Walt Disney World & NYC!

So I returned home from my 10 days of being away on Monday! It was a whirlwind of fun rolled up into a short period of time.

I started off in Orlando at Walt Disney World for work with Sharla & Charlie.  Charlie and I ventured in to WDW and needless to say, it was a bit of a stressful experience.  Having another person there would have been so helpful.  In fact, thanks to Facebook! my friend from high school saw that I was @ WDW and she was there interning so she actually met up with us a few times - that was so fun and I was thankful she was there! 

Growing up, Mom & Dad never sold the WDW theme to us...so it was never a big deal to want to go to WDW.  My favorite part was watching Charlie and how excited he got when he saw the characters - yes, excited.  He was so animated and not a bit scared.  

We made it to Magic Kingdom (where they happened to be filming the ABC Christmas Day Parade with Regis & Kelly... make no mistake, it's not filmed on Christmas Day - and watch for me & Charlie -we could be making our debut!); Universal Studios (we saw the Spectacle of Light Show, pretty neat); and to Animal Kingdom.

Overall - WDW was fun, a different experience but fun. 

I left Thursday morning and flew back to BWI where I quickly ran out to the car to switch out some clothes and then hopped on another plane to NYC for the weekend.

My mom, sister, sister-in-law, niece and I all met up in NYC for my Mom's 60th Birthday surprise trip.  We had a blast, though we managed to be there on one of the coldest days this year (8 degrees).  We saw The Lion King and Wicked - - both are amazing shows! 

I got back home on Monday and it's been nice to be back although it's only for 8 days!  It's hard to believe that at one point I was planning to be moving back to Texas during this time!! My how things have changed!

Check back later for a post of the SNOW that we're receiving!  The state of VA has been declared a "State of Emergency!" We've got a 100% chance of snow tonight, all day tomorrow and into tomorrow night!! SOOO EXCITED!

We're expected to get somewhere between 18 and 24 inches! Enough for a snowman and some good sledding!

Clipboard of Travel Fun!

Oh...it's time to go again!

There has only been one month this year in which I haven't, at some point, been on an airplane - and that was February.  So it's really no surprise that I'm writing to say that I'm leaving on a trip once again..

This Friday I'm off to Disney World!!! Yes, it's for work - however, Charlie and I have a 4-day pass to all of the Disney Land parks and I'm pretty excited!  I've never been before so it should be a pretty fun time although it'd be a little better if I had someone my age with me! ha!
Anyone that could have come, however - will be at Will's 2nd birthday party in Texas...so that's fun for them!

I have one surprise trip after that (wait for the post) and then it's off to Texas for 2 weeks for Christmas.  I'm so thankful the family I work for loves family as much as I do and appreciates the holidays!

I'm only in Virginia for 11 days in December - absolutely crazy!

Unfolding a Story

....that has been in the making (for awhile!)

This past June, for a number of reasons - the number one being the Lord - I felt called back to Texas, in December.  I was excited and scared.

The first 4 months of my experience here were not the best to say the least.  They were filled with lots of valleys and mountains.  I was suffering - and I wasn't doing it well.  I wasn't praising the Lord through all my circumstances... I was merely complaining because life wasn't as great as I had imagined it being up here. (Granted I never imagined life up here before the Lord put moving to VA on my heart).

In May I began to pray that the Lord would change my circumstance.  For awhile I had been asking for friends; true, honest, great people.  Well, in April he delivered Lauren (a huge blessing!)  Life got instantly better...mainly because I had a social life.  From that point, a friendship bubble appeared to be growing out of nowhere.

In June, some cards unfolded and I was shown that I was in fact going back to Texas..in December.  I became ecstatic. Overjoyed. Thankful that the Lord was bringing me back....however, now I had friendships I would be leaving - roots I had began planting I would soon me ripping up.

Skip forward to my trip home in August/September for Labor Day.

I was sitting on the front porch of my parents house, just thinking, enjoying the countryside that is not readily available in VA...and it was almost like He spoke audibly, saying "Hey, I'm not quite done with you in Virginia...how does May sound?"  I was dumbfounded.

Here I was, so excited to be moving back in December (I bought a house in July, an absolutely adorable house mind you, ptl!) absolutely positive it was the Lord calling me back, but now - here He is saying, "Can you wait, can you trust me, I need a few more months."

I questioned Him, saying things like "Well can't you finish those things in Texas.., I mean, seriously?" It was obvious His answer was "No" in the way things seemed to take shape.

I began to pray when I got back to VA and eventually informed Rob & Sharla of my decision - and of course they were incredibly excited that I was staying until May...and so was I.  I wasn't ready to leave in December, and leaving in May would provide an extra 5 months.

An extra 5 months for...

- trusting the Lord in keeping me here

- being challenged by Him

- traveling more places

- hanging out with my friends here

- one more Cherry Blossom season

- time for more visitors

- and more time with Charlie.

Everyday I see the plan He had in bringing me up here unfold a little more.

You see, as it turns out - He needed to bring me out of Texas to teach me more about Himself AND myself than I ever could have imagined.  I've learned a lot about some ugly parts of me that existed, and thanks to Him have been improved or removed.  Prayers I had prayed since being in college - He's answered them, in the strangest ways.   I've been up here for 11 months and I'm not the same person I was when He brought me up here, and for that I'm thankful.  Being up here has been me thankful for a lot.

I thought you all deserved a little filling in.  I know that He's keeping me here until May - and that it's not me... mainly because I had it in my mind to be leaving and I was excited - and He has totally reversed those emotions.

The end remains the same.  I'm moving back to Bryan/College Station and I cannot wait to start my life there - to become a part of New Life - a church that is just amazing and so Christ centered

- to see what all the Lord has in store for me there...

- to become a part of the families lives again that I once (and still do) love so much

- to be closer to my family (something I realized I took for granted in moving up here)

I'm so thankful His ways and plans are always way better than mine.  I certainly thought I'd be in Virginia for a lot longer than 15 months and I didn't see myself moving back to B/CS at all.. but I'm overjoyed that I am.

A Fredericksburg Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving I was in Fredericksburg!

That meant...

 - time with Will!!
 - Bejas Queso (one of my favorite things!)
 - getting to see Jennifer, Eric, Susan & Carroll
 - Bejas Queso

The weekend after Thanksgiving is one of the busiest weekends for Bejas so I got to hang out with Will all day Friday and Saturday.  The sad part was he wasn't feeling so well which meant I got to hang out with him pretty much all Thursday night and Friday night as well (well during the night that is!)

I woke up to his cries - going in his room and him crying 'wok, wok' (rock) in the most pitiful voice he could render up.  (Trust me, it's heart breaking!)

I also taught him a few new phrases:
"giddy-up!"
"holey moley!"
....I'm drawing a blank.
But if you ask him what a turkey says, he goes: "Gobble, gobble, gobble!"

Thursday night I volunteered (knowing how busy that Jennifer and Eric would be at work on Friday I knew they needed the sleep!) .  Friday proved to be a tired day for me, though I did nap when he did.

Friday night they asked -and I was reluctant to say yes, but I'm so glad I did because it was so fun snuggling with him in bed and cuddling with him in my arms - something that being 1500 miles away doesn't allow for!

Anna came over to Fredericksburg on Saturday afternoon for quick visit - and that was a super surprise! I was so glad to get to see her.  She is currently living in my house - the one I bought back in July (that I haven't mentioned) and we'll be roomies when I move back to Texas... so excited!

Sunday morning we were up bright and early heading to College Station to meet Mom & Dad for lunch so that I could get in their car and they took me to Tyler to get on the plane.  Of course we had just enough time to stop over in Frankston so that I could see my doggies! They were pretty ecstatic to see me!

I was thankful to be headed back up to DC but sad to leave Texas!

Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving in Texas!

I'm off bright and early tomorrow morning to Texas for Thanksgiving! I'm super excited and can't wait to see the people I'm getting to see!

I'll be spending this years Thanksgiving in Fredericksburg with Eric, Jennifer, Will, Susan, Carroll & my Dad.  I also get to hang out with Will all weekend while Jennifer and Eric work at their restaurant, Bejas Grill. I'm pretty excited about getting to eat there as well.

Also this week, on Friday - Will turns two! Or as he would say, "Dos!"

Chicken Will

Weekend in Denver

So this past weekend I headed off to Denver for the weekend - mainly to see the Elton John, Billy Joel: Face to Face concert.  However, on Friday - we learned the show has been postponed until February 22, 2010.  But, we went anyways.

It all started maybe a month ago when I was talking to Eric and he mentioned he was taking Jennifer on a surprise trip to Denver to see the EJ/BJ concert again.  I said that sounded like a lot of fun and he said, "Well, you should come!" So... I called Rachel and asked her if she wanted to come and of course she said yes.

Learning that the show had been postponed was a little upsetting but we still had a wonderful time in Denver, hanging out with each other.

Michael, Paula and the kids..(Kendra, Kalyn, Matthew, Hannah & Zachary) met us for dinner on Saturday night and brunch on Sunday morning.  That was also something Jennifer had no idea about! It was great to get to see everyone on a much unexpected occasion! 

Here are a few pictures from the weekend:

Michael, Jennifer & I

Downtown Denver, Larimer Square

Brunch on Sunday morning!

Jennifer & I at the Capitol

Rachel & I,  Saw'Em off! Whoop!

so fun, so fun, so fun!

Is that book good, I mean - really?

I often ask that question when I pick up a book teaching about anything related to the Gospel and wonder if what I'm reading is really sound and Gospel based...and not just merely an account of someone else's ideas.

It's never fun to get to the end of a book and think "man, that was a waste of time..."

So...I offer you:
Discerning Reader

Enjoy!

Be (Grateful)

B.E. (G.R.A.T.E.F.U.L.) For every breath. For sunshine on your face. For a child's laughter. For God's grace. For peace of mind. For joy of heart. For love. For the gift of life. For good friends. For sweet memories. For pink bubblegum. For silliness. For red shoes. For blue skies. For the kindness of others. For family time. For understanding souls. For kindred spirits. For true forgiveness. For good music. For dark chocolate. For a place to call home. For warm hugs. For quiet time. For the freedom to dream. For snowflakes on your tongue. For raindrops on your face. For colorful sunsets. For animal-shaped clouds. For a believing spirit. For a forgiven soul. For inspiration. For sand between your toes. For smiles. For tears. For mercy. For Jesus.

Oh Sweet Joy!

Taken from: Sit A Spell-----
Kim & I were in Hope Group for a semester together, and she's just an amazing person.  Please go support her through this ministry!  Also, check out the free giveaway on Heather's blog (Sit A Spell)! 
-----
I should have known this little community at Sit A Spell would come through with so many great companies making and selling products in a way we can all be proud of and support.

Every day this week I'll post about companies like the one featured here today. Hopefully we can all get the word out about these companies that care about labor issues and are giving part of their proceeds to kingdom minded organizations. Hopefully we'll support these businesses with our business and by doing some word of mouth advertising for them.

A sweet girl in my life, Kim Davis has an etsy shop called Oh Sweet Joy. Her work was recently featured in Child Style Magazine.

When I met Kim she was an unmarried college student sitting in the Her Hands class. I always loved to hear what was on Kim's mind. Kim went to church at Living Hope (and can sing so pretty!) She's a beautiful girl inside and out. Kim and her husband Chase are now living in Colorado.

Listen to Kim's heart behind her business and her work:

"I started oh, sweet joy when I needed a break from apparel. I've worked retail for years and refurbished vintage t-shirts for a while, as well. I lost my retail job in early September and started nannying for a family in town. One of the boys, Ollie, had a birthday coming up, and I wanted to make him something unique. I bought some eco-felt, grabbed some of my designer fabric scraps and went to town on a cute little owl. I loved making the little owl, so I kept making more and sold a few at a local art studio tour. Little did I know the Lord had bigger plans for this little project.

I took everything out of one etsy shop and opened another with a new focus. My husband has been encouraging me to be more focused and gospel centered in every endeavor. I couldn't really figure out what that meant until I searched my heart and the Lord revealed and reminded me what He has created me for and what I am passionate about. It took me a while to figure everything out, but the Lord has laid on my heart to bring joy into homes by using my gifts and talents to further the Kingdom and bring children hope (as silly as it sounds...one owl at a time).

One way I am accomplishing this is donating a percentage of all sales to Compassion International and Love 146. 20% of everything I make (after etsy & paypal take their generous cuts haha) will go to truly make a difference in children's lives. I couldn't be more excited about this effort, and I am so thankful that the Lord has changed my selfish heart. He has turned something that started as me wanting to make some extra spending money to something that is so much bigger than myself. He is faithful."

Kim's owls are precious.

I also love the headbands. My niece will be getting one of these!

Kim does custom orders. She also sells an entire family of owls for only $25.

Owls are quite the "in thing" right now (as are any birds, really). Hey...if Anthropologie says owls are "in"...they are.

I also was impressed with Kim's November shipping special. Buy 2 products and get free shipping. Can't beat that.

Please take some time to browse Kim's shop. This would be a great place to buy gifts that are made right her in America and have peace of mind that women and children aren't being exploited in the name of consumerism.

I've placed a custom order with Kim, and I can't tell you how happy it makes my heart to know that some of the money I send her will go to help such great organizations that are out there fighting against so much evil in this world. I'm honored to get to play a small part of bringing God's love, light and truth into places that desperately need to know His peace, grace and strength...all while shopping.

Kim has also agreed to give away that cute owl at the top of this post! Get excited. Isn't that owl adorable? He's a medium sized, "Ollie" owl.

To enter the giveaway you need to have a US shipping address. The winner will be announced next Monday, November 23. There are many ways to enter and you can have up to 6 entries per person.

1. If you browse Oh Sweet Joy you can come back here and leave your name in a comment and say "I browsed".

2. Tweet about Oh Sweet Joy and then leave a comment telling us you did.

3. Become a fan of Oh Sweet Joy on Facebook then leave a comment telling us you're now a Facebook fan. Go here to become a fan.

4. If you post about this giveaway on Facebook, leave a comment telling us you did so.

5. If you post about Oh Sweet Joy and this give away on your blog you can leave your name in a comment with your blog address.

6. If you have an Etsy account and you "favorite" or "heart" Oh Sweet Joy then you can also leave a comment letting us know.

See...everyone gets a chance to have 6 entries each! I'm not good with math, but I think that really bumps up your odds of winning!

__________________________________

Thank you, Kim, for giving away this treasure. And thanks for the peace of mind you've given me while I'm shopping.

It wasn't long ago that I literally felt helpless. Can I buy anything and know for sure that the money God has given us isn't going to support things the Lord despises (like taking advantage of the weak and the poor?)

Slowly, God is turning my helplessness into hope. There are companies that care. This will be a journey like any other journey in our life. I can start slow, learn more and baby step my way through this.

I hope the readers here are having as much fun as we are buying from wonderful companies this holiday season. I pray we're spending less, being more purposeful in our gift-giving and honoring Jesus on His birthday (and every day).

Please help us support Kim, Compassion, Love 146 and fair trade by spreading the word about Oh Sweet Joy!

Count Your Blessings...

You always hear this.

It's on signs.

It's on keychains.

It's on picture frames and probably t-shirts too.

Reflecting on this entire "Thankful" post - that is still moving, up until Thanksgiving...has made me realize a lot.  And do a lot of counting my blessings.

I'm often still amazed that the Lord brought me all the way to the DC metro area to do a work in me that He clearly needed to get me out of Texas for.  I'm constantly awed by His love and His faithfulness, and in times when I'm not sure if He's still got it all under control; ever so gently, He reminds me He does.

Yesterday, was one of the most beautiful days up here, and that's not including the trees (because the leaves are almost gone).  A few posts ago, I mentioned Lauren and I going on a bike ride - and yesterday, we did it again.  This time we ventured from Crystal City into DC via Memorial Bridge:

(Memorial Bridge is the one behind Lincoln Memorial)

The Bridge itself, looking towards Arlington Cemetery & Robert E. Lee's House

The view riding up towards Lincoln on Memorial Bridge.

(photo credit blogpourii.blogspot.com)

Absolutely beautiful, right?  I'm not sure how far we went, probably around 8-10 miles, regardless, it was amazing.  The trees along the reflecting pool on the left side, we road under those - it was like a scene from Anne of Green Gables.

We road up past Lincoln, past the Washington Monument, straight onto the mall. Both of us were pretty amazed...just looking at our lives right now - neither of us expected to be here, now.  We grabbed Subway for lunch and had a picnic on the mall.   To our left was the Capitol and to our right was the Washington Monument.  And to beat it all, it's November and not the best time to be a tourist in DC, so, there weren't a lot of people, and that was so great.

I love a good bike ride.  There is something about it that is refreshing.  I love it a lot when it's down a windy path with leaves falling and even better, alongside the water.   There is no music to turn up (unless you have your ipod of course, not safe) nothing to be distracted by.  I love that I'm not inside a car, just rushing to get somewhere, but that I can enjoy the beauty of this place in every way.

So in reflecting on these things I'm thankful for (which at times, is harder than others) I'm counting my blessings and thanking the Lord for this time - right now, right where I am, in the DC Metro Area.  Life being better than I could have ever imagined, and to think He's done all this in less than a year.

I pray I never forget the times and memories I've made up here.  How I've experienced a life and culture that was foreign to me.  How He's been faithful through it all, the highs and lows.

Make sure and Count Your Blessings.

Thankfulness

t . h. a . n . k . f . u . l.

I've decided to make a list of things I'm thankful for... one for every day up until Thanksgiving.  I stole this idea from a dear friend, but with it being such a good idea - I couldn't pass it up.  I mean, how often do we really sit down and realize how thankful we are for things? I'm certain I don't do it as often as I should.

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; His love endures forever! Psalm 118:1

1.  I'm thankful for God's sovereignty that is evident everywhere in my life right now.

2.  I'm thankful that He took me out of my comfort zone.

3.  I'm thankful for my family - something I've realized a lot since moving away from them.

4.  I'm thankful for sweet friendships that He has blessed me with.
5.  I'm thankful that I'm not the same person I was over a year ago.
6.  I'm thankful for growing up in the country.
7.  I'm thankful for Charlie's adorable laughter that I cannot resist.
8.  I'm thankful for good friends and sweet memories.
9.  I'm thankful that His plans are always better than mine.
10. I'm thankful for good music.
11. I'm thankful that His grace is sufficient.
12. I'm thankful for beautiful DC days and bike riding along the Potomac and the National Mall, how amazing it is to live in such a beautiful place.
13. I'm thankful that the Lord brought me to the DC metro area to teach me more about myself in a year     than I thought ever possible.
14. I'm thankful for my parents, that they love me, and that moving out Texas made me realize it more than ever.
15. I'm thankful for live music, especially Texas style...nothing like a little piece of home.
16. I'm thankful His love is redeeming, His grace is unending and His plans are way better than mine.
17. I'm thankful for dark chocolate  : )

becoming real

"What is REAL?" asked the Rabbit one day, when they were lying side by side near the nursery fender, before Nana came to tidy the room. "Does it mean having things that buzz inside you and a stick-out handle?"

"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real."

"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.

"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "When you are Real you don't mind being hurt."

"Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"

"It doesn't happen all at once," said the Skin Horse. "You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in your joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.

-- The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams --

soul food

This past weekend Rachel came up to visit and we had quite the fun time.  Friday was spent hanging out with my friends here in D.C. for Lauren's 24th birthday where Carrie cooked a fabulous meal...followed by heading out to listen to an 80's cover band.

However - around 1 a.m. after exiting Re-Ra...we come to discover that both mine & Eric's cars had been towed - awesome, right?  So after about an 1.5 hours of getting to the tow lot and then having to wait for the tow truck to come and move the 5 cars blocking me in, Rachel and I finally made it back home around 2:30.  Definitely a later night than we were both intending for!

Saturday was a rainy day...therefore we headed to the Leesburg Outlets.  While it wasn't the "touristy" thing to do...it was really great just to get to hang out with each other in a relaxed setting.  Recently when we've been together there has been a lot of people - so it's not as easy to actually talk and catch up on each other's lives.

Sunday - our day of fun.  We went to church at the National Cathedral and then headed to Annapolis, M.D. for a 2.5 hour cruise along the Chesapeake Bay - which was absolutely beautiful.  The weather was perfect and the 'fall foliage' was just so colorful.  We also got to see three old lighthouses which proved to have a lot of history as well as a U.S. Nuclear Submarine (way cool!!!).

EDIT!: I left out a crucial part of this story.  MONDAY MORNING.  We had reservations to go up to the top of the Washington Monument at 9:30 a.m.   We should have left the house at 8:30, however, due to other circumstances didn't make it out until 8:45 and lost a crucial 15 minutes.  Already running a little behind, I decided to park where I was certain there were spaces - this was about 9:10.  So we had 20 minutes to run from the Potomac to the Washington Monument...and when I say run, we power-walked and ran occasionally - needless to say, I was exhausted by the time we got there - though we made it, and obviously - the views were just wonderful as depicted in the picture below!!

I'm so thankful she got to come to and visit again...even if this time was a little more low key than her previous trip up in March.  Admittedly, I wasn't too excited about her coming to visit the week before she arrived - mainly because I wasn't excited about anything...just part of what I was dealing with.  I wanted to be excited, but couldn't find it in me.  However, thankfully - she did come on this exact weekend....because here again, the Lord is faithful...and I truly needed this weekend with a great friend.

• a sweet friendship refreshes the soul ~ proverbs 27:9

Chesapeake Bay Bridge

U.S. Nuclear Submarine

Thomas Point Lighthouse

Lincoln Monument & Memorial Bridge (from top of Washington Monument)

oh the pretty trees!!

Maine-iac Updated

A few weekends ago...October 10-12 Lauren and I took a weekend trip to Maine and it turned out to be quite the wonderful time.

Since I have lived in Texas all my life (until now obviously) I have never really experienced "Fall."  The leaves were just beautiful and driving along Hwy 1 just bending and winding with the Atlantic Ocean was absolutely beautiful.

We flew in to Manchester, N.H. and then rented a car and drove into Maine.  Our B&B was actually located in Georgetown, M.E. just outside of Bath.   Renting the car and driving was definitely the way to do it because we got to take in all the beauty that we would have otherwise just flown over.

Our B&B turned out to be just beautiful, right on the Atlantic Ocean.  I got up for sunrise on Sunday morning (see pictures on my shutterfly site) and the colors that came through were just incredible and unbelievable.

Here again, the Lord definitely gives us what we need, when we need it.  I'm thankful I had that weekend to be busy and marvel in His creation rather to just sit and be idle.

Our B&B

Sunrise!! Amazing.

Updates Shmupdates...

Yes, I realize I have a lot to update on (if there are any readers out there)...

-Maine
-Being in Texas this past weekend
-and as of tomorrow, I have a visitor -so there is another post.

It's hard to sit down and put thoughts together currently.  Time will pass and things will become better...but until then, this roller-coaster is off the tracks.

I leave you with these photos from Maine:

our first sighting of the Atlantic!

pretty fall scenery!

George H.W. Bush's home in Kennebunkport, ME

Five Islands, ME

No photo edits done AT ALL...it was just that beautiful

Lauren & I at Mt. Battie (overlooking Camden, ME)

Mimi's Obituary

MARY FRANCES BELK DWYER, age 88, beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, Mimi and friend, passed away on Tuesday, the 6th of October 2009.She was born on the 15th of January 1921, in Houston. She graduated from Reagan High School in 1938, where she was assistant drum lieutenant for the Reagan Redcoats.She loved to volunteer at her children's schools and was President of the PTA at Garden Oaks Elementary in 1958-1959. As a child she was a member of the Woodland Baptist Church and as an adult was a member of Spring Woods Methodist Church.Mary married Wellborn Jack Dwyer on the 24th of July 1942, during WWII in San Francisco, California and they enjoyed 66 wonderful years together.A native Houstonian, she loved her family and friends, was an avid reader, loved history, dancing and working crossword & number puzzles. She was a wonderful person with a beautiful smile and laugh. Mary was a beautiful ray of sunshine to everyone who knew her and she faced her illness with her faith, a strong spirit and a positive attitude.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, "the love of her life", Wellborn Jack Dwyer, infant son, Wellborn Jack Dwyer, Jr., parents, Helen Shine and James Eugene Belk, Sr., brother, J.E. "Gene" Belk, Jr., father-in-law & mothers-in-law, C. A. & Minnie Gaston Dwyer & Roberta Powell Dwyer, brother-in-law, C. A. "Red" Dwyer, Jr, sister-in-law, Gwen Dwyer Pingrey, & nephew, David Alan Dwyer.She is survived by her children Jim & Judy Dwyer, of Frankston, Judy & Art Coen of Katy, grandchildren, Michael Dwyer of Casper Wyoming, Robert & Sarah Dwyer, of Katy, Jason & Noelle Coen of Cypress, Jonathan & Kristina Coen of Houston, Jennifer & Eric Bryla of Fredericksburg, & Ashley Dwyer of Falls Church,Virginia; great-grandchildren Matthew, Zachary, & Hannah Dwyer of Houston, Avery, Jack, Brett & Mallory Dwyer of Katy, Grant & Andrew Coen of Cypress, Nora Coen of Houston, Will Bryla of Fredericksburg, sister, Helen Belk Ledbetter; brother-in-law, William G. "Billy" Dwyer & wife, Margaret Ann; nieces & nephews, Carol Ledbetter Wilson, Craig & Janice Ledbetter, Chuck & Karen Dwyer, Sally & Bill Herrmann and Sherrie Dwyer.The family would like to thank her longtime friend and caregiver, Susie Sanchez Kaess. Also, loving caregivers: Amelia Cruz , Maria Gonzales, Tina Olugboji, Comfort Olaonipekun, Houston Hospice nurse Svanhaniel Crim & Dr. Cindy Zinner.

The funeral service is to be conducted at one o'clock in the afternoon on Monday, the 19th of October, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston. During the noon hour, prior to the funeral, the family will receive guests during a catered reception in the adjacent Pavilion.The interment will immediately follow the service, via an escorted cortege, at Glenwood Cemetery in Houston.Honored to serve as pallbearers during the services are her grandchildren, Michael Dwyer, Robert Dwyer, Jason Coen, Jonathan Coen, Jennifer Dwyer Bryla and Ashley Dwyer.

In lieu of the usual remembrances, memorial contributions in Mary's name may be directed to The Houston Ballet,1921 West Bell St., Houston, 77019; or to Houston Hospice,1905 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, 77030.

Mary Frances Belk Dwyer

Maine -iac

So this weekend Lauren & I are heading to Maine. And that is actually the place we're staying (thanks to one of Lauren's co-workers...)

This trip really couldn't have come at a more perfect time...the Lord is so faithful.  The times I find hardest are those where I'm just idling along, sitting there.  I pray there is much rejoicing this weekend as I have so much to be thankful for.

There is a time for everything.  A time for laughing and for crying and I have a feeling this weekend is going to provide healthy amounts of both (although I'm certain most will be laughter)...and I couldn't be more excited.

I can just imagine...sitting out on the porch, listening to the ocean, thinking about my dear sweet Mimi and all the wonderful times we shared. 
 

Mimi: she had style, she had grace.

Mary Frances Belk Dwyer
 January 15, 1921 - October 6, 2009

 

and now they're re-united. 

 

There was magic in her touch,
And sunshine in her smile.
There was love in everything she did
To make our lives worthwhile.

We could find both hope and courage
Just by looking in her eyes.
Her laughter was a source of joy,
Her words were warm and wise.

There was a kindness and compassion
To be found in her embrace,
And we could see the light of heaven
Shining from her face.

 --------------

Miss you forever, love you for always.

Bike Riding along the Potomac...

Yes, that is how I spent my Sunday afternoon, and it was beautiful.  One more day just marveling at this place.  This place that for now, is my home - something I'm still shocked by at least weekly.

Lauren & I decided we were gonna take a bike ride. Sounded like an excellent idea to me.  We started out first in Georgetown, where we ended up just eating Subway on the banks of the Potomac and getting air in some tires.

We headed back to Crystal City to her place to park and ride from there...we thought that might be a little smarter.

We took off on the Mount Vernon trail, headed for Old Town Alexandria - and the path we took was just incredible.  Biking through forests, over marshes, on cute little wooden bridges with ropes as the 'safety net,' passing runners, bikers, rollerbladers, walkers...and getting passed ourselves. 

We made it to Old Town, stopped for a cookie on King Street and ate it along the river.  We decided to be a bit more venturous and head farther south...so far south that we were going UNDER 495, that my friends is what they call the 'outer loop' and 395 is the 'inner loop.'  We pretty much started at 395.

We saw a sign for Hwy 1 and decided to follow it...only to find out we were going the wrong direction and were coming upon exits for Fort Belvoir...not the direction we needed to go.  After turning around, biking back through Alexandria we headed for Gravelly Point.

Gravelly Point was the perfect place to end our 15 mile bike ride.  We laid in the grass, somewhat in pain, but also enjoying the perfect beauty of the day...and the fact that planes were taking off 400 feet in front of us...and flying straight over our pretty little faces as low as 100 ft above us.

Yesterday brought back a lot of memories.  Mainly of when I used to cycle all the time in college. Road & Mountain - I miss it.  I miss it a lot.  My goal is to go at least 10 miles 3 days a week on the bike...there is something relaxing about it. 

But let's face it.  If it weren't so dad gum hilly around here, I'd be in my rollerblades in a heartbeat...because that my friends - is my favorite.

 

 

Under the Virginian Sun

So yesterday...Lauren, Carrie & I ventured out into the Virginian Wine Country to do a little wine tasting and sight seeing.

It was just beautiful.

The rolling hills, the changing leaves, the "oldness" of it all.

I'm intrigued by these people who own these vineyards.

Who are farmers... who are just amazing.

We had lunch at the cutest little place, overlooking the beauty and majesty of God's creation.

I was just stunned and amazed. 

I could not have imagined a more perfect day with more perfect girls.

The Lord definitely gives us what we need, when we need it and yesterday (and today) was just what I needed.

The touch of the His hand is all around us. We see it in the order, beauty, and dazzling variety in creation. The great expanse of space with its billions of planets and the incredible world of the microscopic are all testimony to an Orderer of great creativity. God has left his fingerprints all over his world so we can know he is here.

Since the creation of the world, God's invisible qualities --his eternal power and divine nature -- have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. --Romans 1:20

William John Bry-Bry

...that's what he'll say when I coach him through saying his full name. It's adorable. 

So, a week ago today, I arrived back from Texas (yes, again) from another week of being there...this time in Fredericksburg spent with Jennifer, Eric & Will (my youngest nephew).  (I do realize it's a late post).

It was a week of fun
of laughing,
of Cowboy Cookies,
of realizing how thankful I am for them,
of realizing how thankful I am for family.

We did a lot in that week. Shopped of course, because that's what we do best.

We stayed home too.

We went to Round Top/Warrenton - a trip that is now going to become tradition.  Ate at Royers - where Dad met us...and the PIES ARE AMAZING.

The job I have now allows me a lot of freedom and freedom I though I had when in college, when in actuality, I have more now.  And because of that I've been able to go to Texas 3 times in the past month and a half for 9 days each trip....that's 27 days.

And 27 days of thankfulness.

Will is at such a fun age...
I love that with him I am a clear association with an airplane
That I can ride on his yoshi car (see youtube video) and his 4wheeler
That I can fit in his fort
That I can buy him Pink Piggies
That he is the cutest Will I know
but most importantly, that I get to love him - and love him for the rest of his life.

all I know is that I love all my nieces and nephews a whole lot.
I can't imagine how much I'm going to love my own children one day.

ebenezers

The following is taken from Beth Moore's Believing God:
      "Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the Lord helped us'" (1 Sam. 7:12)
       Ebenezer means "stone of help."  As we walk out the remainder of our time line of faith, let's keep memorializing God's obvious interventions and spiritual markers through stones of remembrance.  In the meantime, by faith let's walk with a (figurative) stone in our hand as an "Ebenezer" until we see the next astonishing evidence or spiritual marker and lay it on our line. You see, the "Ebenezer" stone constantly reminds us, "Thus far has the Lord helped us." In other words, with God's help we're making is so far, and we'll make it some more.

You probably noticed the title of the blog has changed.

I've been back from Texas for just about a week and a half, and have had plenty of time to digest the things I experienced while back home.

It's still hard for me to believe that I'm living in Falls Church, VA - and as much as I find it hard to believe, I also find that I don't deserve it, by any means.  The Lord has grown me an awful lot since bringing me up here - mostly in areas I didn't aware I needed growth in.

I was in Texas for the week before Labor Day weekend and flew back up here on Labor Day.

For 22 years we've been having a "family reunion" at my parents house in Frankston on this weekend. This was our 22nd year. So practically, all of my life.

For 22 years it's been mostly the same people, with a few dropping off and adding a few.

For 22 years it's been the "fat camp" weekend (meaning, all we do is eat, play cards and shoot guns)

For 22 years it's been one of my favorite weekends.

But this year, it came in a whole new light.  For awhile now, since around my last semester at college, I've been praying that on my trips back to Frankston, that I would love and serve - just like I do 99% time.  Only, when I go back home - it seems so easy to fall back into the way "thing always were."

I hated that. I didn't realize how much I couldn't do it on my own, to not act in the way I grew up acting, fighting for a place and doing whatever it took to get it.

But this year - was different.  I found the most joy when I was serving and helping. Whether cooking, bathing children, feeding the 14 dogs, or just doing something I really didn't care to do (there are a number of those things).  I'm thankful for that, I'm thankful that this year - it didn't all fall on my mom to do everything.  That for maybe the first time, it seemed like she wasn't doing it all.

I mean, really, 20ish people at your home for an entire weekend? It's like an army invasion. Especially with all the kiddos.  And the older the kids get, the more of an army it will become. But an army I wouldn't trade for anything.

So back to the title change.

I spent some time just thinking while back home, about how many things I could look back on, in my life - and clearly see that the Lord had His hand over me.  When in most of the situations, let's be honest - all of them... He probably should have just let me go for how wretched I was being - but instead, because of His sovereignty and grace, He chose to dust off my trail and call me back home.

I'm thankful for His grace.

I'm thankful He's in control.

and most importantly, for His unwavering, unconditional love.
--------------------------------------
I stand amazed in the presence
Of Jesus the Nazarene,
And wonder how He could love me,
A sinner, condemned, unclean.

O how marvelous! O how wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
O how marvelous! O how wonderful!
Is my Savior's love for me!

He took my sins and my sorrows,
He made them His very own;
He bore the burden to Calvary,
And suffered and died alone.

When with the ransomed in glory
His face I at last shall see,
Will be my joy through the ages
To sing of His love for me.

I'll Be Somewhere Down in Texas....if you're looking for me.

Tomorrow.. I head off to Texas - again, yes again. Though this trip has been planned for many months! I'm off to the great state until Sept. 7th and I'm so super excited.

On Saturday I get to see people that I've missed dearly and that I'm super crazy about.

On Sunday: continuance of above as well as attending a New Life service, which I can't wait for. (The podcasts just don't cut it...)

On Monday: Seeing my sister and Will again...and heading to Frankston to Mom & Dad's!

On Tuesday: Getting to see Sarah, Wade & Travis for dinner.

On Wednesday: Playing in Frankston (which I can't wait for...)

On Thursday: Repeat Wednesday

On Friday: See my most favorite Rachel in the whole world - it's been about 4 months and that's the longest it's EVER been. As well as see some family members as they begin arriving for a fun-filled-family-frankston-weekend!

On Saturday: Repeat Friday + getting to see Anna!! And more family I'm sure.

On Sunday: Play

On Monday: back to VA.

Man, when I spell it out like that, it seems soo short, but I guess it's not.

I still find it somewhat amazing how I "never thought I'd go home" and now, it's my favorite place to be. I'm thankful the Lord brought me away from my family, far away, so I'd know just how lucky I was and how amazing of a family and friends I have been blessed with.

Also - I'm reading a book titled "Through Painted Deserts" by Donald Miller - and I leave you with this quote - I absolutely love it.

And so my prayer is that your story will have involved some leaving and some coming home, some summer and some winter, some roses blooming out like children in a play. My hope is your story will be about changing, about getting something beautiful born inside of you, about learning to love a woman or a man, about learning to love a child, about moving yourself around water, around mountains, around friends, about learning to love others more than we love ourselves, about learning oneness as a way of understanding God. We get one story, you and I, and one story alone. God has established the elements, the setting and the climax and the resolution. It would be a crime not to venture out, wouldn't it?

It might be time for you to go. It might be time to change, to shine out.

I want to repeat one word for you:
Leave.

Roll the word around on your tongue for a bit. It is a beautiful word, isn't it? So strong and forceful, the way you have always wanted to be. And you will not be alone. You have never been alone. Don't worry. Everything will still be here when you get back. It is you who will have changed.

--something I've needed to hear for a while.

3 States in ONE weekend...

You couldn't do that in Texas...

My friend Wes came up to visit this past weekend. It was a whole lot of fun and we did so much that it felt like he was here for a lot longer than just the weekend.

Friday afternoon we walked around the monuments and met my friend Lauren, her cousin and roommate at Paolo's in Georgetown (a fabulous Italian restaurant that you must try if you're ever in the area!!) and then, we headed back to see the monuments at night time (the way I prefer them most! There is just something so amazing about seeing them lit up - and that's all you see.

"No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light."

These monuments were built to stand out, and not to be hidden. As Christians, we are called to stand out, to be the light in the darkness. I know for myself, far to often, I'm willing to sometimes go into the darkness instead of really proclaim the message of Christ.

We finally made it back to Falls Church about 12:30...and we were rising early to head to Assateague Island, Maryland - right on the Atlantic Ocean, to watch the wild mustangs run. The island was beautiful and the horses, well - you can only imagine an animal placed in it's natural habitat - it's just beautiful, and simply freeing.

From there we headed north along Hwy 1, driving through Ocean City, MD up to Dewey Beach, DE where we ventured out and went Parasailing - which is just incredible. After parasailing we continued north to Rehoboth Beach, DE where we had dinner at Big Fish Grill - as suggested by most of the people on the parasailing boat! (Also reccommended if you're in the area any time soon!) I had blackened mahi mahi with mango salsa and mashers - and it was quite excellent. Wes had swordfish and I'm pretty sure he enjoyed his as well.

We headed down to the boardwalk on the way to the beach where we took a few pictures and headed back to the car - it was about 10 pm at this point, and we still had a 3 hr drive back to Falls Church ahead of us.

Thankfully, we made it back home safe just before 1:30 a.m. and were up bright and early the following morning for church at The National Cathedral....followed by my first experience of Greek food where we met up with Lauren and her cousin again.

We drove to the White House, Capitol, Georgetown Cupcakes and then to Iwo Jima before I dropped him off at the airport!

It was a super fun weekend and I'm so thankful that we had a safe, fun adventure!

I'm heading to Texas on Saturday - spur of the moment - and I'm pretty excited about it. Flying into S.A., staying with my sister in Fredericksburg, going to Houston to see all my nieces and nephews of whom we're taking to Galveston for the day, College Station on Wednesday, Austin on Thursday - to see WICKED! And Friday I'm flying back up here.... only to be flying back to Texas the next Saturday (8/29) for a previously planned vacation!

Side note: listen to how sweet my little nephew is: So his Granny came over tonight and asked him, "Is your A-squared (aunt ashley) going to come see you this weekend?" and He points to the sky...because I'll be coming in an airplane, just like h...ow he came to see me! Makes you wish he was your nephew I bet!

So blessed.

My First Trapeze Lesson

Back to Texas!

Last Thursday I headed back to Texas for Nana's surprise 85th birthday party at Mom & Dad's house.

I flew in on Thursday, straight into Tyler, which was super nice.

Friday, Dad, Eric, Will & I headed to College Station for the day to do a few things and I got to see a few people I've missed! Blair met us for lunch at Cotton Patch and then Dad dropped me off at the Duty's. I was so happy to get to see the Duty's and catch up for a few minutes. Their kiddos have grown up so much and I can't wait til I get to see them anytime I want and not just on special visits to College Station - but that pretty much goes for everyone in that town!

Saturday we pulled off the surprise...Nana had no idea! It was good to see lots of family that I hadn't seen in a while, as well as just to be in Frankston.

My flight was canceled out of Tyler on Sunday evening so I didn't get back to VA until yesterday. I barely made my connection flight in DFW - so close that they had closed the door to the plane and they had to re-connect the walkway to the plane, open the door- and let me on. I was so happy that I made the flight!

Last night I started trapeze lessons, check out my videos on my next post!

New Visitors!

On Thursday, July 9, Mom, Jennifer, Will, Linda, Hayley & Kaylynn all flew up here to visit for a few days.

In those few days we went to Monticello (a 2 hr drive), Cluge Winery, Eastern Market, Mount Vernon, The National Mall, The Holocaust Museum, and Annapolis. Of course with good food at every meal. With having to have the kids in bed around 8 each evening we just relaxed on the couch with a good movie.

I was so glad to have them all up here to visit and was sad to see them leave. Of course - the trip would not be complete without a little drama...

I lost my wallet in Annapolis. I began to fret a little, mainly because my social security card was in my wallet - yes I'm aware that is a big no no. We debated about driving back to Annapolis to see if we could find it. I had no recollection of what I had done with it after I purchased some ice cream, we thought it might had fallen under a bench... so we (Jennifer, Hayley & I) decided to drive back to Annapolis to see if it was under the bench...

of course it was not.

However, we did find it in the yogurt shop we had gone into for everyone else. Apparently I left it sitting on the booth beside me and someone (thankfully) turned it in!

I started crying when we found it! I was so thankful that I found it and that everything was still in it.


For pictures, check out my shutterfly site!

Evian Babies

A Capitol Fourth Weekend!

What better then to celebrate the 4th of July anywhere but in D.C.!

Oh, it was a 3 day weekend of fun!

Friday, Lauren and I went kayaking down the Shenandoah River 11.5 miles. IT was absolutely beautiful, being just between the mountains and having amazing views any way you looked! We pretty much complained most of the way...mainly because we had to paddle the entire trip because the water was BARELY moving. Not to mention the countless number of rocks I got stuck on and the one I almost flipped on. The weather was perfect, not hot, almost cold...however the sun was still out enough to give me a nice sunburn. It was absolutely worth it.

Friday evening we headed into the National Mall to listen to the rehearsal of "A Capitol Fourth." We heard The Muppets, Natascha Beddingfield, Barry Manilow, Aretha Franklin, Jersey Boys, the National Symphony and a couple of others that I don't remember the names of. It was quite worth it and the weather was great! There was quite a good crowd but nothing like was there on the 4th!

Saturday Lauren and I headed into DC for the July 4th Parade and then went party hopping. Ending up the night hanging out with some fun Aggies and celebrating the 4th with yummy food.
Funny story: At the Texas State Society Picnic...they had baked beans, and I LOVE baked beans...so I had myself a plate full, yes, a plate full. Well, Eric, remembered this, and they had a nice large pan of baked beans just for me (of course I shared)- - pretty amazing, and they were delicious!

Sunday we decided to have a "college day" and didn't leave her apartment until 3pm when we hit up Target and then concluded with pancakes at IHOP.

Perfect??? I think so.

Hope your fourth was happy!

I managed to not get stuck on the rocks you can see in this photo!

but Lauren managed to get stuck here...stuck so well she had to get out of her kayak!