Family is Forever

Oh my goodness - WHAT A WEEKEND!! And wait, it's 2014? Are you sure? ... 
Regardless of the fact that I've been MIA all year, I had the most amazing weekend ever this past weekend. Seriously. It's what we all needed, and I'm so glad that we were able to enjoy it before the craziness of life hits us with full force. Because let's face it, today is back to reality for a lot of people, including myself! 
This weekend, I went on a surprise visit home. My sister {who now has a blog of her own thanks to her amazingly awesome sister!! ahhhh!!} was planning to head home for the weekend to just get away. I tagged along, and my brother jumped on the bandwagon with us on Saturday morning! So, we headed out for the two hour drive. 
On the way, my brother DJ'd for us with a playlist of random songs that took us back, back, back in time! {Drumline reference...love, love, love that movie!}. Just to name a few...
Buckcherry - Crazy Bitch Eminem - Slim Shady Britney Spears - Oops I Did it Again Jay Z - 99 Problems  Chumbawamba - Tubthumper Freak Nasty - The Dip  Will Smith - Gettin Jiggy With It  The Gorillaz - Clint Eastwood Train - Meet Virginia  Christina Aguilera - Genie in a Bottle Shaggy - Angel Crazy Train - Butterfly Baha Men - Who Let the Dogs Out Britney Spears - Work Bitch Shaggy - It Wasn't Me 
I told you, random and old school! It was so much fun and really made the drive fly by! And then we surprised my parents when all three of us showed up - so that was fun, too. AND IT ONLY GOT BETTER FROM THERE! I seriously cannot put into words how great this weekend was. But I'm trying anyway :). 
Once we got home, we trekked over to the old house that we grew up in, and boy, the memories came flooding back! We laughed and just reminisced over so much! Once we got back to mom and dad's house, we went through even more stuff that my mom had brought over from the old house already. We had such a fun time reading through old school assignments and projects - laughter is good for the soul, right? :) 
I had apparently written a hilarious story about how much I love to fish. Be on the lookout for that later this week ;). We also played some Future Cop on the Playstation 2! Another trip down memory lane! It just kept coming and coming, all weekend long! 
Sunday after church, we played some games, but the most popular and most fun was pictionary! We played that game and laughed so hard for well over 4 hours! I learned just how much I am not artistic, by any means... 
Overall, this weekend was a big trip down memory lane, and we loved every second of it! It was so good and refreshing to get together as a family and truly enjoy one another's company. We weren't trolling Facebook or glued to the TV the entire time. We actually spent quality time together! I think we all needed it, and we were all so happy the entire weekend! There was no bickering or arguing or fighting or anything. It was just a long, fun-filled weekend with my family. And it's one I'll cherish forever. 
I know that reading this, it may not seem like that great of a weekend, but I guess you just had to be there! We busted out some crazy dance moves, sang stupid song lyrics, got weird things stuck in our head, and laughed at each other's randomness. Blessed moments, I tell ya! And because we spent so much time away from our phones, I didn't really get any pictures of the craziness {I know, blogger fail}, but it was SO GOOD to be able to just live in the moment and enjoy time with my loved ones. God has truly blessed me with one amazing family, and for that, I'm forever grateful! He knew we needed this time together and He didn't disappoint! 

{Pops}

He's gone.  He's really gone.  And it hurts. 

My grandpa was one of the strongest men I've ever known, and I truly know where my dad gets his strength - no question.  And these last 10+ months have been hard.  Let's face it, the last two years have been hard when it comes to my grandpa.  Two years ago on November 7th, my grandmother passed away tragically.  Now, I won't get into that again since I've already discussed it...read more here.  My cousin said it beautifully recently at my grandfather's funeral.  When Granny passed away, a huge part of Pops died along with her.  Who were any of us to blame him? He had just lost the love of his life and soulmate. They had been married almost 60 years! They lived on a farm and took care of cows, chickens, baled hay, and loved it all.  Now, remove a huge piece of that - your partner through it all - and what do you have left?  Heartache.  That's what.  Although the shock really hit me, I can't even begin to imagine what my grandfather felt and went through in the short time he lived without her.  I tear up every single time I think about it. He witnessed her death. He was reminded of her every single day living in their house, with all of her trinkets and pictures everywhere...

Following the death of my grandmother, he repeatedly told everyone over and over that 'he was going to the wedding on Saturday, but after that, 'he just didn't know.' The wedding. My wedding. Although it would break his heart to experience this occasion without his bride, he knew how much it would mean to me, his granddaughter, and my future husband to attend our wedding. And he did so, without hesitation and without question. My cousin captured this picture beautifully, and I will treasure it forever.

He lived in their house for many months after her passing and loved his dog, Max, to the moon and back.  The smile that the dog put on his face will be one that I will never forget.  And then, before I knew it, he was admitted to the nursing home.  At first, it was only to recover from a fall he had taken a few days prior, but he never did.  Before I knew it, the nursing home was his 'home', and that's where I would go to visit him for the next nine months. 

My grandfather was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer this year, and the man never smoked a day in his life (that I'm aware of). 19 years ago, he was diagnosed with and beat prostate cancer.  This time was much, much different. Through all of the doctors and tests and tears, these past 9 months have been a rollercoaster, to say the least. And I only experienced it as a granddaughter. I cannot even begin to imagine what it is like to go through all of that with a parent or spouse, and just thinking about it absolutely breaks my heart.  My dad was so amazing through the ups and downs with his father after losing his mom, and again I am reminded at just how amazing of a man he really is - not only as a father to me and my siblings, but as a spouse, sibling, and son. 

Knowing what was going on with Pops, I took advantage of every free weekend that I had. Did it take a toll on our financials? Absolutely. Did it put a strain on my marriage? You betcha! But my amazing husband understood what I was going through - and if he didn't, he supported me and knew that I needed to be at my grandfather's side, visiting him and showing him that I cared and loved him every chance that I could. That made for many, many trips home, all during the summer working overtime and already being stressed out. Needless to say, my anxiety was through the roof! But, I am blessed to be strong in my faith and to have an amazing family that pulls together in difficult times, as well as such great friends!

But with that being said, death really is a rollercoaster! I lost count of just how many times I prepared myself for my grandfather's passing. It's utterly exhausting, both physically and emotionally. But in those moments, I chose not to be selfish. After preparing my mind, heart, and soul to lose him when things were looking bleak, God was not ready for him just yet, and then a few more weeks went by with him seemingly improving.  Then, I fell into complacency yet again, into a routine of visiting my grandpa as I had over the years when I'd go home to visit my parents.  This happened time and time again, but I refused to allow myself to be selfish and hope for it all to just be over. I wanted the suffering to end for Pops, yes. But was I ready for him to really be gone? Definitely not. I just kept showing up - no matter what was happening, whether it was a good day or not, I would be there as often as I could living two hours away. And I cherished every minute I had with him, even if no words were exchanged. The smile on his face when I'd walk in was more than enough to let me know just how much he appreciated the time and effort I put into being sure I was there for him as much as possible. I knew I couldn't do much to help him, to ease his pain, but if sitting with him for a few hours, talking with him, or playing cards and dominoes with him helped in any way, I am happy to have eased his burden, even if only a small amount.  I will live the rest of my days with no regrets in regard to Pops; I saw him as much as possible. I visited every chance I could. I chose him over so many other things that were going on in my life (spending time with my husband, friends, sleep, and other commitments). My response to everyone else in my life was that I was going home that weekend to visit with my parents and grandfather. And they accepted it because they know me. They knew how important it was for me to be there when I could.  For that, I am forever grateful!

So, for months and months, that's what I did. I showed up. If he was back at home in the nursing home, I made the trip to visit. If he was here in town at the E.R., I went straight after work to just sit there. And although I couldn't be with him, as only one person was allowed back with him at a time, I showed up for my family. Whether my dad needed someone to talk to, or my aunt needed someone to walk around with to take a break - whatever was needed, I was more than willing to spend my evening in the waiting room with them to be of whatever help I could. And, it was my grandfather, whom I've been close with since before I can remember! I wanted and needed to be there, for myself too.  I just hope and pray that I didn't overstay my welcome in those moments; I know that there were so many dark days that my grandfather and his children needed to be together and to make difficult decisions - and sometimes having anyone else there is the last thing they'd want...I just pray that I didn't burden any of those days or decisions in any way, and in my heart, I know I didn't.  That's just who I am - I show up. Even if it's just to sit with a loved one or to take care of some chores around the house because they just emotionally aren't up for it - whatever the case may be, I show up.  But in all of those moments that I chose to show up for my family, and especially Pops, I don't regret a single one. I am thankful that I was able to be there as much as I was, and those are memories that will last me a lifetime! 

Pops lost his battle with cancer on August 7, 2013.  I remember that day like it was yesterday, even though it was three months ago. I can't believe he's already been gone that long! Pops was given 2 weeks to live by hospice, and he was determined to beat that timeline. He was so sure that he was going to live longer than what they said he had, and he did.  By three hours. It was one more way, after he was gone, that he put a smile on my face. Although he was no longer with us, he was his normal, stubborn self, up until the very end. He lived 2 weeks and three hours from the date he was given only 2 weeks. For that, I am eternally grateful. I needed that joy in those dark moments of grief, and to this day, it makes me smile.  He passed away peacefully in his sleep after receiving some pain medication only minutes before.  And now, he is no longer suffering.  No more tests.  No more doctors.  No more nurses.  No more pain.  And knowing those things right there is what makes it easier for me to accept and begin healing from his loss.  He is happily in Heaven with his wife, dancing away, pain free!  How joyous a thought!  Colten and I drove to my hometown that afternoon and spent time with family. The rosary was beautiful, and it was amazing to really see and feel the support of family and friends that made the trip to pay their respects. And to them, I want to say thank you.  Again.  It truly means the world to me to know that people love on my family and that my grandfather had touched the hearts of so many people during his days on earth. The funeral the next day was an amazing service.  I agreed to do one of the readings, and I was nervous! Although I had done it less than two years ago at my grandma's funeral, for some reason the nerves got to me this time. But, I stumbled through it and am so glad that I did it. And then it came time for the grandchildren to say a few words about our cherished grandfather. My cousin had me in tears before it was my turn to speak, and he had pretty much covered everything.  But I told myself I would say something and that I wanted to honor Pops as I had with Granny.  So, with eyes stinging with tears and my hands shaking, I told everyone in attendance that my love for him was ever so deep, and that no matter what was going on in any of our lives, my grandparents never judged us. They were never disappointed by anything I had ever done and were always happy to see me and hear about what was going on in my life.  We laid my grandfather to rest to the sounds of the 21 gun salute and taps being played in the distance. It was the first military funeral I had witnessed, and it was beautiful. He is finally at peace with his love and his Creator.

Pops,

I am so unbelievably saddened by your loss but am thankful you are no longer suffering. I am proud to be your stubborn granddaughter and to have laughed, loved, and cried right along with you throughout the years. Your love for your family and your faith have been carried on and live in me. Thank you for showing your love and support through anything and everything I did, from sports and school, to my wedding day and the sacredness of marriage that I now share with my husband. I have a lifetime of memories that I will cherish forever. I can still hear your laugh, and I know that you are laughing in Heaven alongside your bride and Creator, no longer brokenhearted or in pain. I will miss you every day of my life and look forward to the day I will see you again.  I love you.

Always, and forever. 

Bri

Today, it is painful to drive past his house and know that neither him nor my grandmother will ever be looking out of the kitchen window to see what's going on, to know that I will never sit down to an amazing home cooked meal in their kitchen, by their hands. Today, I miss the joy and laughter that both of them brought to my life. Today, I am having difficulty accepting that I've experienced the first Grandparents Day that I did not have any living grandparents to celebrate with. Today, and every day, my heart hurts.  But every day is easier. Time truly does heal, and one day, the raw pain of losing him will be gone, and I will only feel joy and love of remembering him.

One day.

But until then, it hurts. 

 

This will be the first holiday season without any of my grandparents, and I know it's going to be hard, to say the least. It's going to be tough to be in his house and him not be there. All of the memories of my childhood, visiting that house, spending summers helping him and my grandma on the farm, picking eggs from the chicken coop, watching him put out hay, checking cows...they're endless. I know he is in a much better place now, without pain, but this is going to be one tough holiday season! I'm requesting prayers and comfort for me and my family during this time, as we take life a day at a time without our loved one and try to celebrate the joy of this holiday season.  He's gone, but he will never be forgotten!

200...and counting!

Wow...already?! It's my 200th post! Freakin' crazy! But as crazy as it is, I'm also super excited that my blog has really taken off this year!

I started this blog as an outlet for me to use and just to ramble on and on and on about everything and nothing all at the same time. Seriously, there was no big {Aha!} moment, no wedding to blog about, no family to keep informed of anything significant happening in my life - nothing. My cousin had a blog and I sort of just decided to roll with it one day, so I did. Enter: my first blog post. Seriously pathetic! And hilarious! And mostly pathetic. Ha! I crack up when I read that - as if anyone was reading?! Super hilarious lame attempt. But, it took off from there. Not very fast. Not very consistent. It just was. And for a while, that's all it was. In 2009 {I began in April}, I only had 12 blog posts. Twelve. And every single post was about my random life. Seriously, there's even a post about the swine flu. Remember that? Yeah, I went there! And post after post rambling on about classes and the trouble I faced with college. Reading back, I'm so glad I'm donezo with that chapter of my life! Seriously!

And now, a few posts that have stuck out to me over the years...

+ wedding proposal

+ prayer (here and here)

+ my amazing hubby (here, here, here, and here)

+ crazy family shenanigans (here, here, and here)

+ struggles (here and here [seriously, Bri?! wow...])

+ my car accident (here and here)

+ my faith (here, here, here, and here)

+ the year that changed my life forever

+ Granny Getschmann (here and here)

+ people pleasing

+ goals before I turn 30 {I can't even fathom that right now...}

+ and my blog wouldn't be complete without posts about myself now would it? Didn't think so. (here and here)

Okay, those are just about all a few of the posts that have graced this here blog over the years. But mostly, I'm thankful where I am today, through all of those posts. Some are happy, some are not. And of course, there are DiY projects and other fabulous things in there - so take some time to look around! It was fun looking back on all that I deemed blog worthy. Ha!  I remember earlier this year being so frustrated with blogging, I felt like I was missing out on all of the connections and the fun. What I didn't know was just how much work and commitment it took to really get all out of my blog that I could. But it's definitely worth it! I've made some great bloggy friends and I look forward to meeting many more! And then, my heart was being led to change up the blog. My Life Would Suck Without Me just wasn't fitting anymore. Thus began Faithful Footprints. I know that so many more great things will come through this blog and I'm excited for it all!

Blogging has been a great outlet for me, even if no one is out there reading it {although I know there are...and for those of you, thank you!}. I've found a passion in writing, and I hope that skill only improves over time. Blogging has become a part of my life, and it's something I'm so grateful to have! So, here's to post number 200, and more to come!

*And, as a side note, since this post is already crazy random, the weather today is glorious! Seriously, it's 44 degrees and sunny! It just doesn't get much better than that! I'm one happy girl. :)

**Today is also filled with mixed emotions, as it was two years ago today that my grandmother tragically was taken from this world and three months ago today that my grandfather lost his battle with cancer. I miss them both terribly and think about them every.single.day. I know they are now together in Heaven watching over us without any pain or concerns. Thank God for memories. And pictures.
 

Our amazing family!



   

FAM{iLY}, FuN, & shoes. {Weekend Shenanigans}

This past weekend was excellent, and much needed as I hadn't had one in a while! So, what better way to capture all of the awesomeness than by linking up for Sami's Shenanigans?! Don't worry, I couldn't think of a better way, either. ;)

 

 

This weekend was also the first one that my darling husband has had off in a while - there were initially plans regarding his reasoning for requesting the weekend off, but they fell through. Lucky for me, because that meant we actually got to spend a weekend together! :) Saturday, we took advantage of it and spent the day running errands, together. It's always so much better to not have to do that alone. It was great quality time, and we accomplished a lot!

 

My amazing husband also surprised me with these 'get well' flowers after finishing up my retreatment on Thursday - so sweet!

We stopped by Academy to try on some shoes, as both Colten and I have been in pretty desperate need for new tennis shoes. And of course, my awesome brother was working, so it was a plus to get to visit with him in the process! We ended up staying for two and a half hours in the footwear department! Holy cow! But, it made his time at work go by faster, and Colten also found the steel toe workboots - score! However, he also found the above camo snake boots and tried to talk me into letting him get them. Umm, sorry darling husband, but you do not need snake boots to walk around our apartment. Nice try, though! ;)

Since we were at Academy for forever, it was time for Josh's lunch break, so we took him out to eat! Yay! Of course, we hit up Jack in the Box down the street - his fave! Then, this walked in the door... Needless to say we were highly entertained. I mean, seriously? Keep Austin Weird at its finest!

Sunday morning, we were off to church, and it was a great service! I truly cherish every time that we are able to worship as a couple.  Seeing how Colten's schedule differs weekly, this isn't always possible. But when it is, I'm one happy wife! Happy wife=happy life, right?! :)

Sunday afternoon, we headed over to Main Event Entertainment and met Josh after work. We started out with some bowling action, in which both Josh and I each won a game. And there's proof, people! It was a blast, as always! And, they are running their $5 FUNbination promotion through November 22, which means you get 'unlimited' play per activity for only $5! However, they do limit bowling to an hour at a time due to the high volume of people just itching to play. Colten wasn't too happy about this little fact, but we cheered him up and headed over for glow-in-the-dark putt putt golf! We had a blast, and it was definitely great to get out of the house! 

After golf, we headed back to Josh's place to order our new shoes! Score! His girlfriend was home, and we ever so kindly pretty much forced her to take a break from studying - sorry! But she hadn't heard of this song yet, so we definitely had to play it ... maybe on repeat for a few times...

We also introduced her into the world of music videos by Miley Cyrus - she knew of the songs and liked them...possibly until she saw the videos. You're welcome.

We ended the night by heading over to Sonic for supper, and I was introduced to the Ocean Water - THANK YOU! Super delicious, and I just so happen to work right next to a Sonic and can totally walk over during happy hour. :)

How was your weekend? Let me know!

{Granny Getschmann}

It's been 9 years since my grandma passed away, but the memories are as vivid and fresh as ever. 

I miss her so much, and I know that she is looking down over all of us, but the pain doesn't ever really go away. 

Although I didn't really know it then, I loved every minute that we got to spend with her, and I truly wish that I could know her now, as an adult, to be able to communicate my love to her in such a deeper way. 

Spending so many days at her house after school, she probably got tired of us! Haha.  But we were her grandkids, and I know she appreciated the invaluable moments with us as well. 

I will never forget that woman's coffee cake.  Seriously, never.  She always had at least two different kinds in the freezer for us to choose from, and she always let us have as much as we wanted!  Boy, could she cook!  I really wish someone would have learned her recipe, as every one I've researched and found just isn't the same - I fear I will never again taste the deliciousness that was her coffee cake.  Dewberry was my favorite, and she knew it too!  Just thinking about it brings back the smells and taste of the melt-in-your mouth dewberry coffee cake.

She loved to cook and was always in the kitchen - ALWAYS!  But none of us ever complained...let's not kid ourselves here.  I don't think I have a single memory of my childhood that didn't involve my granny in the kitchen ... and I just smile thinking about every one of them! :-D

She was such a strong and independent woman.  Raising three kids by herself, she did what she had to do.  I don't know her entire childhood history, but I know that every obstacle and endeavor ultimately formed the character that I grew to know and love.  Seriously, if I could be half the mother, role model, and woman she was, I'd consider myself blessed! 

She did everything in her power to make sure her grandkids were happy.  If she was picking us up from school, she would be sure to have a soda wrapped in aluminum foil for the less-than-five-minute-drive to the school, as well as a star crunch.  They aren't the healthiest, but I still buy those things today, if only for the memories with my granny.  She wanted to make sure we had a snack and that the soda was still cold.  No, she could not wait for us to get to her house ten minutes from her leaving.  I'm delighted by these memories, now.  At the time, eyebrows were probably raised at this act, but I will cherish the memory forever.  Seriously, I really do buy those star crunch just because it reminds me of her.  Oh, and they are so much better if you have them in the freezer :).  Right, Josh?!  And I'm pretty sure my sister always thinks back on her marvelous gravy bread.  Basically, it was gravy (that she had made, of course!) over a piece of bread.  But the bread was then cut into small squares, and there was a squirt of ketchup on each and every square.  Seriously, it was a pretty amazing snack!

She also loved her some Houston Astros.  She would yell at the players as if they could hear her criticism and wouldn't think anything else of it.  She was unique and (from what I can remember) didn't care what most people thought of her. 

Christmas was always at her house on Christmas Eve.  My mom's side of the family would gather in her small house to celebrate the holiday.  We would all squish together in her tiny, tiny living room and open gifts, one at a time.  I also remember a few times that we went to midnight mass together as a family.  Seriously, some great memories.  And every one of them is of love, laughter, and joy that was being with family in my grandma's house. 

Granny was also very involved in her faith and her church.  I have countless memories of going with her to mass on Sundays and attending her Vacation Bible School in the summers.  Those would be some of the best weeks of my life!  She would always pick us up, excited to hear about what we did or learned that day, with a huge smile on her face and hurrying us to get in the car.  :)

She also had so many faithful and loyal friends.  Many of them at her church.  I will never forget their smiling faces and reactions to my showing up time and time again.  She was also always on the phone with those friends, a few of them she would talk to in German.  I always wanted to learn the language from her, but that dream was shattered the day that the good Lord called her to His kindgdom. 

I was in high school when it happened.  I had just finished my freshman year of high school.  Josh and I were at her house when our cousins showed up to give us the news.  Being that it was 9 years ago, I don't remember my exact reaction, but I know that we were taken to the nursing home where she was, and I remember looking at her and seeing that she was in peace and no longer in pain.  I don't remember much else of that day, other than my whole family was there in the nursing home, but arrangements had to be made.  I don't know if it was that night or the next night, but I remember that I went to the theater in town to see the Harry Potter movie that was playing.  I remember sitting in the back and just losing it and crying inconsolably. 

My grandma died of pancreatic cancer.  I don't remember much of it, again being that I was only 14 at the time, and it was nine years ago.  I just know that she had been in the hospital after going to her primary care doctor and being told that her aches and pains were that of 'old age' (this I got from stories from family after the fact).  I remember the time I went to visit her in the hospital, probably because everyone knew she didn't have much longer to be with us and I wanted to see her one last time.  She was so yellow, and she was in so much pain.  She was no longer the strong, stubborn woman that I knew as my granny.  She had been plagued by the cancer, which took over her body.  From what I've been told, the doctors had given her a prognosis of a few months, but it was just a few short weeks that she had left with us. 

There were so many people at the funeral, which proved just how much my Granny meant to so many people.  She was inspirational and a blessing to each and every one of our lives, whether we realized it then or not. 

I have a few things of hers that I will absolutely cherish forever, no matter how small or how much it does not go with our decor. 

One year for Christmas, the number one item that I wanted was to have a ring in memory of my grandma.  My mom made sure that it was something I received.  It's a simple band with these words enscribed:

In memory of Evelyn Getschmann.  Truly loved and deeply missed. 

A few years later, I bought a small cross to be worn with the ring.  I absolutely love the outcome and I have cherished it from that Christmas I received it.  I admit that I did lose it once, for quite a long time.  I was so upset and livid with myself for allowing it to be misplaced.  However, I came across it in a bag from when we moved into a new apartment.  It was such a happy day, and words cannot express just how thankful I was to have found it and wear it again. 

Today, I'm reminiscing on the memories that I have of my granny.  Today, I'm thanking God for blessing me with such an amazing grandmother in which to learn from and love.  Today, I know that she is another one of my guardian angels watching over me and protecting me.  Today, I smile knowing just how much she loved me as well. 

I love you, Granny.  And I miss you beyond words. 

Where We Belong {Reading Recap}

WHERE WE BELONG by Emily Giffin
 
Goodreads' summary: 

Marian Caldwell is a thirty-six year old television producer, living her dream in New York City. With a fulfililng career and satisfying relationship, she has convinced everyone, including herself, that her life is just as she wants it to be. But one night, Marian answers a knock on the door...only to find Kirby Rose, an eighteen-year-old girl with a key to a past that Marian thought she had sealed off forever. From the moment Kirby apperas on her doorstep, Marian's perfectly constructed world - and her very identity - will be shaken to its core, resurrecting ghosts and memories of a passionate young love affair that threaten everything that has come to define her.

  For the precocious and determined Kirby, the encounter will spur a process of discovery that ushers her across the threshold of adulthood, forcing her to re-evaluate her family and future in a wise and bittersweet light.  As the two women embark on a journey to find the one thing missing in their lives, each will come to recognize that where we belong is often where we least expect to find ourselves - a place that we may have willed ourselves to forget, but that the heart remembers forever.    

    My Review:  The book was a little slow-going at first, but once in the meat of things, it was definitely a page turner!  I loved all of the characters .. that's right, every.single.one.of.them.  This story was definitely one that touched my heart, in more ways than one.     I found this book very relatable.  Kirby Rose felt like an outsider, a loner if you will.  She didn't really feel she belonged anywhere - she wasn't popular in school, her parents had their 'miracle' baby, she knew she was adopted, she didn't excel at anything in particular, and her one interest was sort of looked down upon.  Poor thing.  Although these are not all exactly 'me', I was still able to relate to Kirby.  I've had my moments of loneliness and lacking a sense of belonging.  I don't have a lot of friends I can turn to and lean on in my moments of need.  A daunting future after high school IS scary.  I was there.  But, just like Kirby, I was able to find my way.  I have a loving family that supports me 120%, a faithful and compassionate husband that I can lean on no matter the circumstances, and true, loyal friends (although few) that I know have my back always.  I have a home, a great job, a strong faith, and a good head on my shoulders.     Finishing the book, I was forced to reflect upon my life and the choices I've made in the past 20 years.  Were there hard times?  Hell yes.   Did I cry day in and day out sometimes?  Absolutely.  Was it worth it?  Every minute.     You see, God has a plan for all of us, and although we don't know what that plan is, it will happen in His time and on His terms.  There's no doubt that struggling through those hard times have only made me stronger to face what is to come.  There's no doubt that there are still stormy days ahead.  But there's also no doubt that I have a support system to turn to in times of need.  There's no doubt that I will enjoy every minute of every day while living my life to the fullest.  I've had to make some difficult decisions in the course of my lifetime, but I don't have a single regret.Upon reflecting on my life after finishing this book, I know that I'm truly blessed to be where I am in life and I know that my reality is better than any fairy tale ♥.   

Teenage Pregnancy

This is a topic that is very common in today's society.  Teenagers are sexually active, leading to many teenage, unplanned pregnancies.  I was fortunate enough to not have to grow up and sacrifice my teen years and early twenties raising a baby.  I'm not saying it's the worst thing ever, because I personally know people that have been there and have become so much better for it (and are such amazing mothers and fathers!).  In this book, Marian ended up losing her virginity and becoming pregnant in the same night.  She called it the 'double curse'.  It really does take just one time in order to become pregnant.  And just when you think it can't happen to you, it does!  Marian made the choice to give birth to her baby but to give it up for adoption.  I am not a mother (yet), but I cannot even fathom the difficulty of that decision.  Although she knew it was the best decision for her baby, the guilt and pain of losing your baby is just unimaginable.  BUT, the thought of literally keeping it a secret from EVERYONE, including your own father AND the baby's father, is just unreal.  I definitely didn't agree with that decision.  

Marriage

Although I was rooting for Peter in the beginning, as he seemed so perfect for Marian, I'm so glad she told him the truth - that she could not marry him because she wanted to be madly in love with her husband.  She admitted that she loved the idea of Peter but not the man himself, especially after seeing her high school flame, Conrad, again.  Those two were inseparable the summer after their high school graduation - and ended up being the loves of each other's lives.  Who knew?!  A summer romance really can turn into something much deeper and more meaningful.  When you love someone so much, you just know that they're 'the one'.  I know it's totally cliche, but it's so true!  If you have to question whether it's right for you to marry so and so, then it probably isn't.  I know that I had no doubt in my mind when Colten proposed.  I knew we were meant to be together!  And it's such an amazing feeling.  

Family

Kirby really struggled with not feeling as though she 'belonged' with her family, so she took the risk to find her birth parents - she was so strong! It definitely took courage and (let's face it) balls to do what she did.  I know it's just a book, but it proved just how passionate she was in finding out where she came from - to find that sense of belonging.  Once she met and knew her birth parents, she fit in better.  There was no question where she got her musical talent from or her fine hair or pale skin.  And one of my favorite parts of this whole book is definitely the scene where Marian and her father finally talked about the 'big secret' they were all keeping from each other.  They cut to the chase, admitted hurt feelings, bluntly explained their feelings, and they moved forward.  Her dad wanted her to keep the baby - so precious!  My second favorite part: the day of Kirby's high school graduation, with her family and birth parents in her living room reminiscing over her baby/childhood pictures, with her MOTHER narrating.  Such a beautiful picture and sense of belonging for Kirby.  I personally didn't relate as much with this aspect of the book.  My family is so strong and I've always felt I've belonged.  But I'm also not adopted, so there's that.  My family is loud, crazy, outgoing, supportive, funny, out of control, laid back, and most importantly, loving.  No matter what has happened, through all of the ups and downs, we've always been there for each other no matter what.  I know I can turn to any and all of them when I'm feeling down about something, in trouble, or just need to chat.  I know, I'm so blessed! 

I was actually sad when the book ended.  I was really hoping for more of a story between Conrad and Marian after all those years apart, but the books never get to the 'happily ever after' ... *sigh*. 

In all, I loved this book and would definitely recommend it to ANYONE and EVERYONE! 

Linking up with Heather over at Blonde...Undercover Blonde for Book Club Friday!

 

What a {Rude Awakening}

So, a few days ago I was browsing through a lot of my old pictures and decided to join in on the 'throwback thursday' fad that's been going around on Instagram.  I chose one from our honeymoon over a year ago, because that was such a great time to just spend with my new husband without any of the drama or anyone around to tell us what we need to do or what we were doing wrong.  As many of you know if you've been reading my blog, it was a hard time for me and my family.     But then, I happened upon this picture: 

  The memories came flooding back: fear, blood, burnt metal, the sounds, birds, hysteria, my brother, shattered glass, and quite possibly the worst moment in my entire life - the moment I realized 
I had killed my little brother.       Eight years ago TODAY, I was driving to school with my brother, as I had many mornings before.  We lived in the country, so it was a little drive to get into town.  It was the same route to school that I had taken every morning, so it wasn't any different in that respect, but that morning changed my life forever.       We were crossing a small bridge that was in the middle of a wooded area - a small ravine-type thing is under the bridge...it's not a super-long drop, but it was far enough.  Also, there was no water in it - just sand.  It's hard to explain so just go with it.  So, I was crossing that bridge, and out from the trees flew a buzzard.  Yes, a buzzard.  It was a GIANT buzzard.  I don't know for sure that it was a buzzard, as I'm not a bird expert, but it was a rather large bird.  Regardless, it was coming straight for us.  To be exact, it was coming straight towards the passenger side window, which is where my brother was.  In my mind, I knew that I could not allow it to hit, as it would break the window and quite possibly severely injure my brother and quite possibly myself.  Little did I know how ironic that would be now.     I swerved, towards the later half of the bridge, to avoid hitting the bird, but I also had to swerve the truck in such a way that I would not cause us to land at the bottom of the ravine.  We wouldn't survive that kind of crash.     Keep in mind that all of this happened in about 2 seconds at most.  I felt like it was about half an hour that I had to decide what to do and process what was happening, but it obviously wasn't that long.  I ended up over-correcting, causing the truck to spin and slam into a pipe entrance.  The human brain is an amazing thing, as I do not recall the actual impact, nor do I recall any pain at all on my part, other than the pain in my heart as I regained consciousness after only a few seconds (I assume), looked over to check on my brother, and saw that he was slumped over with his head hanging down and blood coming from his nose and ears - completely not moving.  It was at that moment that my brain went to the obvious: he was dead.  I couldn't bring myself to touch him, but I began screaming his name and begging him to please wake up!  I couldn't believe it was happening ... I knew it had to just be a terrible dream in which I would soon wake up and everything would be okay.  But it was far from a dream.  It was very much real and very scary.    

 

The truck spun so that the impact of the crash was on my brother's side of the truck.  His door was completely crushed in and it was terrible.  The back windshield was completely shattered, and we uprooted several of the posts holding the pipe entrance together.  So many factors played a key role in how the events of that day unfolded, one very important one being that it had recently rained quite a bit, which doesn't happen too often around there.  Therefore, the ground was wet enough for the posts to be uprooted instead of being so dry and them not budging.  It would've been a completely different accident had that happened.  Luckily, God was very much with us that day, and our lives on Earth were not over.  Josh regained consciousness, and my brother was ALIVE.  It was nothing short of a miracle.  Unfortunately, that didn't mean that we would walk away without a scratch or be unharmed at all from the accident.  Since his door was crushed in, I grew frantic as I tried to figure out a way to get him out of the car.  That's all I knew: I had to get him out.  It didn't dawn on me that maybe I should leave him where he is as to not further harm him - I didn't know if he had any injuries or what hurt.  He was in and out of consciousness, so his answers were slurred and not coherent whatsoever.  I just knew that I had to get him out.  That's where my focus went...immediately.  I pulled and pulled, twisted, kicked, did everything in my power to get his door open...and it worked!  I received a large, nasty burn on my arm from this process, but I was able to get the door open enough to get him out of there.  It's amazing what you can do when there's so much adrenaline coursing through your body.  There's no way I would've been able to get that door open otherwise.  It was at that moment that I got the door open that I knew something was still terribly wrong...he just wasn't right.  I carefully got him out of the truck and laid him on the ground, with my backpack as a pillow.  That's when I REALLY saw it - he had a compound fracture to his femur.  I had managed to break the largest and strongest bone in his body.  I hated myself, and did so for a very long time.     I remember that he complained of being terrifyingly cold, so I searched and searched for a blanket.  Normally, I wouldn't have one, but we were scheduled to play a softball game that night, so I had one because I knew it would be cold.   After I had Josh out of the truck and covered as best as I could, I frantically searched for my cell phone, which had been on the console prior to the accident.  It was nowhere to be found.  I looked through so much glass and metal - but I just couldn't find the thing anywhere!  I asked Josh if he knew where his cell phone was prior to the crash.  He never really answered, as he was not completely conscious, as I soon realized, during any of this.  I held up his backpack in his face once when his eyes were open, yelling at him to please listen and if his phone was in the bag.  He said yes, so I ripped through the thing but couldn't find the phone anywhere.  So, neither phone could be found, and the road that this happened on was not a main road with a lot of traffic, so I was totally losing my mind as to how to call for help.  No one was going to find us.     But, someone did drive up, finally, and I ran to the road as fast as I could to ask for a cell phone or for him to call for help.  It was only later that I realized who it was that drove up first on the scene.  A little boy and his grandfather were on their way to school - the same family that attended our church - the same little boy that lost his entire family: mother, father, baby brother in a car accident not long ago.  I'm sure it was horrifying to see another scene such as the one that lost him his entire family.  And I hated myself yet again for the events that unfolded that morning.  I was causing that little boy to relive the most painful memory of his short little life.  I was a terrible person.     The man allowed me to use his cell phone, and it was at that point that I realized I was bleeding - I had no idea where it was coming from or why there was so much.  Nothing hurt.  But the blood was everywhere.  And it wasn't stopping...  I used his phone and called my dad.  Yes, I called my dad first and not 9-1-1.  I told him that I had an accident and that Josh was hurt but that we were both alive.  I explained where we were and he firmly told me that I had to call for help.  I hung up with my dad, and I don't really remember what happened next.  I don't recall calling 911, so I'm pretty sure the man did that for me, as I couldn't exactly pinpoint the name of the road we were on, even though I KNEW which road it was.  My brain was not functioning as it normally did, so it's understandable.  While I was on the phone, someone else drove up and went straight to my brother behind the truck.  He stayed with him and talked with him, keeping him semi-conscious and not allowing him to fully fall asleep, as we were both pretty sure he had a severe concussion.  The next few moments are also unaccounted for.  I don't recall very much time passing between that phone call and help finally arriving.  All I remember about those moments in between was being next to my brother and completely and totally losing my mind.  He was hurt.  Terribly.  I was somehow hurt, somewhere.  What had I done?  Where was the help?  What was taking them so long?  What was I going to do?  Why did I swerve to miss the stupid bird?  Why did I inflict so much pain to someone that I loved so much?  Of course I didn't do it on purpose, but I hated myself.  I was so mad that it wasn't me that was horribly hurt instead of Josh.  I wanted nothing more than to switch places with him, but I couldn't.     Soon thereafter, an ambulance, fire trucks, and police cars arrived on scene.  Finally!  I was forced to leave my brother and tell the officer exactly what happened.  I believe it was at that point that my grandparents arrived, as they didn't live very far away and wanted to - needed to - be there for us.  And for that, I will be forever grateful.  That was also the day that I saw my grandpa cry and show fear.  Living in a small town, everyone knows who you are and who you're related to.  I'm so thankful for that because someone knew that my grandparents were, in fact, my grandparents and knew them/had their phone number to call them.  My grandpa went to talk to EMS that were with my brother to ascertain what his injuries were, and my grandma stayed with me.  After that, I was forced to be seen my EMS to assess my injuries, of which I very rudely yelled at everyone and anyone that I had none - that I was fine and felt fine.  And when I say forced regarding all of this, it's only because I demanded to be allowed to stay with my brother, by his side, while he was taken care of by medical professionals.  I refused to leave his side, but, like I said, I was forced.  I know now, and knew shortly thereafter that it was for the best, but I was so mad that they made me leave him even for a minute.  But, it was apparent that I was injured, somewhere, and that I had already lost a lot of blood.  I felt like I had been running around like a maniac trying to find phones and then flagging down someone for help.  I hadn't realized that my clothes were completely drenched in blood.  I remember finding that pretty gross. But I was still convinced that I was fine and that I didn't have any injuries.  I was wrong.   EMS placed me in a neck brace, telling me not to move my head anymore, and then strapped me down on a stretcher.  I was livid.  I wouldn't leave Josh.  I yelled and screamed at everyone to please take care him first, but there were enough people to look after us both.  Some time passed, just how much, I'm not sure, but then a helicopter landed in the pasture behind the accident.  My brother was being life flighted to Austin.  Realizing that his injuries were so bad that he had to be life flighted, my hatred toward myself only grew.  It grew and grew, and I prayed.  I prayed that Josh would be okay.  I prayed that this would all soon be over and everything could go back to normal.  But normal didn't come.  Not for a long time.     Josh was life flighted to Brackenridge Hospital in Austin.  No one was allowed to ride with my brother in the helicopter, so my dad and grandpa took off for Austin to be there as soon as possible.  I was taken by ambulance to LaGrange Hospital for my injuries.  My grandma rode with us in the ambulance.  That was the LONGEST ride of my life, and my head was killing me.  I repeatedly asked the paramedic to PLEASE (okay, begged is more like it) look at my head and fix the stupid neck brace.  It felt like my hair was being pulled out of my head with such strong force.  And, my begging was not met with results, because he just repeated that we would be at the hospital soon and that I would be okay.  He was not understanding my obvious state of 'not okay' at that time.  But I was being ridiculous, and he was the professional, and I needed to just wait until I was at the hospital to be assessed by yet more doctors.  But it hurt!     My dad was on the scene as soon as possible after I called him.  He called my cousins and they notified my mom of what had happened that morning.  She worked two hours away and was completely unaware.  My mom left work and met me at the hospital in LaGrange, as did many other people.  It was kind of a blur.  I received several stitches to the back of my head and received wound care for the burn on my arm.  That was it.  That was the extent of my injuries.  The burn came from getting Josh out of the truck, and the head wound came from the back windshield shattering.  The glass cut my head open, and apparently, head wounds bleed.  A lot.  Hence, the large amount of blood everywhere.     After knowing that  I was okay, my mom left for Austin to be with my dad and brother.  My cousins took me to their home in LaGrange and took care of me for a few days.  Grossest thing ever?  Hair covered in blood.  My cousin very graciously helped me take a shower and get as much blood out of my hair as possible.  But I asked about my brother for days.  I wanted to see him.  I had to.  My sister drove in from Corpus Christi and stayed at my cousins' house with me.  I was a mess.  I hated myself and I couldn't think of anything but my brother.  Was he okay?  I had to see him!     The accident occurred on the Friday before Spring Break that year, so there was no school that next week.  However, for some stupid, strange reason, I felt the need to go to the softball game that night.  Obviously, not to play, but to talk to my coaches, and I guess I thought seeing the girls would be helpful.  But it wasn't.  I was in pain - my body ached from the whiplash of the impact.  And I assume someone would've called up to the school to inform admin of what happened.  Anyway, we didn't stay long.  Then, we went home to get some clothes.  I also wanted to see where it happened.  I had to.  The truck had been towed away, but everything else was still there.  I could still see it.  I can still see it today, as I'm reliving it again.  I had nightmares for weeks and weeks.     But, after a few days for my body to settle down and my mind to calm down, which was pretty much impossible, I was finally taken to Austin to see my brother.  But, once I got there, I couldn't go into his room.  I knew that I would see him in so much pain and it was all my fault.  I went in, though, told him that I loved him and that I was so very sorry, and I sat on the other bed in the room.  I couldn't touch him or go near him.  I had hurt him enough already.  It turned out that he not only had a compound fracture of his femur, but he also was cut up on the back of his head from the glass, as I was.  He received staples in his head.  He also had a broken finger and a collapsed lung.  What a great sister I was...    He went through surgery for his leg and had a metal rod put in to align the bones back together.  The next few weeks were tough on everyone.  I apologized a bajillion times to every visitor and every family member.  Not only did I hurt my brother and myself that day, but I also hurt everyone that loved and cared for us.  I know that it's every parent's nightmare to receive a phone call like my dad got that day.  But I couldn't talk about what I was feeling or how I felt.  I told myself that it didn't matter - all that mattered was that my brother was okay.  And he would be, in time.  He had a long road ahead of him as far as recovery, and I did everything in my power to be there for him or to just disappear and not be in the way.     In the end, Josh healed and we've talked about it a few times.  He couldn't go by the accident site for several weeks, and it's totally understandable.  He also didn't want to talk about it or know exactly what happened.  I don't blame him. I blamed myself.  I blamed myself for years, apparently.  I was a sophomore in high school and only 16 years old at the time of my accident.  Years later, as a sophomore in college, I experienced more hardship.  I ultimately sought counseling on campus and was diagnosed with depression and PTSD.  That's right, four years after my accident that day, I was still beating myself up about it and holding myself responsible.  And I wouldn't - I couldn't - talk about it to anyone.  But, counseling seemed to help, and my family was there for me no matter what.  They supported me and repeatedly told me that they didn't blame me - at all.  Most importantly, to me, my brother didn't blame me.  Not even for a second.  His response: "Stupid bird".  He not once questioned why I didn't just let the bird hit the truck.  NOT ONCE.     This taught me two very important life lessons:  1 - Life is short and can be taken from any of us at any moment.  We are not guaranteed tomorrow.   2 - Everything happens for a reason.   Wearing our seat belts saved our lives that day!  Today, both my brother and I are alive and healthy.  We did not suffer serious, life-threatening or altering injuries.  I cherish every single moment that I'm blessed to have with every one of my loved ones, as I don't know when their last day will be, or mine.  I know our time on Earth is limited, and I try to live every to its fullest.  Life is too precious and too short to hold petty grudges or to throw your time away.     Everything that happened that day, although tragic and life-changing, had a purpose.  It showed me that life is fragile and so precious.  It opened my eyes to that fragility and to the importance of family.  It's by and through their support that I'm still here today and as sane as possible.  It was meant to be my brother instead of me - I did all that was humanly possible to help my brother that day, getting him out of the truck.  And he is such a strong person to have gone through the pain and suffering of his injuries.  God knew that he was strong enough to get through it and survive.  It's also brought our family closer together.  Not only was I rudely awakened to life's fragility, but my family was as well.  We are closer than ever, and we don't take a single second for granted.     My faith blossomed after my accident.  I was already a follower of Christ, but it became much more than that after that day, eight years ago.  I began attending the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at school and searched longer and deeper for meaning and answers.  I know that we are both alive today because it was not our time to go.  We were meant for much more than we had accomplished prior to that day, and God proved it by saving us.   To my family, I love each and every one of you.  You are all my rock, as you well know already, and without any of you, I would not be the person that  I am today.  I know this is quite a long story, so if you've made it this far, thanks for hangin' in there! :) ♥

 

Home {Upgrades}

Wow.  Another weekend has come and gone (almost..I do realize it's still Sunday!).  AND, it's March already!  How did that happen?!  Anyway, with another weekend came great things!  With God, all things are possible ♥.

So, Friday afternoon, Colten and I decided to finally go to Office Depot and buy a new computer chair.  He is taking all online classes this quarter and will be spending an insane amount of time on the computer for the next 12ish weeks.  Also, with my blogging taking off, I want to spend way more time on the computer.  However, doing so on a cheap Wal-Mart chair is difficult.  I couldn't stand to sit on that thing for longer than half an hour!  Seriously.  It was time... 

So, we began our journey, as mentioned above, to Office Depot in search for a new chair.  It was definitely entertaining, to say the least.  I love our lives together!  Colten decided to test-drive a few out...

We found one that we agreed upon, but of course, they didn't have any left in stock.  It was also 50% off, so that pretty much set the tone for the rest of the day.  We didn't let it ruin our day, and we searched at another store that was closest to us.  Luckily, they had one in stock!  We purchased our new chair and couldn't help but take a look at the desks that were right next to the chairs.  We were still using my very first desk that I had ever bought out of high school...and that thing HAD to go!  It was a sore thumb in our advancing home, and it was time for a change.  We were already upgrading our chair, why not the desk too?  And we had gotten such a good deal on the chair, we were way under budget.  So, we were in search for a new desk.  After hours of deliberating - we had to find the perfect one! - we agreed on a desk, purchased it, and loaded the desk and chair into the bed of the truck.

We got home and began to put the chair together so that I could take care of some things online.  However, to our dismay, there were broken parts included in the pieces, and it wasn't going to suffice.  Colten immediately called the store, we boxed the chair pieces back up, scanned through the desk pieces to be sure they were all there and unbroken, and headed back to the store, 30 minutes away at 7:00pm.  Our journey began at 12:30pm.  I was personally exhausted.  However, we made it to the store, they exchanged our box for an already-assembled chair and were on our way back home for the second time.  The chair is amazing, and I've never had such a comfortable one to sit on while computing.  :)  I'm a very happy girl.

Colten's mom and step-dad visited yesterday, and so we had help assembling the desk.  Colten and Bubba put the desk together while I cleaned the kitchen - I scrubbed that thing CLEAN! - and cooked lunch.  Ok, mostly Bubba put the desk together while Colten watched ;).

The end result is amazing, and I couldn't be any happier.  It definitely fits our personalities and our lifestyle now, as the college years are over (well, almost for Colten) and we are upgrading our furniture and home.  We're growing up!  And it feels sooo good!  I definitely had a moment this morning walking out of our bedroom and seeing the living room, complete with the new desk and chair.  I thought back to a few years ago when I was struggling with many things in life, and I thanked God for everything he's blessed me with, especially the little things.  I'm all about the little things, and I know a desk is a rather LARGE thing, but the ability (physically and financially) to purchase a desk with my husband and to have it in our home means the world to me!  I'm sitting here now just smiling away. 

So, it was another great weekend, and we will cherish our home upgrades for many years to come! 

 This picture just doesn't do it justice! 

The Newlywed Game {Take 4}

Linking up with Karla and Veronica again this week for the Newlywed Game! 

1.  Who does the laundry in your home, you or your spouse? Any good stories?

 Colten does most of the laundry, as he's home more often than I am.  I do a load or two every now and then, though. 

I do the laundry because she works two jobs, along with the rest of the house chores.  (and it means the world to me!!!)

 

2.  If your spouse had to eat at one restaurant for the rest of their lives, what would he or she pick?

 Olive Garden.  That man can eat SO.MUCH.SALAD it's ridiculous.  And he loves their pizza for some odd reason!  He seriously will never order anything but pizza there.  

 

I would prolly say pok-e-jo's or subway eat fresh - she loves those places.  

 

3.  Are you or your spouse better at cooking? Any good stories?

 I am better at cooking!  He does it more often, but give him a difficult or lengthy meal to make, and it's pretty funny.  Hmm, good stories... He tried to set fire to our oven at our last apartment.  It gave our poor dog PTSD for months!  He hears the sound of something sizzling on the stove and immediately freaks out.  Poor little guy!  

I'm good at cooking.  I do most of it because she works two jobs.  I'm off or at home more, so it makes more sense.  Have you ever made BBQ sauce with your feet?  I have hahaha.  (oh my gosh...the BBQ sauce!  he seriously made it with his feet...crazy, crazy night!)

 

4.  Which one of you is more concerned about their "fashion"?

 Definitely, 100%, hands down ME.  That man never gives any thought to what he's wearing! 

Umm, she is, duh.  She is a WOMAN - they're all like that.  Me, just give me a pair of jeans, a sleeveless shirt, a pair of boots, and my favorite rebel hat and we're good to go.

 

5.  Ideally, if you don't have them already, when does you spouse want to have children?

 He wants to have them already, but knows that we need to be way more financially stable first.  Ideally, within the next few years I'd say.  

We would love to have them now but financially can't afford them.   (he's so smart haha. and yes, I know that you never really can afford kids...)

 

6.  Who planned dates when you were dating? And what was one of your favorites?

 We didn't get to go on a lot of actual dates when we were dating.  It was a long distance relationship, and I'd usually just go to Yorktown to visit him and we'd just hang out.  Those moments were priceless though!  One of my favorites was the first time we really met.  I drove down to see him and we went to a tractor pull in the nearby town.  That night, we stood out by the car for FOUR HOURS just talking about everything.  Time flew by...

 

It's hard to say because I didn't have a vehicle.  If I'm thinking right, she did.  Mine was all of them, but my favorite one was when me and her were with my best friend or 'my brother from another mother'.  We were in his truck and Bri and I were making out in the back seat and all of a sudden he yelled, "Look, it's a UNICORN!!!"  We just busted out laughing!  Good ole times, good ole times.  (that was so hilarious!)

 

7.  What's been the toughest part of being a newlywed?

 The toughest part has been the finances.  We didn't really have a budget or a plan prior to getting married, and then we combined accounts, which pretty much forced us to start budgeting.  However, the system our parents use and we now use is A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. and is a lifesaver!  But we get through anything and everything, so it's all good :). 

Nothing really because we get through everything together. (good answer babe!)

 

8.  Who is the best with the finances?

 We both have gotten way better with the finances.  It's pretty mutual - neither of us is the only one that budgets or pays bills.  

Umm we both are. 

 

9.  Who is the strict one?

 Neither of us are very strict.  We're pretty laid back and don't really keep the other from doing something or pursuing something...  We try to be strict with money though, which is hard! haha

Neither one of us.  I think, anyway. 

 

10.  What will you plan to do for your first anniversary? Or if you've already celebrated your first anniversary, what did you do?

 We both had to work that day, so we just stuck with simple and went out to eat.  It's the quality time that matters anyway!  Then, we came home and ate the top of our wedding cake that had been sitting in the freezer for a year.  That thing was soooo disgusting!!!  I would never recommend it to anyone.... gross! 

We went to our favorite restaurant and ate at Olive Garden.  (yep!)