Steady As We Go

An afternoon walk

2008-10-16T07:37:00.005-04:00

This past Monday, Travis had the day off and I only worked a half day. The kids had a half day of school due to parent-teacher conferences. The weather outside was absolutely perfect - sunny, 80 degrees, and no humidity. We decided to go on a walk down the Cardinal Greenway. Here are a few picutres from our trek.

The photo above is my favorite! Look at all the colors!

We walked exactly one mile, then turned back. You would have thought we walked ten miles!

Who and where?

2008-10-07T10:30:00.000-04:00

At the bottom of the right sidebar, there is a little Cluster map that makes a dot whenever someone checks this blog. I'm totally curious as to who you all are! I may not know you, and that's completely ok! I am really intrigued by who even looks at this blog anymore...especially since I am not very good at posting the latest and greatest. :)

So, now is the time to come forward. Who are you and where are you from?! :)

James Dean Festival 2008

2008-10-06T20:50:00.008-04:00

The Fairmount James Dean Festival is probably my favorite of all festivals. The cars, the music, the era - L-O-V-E it! It's always the last weekend of September. Here are some photos from this year's festival.

Travis is friends with Lenny, the man in the black suit on the left.

This couple worked the crowd! They were having so much fun and it really showed!

Katrina & I watching the dance contest.

"Come on, baby! Let's do the TWIST!"

Our group was rooting so hard for this couple, I had to get my picture with them. I was standing in the middle at first, but Gramps started getting "handsy" in jest, so I moved to the outside and told him to get "handsy" with his wife! Haha!

This was on the side of a building in downtown Fairmount. It made me smile.

The grave of the legend.

A car show is not a car show unless you have some with flames on the sides!

James Dean Tribute - a replica of the car he died in. You can see a red car in the back ground. He actually drove this car to his prom. It is still owned by his family.

For Carmine

2008-09-02T11:08:00.004-04:00

Dear Carmine,

I'm sorry I haven't been blogging. I know you sit on the edge of your seat to see what is going on in my life, and are incredibly disappointed to see that nothing has been updated on my blog every time you look at it. July and August are my busiest months at work, and when I have the opportunity to blog, I simply don't do it. Excuses do not provide you with what's been going on here in Indiana, but at least this gives you something new to read.

I will do my best to keep up from here on out, but I'm not making any promises.

Sincerely,
Your lazy blogging friend

P.S. All written tongue-in-cheek :) I'm glad you check my blog and I really will try to post more. Now that August is over, and we finally have internet at home (I always blogged at work, thus another reason I didn't post anything during July or August), I really have no excuse! I enjoy reading about your adventures out east, and the websites you find crack me up. They provide me with some great moments of comedy and stress-relief throughout the week! I read your blog often, even though I rarely comment (again...pure laziness)! I want to make it out your way soon to come visit. Travis has never been to NYC, and I would love to take him there! Miss you!

Changes

2008-06-20T12:06:00.005-04:00

A day in the life of the Stewart household is changing. No, I'm not pregnant. Three step-children are enough to keep me busy (and are a good reminder to take my birth control). :) Travis and I are now actively pursuing moving to Fort Wayne. We have been updating his resume and will send it out to various corporations at the Fort in the next week or so. He will finish his Bachelor's degree sometime this fall, aiming for December graduation. I've been looking at houses online for us to purchase. I have found several I like so hopefully the inside will be just as nice as the outside.

This weekend, we will be going to Lowe's to purchase some "finishing touch" items for our house to put it up on the market: new baseboards and trim for our master bedroom, a new carpet strip, and possibly some railing and spindles for the front porch. There are several small projects that we need to finish and I'm eager to get them done.

I joined a gym. This is the first time in my life I've ever joined a gym or committed to working out on a regular basis. So far, I've lost 3 pounds. It doesn't sound like much, but I only want to lose 15 total. The Wellness Center in Marion gives you a personal training session when you join. It's nice to see results and progress!

This weekend, the Stewart house will have lots of visitors. Clayton and Jerusha Genth (friends from college) are coming to stay with us tonight, along with my friend Melissa from Fort Wayne and probably my cousin Jonathan. We're going to see/hear my friend Jesse's band play. I know Jesse from my days at IWU as well. Tomorrow will be filled with the small house projects I mentioned to put our house up for sale. Sunday we are meeting up with my friend Christin and her family for a cookout. It's been years since I've seen them and I'm really excited to catch up! Christin and I grew up together in church and then went to high school and college together. I'm really excited!

Pictures to come!

Funeral Arrangements

2008-06-03T16:39:00.002-04:00

For those of you interested, the viewing for Gramps will be at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Home in Marion on Thursday, June 5th, from 4 to 8pm. The funeral will be on Friday, June 6th, at 1pm at Hillside Wesleyan Church in Marion.

His obituary can be viewed at: http://www.chronicle-tribune.com/articles/2008/06/04/obituaries/doc4845e8c53492b405439922.txt

Charles Byron Fields

2008-06-03T09:37:00.003-04:00

Grandpa Fields & I - September 2007

My heart aches today. My Grandpa Fields passed away this morning at 6:55am, at the VA Hospital in Marion. He was 79.

First and foremost, Gramps was a man who loved God with all of his heart. He is the only person I know who TRULY loved like Jesus Christ loves us. Grandpa didn't care what you've done in your past or the mistakes he knew you would make in the future; he loved you anyway. Two weeks ago, he sat in his room at the VA and prayed for his evening meal. He did not pray that God would heal him - in fact, he never once mentioned anything about himself or prayed for himself. He only prayed for the "hands that prepared it" and that others would come to know Christ. Over the past few weeks, many have sent cards, letters, and emails to our family telling us how Grandpa had impacted their life. Some were led to the Lord through my Grandpa's life, others recommited their lives to the Lord. Many have commented on what a strong man of God he was and how he lived out his life that way. As a Christian, could there be a better testimony than that?!

He was not just my grandpa, he was my friend. He was full of wisdom and integrity. He was a hard worker his entire life and always willing to lend a helping hand. He was kind and gentle, but firm and grounded. He was compassionate and considerate of others. He loved his family very much. There was never a question about this. Anyone who met him was blessed by him. I am thankful for the Godly examply my Grandpa gave - not only to his family, but to everyone. He was funny and had a wonderful sense of humor.

Selfishly, I want my Gramps here with me. Even though his body has been steadily declining over the past several weeks, I still want him here. I will miss our heart-to-heart talks that we shared, but will relish all of the magnificent memories he gave me. My Aunt told me this morning that all the tears we shed are simply because we love him so much. This statement couldn't be more true.

I know today that Gramps is in heaven meeting the God of all Creation. He is celebrating, rejoicing, praising the Lord, and running up and down the streets of heaven. He is seeing my Grandma for the first time in eight years, and seeing her body completely healed for the first time ever. These are the reasons that I can rejoice in my Grandpa's passing. I miss him already, but Gramps, I will see you again one day! I love you "the mostest most!" :)

Valentine's Weekend Away

2008-03-11T10:03:00.009-04:00

For a "weekend away," Travis and I went to Chicago the weekend after Valentine's Day to spend the day relaxing and enjoying the windy city.

We arrived in Chicago around noon-ish, checked into our hotel, then went to Ed Debevic's for lunch. It was Travis' first time there. My parents had taken me there when I was a kid, so it was great to share that experience with someone else.

After lunch, we walked up and down the Magnificent Mile and did some shopping. I found my next big purchase: this purse. Travis tried to convince me to buy it that day, but I set some goals at work and will get it when I reach them. I've never owned one, so it's good motivation.

We made our way back to the hotel and then headed to dinner at Keefer's and had a nice dinner. After dinner, we headed to the Ford Oriental Theatre where we had tickets to watch the Broadway production, Wicked. We get to the front door, looked through my purse for the tickets, and they were no where to be found. Travis ran back to the restaurant to check with our waiter to see if I had left them on the table since that was the last place I remember having them (ironically, to make sure they were in my purse). I followed behind him, running the best I could in 3 inch heels. When I caught up to him at the restaurant, I searched my purse once again and found them stuck to an inner envelope.

It was now 7:50 and the show started at 8. We ran (as fast as I could in the aforementioned 3 inch heels) back to the theatre, tickets in hand, and made it into our seats with 2 minutes to spare. Unfortunately, the act of running in those heels left a blood blister the size of a half dollar on the ball of my left foot. It hurt so bad I could barely walk back to our hotel, which was just 6 blocks away.

Wicked was absolutely amazing! The sets, the songs, the actors and actresses were all simply phenomenal! The only down side to it is that somewhere along the line (in between dinner and the close of the first act), I scratched my left cornea. No, I'm not kidding. I had to watch a good majority of the second act through one eye, or with both eyes closed because the lights were so bright onstage. Pathetic, huh?

We made it back to our hotel after the show and I immediately went to relieve the pressure from the blood blister. It felt so much better, but I still couldn't walk properly. I also washed out my eyes with some drops, but that didn't help. My left eye ended up swelling up (I looked like someone had punched me in the eye!) and Travis had to get us back home on Sunday morning (he HATES driving in Chicago traffic).

After a quick trip to the Marion ER, we finally made it home. Thank you, Lord, for getting us home safely! :)

Finally - THEY'RE HERE!!!

2007-12-13T15:29:00.000-05:00

Our wedding pictures have arrived! They can be seen at: http://www.gardenrose.net/stewart.htm

The album pre-design is absolutely amazing! She did an excellent job of "telling our story" through her pictures and presentation. If you want to view all of the proofs, the password is my maiden name: fields.

What do you think?

Candy Wrapper

2007-12-05T16:49:00.000-05:00

On the inside of a piece of Dove Promises milk chocolate, the message read:

"Be mischevious. It feels good."

Love this! :)

Pictures Preview

2007-11-20T15:24:00.000-05:00

Our wedding photographer is busy working away at our wedding photo album, but, until that is complete, she has put together a sneak preview of our wedding pictures (see above photo).

Her blog (www.xanga.com/mrshaase) has a few extra pictures not on the collage. I LOVE the way they have turned out and can't wait to see the rest of them!

Check back in a few weeks for the album pre-design and all of the proofs!

Officially Mrs. Stewart

2007-10-31T11:22:00.000-04:00

I'm married!!! Words cannot describe how utterly happy and excited I was on our wedding day. God's presence was truly with us and He answered my prayer of giving us beautiful weather. There was not a cloud in the sky and the temperature was around 75 degrees. Perfect! Everyone has said how pretty and elegant everything was. My main goal with our wedding were three things:

Classy
Elegant
Enjoyable

With all the little details, stress-outs and melt-downs, I have to say, it was all worth it. Marrying Travis truly was the happiest day of my life!

I don't have many pictures yet (if you have some and are reading this blog, email them to me at recentlykristi@hotmail.com!), but as they trickle in, I'll be sure to post more. Enjoy!

Taking pictures in the sanctuary before the ceremony

My beautiful bridesmaids
The Kiss! I have to admit, when the Pastor told Travis he could "kiss the bride" I just about jumped out of my shoes I was so excited! My knees go weak and my stomach flutters when he holds the back of my head when he kisses me like this. :)

This is an aerial view of what the reception hall looked like all lit up before the guests arrived. It turned out just how I pictured it in my head.
This is a close up of what the flowers looked like in the reception centerpieces. There were two dozen roses in each vase. There were 3 different colors of roses! We did all the flowers (centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres, and corsages) our self!
Cutting the cake - there were 175 roses on the cake alone!

The Countdown Begins

2007-10-15T09:02:00.000-04:00

5 days from today, I will be a married woman! My heart is already over joyed to be Travis' wife! This past weekend, I met with the hair stylist (Kim) that will be doing my hair on Saturday. She put my veil on and I immediately had to hold back a few tears. I played the one song for Kim that will be performed and started crying even more. She smiled and told me I could cry all I wanted to! :) I'm going to be an absolute sobbing mess on Saturday! :)

Our engagement announcement was finally put in the paper this past Sunday. It can be viewed here. You should be able to access it for several weeks.

Sorry for the lack of posting as of late. My schedule has not been my own (as you can probably imagine) here lately. I'm really looking forward to seeing everything with the wedding come together. I've planned for 7 months for this weekend, and I'm eager for it to get here!

We are leaving Sunday for our honeymoon to St. Lucia. We will be there for a whole week, arriving back in Indiana around midnight on Saturday. I'm sure there will be lots of pictures after our return. See you all soon! :)

Prayer Request Update

2007-09-04T15:56:00.000-04:00

I wanted to give all you prayer warriors an update on my Grandpa, Charlie Fields. He returned home from the hospital on Thursday, August 30th. His kidneys levels are back to where they should be (Praise the LORD!), but his body has held on to so much fluid for the past two weeks, he is struggling to get rid of it all. I spent close to four hours with him yesterday and we had a wonderful day! Thank you Jesus for giving us that time together!

Keep praying everyone! Your prayers are heard and God is honoring them! Keep praying that God touches Granpa's body and he is restored 100%! Thank you all so much (from me and Grandpa too)!

Just Because

2007-09-04T15:26:00.000-04:00

I got a knock on the back door of my office this afternoon from a flower delivery man. I had a rough week last week, and this really brought a smile to my face this afternoon. Travis sent this beautiful bouquet of flowers to me today at work "Just Because."

Or maybe it was because he sent me flowers at work over a year ago...and I forgot. :) I definitely WILL NOT forget this time! ;)

Bridal Shower

2007-08-28T11:34:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday, several relatives on my mom's side threw me a bridal shower. Here are some of the pictures taken.

The whole spread

The picture on the cake is from our engagement photo session.

My Mom got us a duvet cover that's just beautiful!

Clockwise starting from left: Me, Connie (Travis' mom), Rossi (my future sister-in-law), Katelynn (my future niece), Sloane (my future niece). and Mia (also my future niece)

Clockwise from top left: Cousin Mickey, Aunt Sharon, 2nd Cousin Amber, Cousin Kelli (also my Maid of Honor), and me

Aunt Kim, Kelli, and I

Aunt Anne, Cousin Tara, Cousin Amy, Kelli, and I

The entire day was so incredibly special. Even on the way down to Indianapolis before the shower, I felt so thankful and grateful that my family would even throw a shower for Travis and I. The love and support for us means so much to me. If any of you are reading this, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You all mean so much to me and I am truly appreciative of all you did. Thank you!

Please Pray

2007-08-23T11:04:00.001-04:00

My dad called me around 9pm last night and said that my Grandpa Fields had been admitted into Marion General Hospital and the next 24 hrs were very critical. His kidneys are not working properly, thus, he is not able to use the restroom as he needs to. His body is holding onto all the fluid, thus making his body swell. It is also making it very difficult for him to breathe because of the weight and pressure being put on his lungs from the fluid. His blood levels are really low but they can't give him any blood because that is just adding more fluid to his body. Gramps has leukemia, so they were giving him a round of chemo last night to make the white blood cell count go down sot hey could give him blood. He has a very bad heart, too. All that said, please pray for my Grandpa - Charlie Fields - if you think about it. He is a strong Christian and one of the Godliest men I know. It would be (selfishly) devastating to see him go.

On another note, I just found out a few moments ago that one of my childhood friends, Isha, lost her father last week after a long battle with cancer. Please pray for Isha and her family as they go through this. Pray especially hard for salvation for their family. They have been through so much over the past several years and I so desparately want them to know the peace that passes all understanding.

Engagement Photos

2007-08-02T13:19:00.000-04:00

Travis and I are a whopping 11 weeks away from our wedding day. Plans continue to be made and everything seems to be coming together nicely. All the little details are so much fun! I know...I'm weird because I actually enjoy this stuff! :)

Last Sunday, we had our engagement photo session in Marion and Fairmount. The photograher has put together a slideshow of her favorite photos. What do you think? :) http://www.gardenrose.net/stewart/index.html

Megan got married!

2007-07-20T13:48:00.000-04:00

The last weekend in June, I traveled down to Lexington, KY, for Megan (Porter) Marcum's wedding. Megan gave me the opportunity to do all of her floral arrangements for the wedding. I was in a chilly basement with my iPod for 8 hours cutting, binding, taping, and hot-gluing 1 bride's bouquet, 1 groom's boutonniere, 6 bridesmaids bouquets, 15 corsages, 13 boutonnieres, 2 grandmother's flowers, and LOTS of gerbera daisies (too many to count). This gave me great practice on doing my own flowers in October (I know, I'm crazy!)!

The Bridesmaids bouquets

The boutonnieres

The corsages

Megan's Bouquet

Reception centerpieces

Here comes the bride! Megan's face was one of sheer terror when the doors were first opened for her to walk down the aisle. It was pretty horrific and funny all at the same time. I loved how her dad was talking to her to help her keep her sanity! Too cute! Congrats Andrew and Megan Marcum!

I'm ALIVE!!!

2007-06-12T09:06:00.000-04:00

HELLO BLOGGERLAND!!! I know I've taken a brief hiatus from blogging (still reading other blogs and feeilng guilty all at the same time), but I've decided to come back. No, Kristen, blogging doesn't stop after getting engaged. :) I simply haven't had the time.

Here's what's been going on lately:

Wedding plans are moving along well.
Church - check!
Reception Hall - check!
Wedding dress - check! (due in July 9th)
Church decorations - check!
Reception decorations - in process
Excitement for our wedding day - CHECK!!! :)

My "little" brother graduated from Mississinewa High School on June 2nd. I can't believe he's old enough to be going off to college in the fall. He will be going to IWU (no big surprise there) and majoring in Christian Ministries, Economics and Finance, and minoring in communications...or so he says now. :) I'm sure that will change at least one or more times!

I took a last-minute road trip out to California the week of Memorial Day. My cousin Jonathan is living out in San Diego for the summer and he needed a road buddy to make the trek with him. When I say last-minute, here's how quick it really did happen:
*Talked to him Sunday, May 27th, at 7:30 pm about going thinking there's no possible way I could do it
*Ok'd it with my boss at 8:30pm Sunday night
*Booked the one-way flight home for Thursday at 9pm
*Departed from Gas City at 10:30am Monday, May 28th
*1st day - traveled from Gas City to Oklahoma City (Jon lost his wallet in St. Louis - story here is worthy of another post)
*2nd day - traveled from Oklahoma City to Flagstaff, Arizona
*3rd day - traveled from Flagstaff up to the Grand Canyon, back to Flagstaff and then on to San Diego. Arrived in San Diego 11:30pm their time
*4th day - Arrived at the San Diego airport at 6am for my 7:30am flight. Arrived back in Indiana at 4pm

As I said, it was a QUICK trip, but definitely worth it to see the Grand Canyon! God is SO amazing!!!
Lastly, I got into a fight on Friday night. A knock-out, drag down fight...with a telephone pole. I wasn't hurt, but Dorothy (my car was). Dorothy vs. the telephone pole, and the telephone pole won. :( Completely my fault, but could have been avoided if the stupid girl parked illegally in the alley wouldn't have parked there. *Sigh* Dorothy's in the shop and it will cost a little over $1500 to fix her. At least she was still driveable! Below is the damage. :(

Good news is - no one was hurt and I'll have her back Friday!

Exciting News!!!

2007-03-27T09:11:00.000-04:00

For those who haven't heard yet, I'M ENGAGED! Travis proposed Saturday night and I said yes!

Here's how it happened:
Andrea (Ketchem) Robinson and I were having a girls day and decided to have manicures and pedicures done in Indy. We spent the afternoon there and returned back to my house shortly after 7pm. Upon our return, I opened the front door only to see approx. 100 candles lit, 80 tulips (my favorite flower) everywhere in the living room, and Travis down on one knee in front of me! I immediately began crying and he proposed. I could barely mutter out a YES! After I said yes, he said, "OK!" and stood up to hug me. Mid-embrace, I looked up and there were 6 of my closest friends standing in my living room to share the excitement with us! It was definitely a special moment!

Below are a few pictures from the event.

Travis preparing

See all the candles in my living room?!

The proposal

Jerusha came in from Ohio to be a part of the surprise!Lori just moved home from Oregon, so I was excited she was there!Cousin Kelli was there, too! :)

I said yes! :)

The ring

1-year "Anniversary"

2007-03-13T09:19:00.000-04:00

Travis and I have officially been dating for a year (as of March 10th). I can't believe how quickly the year has gone! To celebrate, he treated me to a very nice dinner at Mo's Steakhouse in downtown Indy. Here are a few pics from the evening.

Travis' face as he looked at the bill. :)

Winter in Indiana

2007-03-08T14:17:00.000-05:00

I'm sure by now every single person has either seen pictures or heard about it on the news, but Indiana got hit with a snowstorm a few weeks ago. Believe it or not, Indiana Wesleyan closed down for TWO DAYS in a row! I think that must be a first in school history. Here are a few pictures from around my house during the two days I had off.

You can't tell from the picture, but my car is to the right, and snow was all the way up to the rear bumper. I shoveled out half of the driveway and Travis finished the rest.

The house across the street

The wind was so fierce, that it knocked over the gas grill and the snow covered it all up!

Gibson was begging me to come back inside! Funny enough, the snow was taller than he was. It was quite entertaining to throw him in the snow and watch him react!

This is the back yard. You can't really tell from this picture, but the snow is half way up the chain-link fence!

And finally...New Year's Eve

2007-02-01T18:36:00.000-05:00

This year, the church decided to do a Gaither-like Homecoming concert with the people of the church. We practiced a lot, had a wonderful time, and God was glorified!

Before the performance, there is, of course, rehearsal.

The actual performance

Daddy (a.k.a. Bill Gaither) the night of the performance

Yup, that's me in the middle

Christmas morning with my family

2007-02-01T18:27:00.000-05:00

Brother opening his gifts first, since he's the youngest.

Momma
Dad, who HATES tape on gifts, so he uses a knift to open his gifts. :)

I am alive...

2007-02-01T17:48:00.000-05:00

...and here are some new pictures!!!

I haven't purposely not been blogging. I simply haven't had time. I'm waiting on my information meeting to start up in Mishawaka, Indiana, so I have a few moments. :)

Travis and I at the Fields' family Christmas (my Dad's side)

Daddy-o and me!

Kelli & I (w/ Kel's boyfriend Andy looking on)

Me & Grandpa Fields - one of the best men in the world!

Travis found a playmate in 5 year old Kinser. They went around the house looking for any cup they could find (whether or not people were finished with them!) and made different statues and pyramids with them. Kinser then took a Hot Wheels car and tried to knock them down, kind of like bowling.

Thanksgiving!

2006-11-27T15:38:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures of Thanksgiving at the Fields' house!

Me & brother (doesn't he look so handsome now that his braces are off?!) :)

Travis and I watching the Dallas Cowboys football game
Trav going back for more food

2006-11-27T15:17:00.000-05:00

Momma listening intently on what Aunt Brenda is saying...

but Aunt Brenda stops to smile for the camera!

Waiting to play the next round of Catch Phrase.

In this picture: Travis, Momma, & cousin Jonathan
Cousin Kelli!
Me & Kelli

Dad's coming back for a third round of food while re-living his hippie days.
Travis pouting after losing five times in a row at Catch Phrase!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROTHER!!!

2006-11-08T11:16:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe you're 18 today! It seems like just yesterday Mom brought you home from the hospital (all10 lbs. 14 oz. of you)! Here are some highlights of the life of Charles "Chas" Kent Fields.

You ate your own poop twice while going through the potty-training process. I forced you to wet yourself because I pinned you down and tickled you for long periods of time.
There was the time you and Ryan Wright drew a line down every one of the pews in the sanctuary at Chapel Pike with a black crayon on a Saturday night. Everyone spent the next four hours scrubbing the pews with Goo Gone to get it out. The church still smelled like citrus on Sunday morning!
There was the time you ran into a car with your face because Eric Gunyon was chasing you. Your front two teeth fell out when you were only 3 1/2.
There was the time I was in high school and you in elementary that you wanted to hang out with my friends but I didn't want you to. You got mad at me and yelled, "FINE THEN! I won't let YOU hang out with MY friends!" You didn't understand that I didn't want to socialize with 2nd graders.
Before you could really talk, you would call water "Ayye." (Similar to ice)
You had a lisp until you were 6. It stopped when your baby teeth started falling out.
You used to play "thwords (a.k.a. "swords")" and "gunths (a.k.a. "guns")"
When you were born, you had long, straight black hair. That all fell out and blonde curls came in. As you have grown up and matured (ha!), it has darkened to brown curls. That is, when you let it grow out.

You are now 18, Chas, and a sister could not be more proud of her "little" brother! You rock and I love you!

Update - Round 3

2006-10-23T12:53:00.000-04:00

Last but not least, John Paul's wedding was this past Saturday in Massillon, OH (just south of Cleveland). It was a 5 hour trek there and a 5 hour trek back, but it was a beautiful wedding! I was the guestbook attendant and Travis politely and patiently stood by my side the entire day. (Everyone together now, "Awwww!" haha!)

Here are a few pictures from the wedding.

Travis & me at the reception

Me, John Paul & Jolie Churchill

Update - Round 2

2006-10-23T12:17:00.000-04:00

Blogger won't let me post all my pictures in one post, so, one additional picture from Jon's game: me and "Big Jon!"

October 9-13th I was in Phoenix, AZ, for work. It was a pretty good week overall. I loved flying over New Mexico. I never knew it was so beautiful!

Me, eating rattlesnake?! NO WAY!!!

(You're right, I didn't. :) Just posed for the picture.)

Me & Kathy at Rustler's Roost (a.k.a. The Slide Restaurant)

A sign in the restroom at Macayos restaurant. Cracked me up!

Candace (another IWU-er) & my roommate for the week, Kathy

This will surprise no one who knows me that while eating lunch outside on Thursday, I sat in something purple-ish in color (bird poo, anyone?). This picture was taken as I was trying to get it out of my pants.

Update! Update!! Update!!!

2006-10-23T11:51:00.000-04:00

Some have asked (both inside and outside the blogging world) where I have been. Well, folks, I've been all over here lately.

To start off, the first Saturday in October, I went with my Aunt Tesa to St. Louis to surprise my cousin Jonathan at his soccer game against Maryville College. It's Jon's senior year at Greenville College, and I had yet to make it to one game. I had to make it to at least one game since it was his senior year!

Jon warming up before the game
What a game it was! The first half was a little slow and pretty uneventful. The second half, however, Jon scored the first goal by head butting the ball into the goal! Greenville came out full-force! They ended up shutting out Maryville 4-0! Apparently, last year's game was pretty rough: lots of fights and lots of hecklers from Maryville. There were about 2 dozen hecklers from Maryville this year. And it was quite amusing when the hecklers were heckling and Greenville scored! One of the Greenville players ran by the hecklers with his hands displaying the score at that time: 3-o. It shut the hecklers up very quickly!

Jon is the 2nd from the left

Heading down the right side of the field

Jon directing the other players

New Toys

2006-09-27T16:03:00.000-04:00

So, since I finished my MBA, Travis gave me my graduation present a little early. I've wanted this for awhile now, so you can believe it when I tell you I didn't think he was telling me the truth when he told me he bought me an iPod! (He bought the white one; I wanted the black one; he didn't give it to me until he exchanged it.) THANK YOU TRAVIS!!!

I didn't realize it until after he purchased the iPod, that the songs I had on my other laptop had to be the same as whatever computer I hooked up to from there on out. Which meant I would have no computer to hook up the iPod to, since I had to turn my laptop in at the end of my MBA program. So, ultimately, I bought a new laptop. This is my graduation gift to myself! :)

New toys are so much fun!

It is finished!!

2006-09-26T10:10:00.000-04:00

That's right, folks...as of last night, I have officially completed my MBA coursework! I printed off my final project/paper and turned it in last night. It ended up being 60 pages long, and I could not be more pleased (both to get it done and to have accomplished such a large project)!! I will hopefully receive my grade in the next few weeks and will officially graduate in December. It's been a long two years, but Praise GOD it's over!!! YAY!!!

Indiana Sunset

2006-09-19T12:22:00.000-04:00

These pictures were taken on my way home from work last night.

It's all the same sunset, just at differenet points throughout.

Isn't God just so creative and imaginitve?! Note: No filters were used on these images!

Stephanie got married!

2006-09-11T13:27:00.000-04:00

The bridesmaids and Stephanie

Cousin Tara and I - she's due with her first baby in November

The Armadillo Cake

Aunt Anne and me

Me & my 2nd cousin, Amber
The Bride and I

My cousin Stephanie got married on Saturday! She looked absolutely radiant! YAY!

He's so sneaky...

2006-09-05T14:49:00.000-04:00

Ok, as an addition to my last post, I was just working on something here at the office, and was using Post-It Note after Post-It Note. Half way down in the middle of the stack, Travis wrote "I Love You" for me to find. I'm not sure when he snuck this in today, but it definitely made me smile.

I'm one lucky woman!

A nice surprise

2006-09-05T14:16:00.000-04:00

I often think I have the best boyfriend ever. I had to work today (as usual), but Travis had the day off. Just before 11:00am, the receptionist out front called and said that someone by the name of "Travis" was here to see me. I could not believe my eyes! He drove up to Fort Wayne on his day off to surprise me and take me to lunch. We went to a place called Casa! Ristorante (Italian) and it was so good. The food was good, yes, but the company was even better.

________________________________________________

This is not the first time Travis has done something to surprise me. Just a few weeks ago, it was up to him to plan our date night on a Friday night. I mentioned the usual dinner and a movie, but then retracted my statement and left the planning up to him. In a sarcastic manner, I said, "Yeah, you can do whatever you want. Are you going to show up at my door on a white horse with a big bouquet of flowers?" He said he would do his best. :)

When I arrived home that evening, however, there he was asleep on my couch! No dinner. No movie. No flowers. I woke him up and he proceeded to tell me how he went to one of our favorite restaurants and was trying to order for both of us, but he couldn't remember what the dish I liked was called. Strike #1. He then went to Blockbuster and didn't know what kind of movie I wanted to watch, nor what I had/had not watched already. Strike #2. After poking fun and laughing at him for his sweet yet failed attempt, I went into the kitchen to put some dishes away. I peeked back into the living room and Travis had disappeared. I walked into the living room and started down the hallway, when out popped Travis with a HUGE bouquet of flowers! I was speechless!

I love you, baby! :)

DDR & My Dog

2006-09-01T16:22:00.000-04:00

I was doing DDR last night and I hear this clicking noise - very similar to that of fingernail clippers. I was the only one home, so I started to think I was going crazy. It was SO loud!

I turned around to find Gibson sitting on the ottoman right behind me chewing on his fingernails! I've never seen a dog do this before! How crazy is that?!

Watching my feet as I'm doing DDR. He's mesmerized by how fast my feet can move. :)

He's such a big baby. Here he is rolling over for me to rub his belly.

New Cell Phone

2006-08-30T10:38:00.000-04:00

This is my new cell phone. The LG Chocolate phone is totally sweet (pun intended).

Dave Pics - Round Two

2006-08-23T13:42:00.000-04:00

Travis and I waiting on my "other" boyfriend. :)

He's coming over to see us!!!

Can you see Dave looking directly into MY eyes?!?! I was on cloud #9!

My Dream Came True!

2006-08-22T12:36:00.000-04:00

I know you’re all sitting on the edge of your seat wondering how my meeting with Dave went. Here it is in a nutshell: he came over to us (there were only 15) after he introduced the opening act. We stood in a U shape backstage, with Travis and I in the center. I did tear up when Dave came over to talk to us. The only words I could spit out were, “I’m so sorry I’m crying. I’ve just waited 12 years for this!” Dave was so very kind – he hugged and held me as tears were rolling down my face. He replied with, “It’s ok. I understand – not necessarily for me, but it’s a good thing to have that much joy!” I gave him several gifts specifically from Indiana (a couple books, a postcard of James Dean’s grave). I was barely able to hand him the items my hands were shaking so much. After he went around and talked with everyone, we took a group picture for the fan club website (Dave stood next to me!). He waved at the group, winked at me, and was whisked away to go warm up for the show. He mingled with us for around 35 minutes total. It was great!

In the pictures, you can see Dave looking directly at me, not paying much attention to Travis. I'm having difficulty uploading them right now, but as soon as I can, I will.

It was definitely a memorable night. Thank you for sharing it with me!

Exciting News!!!

2006-08-15T15:53:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! I just wanted to share some good news with you all! (No, I'm not engaged!)

I received a phone call last night from the Dave Matthews Band fan club (of which I am a 7 year member) and they told me that I've been selected to meet Dave himself tomorrow night before the Nashville concert! Can you believe it?! I FINALLY get to meet Dave!!! They allow us to take in 2 items each for him to sign and I can also take in a disposable camera. You bet I'll be taking all of that in! Haha!

I'm sure you all are jumping for joy (kidding) as I was last night. Ok, I admit it - I teared up a little out of excitement. :) I'm a big goober, what can I say?

I'M EXCITED!!! Pictures will follow!!!

Tip on Clipping Coupons

2006-08-11T12:09:00.000-04:00

I've been trying to save up more money than I normally do here lately. Ever since graduating college I've been clipping coupons to save a little extra cash. I think I've gone overboard, though

On average, I probably saved $6-$8 in coupons everytime I went to Wal-Mart to pick up supplies, groceries, etc. Last weekend, I decided I was going to stretch my money even a little further, and I went to Family Dollar (FD) instead of Wal-Mart (somewhat for my sanity, too). FD is only 3 blocks from my house, so I'm spending less money on gas too! Let me just tell you, FD is wonderful! I saved not only $8 with the coupons I had, but the prices on items such as laundry detergent and cleaning products are SO much cheaper than Wal-Mart. Most items at FD were $3 where at Wal-Mart they were $2.97, but that extra 3 cents is worth my sanity and gas money.

I have officially become the woman who uses coupons at the dollar store, and I'm not ashamed of it any longer! :)

Rainbow

2006-08-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

Last week I was driving home from work down I-69, and it was raining yet sunny outside. I began looking around to see if there were any rainbows, and sure enough, there was a gigantic one on the east side of 69. I pulled onto the shoulder of the road to take the first picture - I could see the entire arch! After I pulled of at highway 18, I started driving west to hit 400 East, and I looked in my rearview hoping to still see it, but it was no where in sight. Once I turned south on 400 East, I looked over, and it just couldn't fit in my mirror! The rainbow had actually gotten bigger, bolder and more beautiful! Isn't God amazing and so creative?

Becky's Baby Shower

2006-08-09T09:41:00.000-04:00

July was swarmed with showers: two bridal showers for Andrea, and one baby shower for my dear friend Becky, who is expected to have her baby boy (David Andrew) any day now!

Here are some photos from her baby shower.

Becky dancing to Right Said Fred's song, "I'm Too Sexy." She was put up to this by her sisters, Sherry and Carrie. Hilarious! :)

Carrie Beth (Becky's sister) and me

Opening the gift basket from me and my mom

Bec and me

Andrea's Bridal Shower

2006-08-09T09:11:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, I threw Andrea a bridal shower at the house for some of her co-workers (my former co-workers). There were only a few that were able to make it, but we had a great time of sharing stories, laughing, and honoring Andrea.

Her wedding is August 26th, a mere 17 days away! Yippee!!

Andrea opening gifts

Miss A giving us the details about her upcoming nuptials

Karen Clark, Tenley Horner, Andrea, Rachel Lewis, and Lois Hand

Tonight. Tonight.

2006-08-01T08:28:00.000-04:00

This is a picture of the CDs I won from the Warehouse! They came yesterday!

Tonight is the DMB show in Cincinnati, Ohio. Jerusha and I are going down to the show together for the first time in two and a half years. I can't wait!

I WON! I WON!! I WON!!!

2006-07-24T14:59:00.000-04:00

I got a call on my cell phone last Friday afternoon as I was out getting refueled with a Starbuck's Frappuccino. (I love having one three blocks from work!) I almost didn't pick up the call, but I surrendered to the gods of caller ID and answered.

"Hello?" I said.
"Hi, is this Kristi?" replied the female voice.
I responded very questionably, "Yes."
"Hi Kristi! This is Maria from the DMB Warehouse." (DMB Warehouse = Dave Matthews Band fanclub of which I have been a loyal member since March of 1999.)
"Oh! Hello!"
"I'm calling to let you know that you've been selected as one of the monthly click-in contest winners for the month of June. You have your choice of three prizes:..."
"Sweet!"

So, I chose my prize (a volume 5 CD of the Live Trax series which is the only one I don't have) thanked her, and told her she made my day!

I can now officially say, "I won something!"

New job for me...and I've already made a fool of myself

2006-07-17T16:59:00.000-04:00

I started a new job last week, Monday, July 10th, for the Institute of Professional Development (IPD). For those of you that don't know, I am still recruiting students for IWU. I am now representing the business programs instead of nursing. My new OFFICE (yes, I'm out of cubicle land) is based out of Fort Wayne. For now, I'm commuting every day to Fort Wayne from Gas City. It's not a bad drive: 40 minutes from my house. I set up my office today. I'll post pictures of that soon.

Today marks my 6th day of employment here in Fort Wayne. I was trying to email an assignment into one of my facilitators this afternoon. His name is Boyd Johnson. I pulled up a new email from my IPD Microsoft Outlook email, attached my file, and sent. The response I received was one I wasn't expecting.

It read, "Kristi, the proposal looks good. I only have one question; why are you sending it to me?" Upon getting this email mesage reply, I was somewhat confused. So I pulled up the Global Email Address List and clicked on his name. The informataion on the gentleman named Boyd Johnson was not working with IWU. He was based out of Phoenix, AZ, and worked for the University of Phoenix, Online. I felt like such an idiot. This makes at least three times I've done something stupid during my Master's work.

Guess I'm just going to be a big goober forever! :)

What have I been up to?

2006-06-22T10:49:00.000-04:00

Random things...

First, I was on vacation a few weeks ago and I went to three, yes THREE, Dave Matthews Band concerts. I only have pictures from two of the three, however. They are posted below. Take a look at Kerri's blog (in the right margin) to see more pictures. We had a blast!

Kerri Burton & Me

Me & Megan Porter

DMB!! Night #1 at Deer Creek.

DMB!!! Night #2 in Indy.

DMB!!! Night #2 in Indy.

Second, I hung out with some friends on Friday night in Indy. Here are a few pictures from that evening.

Megan & Me

Me & Trav

From left: Jane, Shelli, Megan, Ryan, Heather, Me, Travis

Good times had for all!

Miss Iowa 2006

2006-06-13T15:37:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, my cousin, Jonathan, and I went to Iowa to see the Miss Iowa Pageant. Jon is dating Emily Nicholas, who won Miss Iowa 2006! Below are some pictures of Emily, Jon, and the fun we had! Watch for her during the Miss America Pageant this Spring from Las Vegas!

Emily singing her heart out during the talent competition!

Down to the final two...

Getting her crown...

Emily's excited she won!

Emily and Jonathan

This is Emily's family. Her sister, Carolyn, is on the left. She won Miss Iowa in 2004. Next to Carolyn is brother Greg, Emily, Dad Greg, and Mom Julie. The whole family is wonderful!

Classic Moment

2006-05-25T19:02:00.000-04:00

I've been watching American Idol this season, pretty much every week. As I'm sure everyone knows by now, Taylor Hicks was crowned the winner for season 5 last night. For those who didn't see it, during the 2-hour finale, they presented various "awards" to those who auditioned, but did not make the cut.

The best moment was when a guy (who resembled Clay Aiken) was awarded the title of the Best Impersonator. Ryan Secrest then asked him to sing a song, which he gratefully accepted. During his performance, the real Clay Aiken showed up and surprised the winner and the audience.

THIS, my friends, was the funniest moment for me all night long. The guy's reaction happens in seconds 27 and 28. CRACKS ME UP!!! I love it how they he kept on singing even after they turned off his microphone.

Enjoy! :)

Snippets

2006-05-16T09:20:00.000-04:00

Things have been busy here for me lately (I'll give a full update later).

First, it was a beautiful spring day here in Indiana a few days ago so I decided to open the windows throughout the house to let the crisp air flow in. I was hanging up some clothes in my bedroom when I heard little chirping sounds from outside. I pushed back the curtain to look in the back yard, but did not see any birds. So I went into the back yard to locate the chirping. My search led me to the natural gas grill that came with the house, but has never been used. In the three years I've lived there, I've seen beehives and a bird's nest that covered the entire bottom rack of the grill, but never actual BIRDS in the nest!

Second, Team Impact (formerly the Power Team) visited my church, Sunnycrest Baptist, this past week from May 10-14th. These guys are amazing! They have the physical strength to perform some amazing fetes, but more important is their passion for Christ and their desire to spread the gospel! Praise God!

Blowing up a hot water bag until it burst

Breaking baseball bats over his leg

Raising a 330 lb. flaming log over his head

Looks like the sanctuary is on fire!

Break the fiery bricks!

Third, Travis got baptized on Sunday! He was SO nervous, but was incredibly excited when he came out of that water! I stood on the side with tears streaming down my face I was so happy for him!

Finally, TWO WEEKS from today, my friends, starts the Dave Matthews Band 2006 summer tour. And guess who will be at their opening show?! ME!!! TWO WEEKS from today, my summer begins! YAY!!!

Chas goes to Prom!

2006-05-02T11:47:00.000-04:00

Chas was asked by Rebecca to escort her to the Lakeview Christian School Banquet (that's what they call prom). Don't they look wonderful?!

Chicago, IL

2006-04-25T14:14:00.000-04:00

Two friends and I went to Chicago for the weekend. Below are some pictures from the weekend's festivities.

This is me as we're picking up Missy in Lafayette on our way to Chi-town.

Andrea, Missy and I went to Ikea. Andrea and I found these nifty horses and felt compelled to ride them like cowgirls.

Missy, me and Andrea on the train into downtown to go shopping on Michigan Avenue.
Note: The doll that Andrea is holding is in honor of a friend of her and Missy's from college who couldn't be there that weekend. Andrea bought a doll that resembles their friend, Karissa, and took pictures of their "friend"all over the city.

Tulips are my favorite flower, so I had to have my picture with these gorgeous ones downtown!

We walked past a fire station and the firemen were so nice to us. Look! They even let me wear their hat (which is REALLY heavy, by the way)!

Would you want this job? These are two people cleaning windows on at least the 20th floor of the building.

There was a boat going along the river and they had to raise the bridge.

Looking up at some random building. I love the architecture of this city!

Andrea and me at Giordano's for some deep-dish pizza. It was SO good!

Me, Missy and Andrea on the train heading back downtown Saturday night.

This is Willowcreek Community Church in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. This sanctuary cost $73 million!

The sanctuary again. It can hold up to 7,095 people!

Easter Sunday

2006-04-18T11:52:00.000-04:00

It had been years since we had taken a family photo, so here are two at the request of my mother. :)

Do you see that my 17 year old brother is taller than my Dad now? Chas is 6'4"!

At the Cross

2006-04-18T09:15:00.000-04:00

Sunnycrest Baptist Church's Easter Production, At the Cross, was last weekend. God did some amazing things and more than 30 people came to know Christ over the course of three productions. These pictures are of just a few scenes in the production during a rehearsal.

This is the mob scene during Jesus' trial before Pilate.

My brother, playing a thief, gets taken to the cross.

Even though Chas, my younger brother, was just playing a thief in the production, I cannot tell you how weird it was to see him on that cross. It just made me realize more than ever that it could have been me on that cross. It should have been me.

This was taken during rehearsal. It's of the crucifixion scene.

Andrea and me in our costumes.

Travis and I after it's all said and done. Doesn't he look mean? Grrrr. :)

God's Divine Timing

2006-04-11T08:49:00.000-04:00

It's amazing how God's timing is so divine. Just three short months ago some friends and I were discussing over lunch the upcoming Easter production at our church. Nick, Jason, Andrea, Travis and I were discussing how excited we were that At the Cross was coming up.

This past Thursday night was dress rehearsal. At 3:11pm that afternoon, I received a phone call from my boyfriend, Travis, telling me his dad had lost the short but difficult battle with cancer. I was stunned. Motionless. Travis said he didn't know where he was going or what he was going to do. I was worried.

I had to be at dress rehearsal by 6:30. I informed the director that Travis might not be there because of his father's passing. Much to my surprise, he showed up just as rehearsal began! When I asked him later why he showed up, he said, "Because I didn't know where else to go. I got in my car and started driving and ended up here."

All weekend long we've had At the Cross performances. This could not have been better timing because it actually gave Travis something to occupy his time with instead of waiting for the funeral activities to arrive yesterday and today. His fellow Roman soldiers rallied around Travis, offering him comfort, friendship, and lifting him up in prayer.

Travis and I are thankful for friendships that were formed because of this production. We are thankful for a God who understands our pain and sorrow, but can fill us up with strength and the ability to get through difficult circumstances. We are thankful for the life of his earthly father who was quite the character! We are thankful for our church who has reached out to Travis in his time of need. We are thankful! Praise God! We are thankful!
---------------------------------------------------------------------
The man in the picture above is Ron Stewart Sr., age 58, who passed away last Thursday, April 6th, at around 3pm. He was battling cancer. The viewing was yesterday and the funeral is today.

Please pray for Travis as he deals with the loss of his dad who was his best friend. Travis is doing better than I expected, but is still very shaken.

Please pray for his unsaved family members that they might come to know Christ through this situation.

Please pray for the officiant of the service today that God gives him the right words so the Holy Spirit can prompt those who need Him.

Please pray for the upcoming weeks/months that will be difficult to bear because Travis will not be able to go mushroom hunting and fishing with his dad any longer.

Thank you so much for your prayers!

Dad's Outpatient Surgery

2006-03-28T15:24:00.000-05:00

My Dad has minor outpatient surgery yesterday, but boy did he sure look funny with all the gear on! He is home today and is sore, but will be just fine. Love you, Doog!

Here's Dad getting prepped by one of the nurses before being taken back.

My dad is catching up on the lastest Jessica Simpson news while in the recovery room.

Friday Night Live Kidz Blast!

2006-03-28T15:08:00.000-05:00

This past Friday night, my home church, Sunnycrest Baptist, hosted an all-nighter for kids in grades K - 5. I helped out and had a great time doing it! Here are a few pictures of the night's events. There were over 200 children there Friday night: 18 accepted Christ for the first time and 2 made re-commitments! Praise God!
This is one of the girls from my former Upward Cheerleading Squad. Sara was my favorite (even though we're not supposed to have favorites)! Here she is stuffing Oreo cookies in her mouth during the Oreo Challenge!

You can just see the excitement on this kid's face when the pizza got there!
The church rented out 3 air games: Spiderman Jump House, an obstacle course, and a huge slide!The girl in the green shirt on the right is my 2nd cousin Abby. Isn't she just adorable?!
Down the big slide in action!

Gaither Homecoming Concert

2006-03-24T13:06:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, Andrea, my mom, Travis and I went to the Gaither Homecoming concert at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Travis bought all of our tickets and dinner. Thank you, Travis, so much for making the afternoon and evening such an enjoyable one!

Andrea & my mom during dinner at the Claddagh Irish Pub restaurant.
Travis & me during dinner at the Claddagh Irish Pub restaurant.
As we were walking out of our section during the intermission of the concert, we looked up to see this advertisement for Indiana Wesleyan (where we both graduated from and work for now). IWU is a sponsor of Conseco Fieldhouse and the Indiana Pacers!

Us during intermission.

Everything sounds better in Latin

2006-03-23T12:21:00.000-05:00

Braccae tuae aperiuntur.
Credo Elvem ipsum etian vivere.
Te audire no possum. Musa sapientum fixa est in aure.
Feles mala! Cur cista non uteris? Stramentum novum in ea posui.
Capillamentum? Haudquaquam conieci esse!
In dentibus anticis frustum magnum spiniciae habes.
Cornu sono!
Osculare pultem meam!
Hostes alienigeni me abduxerunt. Qui annus est?
Noli me vocare, ego te vocabo.

What do these mean?

Your fly is open.
I think that Elvis is still alive.
I can't hear you. I have a banana in my ear.
Bad kitty! Why don't you use the cat box? I put new litter in it.
A wig? I never would have guessed!
You have a big piece of spinach on your front teeth.
Beep-beep!
Kiss my grits!
I was kidnapped by aliens. What year is it?
Don't call me, I'll call you.

Look up other fun phrases here.

Gibson gets a bath

2006-03-14T15:07:00.000-05:00

Gibson had a big day yesterday! He went to the vet and got his yearly shots and blood drawn. Poor little guy then went home and rolled around in the back yard, getting all muddy. He looks so fresh and so clean, clean!

Dave Matthews Band...of course!

2006-03-03T10:48:00.000-05:00

The summer 2006 tour schedule just came out for my favorite band, The Dave Matthews Band. This summer, I will embark on at least 3 (if not 4 or 5) of their concerts. I've already been to 28 in my lifetime so far.

Robert Randolph and the Family Band are guest stars in this particular clip. Watching this takes me back to Monday, June 13th, 2005 when Andrea and I had 13th row seats at Verizon Wireless Music Center (a.k.a. Deer Creek). Robert Randolph came out and did this number with the band. It rocked the house!

Looking forward to a summer of good music, good friends, and good fun!

Can you say, "Keith Urban?!"

2006-02-14T09:03:00.000-05:00

The pictures below are from the Keith Urban concert Sunday night at Ball State's Worthen Arena. It was SO much fun! Thank you, Carrie Beth, for asking me to go! :)

Carrie Trimble & Me waiting on Keith! Yeehaw!

Pat Green was the opening band.

Keith takes the stage!

He was playing just to us! Haha!

Keith swinging over the crowd going from the main stage to a smaller stage in the middle of the crowd.

Keith at the smaller stage in the middle of the floor and crowd!

Dinner with Andrea and Megan

2006-02-14T08:58:00.000-05:00

Saturday night, I was graced with the presence of two very good friends. We ate at Buca de Beppo in Indy, laughed, and talked for two and a half hours. Here are two pictures from the evening.

Megan & Me

Andrea's getting married! :)

DJ's 22nd Birthday

2006-02-13T12:27:00.000-05:00

The cake

DJ and the cake

DJ blowing on the cake

Me and DJ!

Superbowl Party 2006!

2006-02-07T15:04:00.000-05:00

Chad and Michelle are watching the game!

Andrea, Nick, and Jason are all smiles 'cause the Steelers are winning!

Me & Travis: He swears he is smiling in this picture. :)

The story behind this picture: on New Year's Eve, Chad and I were posing for a picture that I was going to take of the two of us. You know the routine: stick the camera out at arm's length and hope you get the shot you wanted. As we were posing, he put his arm around me and accidentally brushed up against my upper body "girl parts" and was utterly embarrassed. His face turned BRIGHT RED! This is our re-enactment of Chad's wandering hand!

For those that weren't interested in the football game (Jennifer, Emily, Rhonda, and Chad), board games were keeping everyone occupied in the other room.

Hair Color

2006-02-01T09:39:00.000-05:00

My roots were starting to show a little from the last hair coloring job I did about two months ago. Andrea so graciously colored my hair for me last night. Here are some of the pictures from the escapade, as well as the final result.

Andrea's glove had a hole in the thumb, so she had to improvise and tie a knot in the end. It worked for her thumb, but her index finger went through the top of the glove and is all brown now. Thanks A! :)

The NEW color! :)

Puzzle

2006-02-01T09:31:00.000-05:00

I had a lot of spare time on my hands last week, so I bought a 500 piece puzzle. Lots of hours spent on this!

Me and...Oprah?

2006-01-23T12:13:00.000-05:00

<--I took this picture from the 13th row this past summer. (June 13th, 2oo5)

Many of you know that I am a die-hard Dave Matthews Band fan. Ever since I watched the video to the song "What Would You Say" back in 1994, I have been hooked. I can pinpoint the feeling I got when seeing the video for the first time, and how obessed, er, loyal, I have been since that moment. Eleven years and twenty-eight concerts later, I may finally have my chance to meet Mr. Dave Matthews himself.

I often browse the Oprah Winfrey show website just to see what Oprah's working on for her show. As I was browsing last week, there was a show topic idea that is titled, "Do you want to meet a hot celebrity?" I immediately thought of Dave. Over the years, I have met 3 of the 5 band members, but none of those 3 have been Dave. So, I'm going to work on a 10-minute video to try to get on Oprah! How cool would that be to meet Dave on Oprah?!

Yes, Miss Christin, I think I will tell him about the time you wanted to do something "crazy" at the DMB show you went to. Should I tell him you took off your shirt, then ran around the parking lot doing Chinese firedrills, only to have our car overheat and my parents come pick us up? I will never forget you repeating, "God is punishing us! God is punishing us!" Good times for all.

Short and sweet

2006-01-11T11:18:00.000-05:00

During the children's program at church the Sunday before Christmas, the pre-schoolers class presented their Christmas program.

One of the children's workers asked the kids at one point, "Are you excited about receiving gifts on Christmas morning?" The children on stage gave the worker a blank stare.

However, one child, who was listening intently, shouted from the congregation, "Yes!" Nothing else in the program really compared, unless it was the little girl in the front row dancing around with a blanket on her head. :)

Kids are SO funny!
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"Dear Lord," the preacher began with arms extended and a rapturous look on his upturned face, "without you we are but dust..."

He would have continued, but at that moment one very obedient little girl (who was listening carefully) leaned over to her mother and asked quite audibly in her shrill little girl voice, "Mommy, WHAT is butt dust?"

Church was pretty much over at that point...

Pictures of the House!

2005-12-06T15:29:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures of my Christmas tree and the front of the house all decorated for Christmas! I LOVE CHRISTMAS!! :)

The room lit with just the tree lights on.

The front of the house:

And the tree again:

Christmas Decorating Extravaganza

2005-12-01T09:30:00.000-05:00

IT'S SNOWING OUTSIDE!!! And it's sticking! Although this isn't the first snow of the season, it's the first one of December, making it feel more like Christmas. How exciting!

To kick off the season (which is usually the day after Thanksgiving), I put up all of the Christmas decorations around the house. This year was no exception. Ok, well there was one exception. The icicle lights are up on the front of the house, the garland with lights around the front porch posts (new this year), and the Christmas tree, of course. The way my living room is set up, the Christmas tree is not directly in front of the living room window - it's off to the side just a smidge. I get the bright idea around 10:30 Saturday night to move the end table over so the tree would be in centered front of the window. Upon attempting this simple fete, the tree tipped over, ornaments went flying, the star on top broke, and the tree stand cracked, leaving the tree unable to stand on its own. Not good I tell you. Not good.

I did not shed a tear, however! I burst into laughter. Andrea (my roommate) and I quickly took off all the ornaments and lights and gently placed them into a large pile on the living room floor. Another friend asked if Wal-Mart sold replacement artificial tree stands, and I didn't think they did. But guess what - THEY DO! I purchased the new stand Tuesday night and put the tree itself back up that evening and even put the lights on. Tonight's goal is to put the ornaments and decorations back on. Pictures to follow soon!

Yesterday...

2005-11-17T11:08:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was pretty uneventful for me. Nothing too exciting. (I did turn 26, however! ;) ) But there were a few small things throughout the day that struck me as funny.

#1) It snowed here yesterday! Not a lot, and not enough to stick or anything, but flurries throughout the day. This morning, there was a light dusting over everything. That is a first - snow on my birthday! :)

#2) A man called in to inquire about the nursing program I represent. The gentleman said that is life plans had not come to "fruitation." Fruitation? Oh! He meant fruition. Made me laugh.

#3) Missing trashcan? My trashcan is missing. Gone - completely. Gas City had a severe wind/thunderstorm come through the area on Tuesday night and carried over all day Wednesday. I put the trash out before heading into work on Wednesday morning for the trash man to pick up. When I came home for lunch, the trash recepticle was completely gone. Not just blown into a neighbor's yard or down the street, but gone - entirely. Strange, don't you think?

#4) I read on Josh Garlow's blog the other day a list called, "There Ain't Nothing Like..." I've decided to come up with my own. Will post it soon.

#5) Not so much funny, but informative. Gibson bit me yesterday! HE BIT ME! Broke the skin in two spots on my finger. It hurt just a little, but regardless, this is one habit that will be broken. Period.

What a day! What a day!

2005-11-11T14:37:00.000-05:00

I was out traveling for the university on Wednesday, November 9th, up in the Chicago-area. Upon my arrival to the last hospital I was to visit, the school car got a flat tire. It did not just spring a little leak; it was completely deflated. I immediately called Keith, head of transportation back in Marion, for assistance. The phone conversation went as follows:

"Hello, Keith Roorbach," he answered.
"Hi Keith! This is Kristi Fields."
"What's wrong with the car?" he asked.
"How did you know that something was wrong with the car?" I said.
"You never call just to say hello! Something must be wrong with the car!"

God was really watching out for me because he didn't let the tire go flat to where the car was no longer drive-able until I reached the hospital. Because of this, I was able to give Keith the exact street address of where I was located (praise God!). He tried looking up the nearest service stations to where I was and called me back. He told me there was good news and bad news. Good news was that there were 10 service stations within one mile of where I was; the bad news was that half of those numbers didn't work and the other half didn't speak english. *sigh*

Luckily, one of the ladies at the front desk spoke spanish fluently and was able to give the serviceman exact instructions on how to get to the hospital. The nice men put the spare on for me while I stayed in the car. Gibson (my dog) didn't necessarily care for the men jacking up the car while we were in it, but that's ok. We made it to the repair shop for them to replace the tire - no problem. The problem came when I went to pay for it. I handed them my credit card (they're for emergencies, and this was an emergency), and he said, "No, no, no, no. No machine (makes motion like the swiping of the credit card)." The bill came to $90, and I had $73 in cash. I handed him $70 and requested to go get the rest from a nearby ATM. Thank God they let me go!

I made it to my information meeting at 5:55pm; it started at 6pm. Again, thank you Lord for giving me green lights and no traffic! After the meeting was over, I was finally able to get dinner. I drove across the highway to Benigan's for take-out. To order take-out, you have to order it from the bar, so I was sitting there waiting on my food, and this odd man walks up next to me and begins talking to me. Normally, I would be up for talking to anyone, but this man was somewhat odd. I could barely understand a word he was saying.

The conversation went from, "Hi, I'm Tom," to, "My dad was really tall and because he was really tall he's a really good basketball player. And because he was a really good basketball player and because he was so tall, that got him out of going to the Korean War." Tom then proceeded to tell me that his dad has a twin brother named Pete, who was also tall and very good at basketball, all the while, making this half-laugh-half-snort sound. He told me that his last name was Slavic, just before whipping out his Texas driver's license. I sat there staring blankly at the license before sputtering, "Um, I don't get it." Tom then told me, "See, you could go to this state and you'd fit right in with your accent." (I evidently have a southern accent, at least according to Tom.) My food finally came and not a moment too soon. The bartender asked if I needed change, and I told him no. I looked back at Tom with his lost puppy dog expression and said, "Whelp, bye!"

You may think I'm making this up, but seriously - could I really make all that up? I'm a creative storyteller, but not that creative! ;)

Josh Kelley and Jem

2005-11-08T10:49:00.000-05:00

Last week, Andrea and I went to a concert in Indianapolis at the Music Mill, a small venue around Castleton. The musician we were there to see was a girl named Jem (yes, like the 90's cartoon). The opening act was a guy named Josh Kelley, who, in August of 2003, opened up for Dave Matthews Band in Portland, OR (I was there). Anyway, Andrea and I were talking to a photographer before the show. We asked if she was with the band, the venue, or a publication. She was, indeed, with the Music Mill and said she took pictures for many of the shows there.

Jump forward to the Josh Kelley set: Andrea and I were in the very front row. At one point during the concert, I was singing along at the top of my lungs and Josh noticed. Next thing I know, he pointed down at me, I pointed up at him, and he put the microphone in my face for me to sing! It was definitely a neat moment. Andrea sent me an email yesterday with the picture below. Evidently, during the intermission, the photographer told Andrea that she got a great shot of me singing! Andrea asked for her business card, and the photographer emailed her this picture!

It may not mean anything to anyone else, but I thought it was pretty cool! :)

Happy Birthday, little brother!

2005-11-08T10:44:00.000-05:00

Chas is officially 17 years old today! I'm so proud of you, Chas! Your sister loves you! :)

Me and Chas waiting to go horseback riding in Brown County on Friday, October 28th.

A funny thing happened this morning...

2005-11-08T09:09:00.000-05:00

I walked into my office around 8:15am. Upon my arrival, about 3 of my co-workers started yelling, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY KRISTI!!" I stood there a moment, not quite sure what to say. Today is not my birthday. It's not until next week (November 16th, in case you were wondering.) I debated whether to correct them or to just let it go. I thanked them for their warm wishes, but revealed my birthday was indeed not until next week. Turns out my boss had sent out an email telling everyone it was my birthday! After I denied that it was my birthday, no one believed me! Maybe this isn't a bad thing. When it comes to the 16th, maybe no one will notice!

I met Bono!!!

2005-10-07T16:15:00.000-05:00

For those of you who are U2 fans, you'll be happy to know that I finally made it to my very first U2 concert. It was back on September 20th (sorry for the delay) up in Chicago. I went with two very good friends (Jerod Asher and Andrea Ketchem). Andrea had searched online to see when the band usually arrived at the United Center so we could get some photos and maybe some autographs, if we were so lucky. The good news is - WE WERE! Below are a few photos of Bono and The Edge being 6 inches in front of me. (SIX INCHES!!) You won't be surprised to hear that the concert was fantastic and I would most definitely go again. (No, they have not taken the place of Dave Matthews Band in my heart. I'm still very loyal.)

Coffee, anyone?

2005-10-07T15:52:00.000-05:00

I did an incredibly stupid thing this morning. I was at work and had just poured myself a nice cup of piping hot coffee, complete with Nutrasweet and Vanilla Caramel creamer. The perfect morning beverage for a crisp, fall morning in Indiana. I decided to go say good morning to my friend Kerri over in the other building; so off I went. A little bit of coffee splashed on my hand as I attempted to walk very carefully with the stirring spoon still in the mug and the hot liquid almost up to the brim. But I made it, with very little spillage. (You like that word - spillage? haha!) I turned the corner to head up the stairs to Kerri's office, when BAM! I completely missed the first step of the staircase and tumbled forward, coffee mug still in hand. I did not drop the mug at any given point during my fall forward, however, coffee went everywhere. All over the sleeve of my red turtleneck sweater, the stairs, and the nice new carpeting of the AGS Administration Building. Good one, Kristi! Good one! I rushed to the ladies' room to get some paper towel and frantically began cleaning up the spill. As I was doing this, the maintenance staff in charge of the building came up from behind me and simply asked, "What did you do?!" I apologized several times over and he just laughed. I have smelled like vanilla caramel coffee all day long, thus, inspiring this post. Laugh a lot - because I sure did! :)

From the cruise...

2005-09-28T12:14:00.000-05:00

More pictures can be seen at: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/lynn1898/my_photos

First things first

2005-09-28T12:05:00.000-05:00

Hello all! This is the first post of my little spot on the web.

Quick update on my life: single but dating, working for Indiana Wesleyan University (The WU) full time as a student recruiter for an APS program, attending classes full-time at The WU to obtain my MBA, and living in the thriving metropolis of Gas City, IN. Yes, Gas City. I bought a house two years ago and thoroughly enjoy decorating and entertaining. I have a dog - fox terrier - named Gibson. He's a cutie and I love him to death.

I'll be adding posts and pictures soon. Hope all is well with you!