Nationals vs. Giants game
Jun 08, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
We went to the Nationals vs. Giants baseball game last week with Dallas and it was quite the little adventure. We weren't even sure the game would happen, because we had gotten so much rain all week and the forecast said 100% chance of showers that evening. But, when it came down to it the game started with only a slight rain delay. Traffic was heavy heading into the District so we exited earlier than planned to hop on the Metro. I think if we'd been a little more patient we might have made it there quicker in traffic, but at least Dallas got to experience the Metro in all its glory, and we entered the ballpark right as the game started. Since it was raining and about 1% of people were in their assigned seats, we got to sit pretty close to the field - just under the overhang of the section above so we stayed dry. It was a really nice evening, despite the fact that our Nats aren't the greatest team these days.
Dallas got her ballpark hot dog and I got my coffee!
Jun 08, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
We went to the Nationals vs. Giants baseball game last week with Dallas and it was quite the little adventure. We weren't even sure the game would happen, because we had gotten so much rain all week and the forecast said 100% chance of showers that evening. But, when it came down to it the game started with only a slight rain delay. Traffic was heavy heading into the District so we exited earlier than planned to hop on the Metro. I think if we'd been a little more patient we might have made it there quicker in traffic, but at least Dallas got to experience the Metro in all its glory, and we entered the ballpark right as the game started. Since it was raining and about 1% of people were in their assigned seats, we got to sit pretty close to the field - just under the overhang of the section above so we stayed dry. It was a really nice evening, despite the fact that our Nats aren't the greatest team these days.
Dallas got her ballpark hot dog and I got my coffee!
Dallas is Coming
Jun 01, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
Our friend (and adoptive Heth sister) Dallas is coming tomorrow! She was planning to come keep me company for a bit while Joe was working in Florida for the month of June, but plans changed and Joe isn't going to Florida so now we both get to visit with her. We don't have too many specific plans. Dallas said she doesn't want to do the "tourist" thing but she did request to see a baseball game while she's here, so we have tickets for the Washington Nationals game on Thursday night, which should be fun because we haven't been to their new stadium yet.
Jun 01, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
Our friend (and adoptive Heth sister) Dallas is coming tomorrow! She was planning to come keep me company for a bit while Joe was working in Florida for the month of June, but plans changed and Joe isn't going to Florida so now we both get to visit with her. We don't have too many specific plans. Dallas said she doesn't want to do the "tourist" thing but she did request to see a baseball game while she's here, so we have tickets for the Washington Nationals game on Thursday night, which should be fun because we haven't been to their new stadium yet.
Give a Kid Molasses
May 26, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
I could not resist posting this picture! My sister-in-law gave our niece a spoonful of molasses and this was the end result. I don't know exactly why Nina gave Naomi a spoonful of molasses, but I can guarantee there is some health benefit or nutritional value in doing so. Naomi is the same kid that thinks cod liver fish oil is a treat!
May 26, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
I could not resist posting this picture! My sister-in-law gave our niece a spoonful of molasses and this was the end result. I don't know exactly why Nina gave Naomi a spoonful of molasses, but I can guarantee there is some health benefit or nutritional value in doing so. Naomi is the same kid that thinks cod liver fish oil is a treat!
Best Buds
May 22, 2009 - Fri :: update by Heidi
My family celebrated my mom's birthday at The Melting Pot last weekend and almost the entire dinner Naomi sat on Joey's lap giggling, hugging, eating, watching "Elmo's Song" on Joey's iPhone, and just having some good 2-year old conversation with her uncle. At some point Naomi ended up in my lap (I think she was supposed to tell me a secret) and all of a sudden everyone at the table hears precious Naomi say, to no one in particular, "Joey loves me". I think his heart melted. Joey constantly tells her "I love you, Naomi". The sweetest thing was that it was almost as if she was saying it to herself but we all got to hear her thoughts.
May 22, 2009 - Fri :: update by Heidi
My family celebrated my mom's birthday at The Melting Pot last weekend and almost the entire dinner Naomi sat on Joey's lap giggling, hugging, eating, watching "Elmo's Song" on Joey's iPhone, and just having some good 2-year old conversation with her uncle. At some point Naomi ended up in my lap (I think she was supposed to tell me a secret) and all of a sudden everyone at the table hears precious Naomi say, to no one in particular, "Joey loves me". I think his heart melted. Joey constantly tells her "I love you, Naomi". The sweetest thing was that it was almost as if she was saying it to herself but we all got to hear her thoughts.
Six Years
May 18, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
How can it be SIX years already that we've been married?! Geesh. It has gone so fast. I feel like it's been half that time. Neither of us had any grand plans for celebrating this past weekend but we ended up having such a great Saturday together. I told Joey at the end of the day that he scored a 10 as a husband that day! Granted, on almost every day he scores an 8 or 9 so I have a pretty amazing husband. My "Quality Time" (The 5 Love Languages...read it!) love tank was completely full! Our evening ended with a walk to get ice cream and to rent a movie...and a walk home in the pouring rain with our ice cream and movie in hand!
May 18, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
How can it be SIX years already that we've been married?! Geesh. It has gone so fast. I feel like it's been half that time. Neither of us had any grand plans for celebrating this past weekend but we ended up having such a great Saturday together. I told Joey at the end of the day that he scored a 10 as a husband that day! Granted, on almost every day he scores an 8 or 9 so I have a pretty amazing husband. My "Quality Time" (The 5 Love Languages...read it!) love tank was completely full! Our evening ended with a walk to get ice cream and to rent a movie...and a walk home in the pouring rain with our ice cream and movie in hand!
El Cinco
May 05, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
Happy Cinco de Mayo! Our adoptive Heth sister Dallas who is Mexican told us at Christmas that her favorite holiday is Cinco de Mayo, SO today we celebrated Mexico's independence day! Dallas and I spent the entire day preparing a feast, a pretty sad looking pinata and confetti eggs, which we happily cracked over our unsuspecting party guests and kindly rubbed the confetti into their hair. Our dinner included fajitas, cornbread, rice with cilantro and lime (Chipotle, anyone?!), guacamole, refried beans and the works. We also had (virgin) pina coladas which we de-licious! Pictures coming soon. Oh, by the way...we're in Indiana for the week.
May 05, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
Happy Cinco de Mayo! Our adoptive Heth sister Dallas who is Mexican told us at Christmas that her favorite holiday is Cinco de Mayo, SO today we celebrated Mexico's independence day! Dallas and I spent the entire day preparing a feast, a pretty sad looking pinata and confetti eggs, which we happily cracked over our unsuspecting party guests and kindly rubbed the confetti into their hair. Our dinner included fajitas, cornbread, rice with cilantro and lime (Chipotle, anyone?!), guacamole, refried beans and the works. We also had (virgin) pina coladas which we de-licious! Pictures coming soon. Oh, by the way...we're in Indiana for the week.
Kitchen Remodel 2
Apr 21, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
The second phase of our kitchen remodel took place this past Friday. Joe and my dad removed all the lower cabinets and the annoying bar/wall surrounding our sink. And my favorite part is that my dad wired cable to the kitchen so we can have a TV in there now. I love it! Our house was a disaster and is still covered in dust. Oh how I hate dusting, so my plan is to hold out long enough so that the next time my mom comes over she'll dust since she hates seeing dust! Anyway, we'll post final pictures of the kitchen at some point because you'll notice there are still unfinished portions. But, for now, enjoy!
Naomi was helping the boys clean
With the wall
No wall, new countertop, sink and faucet
Semi-finished
Apr 21, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
The second phase of our kitchen remodel took place this past Friday. Joe and my dad removed all the lower cabinets and the annoying bar/wall surrounding our sink. And my favorite part is that my dad wired cable to the kitchen so we can have a TV in there now. I love it! Our house was a disaster and is still covered in dust. Oh how I hate dusting, so my plan is to hold out long enough so that the next time my mom comes over she'll dust since she hates seeing dust! Anyway, we'll post final pictures of the kitchen at some point because you'll notice there are still unfinished portions. But, for now, enjoy!
Naomi was helping the boys clean
With the wall
No wall, new countertop, sink and faucet
Semi-finished
A Cabin in the Woods
Apr 21, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
Over Easter weekend my family decided to head to the woods of West Virginia. A family had offered their cabin so we took the opportunity to get away. It was so nice. There is no TV, no cell phone reception, and no one around for miles. Plus, the cabin had beds for all and an awesome screened in porch where several of us watched a movie the first night with a projector and a bed sheet attached to the porch. It was great all huddled on a futon under blankets watching a movie. It felt like a drive in theater, even though I've never been to one. I can imagine that's what it would feel like at a drive-in.
The weather was very cold and rainy our first full day there so it was a day inside with games (the boys played 4 rounds of Risk), reading, cooking, listening to lots of music, dancing and all around relaxing. We grilled out a couple of times and made homemade ice cream, celebrated Mud's 24th birthday, and went on a family hike in the woods. We're already trying to find a time to go back this summer. Great memory for me.
L to R: Joe, Heidi, Christian, Naomi, Nina, Mud (Stephen) and mom
Apr 21, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
Over Easter weekend my family decided to head to the woods of West Virginia. A family had offered their cabin so we took the opportunity to get away. It was so nice. There is no TV, no cell phone reception, and no one around for miles. Plus, the cabin had beds for all and an awesome screened in porch where several of us watched a movie the first night with a projector and a bed sheet attached to the porch. It was great all huddled on a futon under blankets watching a movie. It felt like a drive in theater, even though I've never been to one. I can imagine that's what it would feel like at a drive-in.
The weather was very cold and rainy our first full day there so it was a day inside with games (the boys played 4 rounds of Risk), reading, cooking, listening to lots of music, dancing and all around relaxing. We grilled out a couple of times and made homemade ice cream, celebrated Mud's 24th birthday, and went on a family hike in the woods. We're already trying to find a time to go back this summer. Great memory for me.
L to R: Joe, Heidi, Christian, Naomi, Nina, Mud (Stephen) and mom
Congratulations
Apr 19, 2009 - Sun :: update by Heidi
Yesterday my sister Heather officially became engaged to Chuck Paris! The tentative wedding date is August 28. We celebrated with them over dinner at Red Lobster. These next few months will go so quickly I'm sure.
Apr 19, 2009 - Sun :: update by Heidi
Yesterday my sister Heather officially became engaged to Chuck Paris! The tentative wedding date is August 28. We celebrated with them over dinner at Red Lobster. These next few months will go so quickly I'm sure.
Kitchen Remodel 1
Apr 06, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
We (by "we" I mean, Joe and my dad) officially began our kitchen remodel this weekend! Joe is the first to admit he isn't the most handy when it comes to house projects (give him a computer and that's a different story!), but he is definitely one of the best helpers to those doing the project, so one of Joe's Christmas gifts from my dad was help remodeling our kitchen. They were able to get all the upper cabinets installed on Saturday as well as completed a little electrical work.
Before
After removing the old cabinets and demolition of the half wall between dining and kitchen.
After!...but not officially completed
Naomi even came out to help with the remodel
Joe was having Naomi jump out of the cabinet "1, 2, 3, jump!"
Apr 06, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
We (by "we" I mean, Joe and my dad) officially began our kitchen remodel this weekend! Joe is the first to admit he isn't the most handy when it comes to house projects (give him a computer and that's a different story!), but he is definitely one of the best helpers to those doing the project, so one of Joe's Christmas gifts from my dad was help remodeling our kitchen. They were able to get all the upper cabinets installed on Saturday as well as completed a little electrical work.
Before
After removing the old cabinets and demolition of the half wall between dining and kitchen.
After!...but not officially completed
Naomi even came out to help with the remodel
Joe was having Naomi jump out of the cabinet "1, 2, 3, jump!"
Prayers of the Righteous
Apr 05, 2009 - Sun :: update by Heidi
This past Thursday night we had the privilege of being invited by the elders at our church to have them pray over us that the desire of our heart for children would be met. It was such a sweet time for us with the Godly men in leadership at our church. We so admire them. They asked us to show up during their elder meeting at a certain time and immediately welcomed us in. We knew who all the men were but were also aware that they did not all know us, so they sat with us in a circle and asked questions to better get to know Joey and me. The youth pastor that we work with (who is an elder) led the time by sharing with the men a little about our relationship with him in ministry to the youth and our struggle and deep desire for a child. The seven men gathered around us and prayed such affirming and sincere prayers on our behalf before the One who is able to do exceedingly more than we imagine. Joey and I felt so blessed and honored by their prayers. Plus, they gave us some chocolate cake to eat on the ride home! Most people know I'm a sucker for dessert so I was a happy camper!
Apr 05, 2009 - Sun :: update by Heidi
This past Thursday night we had the privilege of being invited by the elders at our church to have them pray over us that the desire of our heart for children would be met. It was such a sweet time for us with the Godly men in leadership at our church. We so admire them. They asked us to show up during their elder meeting at a certain time and immediately welcomed us in. We knew who all the men were but were also aware that they did not all know us, so they sat with us in a circle and asked questions to better get to know Joey and me. The youth pastor that we work with (who is an elder) led the time by sharing with the men a little about our relationship with him in ministry to the youth and our struggle and deep desire for a child. The seven men gathered around us and prayed such affirming and sincere prayers on our behalf before the One who is able to do exceedingly more than we imagine. Joey and I felt so blessed and honored by their prayers. Plus, they gave us some chocolate cake to eat on the ride home! Most people know I'm a sucker for dessert so I was a happy camper!
Welcome Spring
Mar 30, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
I finally found my Spring wreath! I've been looking for one for awhile but hadn't found anything great...until this weekend! I think it's perfect.
Mar 30, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
I finally found my Spring wreath! I've been looking for one for awhile but hadn't found anything great...until this weekend! I think it's perfect.
TEXAS
Mar 27, 2009 - Fri :: update by Heidi
Ok, I am finally sitting down to write about my surprise trip to Texas last weekend. I wasn't able to announce the trip beforehand because I knew that the person I was going to see regularly checks our website and it would have ruined the element of surprise. So, here's the story...
Dominique (one of my former youth group girls) is a freshman at Baylor University in Texas. Her mother (Patty) invited me to tag along with her and Dominique's sister (Rachel) to surprise Dominique for her 19th birthday. So, last Friday, we flew into Dallas and drove the rest of the way to Waco. We got in late Friday night, so the plan was for Patty to pick Dominique up for breakfast the next morning and we would be at the restaurant when they arrived. The plan worked great except that Dominique pieced things together and figured out Rachel was there despite our elaborate efforts to persuade her otherwise. All in all, Dominique was surprised when she got to the table at the restaurant and we were sitting there to greet her!
We spent the majority of our time in Austin, and when we weren't eating, which wasn't very often, we spent time shopping at the outlet mall, watching cowboys bullride at the Austin Rodeo, watching a wedding at the resort we stayed at, taking pictures and laughing a lot. We also got to attend Dominique's sociology class but opted out of chemistry. Dominique introduced me to an adorable little arts and crafts store near Baylor that totally inspired me, and we had coffee at a neat coffee shop right next door. It was so fun for me being back in Texas, seeing familiar places and scenery. Having lived in Texas for so long growing up I had forgotten how prominent the Texas flag is everywhere you turn. I love it.
Birthday girl on the right with sister Rachel, mom Patty and me
Our view from the resort...we were told this is Sandra Bullock's house
Mar 27, 2009 - Fri :: update by Heidi
Ok, I am finally sitting down to write about my surprise trip to Texas last weekend. I wasn't able to announce the trip beforehand because I knew that the person I was going to see regularly checks our website and it would have ruined the element of surprise. So, here's the story...
Dominique (one of my former youth group girls) is a freshman at Baylor University in Texas. Her mother (Patty) invited me to tag along with her and Dominique's sister (Rachel) to surprise Dominique for her 19th birthday. So, last Friday, we flew into Dallas and drove the rest of the way to Waco. We got in late Friday night, so the plan was for Patty to pick Dominique up for breakfast the next morning and we would be at the restaurant when they arrived. The plan worked great except that Dominique pieced things together and figured out Rachel was there despite our elaborate efforts to persuade her otherwise. All in all, Dominique was surprised when she got to the table at the restaurant and we were sitting there to greet her!
We spent the majority of our time in Austin, and when we weren't eating, which wasn't very often, we spent time shopping at the outlet mall, watching cowboys bullride at the Austin Rodeo, watching a wedding at the resort we stayed at, taking pictures and laughing a lot. We also got to attend Dominique's sociology class but opted out of chemistry. Dominique introduced me to an adorable little arts and crafts store near Baylor that totally inspired me, and we had coffee at a neat coffee shop right next door. It was so fun for me being back in Texas, seeing familiar places and scenery. Having lived in Texas for so long growing up I had forgotten how prominent the Texas flag is everywhere you turn. I love it.
Birthday girl on the right with sister Rachel, mom Patty and me
Our view from the resort...we were told this is Sandra Bullock's house
We're Remodeling
Mar 27, 2009 - Fri :: update by Heidi
I don't think we've mentioned yet that we're in the beginning stages of remodeling our kitchen. We ordered all new cabinets, which arrived this Wednesday, and have taken over our little condo. Our living room is about half the size with all the cabinets sitting in it.
Our new countertops should arrive in the next week or so, and my dad will be coming out next weekend to officially start the remodel. I think Joe is more excited about the demolition part than the actual new kitchen. I'm excited for more storage space!
Mar 27, 2009 - Fri :: update by Heidi
I don't think we've mentioned yet that we're in the beginning stages of remodeling our kitchen. We ordered all new cabinets, which arrived this Wednesday, and have taken over our little condo. Our living room is about half the size with all the cabinets sitting in it.
Our new countertops should arrive in the next week or so, and my dad will be coming out next weekend to officially start the remodel. I think Joe is more excited about the demolition part than the actual new kitchen. I'm excited for more storage space!
Skype Anyone?
Mar 15, 2009 - Sun :: update by Joe
Our new favorite thing to do is Skype with people! We've heard about it for a while but finally signed up and downloaded the software. We talked with my dad and mom at separate times on Friday, talked with my brothers James and his lady friend (Steff) and my brother Justin and his boy Cooper today (Sunday). It's so much fun being able to see people who are far away and it's like you're in the same room as them. I work with computers for a living but technology still amazes me, including the quality of it all. Our Skype name is jhheth if you want to look us up.
We had another relaxing and fun weekend together. Eating and reading at Panera has become our Saturday morning date over the past couple months. We then decided to get started on our taxes, so we spent a couple hours Saturday afternoon doing that. Just a few more business items to enter and we'll be done.
We had our usual Sunday routine of church, high school youth group, lunch, and a little Skyping (which is new). We made mini quiches for dinner and now we're watching some TV together.
Mar 15, 2009 - Sun :: update by Joe
Our new favorite thing to do is Skype with people! We've heard about it for a while but finally signed up and downloaded the software. We talked with my dad and mom at separate times on Friday, talked with my brothers James and his lady friend (Steff) and my brother Justin and his boy Cooper today (Sunday). It's so much fun being able to see people who are far away and it's like you're in the same room as them. I work with computers for a living but technology still amazes me, including the quality of it all. Our Skype name is jhheth if you want to look us up.
We had another relaxing and fun weekend together. Eating and reading at Panera has become our Saturday morning date over the past couple months. We then decided to get started on our taxes, so we spent a couple hours Saturday afternoon doing that. Just a few more business items to enter and we'll be done.
We had our usual Sunday routine of church, high school youth group, lunch, and a little Skyping (which is new). We made mini quiches for dinner and now we're watching some TV together.
Mud Productions and Birthdays
Mar 02, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
This weekend was one big party for us. On Saturday night my little brother (when do younger siblings stop being "little"?!) hosted a party to celebrate 5 years that Mud Productions (his photography and videography business) has been in business. We went skating at the outdoor rink at the Sculpture Gardens in DC. It was a chilly night but so fun being outside skating with the lights. It felt like a scene from a movie. Dinner was served at Chipotle and afterward we were able to view some of Mud Productions best work. It was exciting to hear the vision for what lies ahead with Stephen's company.
Joe and me with Mud and his girlfriend Amanda
On Sunday we celebrated my older brother's 33rd birthday and little Naomi's 2nd birthday. Nina made tons of homemade pizza and there were lots of wonderful desserts. Of course, the boys played the wii while the rest of us chatted and enjoyed watching Naomi play with her friend "Owie" (Owen). Naomi got all kinds of princess dress up stuff. When she unwrapped her princess wand she actually licked it like a lollipop!
This morning was great because we woke up to SNOW! It's about time...except now that I say that I realize it's MARCH! I'll still take it! It's beautiful and makes me so thankful I (and Joe) work from home.
Mar 02, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
This weekend was one big party for us. On Saturday night my little brother (when do younger siblings stop being "little"?!) hosted a party to celebrate 5 years that Mud Productions (his photography and videography business) has been in business. We went skating at the outdoor rink at the Sculpture Gardens in DC. It was a chilly night but so fun being outside skating with the lights. It felt like a scene from a movie. Dinner was served at Chipotle and afterward we were able to view some of Mud Productions best work. It was exciting to hear the vision for what lies ahead with Stephen's company.
Joe and me with Mud and his girlfriend Amanda
On Sunday we celebrated my older brother's 33rd birthday and little Naomi's 2nd birthday. Nina made tons of homemade pizza and there were lots of wonderful desserts. Of course, the boys played the wii while the rest of us chatted and enjoyed watching Naomi play with her friend "Owie" (Owen). Naomi got all kinds of princess dress up stuff. When she unwrapped her princess wand she actually licked it like a lollipop!
This morning was great because we woke up to SNOW! It's about time...except now that I say that I realize it's MARCH! I'll still take it! It's beautiful and makes me so thankful I (and Joe) work from home.
"Wrella"
Feb 23, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
Well, I am sick...again. Wednesday through Sunday of this past week, we had the privilege of watching little Miss Naomi, who will be two in a week, by the way. Poor girl was sick the whole time, hence the reason I am once again sick. Joey and I can't think of anything better than hanging out with Naomi, though, so I guess it's worth it.
She is talking so much these days but you can really only understand about 1 or 2 words in a long string of "conversation". She is ALL girl...dances almost anytime she hears music, carries her "poirse" (purse) equipped with her pink cell phone, pink glasses, keys and a random Guitar Hero toy that plays music she can dance to, and she LOVES "pinsences" (princesses). Joey and I took her to Target and made the mistake of showing her a princess nightgown. We weren't allowed to take it away from her so she drug it around by the hanger all through Target. Needless to say she'll be getting that nightgown for her birthday.
Neither Joey or I have seen "Wrella" (Cinderella) multiple times in a span of five days so that was a treat. The movie slowly went from being "Wrella" to "Mouse, again" because she liked all the cute mice in the movie. Little Mermaid only made about three appearances but Naomi loved the singing.
Naomi with her pink pretend glasses
Can't go anywhere without "baby" and "bubba"
On a separate note, I start my sewing class tonight. I wish I felt better but I'm excited to start the classes. Work is good for both of us. Really busy, but good. I'm ready for the weekend already.
Feb 23, 2009 - Mon :: update by Heidi
Well, I am sick...again. Wednesday through Sunday of this past week, we had the privilege of watching little Miss Naomi, who will be two in a week, by the way. Poor girl was sick the whole time, hence the reason I am once again sick. Joey and I can't think of anything better than hanging out with Naomi, though, so I guess it's worth it.
She is talking so much these days but you can really only understand about 1 or 2 words in a long string of "conversation". She is ALL girl...dances almost anytime she hears music, carries her "poirse" (purse) equipped with her pink cell phone, pink glasses, keys and a random Guitar Hero toy that plays music she can dance to, and she LOVES "pinsences" (princesses). Joey and I took her to Target and made the mistake of showing her a princess nightgown. We weren't allowed to take it away from her so she drug it around by the hanger all through Target. Needless to say she'll be getting that nightgown for her birthday.
Neither Joey or I have seen "Wrella" (Cinderella) multiple times in a span of five days so that was a treat. The movie slowly went from being "Wrella" to "Mouse, again" because she liked all the cute mice in the movie. Little Mermaid only made about three appearances but Naomi loved the singing.
Naomi with her pink pretend glasses
Can't go anywhere without "baby" and "bubba"
On a separate note, I start my sewing class tonight. I wish I felt better but I'm excited to start the classes. Work is good for both of us. Really busy, but good. I'm ready for the weekend already.
Winter Retreat 2009
Feb 21, 2009 - Sat :: update by Heidi
It was brought to my attention (thank you, "D-dawg") that I haven't done an update in awhile, and so here I am.
It's been a whirlwind the last week and a half for us. We spent four days in Pennsylvania with about 150 teenagers on the winter retreat. This was our fourth winter retreat, and I think it was our favorite. There wasn't snow like the last few years so we didn't get to go tubing (a favorite of mine) or slip on the icy hills walking from our cabins to the bathrooms (not such a favorite) for that matter, but it was a great low key weekend hanging with the teens and other leaders. A large group of the kids go skiing or snowboarding one day while the rest of the group goes bowling. I am always one of the bowling crowd but this was Joe's first year to skip the slopes and go bowling.
I had an awesome group of senior girls in my small group that I got to know better throughout the weekend. Our topic this year was about our relationships with our parents and family and how we can work to strengthen those relationships and what it looks like to really honor our parents. I think it was a good topic that hopefully helped our kids see those relationships from a different perspective.
Feb 21, 2009 - Sat :: update by Heidi
It was brought to my attention (thank you, "D-dawg") that I haven't done an update in awhile, and so here I am.
It's been a whirlwind the last week and a half for us. We spent four days in Pennsylvania with about 150 teenagers on the winter retreat. This was our fourth winter retreat, and I think it was our favorite. There wasn't snow like the last few years so we didn't get to go tubing (a favorite of mine) or slip on the icy hills walking from our cabins to the bathrooms (not such a favorite) for that matter, but it was a great low key weekend hanging with the teens and other leaders. A large group of the kids go skiing or snowboarding one day while the rest of the group goes bowling. I am always one of the bowling crowd but this was Joe's first year to skip the slopes and go bowling.
I had an awesome group of senior girls in my small group that I got to know better throughout the weekend. Our topic this year was about our relationships with our parents and family and how we can work to strengthen those relationships and what it looks like to really honor our parents. I think it was a good topic that hopefully helped our kids see those relationships from a different perspective.
Where Did January Go?
Feb 05, 2009 - Thu :: update by Heidi
I made it through January, or rather, I feel like I slept, ached and moaned through January. After I finally got my neck and back to where I could function without pain, I was doing well. I'd get tired or stiff every now and then, but at least I could function and get some work done. But, after about three or four days of feeling well, my body decided it was time for a round of sickness. I say "sickness" because it wasn't a cold exactly and it wasn't the flu really either. I just had lots of different symptoms and ached all over. My body was just completely fatigued. So, I found myself again passed out on the couch for about three days straight. Poor Joey and his sickly wife! We spent this past Saturday watching 12 straight episodes of Gilmore Girls!
Apparently, according to my brother (a personal trainer and health coach) and my chiropractor, after your body has experienced a trauma or accident it makes sense that you'd get sick. How great, right?! Your body has been working so hard to defend, protect and repair itself that your immune system gets taxed and sickness can easily slip through. Something your immune system might have been putting a lot of effort into defending prior to the trauma now gets through because resources are directed elsewhere (i.e. autoimmune diseases are common ones). So fascinating, although annoying and scary to think about. We are just praying now that my body will completely restore itself.
I'm back working now as often as my neck/shoulders will allow without feeling pain or giving me headaches. I am looking forward to February because I have lots of work projects and new clients, not to mention we have a full month. We'll spend Valentine's weekend with about 125 teenage kids in snowy Pennsylvania for the youth group winter retreat, so we're planning to celebrate Valentine's this weekend with a show at George Mason (Cirque Eloize: Nebbia) and dinner. The weekend after President's Day, we are so excited because we'll be taking care of our little niece while my brother and sister-in-law attend a conference. And at the end of this month, I am going to start sewing classes!! I'll finally get to learn to sew! Lots to do.
Feb 05, 2009 - Thu :: update by Heidi
I made it through January, or rather, I feel like I slept, ached and moaned through January. After I finally got my neck and back to where I could function without pain, I was doing well. I'd get tired or stiff every now and then, but at least I could function and get some work done. But, after about three or four days of feeling well, my body decided it was time for a round of sickness. I say "sickness" because it wasn't a cold exactly and it wasn't the flu really either. I just had lots of different symptoms and ached all over. My body was just completely fatigued. So, I found myself again passed out on the couch for about three days straight. Poor Joey and his sickly wife! We spent this past Saturday watching 12 straight episodes of Gilmore Girls!
Apparently, according to my brother (a personal trainer and health coach) and my chiropractor, after your body has experienced a trauma or accident it makes sense that you'd get sick. How great, right?! Your body has been working so hard to defend, protect and repair itself that your immune system gets taxed and sickness can easily slip through. Something your immune system might have been putting a lot of effort into defending prior to the trauma now gets through because resources are directed elsewhere (i.e. autoimmune diseases are common ones). So fascinating, although annoying and scary to think about. We are just praying now that my body will completely restore itself.
I'm back working now as often as my neck/shoulders will allow without feeling pain or giving me headaches. I am looking forward to February because I have lots of work projects and new clients, not to mention we have a full month. We'll spend Valentine's weekend with about 125 teenage kids in snowy Pennsylvania for the youth group winter retreat, so we're planning to celebrate Valentine's this weekend with a show at George Mason (Cirque Eloize: Nebbia) and dinner. The weekend after President's Day, we are so excited because we'll be taking care of our little niece while my brother and sister-in-law attend a conference. And at the end of this month, I am going to start sewing classes!! I'll finally get to learn to sew! Lots to do.
Oh the Pain
Jan 20, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
I thought I would give an update on me, myself and my body since my acidente (a little Spanish for you). I had mentioned being sore on the right side of my neck and back, but about a week after the accident things took a nice little detour downward, and for the past week my upper body has been in so much pain. Friday was probably the worst day when it hurt to sit, stand, lay, recline or just about anything. Things are a little better now meaning I can get up and down on my own but there are still moments when I am talking or doing something and I get a nice little muscle spasm that just takes my breath away. I am spending a lot of time at our chiropractor lately and am looking forward to some relief.
On another note, our car is out of the shop and looks like new, which we are thankful for. Joey has been taking good care of me. I'll provide some sweet stories from his "care" in a later post.
Jan 20, 2009 - Tue :: update by Heidi
I thought I would give an update on me, myself and my body since my acidente (a little Spanish for you). I had mentioned being sore on the right side of my neck and back, but about a week after the accident things took a nice little detour downward, and for the past week my upper body has been in so much pain. Friday was probably the worst day when it hurt to sit, stand, lay, recline or just about anything. Things are a little better now meaning I can get up and down on my own but there are still moments when I am talking or doing something and I get a nice little muscle spasm that just takes my breath away. I am spending a lot of time at our chiropractor lately and am looking forward to some relief.
On another note, our car is out of the shop and looks like new, which we are thankful for. Joey has been taking good care of me. I'll provide some sweet stories from his "care" in a later post.
Accident
Jan 08, 2009 - Thu :: update by Heidi
I guess the Lord felt like I needed a little excitement in my life yesterday. We arrived home from Indiana late Monday night, and I had spent all day Tuesday unpacking, cleaning, taking down Christmas decorations, etc. I had planned to do grocery shopping and other errands yesterday. What I had thought was going to be an uneventful trip of errands, turned out a little more interesting.
My first stop was the bank, which is less than two miles away and about 4 minutes into my day of errands. As I'm sitting in the left-hand lane waiting to turn into the bank driveway, I get rear-ended. Actually, right-side-rear-ended. The girl that hit me was probably about my age and completely admitted (with a few thin excuses thrown in for good measure) fault and within about 45 minutes her insurance called to take care of things. The car is still driveable. Praise the Lord. I'm actually waiting for the adjuster to arrive to assess the damage so we can get the car in the shop. I am thankful there was not any major damage to our (only) car or me. My body was jolted by the impact and I felt pops up my spine and neck (sort of like a chiropractor adjustment, if you've ever had one). This morning I woke up with a bad headache and my neck and back are a little sore so I'm hoping to get to the chiropractor tomorrow, but all in all I am thankful things were not worse.
I continued my errands after the accident and eventually made it to Whole Foods. As I'm nearing the end of my grocery shopping, I start noticing lots of people walking around with headsets and walkies. At this point, some of you might think this sounds familiar...it is! I start looking around and notice Emeril Lagasse standing about 12 feet from me. He is there shooting what I'm assuming is another segment for his show. This is my second time running into Emeril filming at our Whole Foods. It's funny because you'll see women doing their grocery shopping stop all of a sudden and pull out there cell phone to take a picture.
The rest of my day was great. I spent the afternoon in the kitchen cooking, which is something I don't get to do often enough.
Jan 08, 2009 - Thu :: update by Heidi
I guess the Lord felt like I needed a little excitement in my life yesterday. We arrived home from Indiana late Monday night, and I had spent all day Tuesday unpacking, cleaning, taking down Christmas decorations, etc. I had planned to do grocery shopping and other errands yesterday. What I had thought was going to be an uneventful trip of errands, turned out a little more interesting.
My first stop was the bank, which is less than two miles away and about 4 minutes into my day of errands. As I'm sitting in the left-hand lane waiting to turn into the bank driveway, I get rear-ended. Actually, right-side-rear-ended. The girl that hit me was probably about my age and completely admitted (with a few thin excuses thrown in for good measure) fault and within about 45 minutes her insurance called to take care of things. The car is still driveable. Praise the Lord. I'm actually waiting for the adjuster to arrive to assess the damage so we can get the car in the shop. I am thankful there was not any major damage to our (only) car or me. My body was jolted by the impact and I felt pops up my spine and neck (sort of like a chiropractor adjustment, if you've ever had one). This morning I woke up with a bad headache and my neck and back are a little sore so I'm hoping to get to the chiropractor tomorrow, but all in all I am thankful things were not worse.
I continued my errands after the accident and eventually made it to Whole Foods. As I'm nearing the end of my grocery shopping, I start noticing lots of people walking around with headsets and walkies. At this point, some of you might think this sounds familiar...it is! I start looking around and notice Emeril Lagasse standing about 12 feet from me. He is there shooting what I'm assuming is another segment for his show. This is my second time running into Emeril filming at our Whole Foods. It's funny because you'll see women doing their grocery shopping stop all of a sudden and pull out there cell phone to take a picture.
The rest of my day was great. I spent the afternoon in the kitchen cooking, which is something I don't get to do often enough.
Welcome 2009
Jan 01, 2009 - Thu :: update by Heidi
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Can you believe another year is gone and we are now looking forward to 2009? Wow. The years seem to get shorter and shorter.
It has sort of become a tradition for Joey and me that we spend New Years Eve at home with Joey's parents. The rest of the kids usually ditch us because, let's face it, they are cooler and have things to do. But we love our time with Bill and Susie. Our New Years Eve generally consists of us eating dinner, playing games and then sitting around their little kitchen TV with our wine glasses filled with sparkling grape juice ringing in the new year!
This year after dinner, while the cats (aka. the siblings) were away, the mice played...Rock Band! We decided our best performance was "Eye of the Tiger" with Joey playing expert on the drums, Bill on guitar and me on vocals! We only failed out of one song, which was pretty good. Susie even took a turn on drums! After our world tour, we watched Iron Man until the countdown in Times Square, and with our sparkling grape juice in hand we said hello to 2009!
Jan 01, 2009 - Thu :: update by Heidi
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Can you believe another year is gone and we are now looking forward to 2009? Wow. The years seem to get shorter and shorter.
It has sort of become a tradition for Joey and me that we spend New Years Eve at home with Joey's parents. The rest of the kids usually ditch us because, let's face it, they are cooler and have things to do. But we love our time with Bill and Susie. Our New Years Eve generally consists of us eating dinner, playing games and then sitting around their little kitchen TV with our wine glasses filled with sparkling grape juice ringing in the new year!
This year after dinner, while the cats (aka. the siblings) were away, the mice played...Rock Band! We decided our best performance was "Eye of the Tiger" with Joey playing expert on the drums, Bill on guitar and me on vocals! We only failed out of one song, which was pretty good. Susie even took a turn on drums! After our world tour, we watched Iron Man until the countdown in Times Square, and with our sparkling grape juice in hand we said hello to 2009!