tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2243349893248377152012-02-09T11:43:14.814-08:00...we can sit face to face...Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.comBlogger1711100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-81430563279331486922011-01-04T23:01:00.000-08:002011-01-05T02:11:23.844-08:00

I've been thinking about this quite a bit over the last couple of weeks, and then Erik's blog pushed me over the edge to do the same thing. (Thanks Erik for letting me copycat...in many ways.)I saw a bunch of movies last year. It's been a while since I've seen that many in a year. I remember the days when it seemed like Steve & I were seeing a movie once a week, or at least 2-3 times per month

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-61860031287739453762011-01-03T23:10:00.000-08:002011-01-04T01:38:22.641-08:00

Day 3. I found a new show. I know, I know. TV is considered wasting time. It's entertainment that can numb and make you disengage. Tonight I caught a glimpse of one that made me think and look at things, I don't know, different. Call it an "aha" moment like she did, or maybe I just liked the inside peek into what has been so successful for such a long time. I can't say that I always agree

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-26986594990081846262011-01-02T22:56:00.001-08:002011-01-04T01:10:52.880-08:00

The last week of Christmas vacation has been full...of sickness. Sick everyone except me. Steve, Kaylee and Noah each had a run of it - some crisscross of symptoms and some things unique to each. Seeing that everyone felt fine by new years eve I thought for sure I was free and clear. I was wrong. So, I finish the break...sick. In bed most of the day. Wiped out but now not able to sleep (I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-30389220944480294792011-01-01T23:07:00.000-08:002011-01-02T00:37:55.404-08:00

Ok...It's 2011. Two thousand eleven. It's a weird sounding year isn't it. I mean we're past the 05, 08, 09 kind of years --- we can just say it's 11. Or can we? At the beginning of a year everything seems so different, but it really isn't. It's a flip of a calendar, the change of one numeric figure in a string of numbers we see often. Yet - when a new year comes we have this opportunity (

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-80394602706404606922010-10-04T01:54:00.000-07:002010-10-04T02:14:30.393-07:00

Heard this today and sent me to prayer for many I know who are in just a "waiting" kind of place - some things are exciting, some not so much... either way, my prayers are with you all and I am trusting Him to hold you close...while you wait. I am committed to pray and wait with you... I'm waitingI'm waiting on You, LordAnd I am hopefulI'm waiting on You, LordThough it is painfulBut

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-22140250394309345852010-09-15T00:54:00.000-07:002010-09-15T01:07:37.296-07:00

So, here are the answers...1) What did Noah say what he was looking forward to most about camping last weekend?? Noah said he was most looking forward to "mama being cold." And I was, at night. Actually I stayed up the latest (surprise surprise) sitting by the campfire. I was surprised at the roller coaster of temperatures we had. At the dock in Florence it was 85, but at our campsite - 65.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-87343521782950406792010-09-07T22:34:00.000-07:002010-09-07T22:46:15.617-07:00

Tomorrow I'm probably posting about the beginning of the school year... the next day I'm planning to blog about camping. This past weekend we took a family camping trip to Florence, Oregon (not Italy). Bu before I post... I'd love to hear your guesses about a few questions...1) What did Noah say what he was looking forward to most about camping last weekend?? (This was obviously a pre-trip

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-12118739640836861682010-09-06T22:56:00.001-07:002010-09-06T23:28:24.978-07:00

...And that's ok. I didn't realize until Steve told me that my "40 days of blogging" are over. It actually ended on Friday, September 3rd. I posted that day. And the next. I missed Sunday. And that's ok too. There's no life requirement that I blog every day. But guess what? I realized during the course of this 40-day journey that I kinda like it. It really was a lot of fun. It still is

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-34978567328759794702010-09-04T22:03:00.000-07:002010-09-04T22:04:18.708-07:00

... that I'm sitting by a roaring campfire, looking at a sky full of stars, and I'm posting a blog by using my phone. I can't be the only one who thinks... Wow. That's crazy. I think we continue to take for granted the technological advances. Just like we take for granted the star-filled sky overhead. To say this sky is beautiful is an understatement. To say it is awe-inspiring is not enough.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-57458692914897026942010-09-03T14:30:00.000-07:002010-09-03T14:30:00.249-07:00

Somehow during high school I never learned a foreign language. Nope. I got to use my extra elective credits to do more music classes, and yearbook. Last part of my Senior year I had Orchestra, Jazz Lab, Symphonic Band, English, Band Assistant, and Yearbook. That was a rockin' schedule!! Anyway --- I'm "old" enough that foreign language was covered under my humanities credits, and all these music

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-72979839232228213412010-09-02T23:22:00.000-07:002010-09-02T23:36:49.827-07:00

So maybe not break... I had a busy day today, and just needed to get out for a little while, so I headed to Kohl's. Normally that wouldn't be a quick break, but I knew I needed fresh air, and I knew I needed to go today. Why? I had a $50 Kohl's Cash credit someone gave us, and today was the only day I knew I could use it before it expired...so off I went.I got the parking space literally right by

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-39855167829916888882010-09-01T23:03:00.000-07:002010-09-01T23:44:56.771-07:00

It's official. Steve can now wear this... his new pride and joy... his "retirement" shirt. He bought it to wear EVERY DAY (at least for part of the day) until he gets a new job. Oh, it's a "classic" --- check out the footwear too... He's a walking fashion statement to say the least. So, since it's official... it meant it was a day of celebration. So we met a big group of friends at Adam's

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-10087026997202810452010-08-31T23:59:00.000-07:002010-09-01T01:19:12.434-07:00

That's the phrase Chele claimed for Steve's lay-off from Nike. And I like it. Set free. It's not even so much about being set free from something as it is set free for something. I know that sounds kinda weird - really it's both the same thing I guess. But being set free from something has you spending most of your energy thinking about that which has locked you and held you back and kept

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-4857541733146779922010-08-30T23:26:00.000-07:002010-08-30T23:32:34.006-07:00

I love you.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-33205616296757465152010-08-29T21:29:00.000-07:002010-08-29T21:45:49.684-07:00

I'm a little competitive. But not with everyone. There is this weird somewhat ferocious ugly side of me that comes out when friendly competition is at hand. Maybe it's because I'm no good at actually participating in sports (can't throw a football, take a shot, make a goal, throw a frisbee...), so I know I'm not going to win anything that way. I was a statistician for basketball in high

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-26262056400356929232010-08-28T23:43:00.000-07:002010-08-29T21:46:22.039-07:00

So I was wondering what I was going to blog about today...when God brought us a visitor...Kaylee, Noah & I were in the back yard sitting in a circle playing Hot Potato (literally, potato - going around the circle - laughing and singing Phinneas and Ferb)... when I see something on the patio which is about, oh 5 feet from where we are sitting. Immediately I tell the kids to quickly get up and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-77918876878950613602010-08-27T23:59:00.000-07:002010-08-28T00:04:26.247-07:00

I have 8 minutes until midnight and sure want this posted before the clock strikes twelve. OK, so I don't have a clock that will strike twelve, but it'll be midnight either way... Eight... Eight... Eight... Here we go. EIGHT things I did today1) Slept until about 8 am... =)2) Had a fun Mama/Kaylee day3) Ate at PF Changs for lunch (mmmmm... lettuce wraps)4) Talked with my hubs about a phone

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-5500249336065887662010-08-26T23:50:00.001-07:002010-08-27T18:04:53.940-07:00

I'm borrowing one of Erik's words... I'm just wondering - why is it that in order to tale advantage of the best sales prices at a grocery or drug store you have to fill out an application and get a 'card.' really?? What ever happened to, and on sale today is...'??? And why is it they ask for so much on the app?? Name, address, birthday, gender... I know- they want to track my every move in

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-58962765331680170802010-08-25T21:38:00.000-07:002010-08-25T21:43:47.460-07:00

As I've mentioned I've started two classes this week... and here are my textbooks for these classes. I've read a little over half of what I need to read for tonight - yeah, I know...read!!! - ... but I have to confess, just like when I was in high school it's hard to read what you "have" to read versus staring at what you want to read, which is sitting in a pile next to you as well... Don't get

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-88992595247433900862010-08-25T21:30:00.000-07:002010-08-25T22:22:21.082-07:00

Today we had a long staff meeting --- and I have to say - I love them. I love the staff I'm a part of and I love our staff meetings. Today was more of a mini-retreat I think, and an "official" sneak peek into our new community center building, Broadway Commons, 1300 Broadway, Salem, OR 97301 --- Grand Opening September 11-12, 2010!! Let's just say - the layout is amazing, the furniture is so

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-67064828716377865432010-08-24T10:00:00.000-07:002010-08-24T10:00:00.941-07:00

So, summer break for me is officially over. This week I'm starting TWO classes for the next five weeks as part of my time with Crown College getting my bachelors degree. Oh, I only have 16 chapters to read over the next two days (HA!), but I am excited about these classes. They include journaling, interviews, a spiritual retreat (Upper Room here I come!!!), reading an author I've hoped to read

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-75607868599149732662010-08-23T22:29:00.000-07:002010-08-23T22:59:11.714-07:00

Yesterday, inspired by Cupcake Wars, we embarked on Cup-cake-palooza. 4 kids. 7 adults. 144-ish cupcakes. 8 containers of frosting. Nerds. Swedish Fish. Jelly Rings. Fondant. Cool Mist. Enough sugar to make a herd of elephants run wild...Hannah and her turtle...Grace and her cheeseburger...Noah & his Despicable Me minyon & GruKaylee & her rainbow beach...Chele & her gluten free, soy free, egg

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-57367431580649785492010-08-22T23:55:00.000-07:002010-08-23T00:07:51.578-07:00

Today we experienced a fabulous church service...We ate a great brunch at Cafe 22...This afternoon we were a part of "Cupcakepalooza" - I'll blog about that later.Tonight we ate Moe's (again) and then... unfortunately gave Jennifer a ride to the airport to fly back to Atlanta. What does that mean?Summer is starting to wind down. Regular world is close to setting in.Two classes start officially

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-60219801795996650102010-08-21T23:57:00.000-07:002010-08-22T00:47:49.241-07:00

(This is kinda a continuation from yesterday. Well, the first part is.)Today we had our annual leader training event - Ignite. This is our first leaders meeting of the year, where all student ministry leaders/volunteers come together for training, planning, and of course fun and food...and there was plenty of that!!In our 2nd session, Brian spent time talking about mission - our mission

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-1579008890128449552010-08-20T22:39:00.000-07:002010-08-22T00:33:25.965-07:00

I'll say it. I'm a ketchup snob. I love Heinz Ketchup. All others are those longing to be ketchup. (Sorry.) But ok, ketchup lovers --- anyone else bothered by this picture?? See anything that just seems a little crazy...I may be about to show my age...I may just be on a rant, but, well, here it goes. Here's my perspective - Social media should be about people and causes...not about

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-49620153311101982752010-08-19T14:00:00.000-07:002010-08-19T14:00:01.259-07:00

1. I'm really just a kid... I love amusement park rides. This one is my favorite. I think you can tell because you continually hear me... it's a little embarassing... 2. I was drum major in high school...3. I'm a sucker for a few "reality" shows...4. I didn't text, twitter, blog, facebook, flip, skype, etc. all until the last 3 years... wow...things are different. 5. I'm a cop magnet ---

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-63986454391540176452010-08-18T23:34:00.001-07:002010-08-19T00:16:02.589-07:00

My new Christine Dente/Out of the Grey cd has me in a music flashback. No, I'm not talking the bad 80's music that I heard over the speakers at Red Robin today (sorry Red Robin, I mean really... Boy George!?? Yikes!) But in thinking through the music I love and pulling up old favs, I came across a song (I think I mentioned it in my post a few days ago). Just thinking of it made me tear.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-24144896539559708062010-08-17T23:58:00.000-07:002010-08-18T01:14:17.462-07:00

There is something fun and adventurous about taking a last minute trip. We don't do it often. I think it's harder to do when you have kiddos, but it's definitely fun. Our friend Jennifer is in town, and of course when people come to visit you want to take them to see things... all the while knowing that it's being together which is the blessing... In the midst of working and weekends and crazy

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-91119592816965214122010-08-16T23:57:00.000-07:002010-08-17T00:17:14.178-07:00

Do you see a glass as half empty or half full??View Larger MapDid you know there is a town called Halfway, Oregon?? Actually they changed their name to Half.com... (too bad they didn't get the website to match it)If something is half done, it can either be a daunting task or a relief, a joy or a disappointment... Today is day 21 of this 40 days of blogging...wait, maybe it's 22... I've lost count

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-48188020420458330492010-08-15T23:03:00.000-07:002010-08-15T23:04:31.563-07:00

So vacation continues. Well, this summer had been more about 2 days away kinds of vacations instead of the staying gone for a week kind of vacation. When you hit the road you never know exactly what's ahead for you...There's those memorable moments of things you've been waiting to do and finally get to... Or the unexpected things that you experience out of nowhere...I've seen a riding lawn mower

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-1693555586149692642010-08-14T23:54:00.000-07:002010-08-15T00:40:18.456-07:00

So, I picked up a box at church tonight. I know...it's my day off - what am I doing checking my mailbox?? I can't help it. I walk by - I look in it. Tonight...I'm so glad I did. I am just now enjoying what I found there...For a long time I've had a favorite music group. They are actually a married couple - Scott & Christine Dente, who have a group/duo called Out of the Grey. Steve and I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-14441102633434941692010-08-13T23:41:00.000-07:002010-08-14T00:10:29.034-07:00

We were supposed to go to the pool with friends...and then one of those rogue fevers takes out a sweet little girl...(Not mine, hers...hope you're feeling better soon Mia...). Plan C. Head to the coast...It's a rare day that you get to sit on the beach area in Lincoln City without a jacket, but today was one of those days... a little cool to start with, but then the sunshine took over and it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-3192392755522082312010-08-12T23:49:00.000-07:002010-08-13T00:15:54.576-07:00

I told several people what I was getting to do this week --- spend about 40 hours with students heading to Seattle!! Almost all of them thought I was crazy. Honestly, I'd choose to do this if I could too. I think it's a great and fun and amazing trip. First, (once we got to Seattle) we got to Ride The Ducks (a tour ofSeattle in a refurbished WW2 land/water vehicle that took us past the piers

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-33860521155173606952010-08-11T23:50:00.000-07:002010-08-12T23:50:33.193-07:00

One of the things I love about our trips (which are not vacations by the way...contrary to popular belief) is getting to know the students better and have long and short and interesting and wacky conversations... Everything from how many broken bones to where do you see yourself in 5 years... For them... seniors in high school or freshman in college... for me...the mom of a high schooler and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-74111451470356112252010-08-11T00:57:00.001-07:002010-08-11T01:02:22.208-07:00

So tonight I am resting on the floor of a generous church that allows our beloved middle school group to sleep in it's building after a day in Seattle (I think tomorrows blog will be about our trip...) But when we were at the Mariners game tonight I had one of those "who ever thought of making that" kind of moments. Do you ever have those? I do - I will randomly be enjoying something I see or

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-79152480021391434892010-08-09T22:39:00.000-07:002010-08-09T23:00:34.172-07:00

Have you seen that show on Food Network? Their network stars talk about the best foods they've ever eaten in different categories...so, why not...here's a few of my own...Best Ice Cream - White Chocolate @ the Hyatt Ravinia (well, it was the Hyatt Ravinia in Atlanta - I worked banquets at the time, and this event had white chocolate ice cream w/ white chocolate shavings on top. I remember being

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-80816800130047761822010-08-08T23:06:00.000-07:002010-08-09T00:19:03.692-07:00

Another fun day today - church, then lunch then OMSI with the in-laws and kids and my hubs. Just a day that started out pretty gross weather wise and turned beautiful...(Hmmmm... speaking of turned beautiful... if you haven't heard the song "Beautiful Things" by Gungor yet...you should.My hubs made bbq ribs tonight - amazing - again. I'm so grateful for him.I take the in-laws to the airport

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-65289496502989649072010-08-07T23:52:00.000-07:002010-08-08T00:26:37.086-07:00

Yesterday was August 6th --- I mentioned a happy anniversary to Erik & Jeanne-Ann, and a happy birthday to Michael... Michael was born 16 years ago yesterday (we were at Erik & Jeanne-Ann's wedding calling up to the ATL every 10-15 minutes for updates --- we really really really really really wanted the scoop on this baby coming into the world!!) And Michael's parents are truly two of the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-38305283848183736582010-08-06T23:46:00.000-07:002010-08-07T01:19:22.752-07:00

So, I've started like 3 different blog posts...and I'm not really liking where any of them are going. So here are some short snippets...We watched a fisherman pull in a 40 lb. coho salmon and how it reminded me of missionaries in countries who are diligent, determined, committed to Him, not to a catch...just like this man is committed to fishing and not to this specific fish. It'd been 35 years

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-67875846091760175932010-08-05T23:01:00.000-07:002010-08-05T23:40:55.051-07:00

I admit it. My family knows it. Our ministry team knows it. I know it. Everyone who knows me also knows that if there is a seat in the sunshine, I'm the girl for that seat. I won't fight over it, but you know my heart will leap for joy to be sitting amidst the rays of joy that illuminate Earth so beautifully... I am solar powered. I need the sun. I don't mean in a vitamin D, good healthy

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-66790419581195099012010-08-04T23:28:00.000-07:002010-08-04T23:54:40.498-07:00

... a vacation with the fam and the in-laws...Seeing trees that are beautifully different than those near our home...Checking out overlooks that I could sit at for hours...Wishing the sun would shine so I could see it in a whole new light... (not complaining, ok, maybe I am a little...but it's beautiful either way)Being surprised by the cutest little lighthouse I've ever seen...Gasping at the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-2472435676450797152010-08-03T23:20:00.000-07:002010-08-04T01:59:59.770-07:00

It's finally here... summer has already been crazy - so much going on...but we're finally to VACATION!!! Steve's parents fly in tonight for the week (I can't believe they haven't seen this house yet - well, they actually saw it in construction mode last time they were here). Noah woke up this morning @ 5:00 am asking if Grandma and Grandpa were downstairs. Um, no sweetie. They come in tonight

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-88983560058868039362010-08-02T23:33:00.000-07:002010-08-03T00:29:48.907-07:00

I got a GREAT hanging basket for Mother's Day (well, I bought it for myself when Jeanne-Annand I went tothis way cool nursery). It's a Moonglo - never seen it before or heard of it... Of course I didn't take a picture that day - why? I'm not sure - but man - love it!!! Mine has more pink in the bloom that this one, but I love it. It has cascading green leaves and the blooms hang upside down

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-80731799602490355282010-08-01T23:52:00.000-07:002010-08-02T00:49:26.539-07:00

Today the reality of my world clashed in a lot of different ways. It began at church this am singing a song that is one of my absolute favs - and I sing along louder than I usually sing because, well, I love the song (and the One I'm singing about and to...). Then I hit a line that just rips a hole in my heart - and brings to light a reality that I knew was there, but not really wanting to

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-31196941675395718542010-07-31T12:00:00.000-07:002010-07-31T12:00:03.776-07:00

Twenty-two years ago this month (July 1988) I met Steve. I was a 21 year old girl from Atlanta who'd never been to Chicago before...I got off of the plane with two other girls from Atlanta on an adventure we weren't expecting - we were headed to Summer Institute of Evangelism, hosted by Youth for Christ, at Rockford College. We got to Chicago on Saturday night. We went to Hard Rock Cafe and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-49854602201525959372010-07-30T21:37:00.000-07:002010-07-30T23:06:01.803-07:00

We love Moe's. Now, when you say that in Oregon, people say - "we love Mo's too." We're talking about two different places. Don't get me wrong - they're both good and have food we really enjoy...but Moe's (with an E) is a longtime favorite of our family. Mo's in Oregon means yummy seafood on the coast. Most typically it means clam chowder in Lincoln City or Florenceor somewhere else. And

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-57852814206478639342010-07-29T23:08:00.000-07:002010-07-29T23:17:56.411-07:00

I'm still grateful today... and I've been singing a different song a good bit of the day... It's not necessarily the most current, or the most slick, and it's probably even a little a hokey, ok, probably a lot... I just am grateful... So to all my friends out there --- thanks for all the things you do, big and small, the incredibly significant or seemingly insignificant, for deep talks and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-1039443322681257482010-07-28T23:15:00.000-07:002010-07-28T23:24:44.663-07:00

Today was a hectic day for many reasons...and at different times today God brought just the right person along my path to say just the right thing to get me through the moment...or even bring me a Coke and a smile. (Thanks friend!) It was a day God knew exactly what I'd need, and when I'd need it. It's actually like that every day...I just can so easily slide through and not realize it.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-9813088650397429722010-07-27T22:52:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:25:35.934-07:00

I like to read. I remember about a year ago saying I wanted to read more. Little did I know how that little hope would come true. As I mentioned then I'm surrounded at work by learners --- people who just soak up written word - I haven't always been the best at it... I remember in high school finding out before summer break what the required reading was for the following year, because I knew

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-23350584580658343752010-07-26T11:17:00.000-07:002010-07-26T21:57:52.622-07:00

Last night at dinner, Bex came up with the idea... and before she finished the sentence I knew it... we would do it. So here we are - day 1 of 40 days of... BLOGGING!!! (I wonder what you thought I was going to say - fasting, vacationing, Phinneas & Ferb-ing (although they had 104 days of summer vacation...). Day 1 - 40 days - 1 post every day. It's the challenge - the wondering what everyone

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-26043849861746759392010-05-19T01:18:00.000-07:002010-05-19T01:25:16.499-07:00

I saw this about 3 years ago for the first time...and stumbled upon it today... (looks like I'm doing that a lot lately... hmmm). Anyway --- hope you can relate to it like I do...I hope you'll take some time...well, here, I'll make it easy. Here's a link to the story this girl shared...I hope you can relate...and will relate to the man in the story in a new way after looking at it from a new

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-41256420490070059032010-05-18T15:49:00.000-07:002010-05-18T15:56:13.942-07:00

I was driving home today, hit shuffle on my iPhone and ta-da - a song I haven't heard in a while that somehow just draws me closer to Him and makes me smile and sing a long at the top of my lungs... and so, I don't know where your mind or heart are today. But if you want, listen in and enjoy... the youtube link has the lyrics - it's not a video per se, but someone went to the effort to put the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-91030225540664666132010-05-14T02:26:00.000-07:002010-05-14T09:35:27.701-07:00

At the dare of Erik w/ a K (I wonder how he talks me into things...)...and following the lead of Carlos Whitaker (via his blog) I tried this - a little masterpiece called my 90-second day. I think it'll make sense, but just in case. Your day - captured in snipets - and lasts just 90 seconds - no editing, just trimming (ok, I did take sound off one or two meeting clips)... so...here's my day May

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-56648180315453754192010-05-01T23:51:00.001-07:002010-05-02T00:50:43.300-07:00

You know how people can say miracles don't happen today like they did way back when? That miracles only happened in Bible times?? That's one of those things that would be easy to feel. I mean really, who has 5000 guys surround them, and then feeds them and the women and children with 5 loafs of bread and 2 fish? When has a lake just split into two with a dry walkway through the middle? Who

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-53931445712429342242010-04-29T00:56:00.000-07:002010-04-29T01:37:57.043-07:00

What's it really like to be homeless?? We got a glimpse of that during Give a Shirt week last week, and even moreso as we got to listen to the story of Kevin and Dana, a couple that have been married for 10 years now, and spent 4-5 years of that time homeless. It was interesting listening to their journey and experiences. They dispelled myths and offered insights... here are a few things that

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-24432563688025791832010-04-29T00:52:00.000-07:002010-04-29T00:55:58.726-07:00

I already promised to write about Kevin & Dana - the couple that came and shared last Friday night about their experience of being homeless in Salem for 4-5 years. Then... JOHN STUMBO STARTED EATING! Then...school started back! Then...MINUTE TO WIN IT! Then... Yeah, there's a lot going on. All that to say, I'll start in a moment where I said I would, but there's lots more to come and I may

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-42389688113871623142010-04-25T23:07:00.000-07:002010-04-26T00:44:30.735-07:00

...what it's like to be homeless...As I mentioned in my last entry, last week was "Give a Shirt" week around here. By Friday I was pretty ready to have a new outfit on. I was growing more and more grateful for the simple things. And I was amazingly looking forward to Friday night/Saturday morning - "Homeless Night" - we weren't sure how it would turn out, but middle and high school students plus

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-70586431061609380212010-04-22T21:27:00.000-07:002010-04-26T01:01:46.242-07:00

So, it's Give a Shirt week. Some of you know what that means, some of you don't. Just so we're all on the same page, a little synopsis. Last December the middle and high school students @ Salem Alliance voted to get behind a cause that would address a practical need in our community - realizing there are 900+ homeless students in Salem/Keizer, and that many of these students don't attend

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-70187233282604945472010-04-01T08:16:00.000-07:002010-04-01T08:41:57.773-07:00

It's Holy Week -- the week we remember and reflect on the last week of Jesus' life (at least I do). At a service on Sunday the pastor talked about how Jesus was a part of two processions - a triumphant procession (Palm Sunday) and a condemning procession (crucifixion day). I have been reading this week through the different accounts of Holy Week in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John. And

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-81878478762527881642010-04-01T01:36:00.000-07:002010-04-01T08:42:36.242-07:00

I love March Madness. I do. I love college basketball. It's my second favorite sport. Hockey is first. I love filling out my bracket and watching the games and filling in the winners and seeing teams make it to the next round. I love upsets!! It's awesome to watch some seemingly unknown school beat a powerhouse. This year as I was filling out my brackets I kept saying to Steve, there's

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-2534803324950364272010-03-30T00:00:00.001-07:002010-03-30T00:01:38.880-07:00

So, I am trying to get a new blog design going here. Just a little something different. But somehow in the midst of it, I've trashed the content part - part of which is not allowing for comments. That stinks. I like your feed back. It's a part of connection I guess. So, thanks for your patience as I try to figure this out. I know - I'm a techie wanna be - and there are days I am better at it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-73974634801421555402010-03-29T01:35:00.000-07:002010-04-01T08:43:03.625-07:00

I love music... I admit it. This is one I was introduced to a little over a year ago, but for this week, it's perfect... enjoy...

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-92082882047897901472010-03-29T01:32:00.000-07:002010-03-29T01:34:34.220-07:00

I'm back. I've been waiting too long to set time aside. Is anyone wondering if I'm here? I don't know. But soon you'll be seeing posts again - starting tomorrow. Tonight - I've spent enough time on a new look (thanks Erik for trying to help me). Tomorrow --- my "day off" --- full of cleaning, processing, planning, and... blogging. It's gonna be a good day. What are you doing tomorrow, well,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-28134536548597702962009-10-27T01:55:00.000-07:002009-10-27T12:22:56.064-07:00

So...you'd think my first full day home after our middle school fall retreat I'd be just pumped! Tired...but excited for what happened there. Instead - I found myself battling the enemy all day - I know I was fighting with him at the retreat - that's what happens when you call him out - our theme verse was John 10:10 - A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-67939786840994923352009-10-20T23:21:00.000-07:002009-10-21T01:53:26.036-07:00

So... what else is a girl to do at 10:00 pm on a Tuesday night after wrestling with some homework, and needing a break?? Go to Albertson's!!! I had some coupons...a few double coupons to play (couponing is a game you know...). So here's what I got - 4 bottles of Tree Top juice, 4 jars of Prego spaghetti sauce, 6 Healthy Choice frozen meals, 3 California Pizza Kitchen Flatbread Melts, 2 pkgs of

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-54990277243493358222009-10-17T01:09:00.000-07:002009-10-17T01:33:11.459-07:00

I heard this song today... for the first time... and it broke my heart. I just sit and think of the number of people who are sitting there feeling the exact same way and wonder...will tomorrow be the day that perspective changes for them? Will tomorrow be the day that they hear just how much God truly, passionately loves and adores them? Will tomorrow be the day that someone will boldly and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-1583990101049028262009-10-14T00:57:00.000-07:002009-10-14T02:14:32.658-07:00

So... I've been contemplating this blog for a couple of days. And just when I think I'm calm enough to go at this on a rational, collected, self-controlled manner, something else happens that sends me over the edge. Something else happens that makes me feel like the world has lost any semblance of common sense. Something that happens that makes me that much more aware of and in need of God who

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-31386826442316205012009-09-25T01:18:00.000-07:002009-09-25T01:57:14.775-07:00

I was almost at the airport (w/ Jenna) to pick up Kevin when we found out his flight was going to be late (hmmm....I should blog that story as well). Anyway - Jenna and I had about 1 1/2-2 hours to fill up. First thought - IKEA - how is that ever a bad idea? We could walk around and dream and eat and goof. But --- Jenna has never been to Oregon. And since we're throwing all we can her &

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-70576483362567807832009-09-20T22:24:00.000-07:002009-09-21T00:55:13.728-07:00

I know.. you haven't heard much from me (oh wait - I said that at the beginning of my last post, huh). OK, I'll just get to it. I know I have a lot of catching you up to do... I know I've been slack. I know I have lots going on. I know you're probably wondering (maybe) what I've been up to. So... here's part of it.I love coupons. I love being a frugal nut. I love coming home from the store

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-44316657132514438182009-09-20T21:37:00.000-07:002009-09-20T22:12:38.596-07:00

About time I blogged again huh? Little did I know I'd say something about wanting to read more...and then have it take me so long to let you know how I'm doing with that. Yes - I've been reading more. I've read quite a bit actually. Most have been shorter-style books - mostly related to ministry stuff I admit --- mostly related to something we're excited about for student ministries this fall

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-18598041996272744232009-07-06T10:38:00.000-07:002009-07-06T10:50:10.127-07:00

I don't know about you - but how often do you read? I do read a bunch online - that counts (someone on my team told me that recently, and I was sooooooo relieved). But honestly, most of my "book" reading has been kids books, or the occasional book I skim or scout in prep for messages or work stuff. OK, well, maybe I've read more than I give myself credit for. But bottom line - I want to read

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-3949418064286308032009-07-02T01:29:00.000-07:002009-07-02T01:51:45.372-07:00

OK...so we've just gotten back from a looooonnnggggg time away from home. Back to the ATL for time with friends and fam, and then off to Michigan for a vacay with fam there too. Both were wonderful... one was complete whirlwind... one was complete rest... both were refreshing and fun to just be all day with our fam. When Steve went back to work on Monday I really didn't know what to do. I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-38587256207019318982009-03-09T01:30:00.000-07:002009-03-09T22:04:57.568-07:00

So...after having the flu two weeks ago, I feel like last week was a blur and a chance to try to catch up... at the end of the week I think I felt more like I wasn't caught up than I did when the week started...and now, it's Monday morning already. And it's sooooo time for me to go to sleep. But... I also know I'm way overdue for here...so... here's a glimpse into my world...*Busy...I think my

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-12070350304818258142009-02-10T22:34:00.000-08:002009-02-10T22:45:01.812-08:00

so...it's rare in my world that I get in the blahs - I'm not talking about those inconsequential blahs, the ones I gripe and complain about (like the weather...)...I'm talking about just one of those points where I'm a little down. Yep - that'd be now.My uncle passed away yesterday. He's soooooooooo much better off. He's been fighting Parkinson's disease for such a long time, and while in

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-10248018741929781202009-02-09T00:02:00.000-08:002009-02-09T00:07:08.989-08:00

So...I've started a couple of entries this week, only to get a few sentences in and delete it. Why? Because honestly...there are times when I think/believe - no one is reading this - why does it matter? Who cares about my obviously random thoughts, experiences, beliefs, cares, frustrations...and why on earth would they spend their free time perusing them on the internet when there is so much more

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-11715054428444333142009-01-29T00:17:00.000-08:002009-01-29T00:29:24.313-08:00

OK...I have a confession...I wore socks today with giant holes in the heels. I didn't realize it when I put them on. And it made me a little sad...a little depressed. It's not necessarily a bad thing (to wear through your socks). Someone told me I should be proud that I thoroughly used them...a great way to have a positive perspective. I don't remember ever wearing through socks. I keep socks for

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-86807168667940134532009-01-10T00:32:00.000-08:002009-01-10T01:35:37.802-08:00

Kaylee said, "Mom I got great gifts - I loved them all. But Mom, it was the worst Christmas ever." Yep ... she could be right.Christmas Eve service was wonderful. We took up a whole row with our friends the Condello's and the Prins'. 6 adults, 6 kids. The worship center was pretty full for a 4:00 service. And I was ready. I love Christmas Eve service. I love singing the songs so focused on the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-91754995342130953952009-01-10T00:09:00.001-08:002009-01-10T01:36:24.356-08:00

And no...I don't have video or pics of this one. (well, not of me) In the midst of "Arctic Blast 2008" there was a day mid-week where the snow had tapered and the roads were somewhat clear (don't get me started on how bad the roads were and how there's no gear to clear them --- but I won't really complain - it's fun being stuck at home). Speaking of stuck...So...the roads cleared up and I decided

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-7471978211344216962009-01-09T23:30:00.001-08:002009-01-10T01:37:48.406-08:00

As I said - we had no idea. It started snowing on Saturday, December 13th. We had snow almost every day through December 25th. One day we had lots of rain, but it was really cold and there was ice on the roads. Another day rain the am, and snow by the late afternoon which brought us over a foot in just a couple of hours...then more steadily over the next couple of hours. At it's height we had 15-

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-57439558678262431802009-01-09T23:16:00.000-08:002009-01-09T23:29:57.554-08:00

So...when we decorated the Christmas tree this year (Man we loved our tree...I should tell that story first)...let's start again.We loved our Christmas tree this year. We were trying to find a "dry" day to go, and Steve had seen a sign just a short ways from our house pointing towards a tree farm (we like cutting down our tree). Anyway - so...the rain stops, things clear and we decide, fairly

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-67157003925229682382009-01-07T23:47:00.000-08:002009-01-08T00:03:07.845-08:00

So...December 15th. A big day in Unwin family history and story. The day me and my man got married!!! 1990. Wow! 18 years ago! Are you kidding me? Has it been that long? We're approaching that we've been together nearly half of our lives point. Whoa. Crazy. Unbelievable. Fabulous!So...we only talked about our anniversary for like a month or more before it came - PF Changs...movie...walk & talk.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-46267162089695957032009-01-06T01:48:00.001-08:002009-01-06T01:54:48.753-08:00

Well...December 2008 brought lots of fun...lots of ick too. We had 15-18 inches of snow in our yard and the school playground...so, needless to say we were outside a bunch...the kids were out of school the whole last week they were supposed to have classes in December...so they got a 3 week break! WOW! Then...Christmas, which I usually love, but Steve & I got sick sick sick...ok...this is too

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-38403458414561092072008-12-08T00:46:00.000-08:002009-01-06T21:55:15.616-08:00

OK...so I heard this song driving into church this morning...it hasn't left my head all day. Not in that annoying kinda way songs can do, but in the way that I have rested in the One True God that I know... Oh to know Him more... Oh to rest in Him... The quality of this audio isn't necessarily the best...but you'll get the point...and probably hear it on the radio soon. It's simple...I like it.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-57893058975389384152008-12-05T12:22:00.001-08:002008-12-05T12:22:53.332-08:00

Clark Griswold would be so proud...

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-32756951207652460952008-12-05T00:22:00.000-08:002008-12-05T00:37:58.799-08:00

OK...so I just wrote about 2/3 of a blog...and then, deleted it. Why? I don't know that it really made sense to me - not the words (ok, some of them), but the thoughts I was trying to process in writing. I think. Or was I just afraid to post it? I don't think so. Was I wondering what people would think when they read it? Nah... I don't usually think so hard about what I'm writing. Maybe I'm just

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-57748459898163795752008-12-02T00:42:00.000-08:002008-12-02T01:15:27.528-08:00

I know I don't get to write the rules of life. I know it doesn't go my way. But, after spending a few hours out in the hustle bustle and chaos of early morning Black Friday shopping it reminded me of my days working retail in the shoe department at JC Penneys. And reminded me of a life-rule I thought of waaaaaaaay back then... I honestly believe that everyone, every person who ever purchases a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-42567307548427061972008-12-01T23:27:00.000-08:002008-12-02T00:26:32.336-08:00

The last couple of weeks have been a drain. I admit - I'm not front lines on this. I'm not sitting in a hospital ICU waiting room. I'm not walking in to see the man I love, or my dad, in a physical condition that is unexplained and critical. But, this is all about someone who I admire - a family I adore - and my heart not being willing to surrender.Our lead pastor, John Stumbo, has been in ICU at

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-46979407496734368652008-11-24T23:04:00.000-08:002008-12-02T00:28:06.886-08:00

IF you haven't read Steve's "Death by Fashion" blog post, the do that first and come back to here...(it's such a good read - he's an amazing writer...I'd read his blog any day...)OK...So...I think it's time for a little "girl details" on this post. I love my hubby dearly - but there are some things he doesn't quite give you a clear enough picture about.Steve working for this company has had it's

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-21243143563411011842008-11-16T23:05:00.000-08:002008-11-23T01:10:34.288-08:00

So...we've waited for a year. Last year was the first..and this year will not be the last. It is our biggest student ministries event of the year - 2 hours completely focused on missions. This year we had an Africa focus - we're sending our 2nd team to Burkina Faso to partner with CM&A missionaries there. But this is bigger than Africa. This is bigger than a 2 hour event. This is about being used

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-71410433119274593562008-11-15T23:15:00.000-08:002008-11-16T22:06:15.127-08:00

Today was full and busy. We were at church today for about 6 hours getting ready for REACH --- which is awesome and great! I'm sooooooo stoked for tomorrow morning (I'll wait and blog about that tomorrow). The decorations are up, the giveaways and commitment cards are ready, everything (except the kitchen) looks really clean and neat, and we have new lights and tech which always add to the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-47825566924239772182008-11-15T22:39:00.000-08:002008-11-15T23:04:44.805-08:00

So...Steve's company is in the midst of moving its location to Tennessee...and the bigger facility he's been working in is closing in about 2-3 weeks. He's working at a smaller location now, a couple of blocks away, and it's a much smaller crew. Anyway - in order to spread the holiday cheer his company hosted it's Christmas party last night!! Woo!Hoo! Date night!! I love getting to go out with

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-17523217735784676292008-11-11T23:04:00.000-08:002008-11-11T23:10:02.939-08:00

CRASH is tomorrow night. Normally we land on a series and it's fairly easy to pull ideas from the team and finalize a plan. I don't know why this month has been hard to focus on...but it's almost done...finally. (To all the leaders who read this...sorry --- I needed a little brain break before reviewing it and sending it to you...I'll send it out before I go to sleep...promise...). For the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-67014051427998279642008-11-11T21:58:00.000-08:002008-11-11T23:04:11.950-08:00

So...a few random thoughts from the day...***Kaylee and Noah are so cute...they were having a talk (I love it when they do that) and Kaylee asked Noah if he knew what was made first (not like a chicken and the egg thing, but basically she was asking what did God make first...). Noah pulled his classic "I don't know" (which he likes as a first response for most questions before he pours out his

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-20119047692915542552008-11-11T00:17:00.000-08:002008-11-11T00:52:12.926-08:00

So...today was a day of highs and lows. It's Monday (well, it was 24 some odd minutes ago). That means my day off of work (for the most part). I love Mondays - getting to spend some time with the kids just being mom - not rushed off to church. I've enjoyed volunteering in their classes this year (I missed that last year) - then there's all that other house stuff that piles up. I might be

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-52670522728743870382008-11-08T23:46:00.001-08:002008-11-08T23:59:15.836-08:00

One week from tomorrow...or since it's midnight I should say...one week from today we are trusting to see God move in amazing ways... won't you please join us for REACH?? Check it out...and I hope to see you all next Sunday morning 10 am - 12 noon in the Salem Alliance Youth Center... You don't want to miss it... And don't forget...the offering...be part of building a youth center in

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-72688408974546259662008-11-08T00:40:00.000-08:002008-11-08T00:46:55.553-08:00

OK...I'm so way overdue. So much so that the library of bloggers probably will charge me by the letter vs. by the day since I last blogged. It's pitiful. I admit it. I was starting to get into the swing of it I guess --- then...the sun came out - and all of a sudden I stopped blogging. Weird huh?? Here and now I vow not to talk about the weather every time I post. (I did a lot of that last year)

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-10345290022839682152008-05-04T23:05:00.000-07:002008-05-07T01:07:50.973-07:00

A day when I could sit outside in my capris, rest in a chair, play with the fam, and enjoy the sunshine...and get a little bit of a sunburn...and that was ok by me...I admit - I felt a bit stressed when I came in after a day of rest - feeling like I couldn't rest inside until the laundry was going, and the kitchen cleaned up, etc... but...yes, it was a day of rest!! And...looks like tomorrow will

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-69123927158746344372008-05-01T00:49:00.000-07:002008-05-07T01:03:58.847-07:00

So...yeah - it's April 30th - almost May. Which means FIELD TRIP TIME!!! Yep - Kaylee will probably have a couple more, but today was the first of the field trip craze. She desperately wanted me to go...and how could I say no. The last couple of weeks have been crazy, this week is SWEAT (our middle school church fundraiser)...so, yep - I'm a mom and wife first - so off to the Willamette Art

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-37299613160677890092008-04-30T00:37:00.000-07:002008-05-07T00:49:07.388-07:00

Can I just say...I'm excited!! Time is creeping ever closer when we will be having the friends and family begin to file through...I don't mean file, like oh, drop it in there and think about it some day - I mean file through - maybe file by is better. Like a parade. You can't wait for it to come - you want it to last for forever - you just enjoy what's in front of you, but then again, can't wait

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224334989324837715.post-22916135756510110542008-04-29T22:17:00.000-07:002008-05-07T00:29:08.766-07:00

Last week at Crash (yeah, the one I didn't go to) we asked the students to write down the questions they have for God or about God. These questions will be the basis for our topics over the last 4 weeks of Crash this year. We always refer to Crash as the front door - the lobby. A place where we hope students will be willing to step out of their comfort zone - and visitors will be willing to step

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04894468669742563318noreply@blogger.com0