a really good recipe for one and it turned out great! I think mine was pretty comparable to Pappasito's (recipe at bottom).

It was so good, I couldn't get a picture of it before this.

Recipes:

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas:

1 medium onion, chopped

2 T. butter

1 1/2 to 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken (about 4 breasts)

1 cup Pace Picante Sauce

1 pkg. (3 oz) cream cheese, you can use up to 6 oz. depending on taste

1 t. cumin

1 1/2 cup Monterey Jack or Cheddar Cheese

1. Cook onion and butter until tender. Stir in chicken, 1/4 cup picante sauce, cream cheese and cumin; heat thoroughly. Remove from heat; stir in 1/2 cup cheese.

2. Spray 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Spoon chicken mixture in tortillas; roll and place seam side down. Spoon remaining picante sauce over enchiladas and cover with remaining cheese to make a thin layer.

3. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes.

Side note: I do not like enchiladas and I REALLY liked these! Then again, I am a picky eater. :)

Tres Leches Cake:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 cup white sugar

5 eggs

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups whole milk

1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 cup white sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour one 9x13 inch baking pan.

Sift flour and baking powder together and set aside.

Cream butter or margarine and the 1 cup sugar together until fluffy. Add eggs and the 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; beat well.

Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture 2 tablespoons at a time; mix until well blended. Pour batter into prepared pan.

Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes. Pierce cake several times with a fork.

Combine the whole milk, condensed milk, and evaporated milk together. Pour over the top of the cooled cake.

Whip whipping cream, the remaining 1 cup of the sugar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla together until thick. Spread over the top of cake. Be sure and keep cake refrigerated, enjoy!

Back from my blogcation

2009-05-26T15:18:00.000-07:00

Warning: Long Post

Longest I've ever written. I don't like long posts. Could be grammar errors. Sorry.

Wooo, I feel like I have been on a vacation from the computer. I just have NOT been in the mood to write a post. I know I'm not the only fellow blogger that feels this way and that has taken a "blogcation". I still read blogs every day via iPhone; I have just not wanted to walk myself upstairs to write a post. I am finding I enjoy reading blogs much more than writing them. Props to the bloggers that are mothers and still find time to blog. I am really not thatbusy, and I don't feel like I have the time (but I think it's the desire I'm lacking). School has just been so crazy. Kids are crazy. Teachers are crazy. We are all just ready for June 4th!!!!! Next Thursday could not come soon enough. I hope everyone had a restful 3-day weekend- mine was a 4-day weekend. Thank you, Jesus! I now feel the need to catch everyone up on my life over the past couple weeks.

Last weekend my best friend Amanda came down to visit. She tries to visit about once a month-which is SO nice. I really enjoy these visits with her and love seeing her so often. Friday night, we grilled chicken that had been marinated in Italian dressing (so good and easy), and Amanda brought us cupcakes from Hey Cupcake! (the place I wanted to try in Austin). OMG, pretty darn good! I just don't know which one is my favorite.

Saturday we had to go to this BeautiControl seminar. It was interesting at times, but also a waste of time. For lunch we ate some delicious Raising Cane's (Amanda's first time), and then headed back for the remaining seminar. When it ended, we headed to Sunshine Nails for a much needed pedi. Then, off to Willowbrook for some not-so-needed-but-couldn't-help-myself shopping. I proceeded to spend way too much at Ann Taylor Loft (not a surprise). Our next stop was Amanda's request every time she's in Houston, Pappasito's. Oh, how their fajitas taste. It never disappoints. We came back after a wonderful dinner and wonderful dessert, Tres Leches (i heart you), and enjoyed a bit of SNL before falling asleep.

Sunday was some good church time. Gregg's messages never disappoint and always leaving me feeling convicted and desiring the Lord SO much more. Of course, it's really God, not Gregg's message. Anyhow, church was good. We went home and had sandwiches, watched the Rockets lose to stupid-I can't stand-arrogant Lakers, and then took a catnap. I love lazy Sundays.

Last week at school nothing exciting happened. I finished up my 60s unit with the kiddos. I think they really enjoyed learning about all the things that happened from that decade. I really cannot believe I am about to finish up my first year of teaching. It is so surreal. The last day will be bittersweet for me.

Now on to my 4-day/Memorial Day weekend. Daniel and I headed to Waco Friday after work. We got there, dropped our stuff off at the house, and enjoyed a nice dinner at the Elite Cafe. I had the best chicken fried steak I've had in a looooong time-it was A-mazing!

Saturday was kind of a low-key day for us. We just hung around the house for most of the day. Daniel, Amanda, and I ate Pei Wei's for lunch and then went to the Scholastic Warehouse for their big summer sale. I bought about 8 books for $30 (including some hardback). Later that evening, Jim grilled hamburgers for dinner and we watched "Paul Blart Mall Cop". I, personally, did NOT think the movie was funny. I cannot even remember one time I laughed. After the movie, Amanda's mom, Denice, came over a gave my mom, aunt, Amanda, and me an "Instant Face Lift". The IFL is the new big thing BeautiControl is promoting. The IFL really does work, I have to say. I know I don't need that right now, but I think it really improved the appearance of my skin. Let me know if any of you are interested in trying it out!

Sunday afternoon we all went to visit my dad at work. He sells cars at a Chevrolet dealership. I had planned to check out this new Crossover/SUV Jim was telling me about-it sounded cute and affordable. Little did I know that after looking at it and test driving it, that I would want it. I have now been bitten by the car bug. I don't even need a new car right now! I know that my next car I want to be bigger and more "momish". This car was actually perfect for that! It had a third row and captain seats, which are a must for my next car! Since I am family, I know I could get a good discount on the car, and there's good financing right now. Oh, so I don't know what to do. Daniel and I just need to pray about it. The name of the car is the Chevrolet Traverse. What would you do? My current car is in great condition and has 80,000 miles on it.

Monday, Memorial Day, the Dotys and the Fasts headed to the zoo for a fun day of fellowship. We enjoyed walking around and looking at all of the animals. Favorite animal of the day was this little, itty-bitty, monkey....it was SO cute! After a couple hours at the zoo, we enjoyed a nice picnic in Hermann Park. How nice it is to have amazing couple friends to share your life with. We love the Dotys very much, and miss them not being in the NWC class. :( That night, we hung out with the other Fasts, Daniel's parents. We ate some ribs and baked beans, watched the Bachelorette (poor Tim can't stand the show), and then went home to watch "Lars and the Real Girl", in bed, with popcorn. We had an enjoyable day! Side-note: I DO NOT like Wes from Austin or Juan. I do like Jake. That is all.

Today!!!!!! Daniel and I slept late, went to Wal-Mart, got my car inspected, but it failed because the "check engine light was on", sucks to be me. Now we're making lasagna, okay Daniel's making lasagna, I'm blogging. Then, I am going to finish laundry and go for an evening stroll with Daniel. Got to get ready for the Grand Canyon- we leave in 24 days!!!! I believe I am all caught up. Hope everyone has a good rest-of-the week. Let me know your thoughts on the car!

Here are some of my favorite pictures from the zoo:

Cute little monkey. Pictures just don't do the little thing justice.

Bats are scary...........

Look at Timon-he hears Pumbaa singing.

Home Improvement (Part I): Our Bedroom

2009-05-12T14:18:00.001-07:00

Before Pictures:

About a month ago, Daniel and I (and his parents) ripped up our nasty, dog-stained carpet and decided to paint the cement. This, of course, is only temporary. We do intend on replacing it with tile or wooden floors some day. We really just couldn't handle to pee smell anymore. Sorry to be so gross- but it was gross. I tell you it was hard work. Whew, I am still exhausted!

Then, over the past several weeks, Daniel and I painted our bedroom. If we would have had a weekend free, it would not have taken so long. However, we didn't- so, we had to use the weekdays. It's not fun to paint after work. Never again, I tell you, never again.

I am happy with my results, though. We used Benjamin Moore paint from Ace. We like it, except for the fact that both colors needed two coats. Maybe that's normal. Is it?

Now all we need are some window treatments (which I am clueless about) and something to hang above our bed. Any suggestions? Well, and of course, a (new) bedroom suite would be nice. But, not a need right now.

After Pictures:

P.S. Here's a picture from Thursday night after I found out I won G/T teacher of the year! Just got it.

I am SO excited to announce....

2009-05-08T16:09:00.000-07:00

I received the TAGT (Texas Association for Gifted and Talented) "Rising Star" award. This award is for a G/T teacher teaching within his/her first through third year.

A student's mom nominated me about a month ago. I was just shocked and honored to be nominated- I didn't care if I won. So, the mom, my principal, a G/T student, and G/T coordinator all wrote essays about me. I guess their words were great 'cause I won!

I won in our region, which is Region 4. Region 4 is the biggest in Texas- so I was flabbergasted! I will now be put in the pot for the whole state of Texas. We'll see..........

September I will get my plaque, and I will be recognized at the annual TAGT conference. I am just so honored by this accolade. I can't even get over it.

I didn't even want to teach G/T. Now, I can't imagine doing anything else. People say, "oh, you've got it made; you've got the easy ones to teach!" Not entirely true. They are NEEDY! And they can be a bit annoying at times with their "know-it-all" comments and questions about everything! But, I wouldn't change them for anything. These students are brilliant, creative, sweet, unique, gifted and talented.

Thank you to my G/T students: Hannah, Caroline, Draven, Nathan, Tyler, Fatema, Justin, Emma, Rebecca, and Megan for making it easy for me to get up every morning to teach y'all. You guys are a true inspiration to me! I only wish I was half as amazing as you 10 are!

My favorite things: dessert places

2009-05-08T15:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a list of the following dessert places I find ever, so delectable:

Many of you Houstonians may have heard of Hank’s Ice Cream, maybe not. Hank’s is located near the Reliant Energy Complex, and they also have a Hank’s in ATL. Daniel is the one that introduced me to Hank’s. He had read reviews on b4-u-eat.com and everyone raved about Hank’s. Hank, the owner, works at the Houston one. They offer a variety of flavors, made fresh daily. Some of their most popular flavors are: Banana Pudding (my favorite), Orange Chocolate Chip, Butter Pecan (Daniel’s favorite), and Oreo Cookie. Those of you that live in the Northwest Houston area/Cypress, and you don’t want to drive that far for ice cream, I have a solution for you! Daniel discovered this place last week. McNeil’s Creamery serves Hank’s ice cream. The guy that owns the store is Hank’s cousin. McNeil’s is located next to Skeeter’s off Hwy 6 and 290. You should check-check it out!!

Crave vs. Sprinkles

The Ultimate Cupcake Showdown

Back in summer of 2007, Amanda and I visited Sprinkles in Dallas (currently the only one in TX), and that is when my and Amanda’s obsession over cupcakes was born. Thankfully, Sprinkles will be gracing Houston with their presence fall of 2009 (fingers crossed). But if you’re in the need of a really GOOD cupcake now, in Houston, you have got to check out this place…………..

Crave! A couple of months ago, Amanda (my cupcake buddy), Daniel, and I visited Crave, which is located in Uptown Park. I have to say Crave is pretty comparable to Sprinkles. I could live without Sprinkles now knowing that Crave is just as good! I personally like their Red Velvet better than at Sprinkles. I am a huge Red Velvet fan- grew up eating it all time in Georgia (the real thing, not box). I tend to judge people’s Red Velvet pretty harshly. Needless to say, Sprinkles’ cupcake was a bit dry and did not have as much of a coco taste as I like. This is all based on my opinion and taste buds. So, you be the judge! Let me know what your thoughts are on this cupcake battle.

My next cupcake stop will be Hey Cupcake! in Austin!

My next favorite place to visit when I’m craving something sweet is Ritter’s Frozen Custard. Now no offense to Connie’s or Katie’s, but Ritter’s is different- it’s better! Ritter’s does not just serve vanilla and chocolate with toppings, but they offer about three different flavors a day, all made fresh. So, if you’re ever in the Katy area, I highly recommend you check out Ritter’s!! It will change your life. Also, there’s only one in Texas! I just had some for Teacher Appreciation Week at school- it was the best!! :)

My last place on the list has a mix of everything. If you’re in the mood for a cupcake, a piece of pie or cheesecake, cookies, cake, or perhaps, a dessert beverage, then you definitely need to check out Ooh La La in Katy! Ooh La La is SUPER cute! My favorite thing to get there are their cupcake truffles- oh my goodness, I thought I’d died and gone to heaven!! I have also tried their cheesecake (Red Velvet-yum o!), frozen hot chocolate, Margaritaville cake (so good), and cupcakes, which are good but not great (like Crave). Ooh La La is just the ultimate place for dessert.

It is clear that I have a sweet tooth or teeth. Maybe you will enjoy these places as much as I have. I should get paid for all of this advertising. Next “Favorite Things” will be restaurants. Have a sweet weekend!

A good teacher is like a candle - it consumes itself to light the way for others. ~Author Unknown

2009-05-06T15:35:00.000-07:00

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week. All around the U.S. teachers are being recognized for their hard work. I tell you what, teachers need a week to be appreciated. Teachers put up with a lot, and they deserve to be recognized for their hard work. I think teachers have one of the most important jobs in the world. The only other job that is more important is being a parent. So, if you are a teacher, I want to say thanks. Thank you for all of your hard work and love you put into your job. Just know how appreciated you are, not just this week but always. If you know someone that is a teacher, tell them “thanks” this week!

I have learned so many valuable lessons this year as a first year teacher. I would like to share five things I have learned from teaching (in no particular order):

11. Losing one of my favorite students was extremely hard for me. Don’t worry he didn’t die, he just moved away. I was very attached to him, though. I kind of saw him as my “project”. He was someone that just needed love. I still get emotional thinking of him. I know, I know. I am just so darn maternal, I can’t help it.

2. I have learned not to tell students my age. Not because I am embarrassed or whatever. I wanted to tell them because I wanted to be very transparent with them. Well, I think they took advantage of me a bit more knowing I was only 12 years older than them. I will keep that a secret next year.

3. I see God’s love for me so much more now. I have given so much grace and mercy to my students, all year long, all day long. But what they do? Mess up. They don’t care. They forget how nice I am to them. This has given me a glance into my own life. I have realized how I do the exact same thing to God, all year long, all day long. God still loves me even though I am screw up. I have seen my love for my students; it’s an unconditional, Christ-like love for them.

4. Going along with number 3, I have realized more than ever that teaching is my true calling in life. During the first few months of teaching I would go home and cry. I did not cry because teaching was hard or because my students were mean to me. I would cry because it became clearer just how much God created me for the job of teaching. I love knowing that God created me with a heart for kids: annoying, smelly, loud, disrespectful, sweet, smart, immature, opinionated, beautiful adolescents! James 3:1 tells me, “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” I know this is mainly referring to pastors, but I also know as a SCHOOL teacher, I hold lives in my hands every day. Every day I choose whether I am going to serve God by loving my students, or if I am simply going to just “teach” them.

5. My words are HUGE. A lot of the time I don’t think the kids are really listening when I speak. They do. They hear the bad things I say a lot more than the good. My words can bring a child up or tear them down. I have seen the result of both. I will tell you, it hurts when you find out things you have said that truly hurt your kiddos. It makes the verse from James 1:19 so much more meaningful to me. “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Boy is it hard to practice being slow to anger.

TGIF!!!

2009-05-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

Thank Goodness It's Friday!!!! Not only is it Friday, but it's Fun Friend Friday (I love alliterations)!!! Two of my good friends are visiting me today. Christy and Jolyn are spending the night. Yay, I am SO excited!! I look forward to laughing, catching up, opening up, staying up late, and eating junk food!!

We are going to see "Ghosts of Girlfriends Past" tonight. I love me some Matthew McConaughottie! A good chick flick is long overdue for me. Tonight will be nice. It will remind of the good days, that weren't long ago, but seem like it, when I was in college (almost a year!). Love these girls!

Okay, so I've been tagged! This is my first "meme"- is that what they're called? Oh well. Here it goes...

An old high school friend tagged me. Thanks Ashley! It's been good catching up with you through your blog.

Eight Things I'm Looking Forward To:

1.) Summer
2.) Becoming a mommy
3.) My anniversary- June 7th!
4.) Seeing the Grand Canyon
5.) Sharing a cupcake with Amanda at Hey Cupcake!
6.) Weekends
7.) Seeing my nieces! Can't wait until August!
8.) Seeing Wicked

Eight Things I Did Yesterday:

1.) Walked around my classroom for three hours straight! Got to love TAKS!
2.) Watched Grey's
3.) Visited with my accountability partner, Kate
4.) Read blogs
5.) Took a nap

6.) Prayed for my students
7.) Watched the news
8.) Folded laundry

Eight Things I Wish I Could Do:

1.) Bring back Draven (student)
2.) Be debt free

3.) Go to Europe- RIGHT NOW!!!
4.) See my (GA & SC) family every other weekend OR even just once a month!
5.) Teach my students again next year. I am REALLY going to miss them. :(
6.) Shop all the time without breaking my bank
7.) Be more discipline in the Word
8.) Cook and Clean more without complaining

Eight Shows I Watch:

1.) One Tree Hill
2.) Gossip Girl
3.) Grey's Anatomy

4.) American Idol
5.) Man vs. Food
6.) Make Me a Supermodel
7.) Beverly Hills 90210 (the new one)

8.) The Hills (I know it is horrible and Daniel hates it!)

I tag...

1.) Lindsee

2.) Tanya

3.) Devon

4.) Sara

5.) Elke

6.) Annalee

7.) Lindsey

8.) Jean

Another day off

2009-04-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

My, my, does it feel good to be at home! Due to the flooding that occurred yesterday, I did not have to go to school yesterday OR today!!! :) Unfortunately, I will probably have to make up the days by not having Memorial Day off.....boooooo! Oh well!

So, today my goals are: clean the kitchen, blog (almost one goal down), go for a run, watch my old soap, Days of Our Lives, laundry, and have dinner ready for Daniel when he gets home!

Okay, so now on to my weekend post....

This past weekend I had the pleasure to be a part of our Sunday school class' NWC (newlywed or close) retreat. The retreat was held in Round Top, at the Round Top Retreat Center. Let me just say, if you ever have the opportunity to attend a conference/retreat there- go!! This place is awesome!! The center is actually owned by Christians! Anyway, the retreat was such a great time for Daniel and me to get away and relax and focus on our marriage.

We got there on Friday and quickly found our cute little room (very much like a B & B), with one down side, we had to share a bathroom with another couple. You know, it wasn't that bad, though. The couple next to us were very sweet, and it was nice to meet a new couple from our class. Later that night we got hear our speakers for the weekend, Steve and Debbie Wilson from Marriage Matters Now. Wow, what an amazing, godly, precious couple!! Over the weekend, they told stories from their own lives that helped us understand problems in our marriage so much more. They gave us six mosquitoes that will drain the life out of a marriage.

They are: Busyness, Irritability, Thought Life, Drifting, Financial Debt, and Inability to Forgive

I can't speak them up enough! They were just the cutest couple! Married 31 years. They have been in the ministry all of their marriage. Just awesome!

The rest of the weekend was filled with naps, meeting new friends, coke floats, snacks, playing some good ol' Mafia, BBQ, learning a lot more about myself and as a couple, quiet time with the Lord, God restoring two friendships (Praise God), newlywed game, scavenger hunt with cameras, worship, and most of all, best of all, growing in the Lord as a couple and individually.

My camera died at the retreat so no pictures. :(

Well, I better get busy on those goals for today! Tonight Daniel and I have a date night and we're seeing this..................

Better late than never...

2009-04-23T13:47:00.000-07:00

Take a trip down my fast birthday lane.....

Flowers from my dad!

I have yet to post about my birthday week. Last Monday, the 13th, was my birthday. I had a week full of exciting events.

It all started on Monday when I met up with my two friends, Jolyn and Ashley, for lunch. After lunch, Ashley and I went to Planet Beach for some "spa time". It was quite an experience, I must say. Everything is done through machines.....it's weird!

Later that night: I had a wonderful dinner with my hubby at Pappas Bros. Steakhouse. The food was amazing and the bill was expensive. It was far worth it.

Tuesday: One of my classes threw me a party. A couple of the the girls baked a cake and brownies. My heart was like butter. It is moments like that when I realize how much I am loved-even by little 12 year olds!

Tuesday-Friday: I received a gift every day in the mail from my bestie Christy! I loved the earrings, magazine, pens, and Starbucks gift card! Thanks!

Thursday: I had dinner with my good ol' friend, Lindsee! Man, was it good catching up with her! She is one AMAZING girl!!! Thanks for dinner, Linds! It was really great seeing you- we need to do it again (soon)!!

Friday-Sunday: Daniel and I were in Waco celebrating my birthday with many people I love. I got to spend some good time with my mom, Amanda, and an old high school friend, Adair. I enjoyed a weekend full of love, laughs, a yummy steak dinner (again), "17 again", shopping, blowing out candles, and opening gifts!

Sunday evening: I got to meet Christy in College Station for some Rasing Cane's and some snow cones! L-O-V-E-D it!!!!

Whew, it was an exhausting but nice week! Now, I am off to cheer on my Spurs! Go Spurs Go!!!

Enjoy the (many) pictures....

My "free" dessert at Pappas

Dan & me

My mom prepared such a nice b-day dinner for me-she's the best!

Blew out all 24 candles!

One of my gifts: gardening tools to go with my flowers

Snow cones with Chris!

Mexican Chicken

2009-04-23T13:38:00.000-07:00

I made this for dinner last night and it was yummy! My husband thought it was too bland- but I liked it. Then again, I don't like a lot of flavors. Oh well, maybe you will like it.

Thanks Paula Deen!

Ingredients:

1 10 3/4 -ounce can cream of chicken soup
1 10 3/4 -ounce can cheddar cheese soup
1 10 3/4 -ounce can cream of mushroom soup (I used cream of onion soup)
1 10-ounce can tomatoes (rotel)
1 whole chicken, cooked, boned, and chopped or 4 cups leftover cooked chicken (I used 3 chicken breasts)
11 1/2-ounce package flour tortillas
2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, stir together the three kinds of soup and the tomatoes. Stir in the chicken.

In a greased 13 x 9- inch pan, layer the tortillas and the chicken mixture, beginning and ending with tortillas. Sprinkle the cheese over the casserole and bake for 30 minutes.

He is Risen!

2009-04-17T10:31:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a very blessed Easter! My Easter weekend was fabulous.

The Fast fam. got all packed up and headed to Enchanted Rock for a weekend of rest and relaxation. On the way to E-Rock, Daniel and I stopped at The Salt Lick for some yummy bbq! It was tasty, I have to say! Then, we headed to Fredricksburg. We arrived about around 4 o'clock, set up our tent, and then did a quick hike up the rock. That night, we ate hamburgers and talked around our "campfire". Side note, currently in the Hill Country, there is a fire ban because they are having a drought. So, needless to say, we could not have a camp fire. What is camping without a campfire?!?!

On Saturday, we headed in to Fredricksburg to do a little shopping. The day was filled with good food, laughter, and cookies for our baby dogs! We went back to camp around 3 o'clock, did another hike up the rock, this time a bit more rigorous than before. We ate hot dogs for dinner, talked about theology, Twilight, and laughed about "Mistaca Jones". Thanks, Nathan!

Sunday was a wonderful day. The day was beautiful! The night before was dark, cold, and raining, so it was neat to see how the Lord gave us a warm, sunny, and beautiful day to worship his Son. This man that worked at E-Rock told us, "Today two suns/sons have risen". The Fasts and Turleys worshiped the Lord together; it was beautiful and powerful!

That weekend was so good for my body, mind and soul. It was such a wonderful time to get away and be in the very presence of the Lord. Thank you, God, for giving us nature. Thank you for giving me rest- which I so needed. Thank you for your Son and his blood. Thank you

for making "every new day seem so new".

Eatin' us some bbq at The Salt Lick

Setting up the tent

On our way up

24 things I look forward to doing as a 24 year old:

2009-04-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

1- Hiking down the Grand Canyon

2- Celebrating my one year anniversary

3- Using my birthday gift, an iPhone

4- Meeting up with my sister Tanya and her husband to do a little skiing in Breckenridge, C.O.

5- Being a 2nd year teacher

6- Being a cheerleading sponsor

7- Seeing Wicked

8- Getting a new set of kiddos to teach

9- Trying new restaurants in Houston

10- ACL 2009

11- Visiting my bestie, Christy, in Austin!

12- Watching my nieces AG & Saylor grow

13- Going to Capturing Kids' Hearts conference

14- Growing in the Lord

15- Enjoying one of my last years of just Dan and me (hopefully)

16- Seeing "New Moon"

17- Painting and remodeling our house

18- Baking more

19- Becoming a better wife

20- Becoming a better blogger

21- Meeting Devon's baby

22- Becoming a better friend

23- Traveling

24- Just enjoying being 24 and whatever life throws my way

Today is my 24th birthday and I am excited for the day! I do not have to work today, which is nice! So, my friends Ashley and Jolyn are taking me to lunch and then we're off to the spa.

Later that evening, Daniel is taking me to Pappa Bros. Steakhouse-yummm!!! I have heard it's the best steakhouse in Houston- we shall see.....

Where to even begin...

2009-04-07T19:24:00.001-07:00

I have so much I want to blog about right now, but all of it seems so meaningless to me right now. I just received word that a family friend's baby is not doing well. I am sitting here in my chair crying my eyes out for a child I've never met. The family that this sweet little boy belongs to is one AMAZING family. God has really used this family through this entire situation. I am at a loss for words. I don't even know what to say, but I know I can pray. I know God will get all the glory for whatever happens with baby Witt- sometimes it's just hard to remember.

Blog friends and family, please join me in praying for precious Witt and his family. His family is SO dear to my heart, and my heart is just aching right now.

My prayer: Lord, amazing of Father of lights, please show mercy on the Lupher family. I pray that you will give them peace and rest in this so, very stressful time. Jesus, be their comfort. Be their rock. Be their shoulder to cry on. I ask that your will be done. I ask that Witt's family members enjoy every minute with him.

I ask you to keep Witt safe. I ask that you keep Witt from suffering, Lord. Please, Lord, let there be no suffering on this precious baby.

I just pray Philippians 4:7 over this family, "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Lord, watch over them. Grant them grace and peace during this time. Let your will be done. In Jesus' name. Amen

Lupher and McCord family, the Fasts love you guys! We are all praying. For Witt and of course, now, little miss Elle.

"April showers bring May flowers"

2009-04-01T15:41:00.000-07:00

10 things I love about April...

10- Rain

9- The flowers that bloom and the grass becoming greener (as a result of the rain, of course)

8- Pastel colors

7- Cooler weather= long sleeve shirts and shorts (CLB)

6- Peeps, Cadbury eggs, and Russell Stover eggs

5- TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills), which I don't love, but I love that it will be OVER this month!!!

4- Camping

3- April= only 2 more months of school!!

2- My birthday, April 13th

1- EASTER(most of time it's in April). Without the cross and the resurrection, life as we know it, would be pointless.

Fun-filled weekend

2009-03-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

I had a pretty full, fun-filled weekend. It started with a baby shower and ended with a bridal shoot.

On Friday, after school, my co-workers and I threw our co-worker, Emily, a baby shower. Emily is just super cute. She and her husband just got married in August ( a honeymoon baby) and are only 23 years old. She is due in May and is having a little girl. I am simply tickled pink; and, I'm not going to lie, I have major baby fever right now. We have many pregnant woman at our school. I feel like every where I look someone is pregnant or has just had a baby. I will be patient, though. My time will come soon enough. Needless to say, Emily's shower was SUPER cute.

Later that night, I went to my very first hockey game! Daniel, his parents, and I went to a Houston Aeros game. I got to tell ya, it was an experience. It was fun, loud, HI-larious at times, and very entertaining. Our section was randomly selected for this screaming contest against another section. Our section won and we are on the big screen-very fun!

Saturday, the pups got haircuts, my bestie came to visit, and Daniel and I bought hiking boots for our Summer trip to the Grand Canyon. I also bought some skiing gear on sale for our trip to Breckenridge, C.O. next year! (Can't wait, T!)

Christy and her new doggy, Harper!

Our babies with their haircuts!

Sunday, we skipped church (on accident). Then, I had a bridal shoot. My friend, Ashley, is starting a wedding photography business and she needs a diverse portfolio to show off. I volunteered my time to help her out. We ended up going to a place close to our house and it turned out really neat. From what I could see of the pictures, there are definitely some beautiful ones! I had a good time. Hey, I got to wear my beautiful and expensive wedding dress one more time!! And I didn't have an official bridal shoot, so it was kinda nice to experience one. I will definitely share the pictures when I get them!

Hey, if you know of anyone that needs a wedding photographer in the Houston area, I would love to give you her info.

Hope everyone else's weekend was restful. I am dreading school this week. I keep telling myself, just get through this week and then next week will be a short one. :)

Have a good week!

Life in the Fast lane: take 3

2009-03-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

is is my third attempt at blogging; I am seriously hoping to keep up with it this time. I started blogging back in early 2007 and stopped, started, stopped, and now here I am again.

These are the highlights that I would have blogged about:

Graduated from Sam Houston!!!

Got my married to my college sweetheart!! :)

Added a new member to the family. Our baby girl, Susie!

Started my first year of teaching!!! "I heart middle schoolers!"

My classroom!

First day of school!

My second niece was born!! Saylor Lee Cross

My first Christmas as a married woman in my first house!

Those are pretty much the major highlights of 2007-2008. Now I think I am all updated, and I can begin blogging the current news!

My hope is that I do not get over concerned with what people think of my blog: Is it cute enough? Will people judge me for my posts? Is everything grammatically correct (teacher in me)? From now on, I am doing this blog for myself, as personal reflection on my life. One day I can go back and look at how I have grown.

So read it, or not. I am doing this blog thing. Here goes nothing...

I hope you will stick around and enjoy my life in the FAST lane.