i married the worship leader.

kids don't eat your moleskines.

2010-07-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

It is my duty as an informed citizen (and victim of
those who lack Google-able smarts) to defend my
plethora of Moleskines (soft-cover and otherwise)
and purchase of more as the scholastic year arrives.

PROP 65

For some time now a "Prop 65" warning has been
popping up alongside Moleskine product listings online.
For those who haven't seen it, it's quite the alarm.

"WARNING! This product contains a chemical
known to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects or other reproductive harm."

Prop 65 is a Californian law enacted in 1986 to promote
regulations that would ensure 1) clean water and 2) keeping
carcinogens and toxic substances from consumer products.
What seemed like a good, healthy preventative idea turned
into chaos run amok.

Much controversy has surrounded these Prop 65 warnings.
In fact, it's common knowledge, that many places, including
gyms and restaurants in California will post the Prop 65
on a sign in order to prevent lawsuits stemming from a
supposed contamination.

Of Importance:

The Prop 65 attributed to certain Moleskine products is
somewhat sketchy, but most speculate it's due to their
PVC material covers and/or the glue used for binding.

Having quite an extensive collection of Moleskines, and
no prospects of being a tortured artist, I looked further
into the matter when the first labels appeared. (2007/8?)

Turns out that if you light your Moleskine on fire
and/or eat it, just like any mix of PVC (and most plastics)
and glue, you may run the risk of becoming ill.

Otherwise, Moleskines are "thumbs-up" healthy
in all respects.

Of Note...

The most popular Moleskines (soft cover and non-city
notebooks, which is almost every single Moleskine of
every single collection) are not labeled Prop 65.

Legitimate Sources

Engrave Your Tech, a company that used to laser etch designs
on Moleskines, halted its work around this time (July-ish)
in 2008, as it was discovered that Moleskine covers being
laser etched (i.e. burning PVC) was not a grand idea.

While the product was completely safe post-engraving,
the process was highly toxic.

Sciency Things

Not only does PVC + laser = unsafe working conditions,
but PVC + laser etching = release of COCl2 + Cl (and other gases)
= HCl = corroding of everything within contact.

Essentially, burning the PVC covers creates toxic gases (such as
Phosgene and Chlorine), which results in Hydrochloric Acid, which
in turn corrodes everything it contacts.

[Source: Engrave Your Tech]

Solution

They now make these grand little slip-on laser
etched covers for Moleskines that are "super safe" (and
I think, of vegetable tanned leather).

Notwithstanding!

So for those who love to point and scream "DANGER"
at anything not hypoallergenic and/or covered in
allergen-free spray, don't tell me that my Moleskine
is "hot" or dangerous.

Because, first, "hot" implies radioactivity and
lack of knowledge on your part and secondarily,
I'm not the eating-my-watercolor-art type.

Tortured artists however, may find the warning
beneficial; and hopefully will heed accordingly.

Yours,
The Wife

the strong-willed wife.

2010-07-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading The Strong-Willed Wife by
Dr. Debbie Cherry.

I took the first chapter's quiz to see how strong-willed
a woman I was. The little quiz consisted of 40 questions.
On which I scored 38/40!!!

I suppose this is no huge surprise, but it's been a
relief beyond explanation to find some sense of belonging
within well-regarded women in ministry.

I suppose I always thought strong-willed wives were
doomed to commiserate about what a Godly wife is like, and while we know there really
are no personality guidelines, who doesn't feel awfully
macho with all these meek and mild doves running circles
around our strong personalities?

Truths:

Now, don't get me wrong, I admire these women and their
sweet demeanor to everyone around them. I feel like God
uses them to uplift people (even me sometimes) and encourage
them to continuen truckin'...but that's just not me.

I love books and I love arguing about interesting topics,
having opinions about my opinions, and always being logical
and rational. I am passionate about anything I find interest
in and I have a serious fear of mental stagnation.

I adore politics, reading the New York Times, and occasionally,
the Economists (as it costs entirely too much).

I was always the girl hanging with the boys and ocassionally
making them cry. I was never a tomboy, but I loved the
company of fellow rational minds.

INTJ + ESFP!? Say WHAT!?!?

I took the Myers-Briggs test as a child and again when I
began college. Both times I tested heavily in the INTJ
categories and quite frankly after little analization from
my teachers, school counselors, and prettymucheveryoneelse,
we can all attest to my being severely INTJ from head to toe.

For those unfamiliar with this test, here is an overview
of my personality type:

INTJ

Notwithstanding, the mixture of a strong personality with
a relentless brain that won't shut off produced the me that
is me today; and I think we all like that me. ;)

But I have had to pray and work hard to ensure that I do not
run over my husband who happens to be my dual opposite:

ESFP

(Though he will ocassionally test as a ESFj. Little J because
it's never more than 1%.)

This, contrary to most of the mumbo-jumbo of shrinks, is
the reason why our relationship is so passionately lived out.
We're on opposite corners of the house (figuratively)on just
about everything imaginable, and while most say this creates
unfixable arguments and a corrosive situation for both
personalities, I know (from experience) it makes life FUN.
Not a single dull moment.

I bring out the intellectual aspect of his personality (which
is usually hidden otherwise) and he ensures I don't live my life as a
complete misanthrope.

He reminds me to be kinder and that other people have feelings; I
ignite the rational aspect of his mind (he's secretely brilliant)
and quite frankly it's been a perfect mix for our crazy lives.

(Disclaimer: It's NOT for the faint of heart.)

Back to the point...

I look forward to making my journey through this book.
Quite often, strong-willed women go misunderstood,
especially in the church, having Proverbs 31 shoved
in their faces as proof of what "Godly wives look like."

Which is SUPER counterintuitive, as everyone knows the chick in
Proverbs 31 is absolutely through and through an INTJ.

I mean she's strong, intelligent, resourceful... ;)

But really, as a newlywed and baby in life (though 20 is
just creepin' around the corner!!), I hope to learn
something valuable about how women, who are actively involved
in full fledged nation-wide family ministries, use their
personalities to serve God and honor their husbands.

To all those INTJ chicks out there...

Yours,
The Wife.

it may be time...

2010-07-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

...to consider gifting myself an eReader.

I adore books and love the serenity of a tranquil
reading-while-it-rains night. Also, this as a fun fact,
I am always compulsively reading. Even when I'm walking
around campus, I'll be glued to the New York Times app
on my Blackberry, skimming an article from class to class.

This situation is true in almost every single moment
of my mundane daily occurences.

Some people have to count their steps,
I always have to be reading something.

Even if it's just the cereal box.

Questionable Dilemma:

I've always argued (with myself) that eReaders take
out the thrill of owning the hard copy of a book.
This to me seemed to be intrinsically wrong.

Books are pages bound, full of old paper-y smell,
stackable, and collectible. Not compressed files
on a memory card.

Discovery:

Barnes & Noble Nook.

The most beautiful eReader on the face of the earth.

I am a huge sucker for Barnes & Noble. And every time
I make my way through its stocked-full shelves, I
feel my money slowly dripping out of my pockets.

I decided to research reviews, specs, and price tags.
Learning that this little device had every capability
imaginable of a book and more, I began to drool...

It couldn't have been a more beautiful love story.

I mean, the thing has 3G capability and wi-fi connectivity!

By the end of the night I was thinking of what I could possibly
sell (hair? cookies? husband? soul?) to get my hands on one of
these. Granted, the price tags are not overtly hefty, but as a
college newlywed, anything over a buck fifty is a stretch.

PLUS:
Can you believe that if you take your Nook to a B&N store you
can browse the full text of every book on the shelves!!!???

Extra Excitement:

The most beautiful aspect of the Nook are its Kate Spade covers.
Especially the Jane Street covers.

When I saw this gem, my lust for the Nook increased exponentially.

"she kept her nose in a book..."

"...and her head in the clouds."

This little legend is the story of my life. Aside from being
majestically HOT PINK and wonderfully designed, it's the only
justifiable $189 worth of designer goods for a college kid.

Pour Conclure:

If you're interested in purchasing my hair or toes or brain
(or whatever) for one of these lovely devices, do tell.

Wishfully perusing the eBook bookstore...

Yours,
The Wife.

LifePoint Music: Children of Light

2010-07-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

I attest to having had a snobby music taste
as a child. I was always the kid listening
to Bach alongside some underground Indie band
with a name as sad as their songs.

"Worship music" as a concept always sounded so
cheesy, especially for those who grew up either too in
the faith (i.e. me, i.e. kids church choir, anyone?)
or not in the faith, in which songs like Amazing Grace
are presumed to be all that is sung at church.

Anyway, while my musical elitism has seriously toned
down a few notches to a more appropriate extra-varied-
but-still-a-little-picky music taste, I still struggle
at times to find something worship-y that keeps my
attention. Perhaps as a worship leader's wife it's not
my best quality, but the truth is the truth is the truth.

The Point:

Notwithstanding, one of my (very biased) picks (and favorites)
of summer is LifePoint Music's "Children of Light."
While I have an obvious affiliation with the church, I would
by no means openly recommend the music if it wasn't something
I personally enjoyed. Perhaps as a not-yet-lawyer my music
ethics (there is such a thing) bind me to not be raving about
what doesn't rave for me.

Not only do I love the people behind this work and what it has
meant to them, but its serious music with heartfelt lyrics and
a cool premise too.

Our church's global focus on missions, adoptions, and bringing
the church to Afroeurasia (and beyond) was combined with this
album so that proceeds (1/2) of all sales go to our worldwide
work. As a mixed culture (seriously mixed culture) child,
born and raised outside the big US of A, I highly respect
anything that supports serious world outreach missions.

At the risk of sounding like a pop-up ad:

After hearing it at home, in the car, as a hummed version,
during camp, during dinner, after we had a physical copy,
as an MP3, as rough cuts...you name it, it's a pretty great
listen not just for worshiping purposes but for legitimate
driving-in-the-car edifying music.

This truly being the best notch for any worship album
to be in. Because if you can listen to it in the car
and legitimately enjoy it and feel filled, anyone can
listen to it and find blessing from it.

While keeping true to melodic rock roots (contemporary
is such a BAD word for worship music, we're in the 21st c.
with robots operating on people's brains, by syntax definition
anything made within our time frame, whether a rock anthem
or hymn is contemporary...) from our regular worship services,
there are still a few sprinklings of soft, hands-lifted songs,
without the feel of a Sunday service having been packaged into
a pretty case with a cool logo.

On comparisons:

U2 is U2. You're not the next U2, or the next Coldplay, or the
next Hillsong. LifePoint Music is geniune to what it is, sets of
powerful songs that evoke everything our church ministry stands
for. And yes, while the music itself may please those who love
Hillsong and maybe U2 (NOT, NEVER, me) it is not a peg-in-the-
genre-hole compilation. It is however an album that can be
enjoyed by bluegrass loving families and those with tattoos too.

It's an anthem to everyone who knows there is a greater calling on
our lives than turning oxygen into carbon dioxide. For those who
love worshipping with people that love to worship because of what
worship is and not just to sell an album.

BUT the pretty case and cool logo are included:

If you're interested:

Scoot over to LifePoint Music.

Seriously,
The Wife

life. currently.

2010-07-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

While it's been almost a year since
the worship leader and I cut our wedding
cake and had bubbles and rice thrown our
way, it still feels like it was yesterday
that we were sitting in opposite ends of
the church waiting for the clock to strike
2 p.m. so we could become Mr. and Mrs.

During this time much has been going on with
our church, our families, school, and pretty
much every other aspect of our young family's life.

We welcomed a new nephew into the world, our church
released a worship album, the worship leader went off
to serve at church camp, and we are moving to a new
little house in the city.

Life seems to be hapenning much faster than we can
often recall and it's been a stream of non-stop
blessings.

We want to thank all of the friends and family that
have been standing behind us, not only with prayers
but with hugs and love (and even care packages!).

We couldn't have done this (almost) year without you
and we hope from the bottom of our hearts that you
know how much we love and appreciate you.

Thank you for making our life the adventure it is.

Yours,
The Wife

the on and off blogger types...

2010-06-16T10:51:00.001-07:00

...truly, sincerely, I may just be
the poster child for this awful trend.

Yours,
The Wife

summer.

2010-05-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here!

Spring term was absolutely exhausting,
but extremely rewarding.

I am thrilled with the results
of all those late nights.

It's crazy to say that I am no
longer a little frosh at University!

And even crazier, one year-less
away from law school. AH!

I'm sitting at my desk at my summer job.
Second day and thus far, I love it.
Which reminds me, off to do my job. ;)

Yours,
The Wife.

the pits.

2010-05-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

I'm the pits at updating this thing.

Pardon me.

I'm drowning in finals.

Yours,

The Wife.

did it ever occur...?

2010-03-28T23:11:00.000-07:00

Christian professors have yet to understand

the concept of the "Lord's day of rest."

How do I know?

It's 11:11 p.m. and I'm scrambling to memorize

various Greek words, all of which look and

sound the same, for a Monday at 8 a.m. test.

Bless you profs, 'cause all I know is that

tomorrow at eight in the morning koinonia

is going to be some type of coin game, and

diakonia a draconian type of punishment.

Or something like that...

Sigh.

Monday mornings really shouldn't involve Greek.

Yours,

The Wife.

caffeinated inspiration.

2010-03-27T12:43:00.001-07:00

"Dream more than others think practical."

(Howard Schultz, Starbucks CEO)

Yours,

The Wife.

quotables.

2010-03-08T20:29:00.000-08:00

"My only regret is not having

proposed to you the day I met you."

(The Worship Leader)

Yours,

The Wife.

go figure.

2010-03-05T03:35:00.000-08:00

Here I am...

Without having updated in a couple of days,

this is without doubt the moment I would

decide to let my creative juices flow.

(Or simply jot down a few sentences...)

But after an almost full night of studying,

churning historical dates, and writing

a paper of a book I seriously detested.

Here I am.

Go figure.

(...with fingers crossed for an A++++++!)

2. 100.

2010-03-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

Dear worship leader,

200 days ago today you were waiting

for me at the end of that aisle.

It's been a party since.

Thanks for the adventure of a lifetime.

Yours,

The wife.

true story.

2010-02-15T07:46:00.000-08:00

College requires serious studying.

This ain't no high schoo' no mo'.

True story.

february.

2010-02-05T10:44:00.000-08:00

February is entirely too boring a month.

Too short.

Too "after all the holidays"-ish.

Too "after all the birthdays"-ish.

Too February-like.

Too, too, much indeed.

hers.

2010-01-31T01:41:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday to me,

happy birthday to me,

happy birthday, happy

birthday, happy birthday

to meeeeee!

fundamentally fundamental.

2010-01-26T17:19:00.000-08:00

Checklist for success:

God.

Because even a preacher's kid

needs some good reminding.

his.

2010-01-13T07:39:00.000-08:00

It's his birthday!

Happy birthday to the worship leader.

May he keep on leading and lovin' for

centuries and centuries to come.

(How very Austen-esque!).

christmas, college, updates.

2009-12-21T14:16:00.000-08:00

We are officially home (at

my parents) for the holiday festivities!

Needless to say, as my first

semester, it was a hard and

arduous time of trying to

adjust to collegiate style

learning. I did really well

with my first semester and

feel like my academic career

is off to a stellar start.

I have a great schedule

coming up for the Spring

semester, which includes

mostly upper level classes! :)

So here is to a few weeks of

R & R and holiday cheer!

Merry Christmas and best wishes to all!

exams.

2009-12-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

As a college student, examinations

are the most dreaded time of the year.

As a college student, I am overwhelmed.

As a college student, I'm freakin' out.

I'll be back once life has regained some

type of normalcy. Hopefully.

new year's resolution.

2009-12-02T16:07:00.001-08:00

It's a month until I have to

implement it, but...

I shall update this blog.

Promise.

reflections.

2009-10-25T06:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, you meet people that make you sad.

Bossy, ill-humored, frustrated people.

And you feel sad.

For them.

But mostly sad because they're wasting away.

Sad.

worship leading.

2009-10-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday.

Church night.

Husband's worship leader-ing.

Well, sound checking, right now.

Me?

I'm sitting in a corner.

Head buried in Blue Like Jazz.

What a classic.

I can't lie.

I love my life.

munchkin bodybuilding.

2009-10-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

Woohoo! We moved to our new apt.,

but more on that someday soon! ;)

For today:

My adventures at the gym:

I went to the gym today.

I like going to the gym.

I enjoy endorphins.

They make you study well.

They make you smile.

Did I mention, they make you study well?

(I have a truck-sized bio test in the morn).

So, I headed to the gym to steal some endorphins.

It was my first time training with this instructor.

He was seemingly "chill" but slightly egotistical

of his "glorious" work-outs.

He said, "Hey newbie. Take it easy. Okay?"

It was a sculpt class.

I smirked.

He tossed some 15 lb. dumbbells (ha!) my way and

yelled a command out to the class. Not to say I'm

this body-building, smoothie-guzzling, fat-burning

machine, but I can really hold my weight (and much

much more!) at the gym. Pardon the pun, but it's true.

I was a cheerleader for most of my girlie-hood and took

to being the "base" (bottom of a stunt/pyramid) like a

fish to water. Thus, I never changed positions during all

my years donning cute lil' pleated skirts.

Thing is, I'm 5'3" and quite the munchkin (figuratively).

Hence, people's unbelief at the amazing abilities of my body

to lift other people who happen to be slightly larger than me.

I can lift my weight and squat a two-me(s)-and-a-half.

Back to the story: The trainer gave me heavier

weights and even heavier ones, and finally just

relinquished his "rookie" comments, because I

was the only person that actually finished any

of his series and repetitions.

I smirked.

In conclusion: It was a fantastic day at the gym,

mostly as an endorphin boost for my night of

studying, but also as an inspiration to join

a munchkin bodybuilding troupe.

Smirk.

"it's 1:51 AM!" on the FIFTEENTH!

2009-10-15T01:51:00.000-07:00

1. Two months ago today, I was walking down the aisle.

2. I married my hero and best friend.

3. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Conclusion: I love being Mrs. Worship Leader.

error.

2009-10-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

School's hard!

Whine.
Whine.
Whine.

x.

i get a kick "outta" you.

2009-10-07T23:05:00.000-07:00

School's kicking me.

In the face.

In the shins.

In the elbows.

sigh.

I don't know.

P.S. It "ain't" a self-pity cry but a "where's the weekend!?!?!" yelp.

why? why? why?

2009-09-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

I learned to read right before I turned two and

ever since, my nose has been hidden in a book.

Soon after I was diagnosed with: "giftedness

and asynchronous development." Essentially,

a little girl mentally beyond her years but

very much a little girl in most other senses.

Gifted kids experience this in different ways;

in fact, there are different categories in which

giftedness is experienced. For me, it was an

intense love of Russian literature.

My fondest childhood memories consist of

something I read, something I wrote, or both.

Metaphorically speaking, I was chewing on the

Encyclopedia Britannica before I could properly

tie my shoes (a gift from my family as a means to

quiet all the "hows," "whys," and "how comes"

I shot their way). Ayn Rand came around 5th grade,

and to my 7th grade English teacher's dismay, Lolita.

Catcher in the Rye was my favorite book my 8th

grade year until the cover fell off and Chekov stole

my heart.

But in a sense, in some ways, I feel that the

"responsibility" of being smart is often, unfairly

and unnecessarily, placed on a gifted child's shoulders.

Giftedness: a handicap? I'd have to say yesbutno.

All in one word. You see along with the assumption

that a gifted child "knows all," comes a sense of

impotence, both for child and parent. For the parents,

as they do not know how to treat a child that sounds

like a 25 year old but is obsessed with Sesame Street.

And the child, unaware of his or her differences from

peers innocently assumes that schoolmates will be

interested in the same subject matter they are.

I struggled to make close friends for a long time, and

to this day have yet to have "close friends," because the

truth is, though I loved things like flirting and make-up

in grade school, I'd rather watch Gregory Peck in To Kill

a Mockingbird any day over a school dance or a football

game. This, caused much grief to my mother, who'd wish

I was more "outgoing," and to me, a dismay of constantly

trying to explain to acquaintances why I wasn't going to

this or that event. Some felt I was bragging about my

situation, others felt as if I were giving my self some

sort of condescension for "being too smart." Both, of

course, were wrong.

I never look (or have looked) at it as an advantage over my

peers nor as an impediment, even though some psychologists

suggest it so, both ways, one because of the depth and bredth

of the subjects a gifted child usually studies and the focus the

child stresses on it. For example, my love of literature extracted

me from caring about other subjects I found silly and mundane.

Truth? Yes, it is useful to be a well read freshman in college.

Truth? Yes, I failed 6th grade algebra for reading Anna

Karenina in the back of the classroom for the upteenth time.

I don't blame my "gift" for anything I do, because just as

much as kids grow up with abilities and disabilities, it's

just part of life. But I must say, I wouldn't trade it for the

world.

After all, where else does a child with a voracious hunger

for knowledge learn about transcontinental railroads and

school-libray banned books? You know, the things schools

never teach?

Here's to Holden, Dagny, and Lo.

wicked.

2009-09-18T23:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the worship leader and I went to see Wicked.

It was his first time seeing it and he absolutely adored it.

It was also our first purchase with our checking account.

Oh, the joys of being a newlywed!

Not to mention the smile I got hearing him hum

"One Short Day" on the way to school this morning.

one month.

2009-09-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

"When a wife has a good husband it is easily seen in her face..."

A month ago today, I was walking down the aisle.

One month of living with my best friend.

One month of late night giggles and snacks.

One month of early breakfasts and coffee.

It's also been one month since school began.

One month of having class with the hubby.

One month of shared brown-bagged lunches.

One month of late night study parties, just us two.

It's been absolutely priceless.

sweethearts.

2009-08-14T10:58:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow, I get to marry my best friend.

ahhhh.

2009-08-12T22:08:00.000-07:00

Getting married in just two days!

today...

2009-08-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

Today, I move to my new home :)

600 miles never seemed so close!

a good girl's prayer.

2009-08-09T23:05:00.000-07:00

"The Yankees played an unbelievable set of games this past week,

shoving the Sox six and a half games out of first place in the

American League East. God is good. Amen."

aww moments during the chaos.

2009-08-06T23:37:00.000-07:00

It's been a hectic week of returning repeat gifts, packing,

and essentially all-things-moving-my-life-to-Nashville.

Yesterday we took time off and had our date night.

It was so beautiful. We went to the Dali museum, a

place I absolutely adore, and ended our evening at

a perfect "ambiance-meets-elegance" Italian restaurant.

During dinner the worship leader leaned over and whispered in my ear,

"It's never random for me to tell my wife how beautiful she is."

It's no wonder he stole my heart.

the debacle.

2009-08-03T20:43:00.001-07:00

Once not to long ago I saw a steamer at the mall: it was

the steamer of my dreams. Thinking back on that, I was

quick to add one to our registry and quite excited when

we finally purchased a steamer (today) with our giftcards.

WHAT A DISAPPOINTMENT.

It's not my mall steamer.

It makes clothes wet.

That's all.

Wet.

Everyone pointed out that "Steamers don't really work, etc."

But quite frankly, I know they do. It just depends on which

it is...and I, sounding much like the boy that cried "wolf",

am set to find the original steamer that stole my heart.

I K E A.

2009-08-02T19:24:00.000-07:00

Today, we made the trip to IKEA to get all of our bedroom furniture!

We also bought a little IKEA toolkit and some intricate tupperware :)

...and of course, the infamous IKEA milk chocolate bars!

showers and umbrellas.

2009-08-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

I have a feeling today is going to be one of 'em crazy

days but I couldn't be more excited to see all of our

friends and family...and well, of course, our gifts! ;)

sickly but blessed.

2009-07-31T22:57:00.000-07:00

I am blessed to know that even when I'm deliriously

fever-ish, stuffy nosed, and essentially completely icky,

my soon-to-be hubby has no problem taking the rest of

the afternoon off, bringing beautiful flowers (and chocolate

on chocolate muffins), simply to whisper, "I know you don't

feel very well honey but I'm here to take care of you."

post-workout mornings.

2009-07-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

On Monday afternoon, I ran 2 miles and had an hour of

personal training. Needless to say, as I tried to make it

through a "Fit Core" class today I couldn't think of

anything but my warm bed awaiting me at home,

talk about sore muscles and bruised bodies.

I came home, popped my MacBook open, opened iTunes,

pressed play, and finally felt a sense of relaxation. My first

thought was "SLEEP! SLEEP!" but after a few minutes of the

music playing, I pulled out my Moleskine and scribbled away.

It's impossible to be blank or empty minded whilst

listening to James Russell Mercer. There's something about

The Shins that makes me wanna crawl up with a good book,

highlighting the words straight out of the page. The pages

mixing with the words in the music, both intricately prancing

in my mind until I'm over-flooded with thoughts.

Because let me tell ya, nothing beats that feeling.

"Of course I was raised to gather courage from those

lofty tales so tried and true, if you're able, I'd suggest

it 'cause this modern thought can get the best of you..."

sundays, the longest day of the week.

2009-07-26T20:41:00.000-07:00

Sundays are notorious for being extra long days.

There's church (multiple services at that), lunch with the

fam, preparing for the new week....etc, etc. and though I usually

make a big fuss about how unbelievably long Sundays are, I have

to admit my favorite part of the week are Sunday afternoon naps.

With that, I'm off to rest my little eyes.

oh, what a week, what a week.

2009-07-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazily busy week. The worship leader has been home

and I have been taking care of him :) since I hadn't been able to

in a few weeks. With that, I am currently scribbling and typing

away as I sit next to him whilst he practices for tomorrow.

He will be playing a mix of his own song with a classic hymn

during the AM and the 'noon service at my parent's church.

The best part? I get to be there.

Quite frankly, nothing beats that.

Except maybe the trip to IKEA we will be making post-service.

insomnia, very much so.

2009-07-22T05:03:00.000-07:00

It's 4:50 AM and I cannot sleep. My baby gets home today!

Finally, the last homecoming before we are Mr. and Mrs!

There are TWENTY FOUR days left until our wedding. All the

commotion, the endless planning, the incredible feeling of being

a bride-to-be...I wouldn't trade any of it for the world.

I simply cannot wait, welcome home Bear!

bridal boot camp.

2009-07-21T21:59:00.000-07:00

Oh, the things us girls do to look lovely, especially for our wedding!

Today I came from the gym absolutely beat. My legs are quivering

and my ab muscles are on fire--but I can just imagine how great the

dress will look if I just give make it through bridal boot camp for the

next two weeks! Not to mention the boost of confidence I have after

an intense step/aerobic/ab/pilates/boxing class :)

I am thankful that I am actually rather thin and just need to tone up,

but I truly do believe taking care of one's self is part of honoring our

spouses! We always give them the best of the best, so why can't we be

part of that too? What husband doesn't like a wife that looks after

herself? Plus, when we feel confident, it shines through!

I want to radiate my confidence at its top level on August 15th.

Ever since I was a little girl, I've envisioned walking down the aisle

and seeing my groom smile like it's the first time he's ever seen me.

I know it'll be the best day of my life, the beginning of forever.

Pardon the cheese, but I just wanna shine :)

's true.

2009-07-20T14:14:00.000-07:00

countdown...

2009-07-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

My baby comes home Wednesday!

...and I simply cannot wait.

I love caring for my hubby-to-be.

disconnected and such.

2009-07-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

I've been slightly disconnected for a few days.

I attribute it mostly to the worship leader being

600 miles away as it makes for a very sad bride-to-be.

However, Wednesday puts an end to the separation,

and for that, I really cannot wait.

On other matters (i.e. wedding), we will be having

our shower on August 1st. It's slightly stressful, but

our theme has me excited! "Cinema Sweeties," a look

through the most famous movie couples from the 20s,

30s, 40s, 50s! We have Garbo, Hepburn, and even Sinatra.

The centerpieces will be clear glass bowls full of sweets

and candies, as well as a party favor of colorful lollypops!

Anyhow, there is much to be finished and barely any time.

On that note I will end this and continue all the planning

whilst crafting something far more intellectual than this :)

a second "first day".

2009-07-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

"RECEIVE THIS AS A WARNING.

THIS FORTY DAY JOURNEY CANNOT

BE TAKE LIGHTLY.

IT IS A CHALLENGING AND OFTEN

DIFFICULT PROCESS, BUT AN INCREDIBLY

FULFILLING ONE. TO TAKE THIS DARE

REQUIRES A RESOLUTE MIND AND A

STEADFAST DETERMINATION.

IT IS NOT MEANT TO BE SAMPLED OR BRIEFLY

TESTED, AND THOSE WHO QUIT EARLY WILL

FORFEIT THE GREATEST BENEFIT. IF YOU

WILL COMMIT TO A DAY AT A TIME FOR FORTY

DAYS, THE RESULTS COULD CHANGE YOU

LIFE AND YOU MARRIAGE.

CONSIDER IT A DARE, FROM OTHERS

WHO HAVE DONE IT BEFORE YOU."

Sitting in my room thinking of the past (almost) 10 months

makes me so grateful for the life I live, a life I love. I'm so

thankful to have a hubby-to-be like the worship leader, an

honorable man worth more than his weight in gold, my hero :)

I know he was tailor made to be the person I'd stand beside

for the rest of my life, a person who would change my life.

He inspires me in more ways than I could ever explain, takes

care of me even when I am cranky, and never lets a day go by

without showing me how much he loves me. He always takes

care of the household and family we are building and strives

to be the man of God he was created to be. He is a man after

God's own heart, a man who has my absolute respect and

admiration, and the only man who will always have my heart.

So here's to our second "first day" of The Love Dare;

learning that patience brings an internal calm during

an external storm, because love is patient.

But most importantly, here's to fireproofing our marriage.

love dare. take deux.

2009-07-13T17:22:00.000-07:00

The worship leader and I have decided to go through

The Love Dare once again. This time however, we will

be wed by the time we complete the 40 days. And though

our first time through was amazing, powerful, and insightful,

it is a book for married couples and certain things truly were

neither applicable nor doable since we were not yet married ;)

Nonetheless, I am excited to see what God teaches us through the

next 40 days. I know it will be a great beginning to our married life!

musings of a bride-to-be. take deux.

2009-07-12T13:51:00.000-07:00

I have been so swamped with the many duties of a

bride-to-be and though I can't complain because

it truly has been beyond fun and exciting, I am

ready to admit that I AM ABSOLUTELY STRESSED!

There are shower cards to be given, wedding invites

to be mailed, and my dress to be completed.

But for today, I am just going to sit back,

breathe, and munch on some protein bars.

And for now...that's just going to have to work.

So, here's to a (kind of) day off for the bride-to-be.

my hubby, the most amazing man in the world.

2009-07-10T15:38:00.000-07:00

Today, I read an article on the New York Times about marital

issues in our current day and age (mostly about Gov. Sanford).

Though the article was focused on politicians and their affairs,

many of the psychologists explained the decline of marriage

through many of the distractions and attractions that other

people (and things) can bring to a relationship.

I thought about many of the things the worship leader does,

and has done since he first began to court me. Little things that

have gone a long way. One of the most honorable examples I can

think of is of how careful he is about protecting his eyes and mind.

I realize that sounds old fashioned and somewhat unusual,

especially considering how young both he and I are, but the

truth is I truly admire the worship leader's character.

We love going the movies often, it's a great date night :) idea,

but before we ever sit in the movie he pulls out his iPhone

and checks IMDb (Internet Movie Database). Most people

use this site to find the plot of movies, recommendations, etc.

The worship leader? He uses it to check the content of movies

that isn't up to his beliefs and standards (i.e. lotsa naked girls).

He is not boastful or showy about it, in fact I really did not

realize this until after few outings to the movies, but when I did,

I smiled really big and realized what an absolute gentleman

the worship leader is and the value he gives himself and

consequently, as his little "wifey," me.

I couldn't be more thankful for such a silent but powerful

show of respect. So to all those psychologists and counselors

all I have to say is what Ralph Waldo Emerson once said,

"Men are respectable only as they respect."

reminiscing.

2009-07-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

During the earlier part of our courting days

the worship leader and I were unable to use

much phone communication. He lived on a

tour bus and with his hectic schedule it was

nearly impossible to communicate in any

form but email and text message.

We never let that be an issue and in turn it

became the best way to learn about each other.

Words can be so expressive, so intimate, so true.

We fell in love with each other's minds first,

physical attraction was secondary (though

the worship leader is very handsome).

Yesterday, I cleaned out my inbox and found

an old video of the worship leader singing a

medley of my favorite songs. A few tears came

to my eyes thinking about how in 37 days I will

become his wife. It feels like only yesterday that

I saw those bright blue eyes and that handsome

tall guy from Tennessee for the first time.

His cowboy boots well worn in and his smile

as big as could be...Now? that's my boyfriend,

fiancé, and soon-to-be husband. Then? The guy

who would became my hero and my best friend.

So thinking about it, how soon and close the date

is, all I can say to anyone who asks is, "Yes. I do

get nervous, but when I think about who will be

waiting for me at the end of that 70 foot aisle,

there are no fears, no inhibitions. It's perfect."

And that's the truth.

So here's to August 15, the beginning of my new life.

"...It's an interesting feeling, the one that I get every time I

see a picture of you. It starts from the center of my chest.

The only way I can describe it is a cooling sensation, it then

quickly (very quickly) spreads in both directions. My stomach

almost feels as though it wants to implode. In the opposite

direction, I feel my throat tighten up, and my senses, all five,

light up like fire the memories. Each one, in it's own way feels

a like a dull copy of the actual feeling, except, a dull copy in a

blazing furnace. It all ends with the best part of all. A smile.

Not just any smile though, a smile reserved for one soul in

the entirety of God's creation. It's reserved for you cupcake!

I love you so much. I miss you almost as much. The more I

miss you, the more intense my love for you becomes.

Goodnight babygirl..." (Jan 13)

musings of a bride-to-be.

2009-07-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up with sore arms and back from my

intense "Fit Pump" class, a lil' groggy from a late night

on the phone, and somewhat stuffy from my allergies.

Regardless, as soon as my little body shot up from bed,

I was unexpectedly giddy! All I could think to do was to

go look at our bridal shower invites, my garter (which

is so cute ;) by the way), my bridal book, and even my

fluffy-slip (because my dress is still being altered).

It's exactly 38 days until our wedding day.

I can't believe how blessed and excited I am.

I absolutely cannot wait.

I love him :)

countdown...

2009-07-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

40 days to go.

That's all :)

a sanctuary.

2009-07-05T13:34:00.000-07:00

I was listening to a Kairos Podcast from

their Summer of Love Too series.

Mike's been blessed with amazing insight from

God in his teachings. What really caught my ear

from his teaching was a small thought he made

about how safe and secure he felt with his wife.

She is his "sanctuary," a place he can come to

at the end of the day and know that he can

share all his fears, his worries, and thoughts

without fearing judgement or attacks.

I thought about how I truly hope that I can

always be that sanctuary. Somewhere where

the worship leader can come and be certain

that he has a safe place.

Someone he can trust to wipe his tears and

make him giggle over nonsensical things.

I know this is what we have now, and I cherish it,

but I hope that fifty years from today, he can still

look fondly to coming home after a bad day certain

that his best friend is waiting for him at home.

No judgement, no attacks.

Just love, love, love.

home sweet home.

2009-07-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

The worship leader should be heading back soon.

They're shooting for noon, but I am sure they will

take a while to unload the truck and put away all

things camp related.

On top of being 600 miles away, I've really missed

him while he's been at camp.

As the silly lil' girl that I am, I can't help but think

that after such a fun filled week that perchance he

may have not missed me as much as I imagined.

But I sure hope he did miss me so, because I

missed him to pieces. He's my best friend.

And frankly, I couldn't be happier

that he's heading back! :)

TCM.

2009-07-02T21:37:00.001-07:00

I don't watch nor like many TV shows.

But what I do love to watch, what makes

me stay up late and night, and wake up

extremely early some mornings are TCM flicks.

I absolutely adore Turner Classic Movies.

Not in a "I love old movies! Yaay Casablanca!"

But in a genuine Garbo-Hepburn-Kelly lovin' way.

In a, "I know every line of every song of every Ginger Rogers

and Fred Astaire movie," "I have watched endless TCM Silent

Movie Sunday marathons," "I adore the Barrymores," and

"Gene Kelly was the first (movie) man to steal my heart," way.

My first TCM movie was the classic Mr. Skeffington.

I was absolutely mesmerized and enthralled by Bette Davis.

From there, it was a small hop to...

Greta Garbo, Audrey Hepburn, Clark Gable,

Ingrid Bergman, Gene Kelly, Ginger Rogers,

Fred Astaire, James Stewart, Debbie Reynolds,

Humphrey Boggart, Frank Sinatra, Gregory Peck,

Claudette Colbert, Judie Garland, Joan Crawford,

Cyd Charisse, Bette Davis, Joan Fontaine, Doris Day...

And anything directed, produced, or involved in any way with

Frank Capra, Michael Curtiz, Victor Fleming, or Hitchcock.

The Man Who Knew Too Much?

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington?

Paris When it Sizzles?

To Kill a Mockingbird?

The Apartment?

Ninotchka?

Casablanca?

...and my all time favorite, Billy Wilder's The Fortune Cookie?

Every single one, pure absolute genius!

invites, programs, and boxes, oh my!

2009-07-01T23:00:00.000-07:00

Our invites, programs, and boxes are here :)

I absolutely love my wedding and my husband-to-be!

MY DRESS! MY WEDDING DRESS!!!!

2009-06-30T10:43:00.001-07:00

I got the call! My wedding dress is here!

the exhaustion game.

2009-06-30T02:05:00.000-07:00

I miss my best friend.

Thankfully, Verizon cellphones work

in the woods. Another leader from the

church lent him the phone so he could

say goodnight to me. It was so sweet.

It always amazes me how well he

takes care of me. Making sure

"his little princess" is okay.

I'm a blessed girl.

But regardless, falling asleep tonight

isn't happening on its own. The worship

leader and I always fall asleep on the phone.

Or rather, I do. Then he makes sure I am

completely asleep before he hangs up and

dozes off.

Tonight? Tossing, turning, and tossing some more.

So, I decided to turn on the TV to some good old

Turner Classic Movies, compile more lists for all

that needs to be done, re-read the New York Times,

checked my schedule for this fall (for the 100th time),

and every other mundane activity I could think of...

All in the sake of playing the exhaustion game.

It goes something like this. I pretend is morning,

pull out a million things to do, and get to work.

Finally at some point around 5 or 6 am, I pass

out on a book or my laptop from, well, exhaustion.

Yes. I do pride myself in being an independent,

capable, and "able to survive by herself" wife-to-be.

But truth be told, what girl doesn't love for her

prince to tuck her in, even if it's just via iPhone?

Boo the woods!

It's no fun without the worship leader.

Sigh. Ready, set, play...*and hopefully, sleep*

ahhhh!

2009-06-29T15:31:00.001-07:00

But a great "ahhhh!" at that.

It's official, we've got our wedding cake,

monogrammed topper, and groom's cake

finalized.

The coolest part? On our wedding day we

will indeed eat the top tier! Because a year

later on our anniversary, our baker, will

prepare for us a fresh new tier replicated

from the original cake! Thus, no frozen

icky cake for us on August 15, 2010,

but rather, a freshly baked yummy replica of it :)

I am beyond-words-excited. I just wish

the worship leader wasn't off in the woods

being all outdoors-y without iPhone capabilities!

Sigh to the lonely week ahead, but

yaaay to the bridal happenings today! :)

thankgiving.

2009-06-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

Though I often times refer to Proverbs 31

as my "verse of my life," I must admit that

my life verse is actually, Psalm 46:5

"God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved.
God will help her just at the break of day."

There's been so much going on, but

just five minutes ago I received a call that

showed me that God is never late, nor

is he ever early. He is always just on time.

Because He always wants us to learn a lesson.

A lesson on trust and asking Him for help when

all ahead is black and "impossible" becomes

the word of choice.

Because He will help her just at the break of day.

God is amazing.

He never fails.

wowing vows.

2009-06-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

Since the worship leader will be gone the

whole week, with minimal phone contact,

and no internet to speak of, I can finally pull

out the various rough drafts of my vows and

polish them off into the "wowing" finished product.

But, I would not (and won't) be surprised if (and when)

I edit, re-edit, and re-re-edit it up to that day...

On that note, I will leave my comments, because

the worship leader occasionally stops by here and he

is very much a "NOT UNTIL THE WEDDING DAY"

groom, and well, of course, I am equally as private

on those matters!

But one thing I do know, is that I hope the words

that a minute can allow will be enough to tell him

how much he means to me and what finally becoming

his wife feels like, because perfect doesn't do it justice.

Though before those vows get polished,

I am off to do some Bridal Pilates! :)

47 days left until the wedding,

All I can say is, "Ready, set go!"

camp? WHATEVER!

2009-06-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

I am going to be lonely this week!

The worship leader is off to

Camp Whatever to lead kiddies

and to make sure they have fun,

but not too much.

For me?

Books. Books. Books...

Oh, and wedding planning, of course.

I plan on continuing my bible study,

that is going very well (on that note,

I really feel like my prayers for the

worship leader have begun to be

answered and, well, he is just the bee's

knees when it comes to husband-ry)

But, I'm a little saddened, but know that

he will enjoy his time, and also know

it will be an opportunity for him to

reach the lives of the young'ns.

Here's to boys and camp...

and a lonely little wife-to-be ;)

God's endless provision.

2009-06-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

Planning a wedding.

Moving to a new city.

Starting a new life.

There's a point where scary

becomes too scary, but that's

when God steps in and says,

"Hand it over."

And when you do, you

remember that he says...

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord,

"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you

hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come

and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek

me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

I will be found by you," declares the Lord. (Jr 29:11-14)

...and peace is restored again.

learning lessons.

2009-06-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

I am currently going through Becoming the Woman of His Dreams.

It's a bible study for (soon-to-be) wives and though I'm only on

Lesson Two (Praying for Him), it's incredible to see what a powerful

resource this book is. It's not the usual cheese most publishers have on

marriage. It's also not a "self-help" book and it is most certainly not just

a checklist of easy fixes/tips for a healthy marriage. Rather, it is an

extended lesson on the foundations and dynamics of a great marriage.

It is based on the seven qualities that most recurrently surface when

a man is asked to describe his "dream wife." The seven qualities can be

easily remembered through the acrostic PRAISES: prays for him,

respects him, adores him, initiates intimate friendship with him,

safeguards her marriage, encourages him, and sexually fulfills him.

Through out the book each of the seven qualities is further explained

and studied from a biblical perspective. There are interesting

notations, such as the ones the author has collected from interviews

with husbands across the nation. Explanations on why men think in

a certain why, how they act, and most importantly, how a wife should

tailor her approach, not to appease her husband, but rather to ensure

that her desires to be a wife of Proverbs 31 caliber are received by her

husband as such, in a language he understands and that often women

forget exists. It constantly reminds the wife that the little things,

such as the difference in basic communication, can have such a

significant impact on the big things.

My favorite part thus far is the Appendix of the book. It is a scriptural

prayer guide for "praying for your husband from head to toe."

It's a quirky and witty way to incorporate verses as you pray for your

husband, his personal life, and his spiritual walk.

Example?

His Head: Lord, as my husband is the head of our household,

I pray he will look to You as the head of his life. (Eph 5:23).

Help him to take the leadership role in our home and seek Your

wisdom in every decision he makes, knowing that the fear of the

Lord is the beginning of wisdom. (Psalm 111:10).

The best thing about the bible study, for me, has been to realize that

as much as the worship leader loves me, marriage is not simply about

the feelings you have for the other person. There are other things that

need to take place in our individuals lives so that we can have an

amazingly blessed life together. In truth, my desire is to be the best

wife I can be, but part of the awakening on my part has been to

acknowledge that no matter how wise I feel I am, without putting

God as a part of our marriage life, we aren't going to get anywhere.

Before I met the worship leader I was not planning on getting

married, ever. I didn't have the desire to be somebody's "someone"

for ever and ever and ever. Clearly, I am far from that mindset now.

I have grown up and realized that there are many things I did not

see when I thought of "a marriage." However, getting to this point

from a complete opposite corner has helped me to discover what it is

I fear, what my goals and dreams are, but most importantly, to be able

to openly admit that my biggest dream is to be the wife of his dreams.

"To have a great marriage, we must begin with the hoped-for

end in mind. Every word we speak, every decision we make,

and every action we take will either move us closer to or

take us further away from that end. Will the words

"happily ever after" appear before the final curtain falls?

This is not just something we hope for. It is something we

work toward. It is the goal, and you, have been invited

to play the starring role..." (Chapter 1)

floridian nights, recording studios, and life.

2009-06-24T22:23:00.001-07:00

Me?

Back in Florida.

Tucked in bed.

Sleepily reading the New York Times.

The worship leader?

In Nashville.

Pulling a late night at the recording studio.

The usual, boys and their music.

It's incredible how entertained

they get. Busy, busy.

I always miss him incredibly when

I am away, but especially on nights

like these. The circumstances with

distance have never seemed more

unfair. But God has been doing

some amazing things as we look

to Him for direction.

With many new opportunities,

challenges, goals, and plans,

there are so many things to

look forward to and plan.

After all, in 50 days, "Mrs. Dalton"

becomes my official name.

And for that, I. Cannot. Wait.

So even though I get to tuck myself in tonight,

in less than a few weeks, I get to marry my

hero and my best friend.

Both, the fairytale life and husband.

And that's the blessing of being in love.

what's a chattanooga?

2009-06-22T08:50:00.000-07:00

Our plans for today!

The worship leader is still snoozing away,

which gives me a little more time to get ready,

and make him breakfast considering how

sweet and nice it was of him to plan

a day just for us just before I leave.

I am anxious to hop out the door!

We drove through Lookout Mountain

at night not too long ago, it was so scenic,

especially the skyline, even in the dark.

I imagine in the morning there's more

to explore and see.

Plus, it's not everyday you're in Tennessee

and Georgia and Tennessee again.

So here's to a day of mountainous driving,

scenic adventures, and an overflow of

great music with my best friend.

wife-to-be.

2009-06-21T20:45:00.000-07:00

"How a man proposes says a lot about his character."

(The Proposal)

'Tis true. 'Tis very true.

sitting in the studio.

2009-06-20T14:47:00.000-07:00

I went to my first official orientation this week.

Two days of intense "getting to know your neighbor,"

picking and choosing classes, and hardly any sleep.

I leave in three days to go back to Florida.

Finishing wedding preparations and

being away from the family has been strangely

stressful but relaxing in its own way.

I am sitting in the studio, somewhat ready for the

worship leader to finish his recording session.

We've been here for five hours and even though

there's much left to do, nothing beats the excited

grin stuck on his face...

...but, as for me, a nap on the studio's couch is looking

more and more enticing as time goes by.

recollections: little blue boxes.

2009-06-19T23:45:00.000-07:00

Memories: March 13, 2009

Tonight was a night to remember.

As our 6 mo. anniversary approached both of us

began to make plans to celebrate being together

for what has seemed like nothing short of a lifetime.

The day began with a small envelope;

instructions briefly outlined the day ahead.

Our first stop? Starbucks.

There, a second envelope appeared and

we were off to the Aquarium's observation deck!

After spending sometime under the sun,

a third clue, pointed us to our next destination.

During our lunch, I found an envelope hidden

inside my menu. This one brought some time

at our favorite bookstore. With my nose stuck

in a book, I was pulled away by a fifth envelope

inviting me to disregard all my work, crawl on the

couch, and watch a movie, none other than

Singin' in the Rain, until the time came for

what I assumed would be our dinner plans.

The sixth envelope came inside a box of Skittles

during Gene Kelly's tap routine. It was an invitation

to the "finest restaurant in town." My very handsome

date met me with the most beautiful bouquet of flowers

and after a few pictures, we departed to our destination,

which at this point I still was unaware of. I didn’t know.

...Didn't know what?

That he would propose!

The last clue was slipped to me by our waiter,

while Tanner was in "the bathroom".

The clue called for me to join him in our spot.

As I walked into the piano room, I saw him

holding a mic as he stood next to the piano.

After singing “our song” and as the whole

restaurant watched intently, he lead me to the table.

On it was a Godiva cake and two napkins.

As I got closer, he pulled off a napkin from the table,

under it was a box, the color so recognizable my eyes

took a second to focus. I knew the box was empty

(earlier in our relationship we spoke of empty boxes

holding "moments" that could not be captured otherwise).

I didn’t expect anything, especially not what was to come.

I softly untied the ribbon and confirmed my assumptions.

It was empty. I laughed at the thought of all these people,

mostly women, that were murmuring and gasping after

having seen the color of the box.

All I could think of was how awkward it'd be to explain that

an empty box was in fact what I’d been expecting…but as

I turned back I saw Tanner on one knee. I opened my eyes

wide in disbelief as he held none other than a black velvet

Tifffany's ring box in his hand, the blue Tiffany & Co. box

staring at me curiously from the table,

looking up at me he said, "Alé...will you marry me?”

I was in shock and after what seemed like forever,

I remembered I hadn’t given an answer. I cupped his

face with my hands and kissed him whilst saying, "yes...!"

Half of my disbelief in the reality of the event...

he asked, he asked me to marry him!

...Words can't begin to describe what went through both

our minds at that time, but the one thing we did know was

that this was it. All the talk and giggles about growing old

and all the cracks and jokes our friends played on us about

it had finally come true. It went from wish to fact in just a few seconds.

So, tonight, March 13, 2009, T asked me to spend the rest

of forever with him…and the rest, as they say, is history. We look

forward to what is ahead: a new beginning for us, but most

importantly, new moments to share with all the people that

make our life the incredible experience it is.

x.

schooling and bright lights: big city.

2009-05-06T19:56:00.000-07:00

"An intimate setting where learning

is not only challenging but also engaging..."

I have had my share of

poor instructors who've failed to

capture my interest and attention

with their lack of thought provoking

work and in consequence, I end up

miserably stuck in ultimately boredom.

Some kids look for freedom from

their parents away at school, I look

forward to an intellectual oasis, where

the patterns of teaching allow me to

grapple with concepts I was never

allowed to touch; to discussions that

ignite new ideas, and so on...

I look forward to beginning my

new life in a new city, filled with

new friendships and experiences.

But best of all, in just a few months

I get to marry my best friend.

With excitement, here's to the future.

Nashville, here I come.