Happy Halloween!

Today we went for a long walk to a nearby church selling pumpkins for a fundraiser. It was great! The weather was beautiful, and we got some great pictures of Gracen with the pumpkins. Later in the evening, Brian carved the pumpkin with a cute toothy smile (hmmm...who does that remind you of???) Anyway, the overpriced pumpkin was well worth the pictures we captured. (of course, more pics on Gracen's website) I can't wait to put her in her costume tomorrow and go trick or treating!

a very very big mess

This is our kitchen, as of Saturday. Brian and Alex worked up a dust storm, and Brian's Dad installed a dandy utility sink in the basement for dishes and cooking. Its not as bad as it looks...at least, that's what I keep telling myself.

Justice for all

A graphic and controversial exhibit about abortion is coming to K-State next week. I heard about this from a leader of a christian ministry I was involved in when I was there, Ichthus. I think its a very powerful presentation.

Dedicated!

This weekend, we had Gracen's dedication at Hope. She was so sweet, waving to the audience as we were up front with Pastor Steve. The message was wonderful, and Brian and I were so touched by the prayer for Gracen. Here she is with her Papa before the service.



Afterward, we hosted a nice little dinner party at our home. No, we're not quite moved in and set up, but it was fun to hang out with friends and family in our new backyard.



I'll be working on putting lots more photos on Gracen's website again...so keep checking back!

Turned out to be quick and painfree

Our move went so fast, we were actually amazed. Only a few things remaining at the old place. Its really nice to throw stuff randomly in the closest box, not seal it, not secure it, and sit on top of it in the bed of a truck while you drive around the corner. Now, on to the real project...the kitchen!

The slow, painful move

You'd think living just two houses away from where you are moving to would be a big blessing...and it should be. But at this rate, we'll be lucky to be out of our rental house by Christmas. I take an armload over every time I go, and Brian and I walk around our house, gingerly throwing stuff boxes. I can't find anything, and when I need something, its usually at the house I'm not at. Tomorrow is supposed to be the big day. For crying out loud, will someone keep me accountable to get us to one location?

I've also been distracted by trying to put together invitations for a dinner after Gracen's dedication. If you don't have one yet, you're invited! Just let me know so I know to baste a piece of briskett just for you.

One smart dude

I'm so proud of my "little" brother I had to post this link. Congratulations John!

Everytime he gets another award or accolade, I wonder why he got all the brains, and I got, well, you know, not so much. Especially after reading a quote like this...I have no idea what he just said.

Demolition Day

So, we got the keys to our "new" house this weekend. We've been busy vacuuming fixtures, washing windows, cleaning baseboards, and mopping floors. and somehow, when we went to clean the kitchen (which needs a lot of work) we ended up gutting it. It all started with "I wonder what's under the paneling?" so we found out. Yay for picking out new cabinets, countertops, and tile. Poopy for all the work we created for ourselves.