Humbled...

Throughout our relationship and marriage Matt has taught me a lot about love. His love is unconditional and forgiving. The way he loves me is so humbling to me. Today it really taught me a lot about how I love. I don't love like he does! I almost started crying today at work because I realized how amazingly gracious he is when I don't deserve it!
I don't know what I'd do without a husband as wonderful as Matt. He leads me in my walk with Christ to be something more. He's always pushing me beyond myself and that's what I love about him. He teaches me to be the best version of myself and to become a better person. Matt loves me like Christ does even though I don't deserve it.
"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:4

The Complaints of a Grouchy Neighbor...

Yesterday I came home to a letter on our door that read the following:

"We have received a complaint that there has been consistent barking coming from your apartment. We believe this is probably going on while you are gone. We would appreciate it if you explore options to deal with this issue. We strongly recommend a barking collar. Thank you!"
-Management

Wow. I was so mad that one of our neighbors complained about our dogs! Part of living in an apartment is knowing that you're going to hear your neighbors and their pets! I called the clubhouse and told them what I thought about their little letter... that didn't help much! I went to PetSmart and bought a lot of toys and bones to occupy them while we're away at work. Matt told me not to buy a barking collar because they're really expensive and he thinks they're a cruel way to train our dogs.
We are really frustrated because we pay the apartment A LOT of money for us to be able to have our dogs and then we get a letter when you can hear them! Needless to say we were not happy about that letter and really hope we don't find out who complained on us! I can't wait til our lease is up and we can get a house!

The Tears and Laughter of a Wedding

When Matt proposed on Saturday, September 29th, 2007, I didn't know anything about planning a wedding. 8 months into the process I would have rather killed myself than look at another piece of tulle, a flower, or dress!
The wedding that we had was a huge blessing. It was more beautiful and amazing then we ever imagined. EVERYTHING went absolutely perfect! It was pulled off without a hitch and was truly a reflection of our personalities (i.e. cowboys boots, cheese dip, fake first dance, etc.). The wedding day is so wonderful, but the prep is what's the pain!
We couldn't have done it without the help of our family and friends. My maid of honor helped me a lot and really encouraged me along the way. I tried to soak in every moment because I knew it would go by fast... and it did! I can't believe that we're now married! This is what I was waiting for all those 8 months!
Throughout those 8 months there were tears of frustration, tears of joy and anxiety, laughter, tension, smiles, and hugs of support and love. It was quite a journey and one that I wouldn't trade for anything! It is so amazing to be loved on through showers, gifts, and wonderful friends!
A wedding brings out the best and worst of people! But, it's ok because you're getting married!! Whoever thought of a honeymoon is a genius...

This one goes out to Courtney...

Bella May

41 days after we got married Matt and I invested in a puppy... a boxer puppy to be exact. I have always wanted a boxer for as long as I can remember. I think they are such beautiful dogs. I had researched and found a breeder that lives close and was able to hand select Bella two weeks before we picked her up.
We prepared for her as if she was a baby. But, nothing could have prepared us for a puppy (we also have a 7 yr. old black lab, Sadie)! The day we brought her home reality hit that we now had a very large responsibility! All four of us quickly adjusted to one another. Bella and Sadie acted like they've known each other for years and are truly the best of friends... sisters! They play together and have a wonderful companionship.
It is indescribable the joy that Bella brings to my life. I didn't realize how attached and how much that I would truly feel for this dog. She has brought Matt and I so much happiness and laughter that now we don't know what we'd ever do without her! They are like our children! Her loyalty and unending love is what shocked me. No matter what I do (spank her, leave her all day, etc.) she always is genuinely happy to see me and loves on me. I've found that a dog's love is a true testament of unbiased, non judging, unending, genuine love.
I never had dogs growing up so I really didn't know what to expect from raising a puppy, etc. But, I would do anything for her and can't imagine our life without her! We've now had her for a month and are absolutely in love with her!
I would always get annoyed with people that were obsessed with their dogs, but now I understand! I feel like Bella and I have this connection and bond that makes me feel like I'm doing something right by caring for her, loving her and raising her.
It is truly a blessing and a wonderful companionship.

New Old Job

After Matt and I got married he told me I had to get a second job! So, I applied EVERYWHERE for a job in the morning. Finally, the tanning salon that I use needed some part time help. So, after the honeymoon I started training. I really liked working there and loved my co-workers but... I was only making minimum wage.
After being there for about 2 months I ran into my old boss. She told me that they needed some part time help! I told her that I would leave the salon in a heartbeat to go back (I am a certified pharmacist technician)! A week later I gave the salon a two weeks notice and shortly after started back at the pharmacy.
So far things have been great. I enjoy being back with all my old co-workers and seeing the regular customers that I loved. It's hard working full time and trying to maintain life but I know I'll just have to get use to it. I know this is what's best for Matt and I and I look forward to our future together!

Trying it out...

Hey guys! I just created my blog today! I'm going to try out this blogging thing and see how I do with it! I'll try and get this up and running asap! Enjoy!