Thursday, April 29, 2010
44 days...
This weekend, I have two bridal showers. One Saturday morning, and one Sunday afternoon. Then I have to finish my 30 page paper and study for a monster of a final on Thursday that will surely leave me ridiculously exhausted. Then I have Andrea & fellow Kern's graduation and a Kern retreat which will have me in California until Tuesday night. Then Matt & I leave for a Michigan shower on Friday morning. Then I come home on Sunday and have just shy of three weeks to do countless amounts of wedding details that have surely fallen between the cracks. We still need to decorate hundreds of Mason jars, make a chuppah, meet with our florist, meet with Steve for more pre-marital counseling, take the 'Prepare-Enrich' test my dad likes to give couples he marries, make our wedding booklet, select our meal for the reception, make a hair appointment, move everything from Matt's apartment in to my parent's house and then move everything from my parent's house to our home, June 4th. Then people start coming in town for the wedding. Then I become a wife.
Mr. & Mrs. Moody
Remember this post?
Well, I am proud to say, I finally was nice on an airplane.
Last night, I boarded my first flight for the entire semester. Much needed. Almost too easy.
No one in the security check point (although those suckers did take my Nivea face lotion...maybe it looked like it might be some sort of lotion bomb).
Walked to my gate, which was conveniently located in the very first wing of the closest terminal. (this never happens...my family has a joke that the airlines play practical jokes on us because no matter what, where, or when we fly we are absolutely always in the very last gate...sometimes they even have to shuttle us outside because our plane is that one on the end of the tarmac with the wheel up stairs...ridiculous)
And got on my plane.
I noticed there were a lot more people on my flight than usual. I wouldn't have my very own row like I am accustom to. As the people kept flooding on the plane, a young man commented on my Azusa Pacific University t-shirt I seem to always sport when I fly. I honestly never consciously think about this, but I always end up wearing one of my t-shirts or sweatshirts and 9 times out of 10 someone comments on it.
Well, the young man ended up sitting right next to me. He sat down and we began random conversation. however, we never got each other's names...i kinda like it like that...
It turned up that he was going to visit his best friend, who coaches track & field at APU. It also turned out that he got his undergrad at Moody Bible Institute (where my parents went and pledge their entire allegiance to) in Youth Ministry (what my undergrad is in).
The rather moody stewardess took our drink orders and returned a bit later with one drink, which she put down in front of me. Mr. Moody ordered apple juice. I ordered ginger ale.
It looked close enough to my drink color, so I took my first sip.
Not Ginger ale. Definitely Apple juice.
I tell Mr. Moody about this possible mix up and wait until he is served my ginger ale to inform him. Not knowing what to do, I think about calling Mrs. Moody over and requesting a new AJ. With out even thinking, he simply switches our drinks.
For the duration of the flight, we find out that we lived in a lot of the same cities and he is just such a great guy. I really, honestly felt like we could have been great, great friends had we gotten to spend more time together.
Anyways, this also got me thinking of how much I just absolutely love being a part of the family of God. I got to have this phenomenal conversation with this complete stranger because of our common passion for Jesus. I felt like I had known him forever. I was so encouraged by his faith and I just thoroughly enjoyed my random conversation with a nameless guy.
I guess I can be nice on airplanes...and the best part? I never got conversation claustrophobia.
Well, I am proud to say, I finally was nice on an airplane.
Last night, I boarded my first flight for the entire semester. Much needed. Almost too easy.
No one in the security check point (although those suckers did take my Nivea face lotion...maybe it looked like it might be some sort of lotion bomb).
Walked to my gate, which was conveniently located in the very first wing of the closest terminal. (this never happens...my family has a joke that the airlines play practical jokes on us because no matter what, where, or when we fly we are absolutely always in the very last gate...sometimes they even have to shuttle us outside because our plane is that one on the end of the tarmac with the wheel up stairs...ridiculous)
And got on my plane.
I noticed there were a lot more people on my flight than usual. I wouldn't have my very own row like I am accustom to. As the people kept flooding on the plane, a young man commented on my Azusa Pacific University t-shirt I seem to always sport when I fly. I honestly never consciously think about this, but I always end up wearing one of my t-shirts or sweatshirts and 9 times out of 10 someone comments on it.
Well, the young man ended up sitting right next to me. He sat down and we began random conversation. however, we never got each other's names...i kinda like it like that...
It turned up that he was going to visit his best friend, who coaches track & field at APU. It also turned out that he got his undergrad at Moody Bible Institute (where my parents went and pledge their entire allegiance to) in Youth Ministry (what my undergrad is in).
The rather moody stewardess took our drink orders and returned a bit later with one drink, which she put down in front of me. Mr. Moody ordered apple juice. I ordered ginger ale.
It looked close enough to my drink color, so I took my first sip.
Not Ginger ale. Definitely Apple juice.
I tell Mr. Moody about this possible mix up and wait until he is served my ginger ale to inform him. Not knowing what to do, I think about calling Mrs. Moody over and requesting a new AJ. With out even thinking, he simply switches our drinks.
For the duration of the flight, we find out that we lived in a lot of the same cities and he is just such a great guy. I really, honestly felt like we could have been great, great friends had we gotten to spend more time together.
Anyways, this also got me thinking of how much I just absolutely love being a part of the family of God. I got to have this phenomenal conversation with this complete stranger because of our common passion for Jesus. I felt like I had known him forever. I was so encouraged by his faith and I just thoroughly enjoyed my random conversation with a nameless guy.
I guess I can be nice on airplanes...and the best part? I never got conversation claustrophobia.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Golden.
Being that this is my golden birthday eve, I am going to journey back through some of my favorite birthday memories...
1. (not the age, just the first memory of the bunch) My mom made aprons with all of our little names on them and we baked.
2. I had a gymnastics birthday where everyone came in their leotards. I have a picture from this birthday where I stuck ALL of my bows to every part of my body and on top of my head. super cute.
3. I remember my brother always getting me the best gifts ever. He always did. And still does.
4. My family always comes in to my room on my birthday morning banging pots and pans together singing happy birthday. always. still. even at 27.
5. I remember I had the flu for one of my birthdays but I got a lounge chair and I remember sitting in it, sick as a dog, opening presents.
6. I got my horse for my 16th birthday. Her name was April and she was a beauty.
7. I remember my birthday at an indoor water park. That was also the first time I ever saw one of my friends (the most developed girl in our class) wearing a 2-piece and I was so jealous. I was still in gymnastics at this point...you get the picture...
8. My parents have this neon pink sign they had made for me when I was little and it says HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARLEY in pink and it's so 80's. We still have it.
9. I remember having a surprise party thrown for my 16th birthday. There were probably over 100 people there and everyone signed the neon pink sign. My parents even had the coolest band that had all of the hottest guys in school play. (B.J., Eric, Mark, ...sigh...)
10. A few years ago, my mom, Katelyn and Sarah came bursting through the doors of my Starbucks with bandanas on their faces and bubble guns and kidnapped me from work and ushered me to Disneyland!
11. Last year, Matt took me to Disneyland, too...it was his first time ever going!
Here's a pic:
12. We had a pajama, breakfast for dinner party two years ago. That was fun. Hot. but fun...Dena & Chrissy put so much time and effort in to that party...I remember that...Here is the hot I was talking about...
13. I remember having a surprise party a few years ago too...I think 24...A few of us tried to throw something together when, unbeknown to me, they emailed everyone telling them to fake an excuse as to why they couldn't come...I got so sad when the party dwindled down to like 4 of us...but they were ALL waiting at a house to surprise me...It was a Japan reunion of sorts so everyone we just went on the trip with was there and we reminisced all night. So much fun.
14. I always feel so special on my birthday. So many people text and call that I would never imagine would remember...thanks to everyone for always making my birthdays so special and memorable...
27. you don't scare me.
oh yeah...here is one sneak peak of the rest of our engagement pics...matt hasn't seen them yet and I don't want to put the cart before the horse but I can't resist sneaking just one!
so incredible, right? I love that I got these at the absolute most intense portion of my semester so I can't just stare at them all. day. long.
More to come...:)
Friday, April 23, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Life. Love. Events. Random.
- I am dying (I never know if this is the correct spelling. I would always assume it would be 'dieing' but t9 would never accept that so I am never quite sure) to get our engagement pictures back. If you know me at all, you know patience is not one of my strong suits. If I see something or have my mind on something it is hard for me to get my mind off of it. I think I have done a really good job of keeping my mind occupied and am proud to say I have only bugged our photographers one time asking the status of our pics :)
- Matt & I have pre-marital counseling this weekend with Dr. Steve Gerali. I am so excited about this. He is doing the welcome portion of our ceremony and maybe a few places after that. He has played a huge role in my life during the past 5 years. Matt has also gotten to know him during the last year or so and we are just so excited for him to be a part of this season.
- It is freezing this morning in Cali so I ran in to our school's little market to grab my favorite guilty pleasure trashy cappuccino machine french vanilla coffee...you know...the one where you push a button and under it it says, "release the button when cup is 2/3 full". Yes, I have worked for Starbucks for 6 years, but that dang machine gets me every. time.
- My golden birthday is in 5 days.
- Saturday, we will be attending James (Katelyn's brother) & Tara's wedding in Laguna Beach. Got Matt a practically brand new wardrobe of dress clothes for the occasion. thank God he doesn't object to me playing dress up with him. and i got myself a new dress, too.
- which brings me to my next topic. after 8 months, I have lifted my ban of absolutely no new clothes. I feel as though I have done a wonderful job of depriving myself and am still not buying clothes when and wherever I feel the need. But when a $90 dress gets knocked down to $20 and I happen to look knock out in it...all i can say is pictures to come...you will understand...oh, and i bought some honeymoon clothes, too...
- I am really in to chocolate covered raisins right now.
- countdown to maier: 51 days.
- please pray for Hudson. He had one of his episodes again the other day. He has what is called chiari malformation. a portion of his brain did not fully develop so he is prone to seizures and other health problems. He has only had 2 episodes but they are very scary when they occur. They are in Disneyland right now and I just got this from my brother. his favorite is lightening mcqueen. in fact, Casey & Katelyn got so sick of watching Cars with him that they tried to turn him on to Finding Nemo. When they put it in, he said, "no thank you fishy, no thank you. lyneen mcgween!". Sorry, that is my proud auntie story.
- Matt & I got to listen to the greatest sermon on marriage last night called 2Drink. If you want, please click the link and listen and enjoy. It opened up really good conversation for our drive yesterday. We want to be as prepared for marriage as possible and this sermon will help for years to come. I think I have blogged about the sermon before, but I can't remember...anyways, it's PG-13 for sure, and is the most downloaded podcast in the church's history. haha. people just want to listen to what the pastor has to say about sex I guess...go figure...
- If you haven't already tried it, go to your nearest neighborhood Starbucks or Sprouts and purchase HINT water. I am seriously obsessed with it. It is a blackberry natural flavored water and, as it's title claims, is a very subtle hint of blackberry. zero sugar. zero chemicals (i.e. splenda, s&l, etc.). zero calories. so delicious. the bux only has blackberry but word on the street is sprouts has a plethora of flaves.
- Made my MAC appointment for the big. day.
Anyways, I am going to join my classmates in finally listening to the lecture being preached...all I know is I keep hearing debates and scattering of these words: 'pre-tribulation', 'post-tribulation', 'new jerusalem', 'how come...' and other things that we nerds in seminary love to discuss... or rather...debate about...
- Matt & I have pre-marital counseling this weekend with Dr. Steve Gerali. I am so excited about this. He is doing the welcome portion of our ceremony and maybe a few places after that. He has played a huge role in my life during the past 5 years. Matt has also gotten to know him during the last year or so and we are just so excited for him to be a part of this season.
- It is freezing this morning in Cali so I ran in to our school's little market to grab my favorite guilty pleasure trashy cappuccino machine french vanilla coffee...you know...the one where you push a button and under it it says, "release the button when cup is 2/3 full". Yes, I have worked for Starbucks for 6 years, but that dang machine gets me every. time.
- My golden birthday is in 5 days.
- Saturday, we will be attending James (Katelyn's brother) & Tara's wedding in Laguna Beach. Got Matt a practically brand new wardrobe of dress clothes for the occasion. thank God he doesn't object to me playing dress up with him. and i got myself a new dress, too.
- which brings me to my next topic. after 8 months, I have lifted my ban of absolutely no new clothes. I feel as though I have done a wonderful job of depriving myself and am still not buying clothes when and wherever I feel the need. But when a $90 dress gets knocked down to $20 and I happen to look knock out in it...all i can say is pictures to come...you will understand...oh, and i bought some honeymoon clothes, too...
- I am really in to chocolate covered raisins right now.
- countdown to maier: 51 days.
- please pray for Hudson. He had one of his episodes again the other day. He has what is called chiari malformation. a portion of his brain did not fully develop so he is prone to seizures and other health problems. He has only had 2 episodes but they are very scary when they occur. They are in Disneyland right now and I just got this from my brother. his favorite is lightening mcqueen. in fact, Casey & Katelyn got so sick of watching Cars with him that they tried to turn him on to Finding Nemo. When they put it in, he said, "no thank you fishy, no thank you. lyneen mcgween!". Sorry, that is my proud auntie story.
- Matt & I got to listen to the greatest sermon on marriage last night called 2Drink. If you want, please click the link and listen and enjoy. It opened up really good conversation for our drive yesterday. We want to be as prepared for marriage as possible and this sermon will help for years to come. I think I have blogged about the sermon before, but I can't remember...anyways, it's PG-13 for sure, and is the most downloaded podcast in the church's history. haha. people just want to listen to what the pastor has to say about sex I guess...go figure...
- If you haven't already tried it, go to your nearest neighborhood Starbucks or Sprouts and purchase HINT water. I am seriously obsessed with it. It is a blackberry natural flavored water and, as it's title claims, is a very subtle hint of blackberry. zero sugar. zero chemicals (i.e. splenda, s&l, etc.). zero calories. so delicious. the bux only has blackberry but word on the street is sprouts has a plethora of flaves.
- Made my MAC appointment for the big. day.
Anyways, I am going to join my classmates in finally listening to the lecture being preached...all I know is I keep hearing debates and scattering of these words: 'pre-tribulation', 'post-tribulation', 'new jerusalem', 'how come...' and other things that we nerds in seminary love to discuss... or rather...debate about...
Monday, April 19, 2010
Farewell, Chihuahua Plantation...
This weekend was pretty phenom...
Except for Matt being in AZ,
I got to stay in Cali this weekend and had lunch with all of my fellow Kerns and the President of APU. He wanted to meet with all of us to hear our aspirations and dreams for the Church in the future and hear how we are going to initiate this change rather than wait for someone else to bring this change...
It was a great time, not only to hear what Dr. Wallace's view and hope for the grad school of theology is, but also because I got to sit around a table of 18 or so other students and hear people's hopes for the church. I sat there, looking from Owen, to Morgan, to Jon, to Andrea, and so on and just praised God for each of them. I truly am blessed to be part of this caliber of scholars and humans.
Later in the afternoon was my very. first. bridal. shower.
Luckily, the anxiety in my heart lifted in time to enjoy a wonderful shower with my dearest of California girls. My mom flew in for the day and I was so glad she was there. It just felt more...right to have her there, even if it meant a crazy day of flying in and driving back in a day. Thank you to everyone who made the afternoon so special to me.
But here's the best part....
You see, my best friend, Sarah Beth Ballard and I used to have this pact a few years ago. We agreed that we would be best friends forever and grow old together as spinsters and own a Chihuahua plantation...(because we both hate cats) I love how I make this sound like this was plan a.
it wasn't plan a.
this was because....
We were both in the same season of life with men...and that season would be...drought.
Rather than moping about it, we made the best of it and dreamt up what life would be like owning dozens and dozens of little taco bell dogs.
Well, a few years later, she met a boy.
This boys name was Mackenzie.
And I was sad because a part of our hopes of the C.P. were fading a bit as their relationship became more serious. Don't get me wrong, I was so happy for her. but... the chihuahua plantation...
then I met a boy named Matt.
And we both agreed to let the C.P. dream die for good. Especially after I got engaged.
Well, Saturday, after almost 3 years of dating, Mackenzie asked my best friend to marry him.
Which brings me back to the order of the weekend's festivities...
My mom and I were heading due East on the I10 and my phone rings.
it's Sarah Beth Ballard.
Carley: Hi Sarah Beth!
Sarah: HI! (sounds echoey)
Carley: (the echoey sound prompts me to ask...) Are you at Mackey's house?!? (Mackey just bought a new house and they're ripping it to the framing and putting in hard wood floors, and painting and all the other amazing things that come along with new home owning)
Sarah: Well, yes, I'm at my future house :) (I write a smiley face because I could sense the smile in her voice)
Carley: AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!! (nearly driving off the road, screaming at the top of my lungs, mom catches on and joins in on the hooting and hollering!)
No additional word was needed. I knew. My best friend had been asked the most important question of her life. And my heart lept for joy.
So, I suppose it is time to say goodbye to our dreams of the Chihuahua plantation and say hello to our futures...not as Chuhuahua plantation owning spinsters...still as best friends...and wives
Sarah and Mackey, I am so incredibly happy for you i can't even begin to describe the peace that comes in to my heart that Sarah has found such an incredible man to love & adore her.
congratulations, my best friend.
Except for Matt being in AZ,
I got to stay in Cali this weekend and had lunch with all of my fellow Kerns and the President of APU. He wanted to meet with all of us to hear our aspirations and dreams for the Church in the future and hear how we are going to initiate this change rather than wait for someone else to bring this change...
It was a great time, not only to hear what Dr. Wallace's view and hope for the grad school of theology is, but also because I got to sit around a table of 18 or so other students and hear people's hopes for the church. I sat there, looking from Owen, to Morgan, to Jon, to Andrea, and so on and just praised God for each of them. I truly am blessed to be part of this caliber of scholars and humans.
Later in the afternoon was my very. first. bridal. shower.
Luckily, the anxiety in my heart lifted in time to enjoy a wonderful shower with my dearest of California girls. My mom flew in for the day and I was so glad she was there. It just felt more...right to have her there, even if it meant a crazy day of flying in and driving back in a day. Thank you to everyone who made the afternoon so special to me.
But here's the best part....
You see, my best friend, Sarah Beth Ballard and I used to have this pact a few years ago. We agreed that we would be best friends forever and grow old together as spinsters and own a Chihuahua plantation...(because we both hate cats) I love how I make this sound like this was plan a.
it wasn't plan a.
this was because....
We were both in the same season of life with men...and that season would be...drought.
Rather than moping about it, we made the best of it and dreamt up what life would be like owning dozens and dozens of little taco bell dogs.
Well, a few years later, she met a boy.
This boys name was Mackenzie.
And I was sad because a part of our hopes of the C.P. were fading a bit as their relationship became more serious. Don't get me wrong, I was so happy for her. but... the chihuahua plantation...
then I met a boy named Matt.
And we both agreed to let the C.P. dream die for good. Especially after I got engaged.
Well, Saturday, after almost 3 years of dating, Mackenzie asked my best friend to marry him.
Which brings me back to the order of the weekend's festivities...
My mom and I were heading due East on the I10 and my phone rings.
it's Sarah Beth Ballard.
Carley: Hi Sarah Beth!
Sarah: HI! (sounds echoey)
Carley: (the echoey sound prompts me to ask...) Are you at Mackey's house?!? (Mackey just bought a new house and they're ripping it to the framing and putting in hard wood floors, and painting and all the other amazing things that come along with new home owning)
Sarah: Well, yes, I'm at my future house :) (I write a smiley face because I could sense the smile in her voice)
Carley: AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!! (nearly driving off the road, screaming at the top of my lungs, mom catches on and joins in on the hooting and hollering!)
No additional word was needed. I knew. My best friend had been asked the most important question of her life. And my heart lept for joy.
So, I suppose it is time to say goodbye to our dreams of the Chihuahua plantation and say hello to our futures...not as Chuhuahua plantation owning spinsters...still as best friends...and wives
Sarah and Mackey, I am so incredibly happy for you i can't even begin to describe the peace that comes in to my heart that Sarah has found such an incredible man to love & adore her.
congratulations, my best friend.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
The day has finally come...
Today is the day of my very first bridal shower.
I have imagined how I would feel, what I would wear, who would be there...my mom even sent this text to me this morning:
at the gate...AM I REALLY COMING TO YOUR FIRST BRIDAL SHOWER?!?!??? wasn't I just braiding your hair yesterday???!!
but for some reason, I have awaken with a heavy heart. I have this anxious spirit inside of me that I do not welcome at all. I have no idea what it is but I sure would like it to go away.
So I decided to just sit down with my computer and some great music is playing in the background...here are the words...
you dance over me while i am unaware
you sing all around but i never hear a sound
Lord i'm amazed by you Lord i'm amazed by you
Lord i'm amazed by you and how you love me
you dance over me while i am unaware
you sing all around but i never hear the sound
Lord i'm amazed, by you
Lord I'm amazed, by you
Lord i'm amazed, by you and how you love me
how wide, how deep, how great is your love for me
how wide, how deep, how great is your love for me
I am captivated by the very first line. That this God, this creator of the heavens and earth could actually dance over his creation of me? Man...that is humbling...
I have imagined how I would feel, what I would wear, who would be there...my mom even sent this text to me this morning:
at the gate...AM I REALLY COMING TO YOUR FIRST BRIDAL SHOWER?!?!??? wasn't I just braiding your hair yesterday???!!
but for some reason, I have awaken with a heavy heart. I have this anxious spirit inside of me that I do not welcome at all. I have no idea what it is but I sure would like it to go away.
So I decided to just sit down with my computer and some great music is playing in the background...here are the words...
you dance over me while i am unaware
you sing all around but i never hear a sound
Lord i'm amazed by you Lord i'm amazed by you
Lord i'm amazed by you and how you love me
you dance over me while i am unaware
you sing all around but i never hear the sound
Lord i'm amazed, by you
Lord I'm amazed, by you
Lord i'm amazed, by you and how you love me
how wide, how deep, how great is your love for me
how wide, how deep, how great is your love for me
I am captivated by the very first line. That this God, this creator of the heavens and earth could actually dance over his creation of me? Man...that is humbling...
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Birthday party phobia...
My roommate, Dena, is obsessed with webMd. At least she used to be. I think she may have conquered her addiction, but that is besides the point. When we lived together and she didn't feel well, I would often find her glued to her computer screen with the little hangman looking guy highlighted all over depending on what didn't feel good. She would then inform me that she possibly had ________ (insert major, life threatening, debilitating disease here). It was more of a joke, really, but I really think she talked herself in to believing the possibility...
What I never found on webMd, however, is a disease my mother & I positively have.
It is called "Birthday party phobia".
this is real.
My mom and I suffer from this disease where, we are fearful to the point of avoidance that if we throw a party, no one will show up.
There has never, to my knowledge, been a party that either of us has thrown that no one has shown up. But the sheer possibility of this occurrence makes us never want to have a party.
Enter my wedding & showers.
I have frequently found this phobia creeping up on me in regard to these upcoming events...
Luckily, there have been no bad dreams about this possibility or we might just elope.
But, as the invitations go out and I know a response card is pending in many-a-household around the nation, I have a fear of walking to my mailbox.
Because when I walk out to my mailbox, there just might be a little cream card with a mustard yellow embossed tree on it and on that card might have the box "______ will not be attending" checked.
I guess this is the ultimate birthday party phobia.
But I found myself in my walk-in last night with a new, slightly profound, thought.
It doesn't matter who does not show up.
Because I know that I will show up and i know that Matt will show up. And that's what the whole day is centering around anyway. It is a day where we will seal our love to one another for the remainder of the days we will be blessed with on this earth.
It also will be a day I will choose to focus on everyone who is there, rather than all those who are not. I realize that there will probably be several people who will have to miss for one reason or another and I will miss their presence dearly...but I will choose to focus on all of those whose attendance means so much to me.
Because their attendance means to me that they support the union that is taking place. I would rather have 5 people there who could not dream of me with out Matt or him with out me than 500 people who really don't know either of us and don't care.
So I guess I will still have a wedding. :) Even though this phobia persists to the point of crippling fear.
p.s. so far, out of 7 response cards, we have 100% attendance :)
What I never found on webMd, however, is a disease my mother & I positively have.
It is called "Birthday party phobia".
this is real.
My mom and I suffer from this disease where, we are fearful to the point of avoidance that if we throw a party, no one will show up.
There has never, to my knowledge, been a party that either of us has thrown that no one has shown up. But the sheer possibility of this occurrence makes us never want to have a party.
Enter my wedding & showers.
I have frequently found this phobia creeping up on me in regard to these upcoming events...
Luckily, there have been no bad dreams about this possibility or we might just elope.
But, as the invitations go out and I know a response card is pending in many-a-household around the nation, I have a fear of walking to my mailbox.
Because when I walk out to my mailbox, there just might be a little cream card with a mustard yellow embossed tree on it and on that card might have the box "______ will not be attending" checked.
I guess this is the ultimate birthday party phobia.
But I found myself in my walk-in last night with a new, slightly profound, thought.
It doesn't matter who does not show up.
Because I know that I will show up and i know that Matt will show up. And that's what the whole day is centering around anyway. It is a day where we will seal our love to one another for the remainder of the days we will be blessed with on this earth.
It also will be a day I will choose to focus on everyone who is there, rather than all those who are not. I realize that there will probably be several people who will have to miss for one reason or another and I will miss their presence dearly...but I will choose to focus on all of those whose attendance means so much to me.
Because their attendance means to me that they support the union that is taking place. I would rather have 5 people there who could not dream of me with out Matt or him with out me than 500 people who really don't know either of us and don't care.
So I guess I will still have a wedding. :) Even though this phobia persists to the point of crippling fear.
p.s. so far, out of 7 response cards, we have 100% attendance :)
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Family time...
I can't remember where and I can't remember when but I know at some job or camp or church or meeting we would have what was called "family time".
This would be the time set aside to talk 'frank' with each other and be honest and let our guard down and be real. Tears were shed during family time.
Well, I want to have some family time with you.
or rather, maybe it is a bit of vulnerable time. I'm not sure which.
But I have only recently been a blogger and I am loving it. I mean, it was a new year's resolution of mine to begin cataloging more of my experiences, emotions, and some other creative word beginning with an 'e'. But lately, I feel like I have been writing this to elevate your expectation of me. As a writer. As a friend. As a human.
I will write these posts that, when I am done, I feel like patting myself on the back. Like "yea! that was good! that'll get 'em for sure!" and then I look at my comment section and see "0 comments" and allow my pride to be wounded.
But I need this little bit of family time with you to remind myself that I do not do this for anyone but myself. This is simply my public journal and it has quite honestly served as a salve on several wounds and has been a silent counselor for me these past few months.
So I will blog on. Not for you. But for me. Not for the comments or the followers or anything else other than the fact that I love it and I learn a lot about myself through forcing myself to think through some things that I would otherwise stuff down.
But I do appreciate you reading it :)
This would be the time set aside to talk 'frank' with each other and be honest and let our guard down and be real. Tears were shed during family time.
Well, I want to have some family time with you.
or rather, maybe it is a bit of vulnerable time. I'm not sure which.
But I have only recently been a blogger and I am loving it. I mean, it was a new year's resolution of mine to begin cataloging more of my experiences, emotions, and some other creative word beginning with an 'e'. But lately, I feel like I have been writing this to elevate your expectation of me. As a writer. As a friend. As a human.
I will write these posts that, when I am done, I feel like patting myself on the back. Like "yea! that was good! that'll get 'em for sure!" and then I look at my comment section and see "0 comments" and allow my pride to be wounded.
But I need this little bit of family time with you to remind myself that I do not do this for anyone but myself. This is simply my public journal and it has quite honestly served as a salve on several wounds and has been a silent counselor for me these past few months.
So I will blog on. Not for you. But for me. Not for the comments or the followers or anything else other than the fact that I love it and I learn a lot about myself through forcing myself to think through some things that I would otherwise stuff down.
But I do appreciate you reading it :)
Monday, April 12, 2010
1,375 sundays...
If there are 52 weeks in a year, and I am almost 27 years old, I calculated that I have probably been to approximately 1, 375 church services in my lifetime.
If I may be so bold, I would say that yesterday's church service was, hands down, the best one ever. (I suppose it is unfair to count those first, about, 260 services as I was too young and probably the following 500 ones because I was in service but probably writing notes to Lee or Paulette)
Yesterday was Justice Sunday.
Our church attempts to live out the vision found in Micah 6:8 to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.
The thing about Mission Community Church, however, is that when they say they are going to do justice...
they. mean. it.
***Oh, btw Megan, I know I typically leave you with tear stained cheeks without warning so consider yourself warned***
For the past few years, MCC has teamed up with a team called Vision Abolition to help stop the sex traffiking going on in Fiji. Our church, and a few others in the Valley, travels to Fiji a few times a year to help build a campus for girls who are pregnant or mothers to children who were conceived due to being traffiked. There is an organization called Homes of Hope and their goal is to see girls back to restoration and help them re-enter society after 4-5 years of counseling and coaching. They also bring the message of salvation to these girls who are so lost and broken.
MCC also has a vision called Vision Africa where we have teamed up with a woman named Chief Theresa in Malawi, Africa to help her organization called Somebody Cares get off the ground. She lives in the bush of Malawi in a group of villages called Chikudzulire (chic-coo-tza-lee-lay).
Well, yesterday, our church had the privilege of flying the founder of Homes of Hope from Fiji and Chief Theresa from Malawi to attend and speak in our services.
During the hour, we heard about all of the lives being changed and transformed because of the gospel and the partnership of MCC. We learned that these two women, who had met just before the first service, felt God calling them to begin a Homes of Hope in Malawi and listened, through chokes of tears, as the women told of God's calling.
But that's not the real zinger yet...
We also flew in one of the rescued girls from Fiji and she explained how much Homes of Hope has changed her life and how it would not be possible if not for MCC. She has been saved and most importantly, redeemed through Jesus Christ and brought to wholeness once again. She now owns a home and is on staff at Homes of Hope, as she helps to counsel girls out of her own former lifestyle. She talked about how she once was lost but has been found in Jesus Christ.
Oh yea, and a portion of yesterday's offering ($17,000) was being raised to put one of the other Fijian girls through college.
All this and then Derek Webb & Sandra McCracken performed some of their songs...
So, yea, it was a decent Sunday...
Also, on Saturday Matt officially signed a contract to become the Senior High math teacher at Bios Christian Academy. :) hooray.
God. Is. Good.
If I may be so bold, I would say that yesterday's church service was, hands down, the best one ever. (I suppose it is unfair to count those first, about, 260 services as I was too young and probably the following 500 ones because I was in service but probably writing notes to Lee or Paulette)
Yesterday was Justice Sunday.
Our church attempts to live out the vision found in Micah 6:8 to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.
The thing about Mission Community Church, however, is that when they say they are going to do justice...
they. mean. it.
***Oh, btw Megan, I know I typically leave you with tear stained cheeks without warning so consider yourself warned***
For the past few years, MCC has teamed up with a team called Vision Abolition to help stop the sex traffiking going on in Fiji. Our church, and a few others in the Valley, travels to Fiji a few times a year to help build a campus for girls who are pregnant or mothers to children who were conceived due to being traffiked. There is an organization called Homes of Hope and their goal is to see girls back to restoration and help them re-enter society after 4-5 years of counseling and coaching. They also bring the message of salvation to these girls who are so lost and broken.
MCC also has a vision called Vision Africa where we have teamed up with a woman named Chief Theresa in Malawi, Africa to help her organization called Somebody Cares get off the ground. She lives in the bush of Malawi in a group of villages called Chikudzulire (chic-coo-tza-lee-lay).
Well, yesterday, our church had the privilege of flying the founder of Homes of Hope from Fiji and Chief Theresa from Malawi to attend and speak in our services.
During the hour, we heard about all of the lives being changed and transformed because of the gospel and the partnership of MCC. We learned that these two women, who had met just before the first service, felt God calling them to begin a Homes of Hope in Malawi and listened, through chokes of tears, as the women told of God's calling.
But that's not the real zinger yet...
We also flew in one of the rescued girls from Fiji and she explained how much Homes of Hope has changed her life and how it would not be possible if not for MCC. She has been saved and most importantly, redeemed through Jesus Christ and brought to wholeness once again. She now owns a home and is on staff at Homes of Hope, as she helps to counsel girls out of her own former lifestyle. She talked about how she once was lost but has been found in Jesus Christ.
Oh yea, and a portion of yesterday's offering ($17,000) was being raised to put one of the other Fijian girls through college.
All this and then Derek Webb & Sandra McCracken performed some of their songs...
So, yea, it was a decent Sunday...
Also, on Saturday Matt officially signed a contract to become the Senior High math teacher at Bios Christian Academy. :) hooray.
God. Is. Good.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Mrs. Carley Maier, Mdiv.
Well, yesterday the girls and I met with our Kern representative and academic adviser in order to set ourselves up for classes. all. the. way. until. graduation!!!!!
What a whirlwind of a season grad school has been but it almost already feels like it is coming to a close. The seniors right now are in the middle of writing their last papers and meeting with their board to get hammered on their thesis paper.
makes me want to throw up just thinking about it.
yesterday, the term 'oral defense' was used and my palms got sweaty.
anyways, that is three-hundred-and-sixty-some-odd-days-away, so I will just take a deep breath and tell you my school schedule.
Summer: Building Healthy Churches, and a class I am creating on the topic of Sabbath
Fall: Paul, the Apostle & Theologian; Pastoral Counseling (so excited for this class!); field ed
Spring: People of God (online); Scripture & Canon; Philosophy of Ministry (yikes); field ed
THEN. I. AM. OFFICIALLY....
MRS. CARLEY MAIER, MDIV.
What a whirlwind of a season grad school has been but it almost already feels like it is coming to a close. The seniors right now are in the middle of writing their last papers and meeting with their board to get hammered on their thesis paper.
makes me want to throw up just thinking about it.
yesterday, the term 'oral defense' was used and my palms got sweaty.
anyways, that is three-hundred-and-sixty-some-odd-days-away, so I will just take a deep breath and tell you my school schedule.
Summer: Building Healthy Churches, and a class I am creating on the topic of Sabbath
Fall: Paul, the Apostle & Theologian; Pastoral Counseling (so excited for this class!); field ed
Spring: People of God (online); Scripture & Canon; Philosophy of Ministry (yikes); field ed
THEN. I. AM. OFFICIALLY....
MRS. CARLEY MAIER, MDIV.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Starbucks
Next month, I will celebrate my 6 year anniversary with Starbucks. It seems like just yesterday the Siren and I began our relationship, but when I journey back in my mind, I cannot believe how long it truly has been.
The last year or so have involved a lot of ups & downs with my job and most days I have to really prepare myself for yet another. day. of. serving. coffee.
However, yesterday, as I was driving to California, I began thinking of all of the positives that have come out of my experience. and that really refreshed my soul. So many of these stories are worth mentioning so here goes...
1. Five years ago, I was in an accident two weeks before Christmas. My regular customers all knew what car I drove and, when they started seeing me in a different car they began to inquire what happened. Eventually word spread through out the entire store and a few days later, my manager approached me with an envelope from some of our customers. I opened it and found a Christmas card with a sweet greeting informing me that they had heard of my misfortune and wanted to bless me, as it was right before Christmas and they knew I had presents to buy and a car to pay for. Inside, was $350 in cash. To this day, I have no idea who blessed me in this way, but I have thought of those people and their generosity quite often.
2. I had a customer who bred chihuahuas for a hobby and she would always talk to me about her latest litter of pups. She would keep me posted as the kiddos were born and we would always talk about the health and wellness of these dearest little ones. One day, she brought one in to say hi and my heart melted. This tiny little doe-headed puppy stole my heart. What happened next was something I never would have fathomed: she offered the puppy to me as long as I promised to keep her name 'stella' and give her a loving home. I have enjoyed this dog for 5 years and she brings our whole family so much joy as she refuses to let a sad look remain on your face and does everything possible to win you over to her affection. If not for Starbucks, there would be no Stella.
3. I had this customer who would come in every morning and order a tall mocha. every day. she was my same ago so we became acquaintances and I would ask her about work and boys and life. One day, however, she came in the store and order a decaf. tall. mocha. i immediately inquired as to why the decaf. she told me she was pregnant and not happy about it. she had no idea what to do but knew this was not an optimal time in her life to add a child. My mom is really really passionate about this type of situation and I asked her if she would be opposed to meeting with my mom. She agreed and they set up a time to talk. During this conversation, she informed my mom of her abortion appointment. My mom urged her to reconsider and gave her alternative options and things to think about. The day of her abortion came and my mom and I spent the time on our knees begging for this unborn child. She called me a few hours later, informing me that the doctors refused to preform her abortion because apparently she was not as far along as they originally thought she was and they could not do the procedure. My mom and I rejoiced. She said that that woke her up to realizing that that was not a coincidence and my mom met her for coffee again. She saw that failed attempt as a huge sign but also informed my mom of how dire of a situation she was in. My mom offered for her to come live with us. So she did. This girl, who was originally a tall mocha ended up living in her baristas house and we helped her find a home with whom to place her child and get her back on her feet again.
4. Dominic. Upon entering & opening my second store, I met a boy named Dominic. He and I formed a fast friendship and I just adored his energy, humor, spunk, and spirit. He was a few years younger than I was and I viewed him as a younger brother. I would chastise him if he made silly mistakes throughout life. Dominic was killed in an ATV accident and we had his memorial service in my backyard. I miss him. But I would never have met him if not for a little company called Starbucks.
5. Sarah Beth Ballard. My dearest and bestest friend. We met at the same store that Dominic and I worked at and I just love her to death. I am so blessed by her friendship and we just seem to always encourage and inspire one another. I cannot imagine life with out her.
6. At work, a few months ago, I was at a store in downtown Tempe where homeless people were found in mass quantity. We had one particular homeless man who would sleep in our parking lot in full view of several customers. One morning it was particularly chilly and a woman was sitting at our drive thru window awaiting her drinks. She glanced to her right and came upon this man sitting in his sleeping bag. She immediately asked for an oatmeal, bottle of water, and a 'green machine' Naked smoothie. She drove her extremely nice car over to him and offered him these items. It truly warmed my heart. On another occasion, but same man (I think his name was Michael), our property manager came to our window one morning and informed us that if we saw homeless people 'loitering' in our parking lot we had to kindly ask them to leave.
yeah. right. I could never do that.
So she was cleaning our parking lot a few Sundays later and saw this man sitting in his corner. I was so nervous as to what she would do. She approached him and began conversing with him. He got up and my heart sunk. I just felt so bad that she kicked this man with nowhere else to go out of a parking lot.
but then. she walked with him, over to our window. She purchased him a cup of coffee, lunch sandwich, and muffin. All while offering him tips on how to avoid the cops and where to go. Good deeds still do happen in the world.
7. I met Matt because of Starbucks.
8. I have had a job all through out this economy nightmare that has enabled me to work in California during school and come home to pick up shifts during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Summer breaks. Such a blessing.
So I know that Starbucks takes a lot of low blows from people but there are some pretty incredible things that happen every day. I was reading someone's blog yesterday and they wrote about a barista who offered a kidney to a regular customer who was desperately in need. I often get so wrapped up in the millions of things I have to do while behind the counter but every once in a while it's good to stop. and think about why I do what I do.
and I can work another day.
Onward,
Carley.
The last year or so have involved a lot of ups & downs with my job and most days I have to really prepare myself for yet another. day. of. serving. coffee.
However, yesterday, as I was driving to California, I began thinking of all of the positives that have come out of my experience. and that really refreshed my soul. So many of these stories are worth mentioning so here goes...
1. Five years ago, I was in an accident two weeks before Christmas. My regular customers all knew what car I drove and, when they started seeing me in a different car they began to inquire what happened. Eventually word spread through out the entire store and a few days later, my manager approached me with an envelope from some of our customers. I opened it and found a Christmas card with a sweet greeting informing me that they had heard of my misfortune and wanted to bless me, as it was right before Christmas and they knew I had presents to buy and a car to pay for. Inside, was $350 in cash. To this day, I have no idea who blessed me in this way, but I have thought of those people and their generosity quite often.
2. I had a customer who bred chihuahuas for a hobby and she would always talk to me about her latest litter of pups. She would keep me posted as the kiddos were born and we would always talk about the health and wellness of these dearest little ones. One day, she brought one in to say hi and my heart melted. This tiny little doe-headed puppy stole my heart. What happened next was something I never would have fathomed: she offered the puppy to me as long as I promised to keep her name 'stella' and give her a loving home. I have enjoyed this dog for 5 years and she brings our whole family so much joy as she refuses to let a sad look remain on your face and does everything possible to win you over to her affection. If not for Starbucks, there would be no Stella.
3. I had this customer who would come in every morning and order a tall mocha. every day. she was my same ago so we became acquaintances and I would ask her about work and boys and life. One day, however, she came in the store and order a decaf. tall. mocha. i immediately inquired as to why the decaf. she told me she was pregnant and not happy about it. she had no idea what to do but knew this was not an optimal time in her life to add a child. My mom is really really passionate about this type of situation and I asked her if she would be opposed to meeting with my mom. She agreed and they set up a time to talk. During this conversation, she informed my mom of her abortion appointment. My mom urged her to reconsider and gave her alternative options and things to think about. The day of her abortion came and my mom and I spent the time on our knees begging for this unborn child. She called me a few hours later, informing me that the doctors refused to preform her abortion because apparently she was not as far along as they originally thought she was and they could not do the procedure. My mom and I rejoiced. She said that that woke her up to realizing that that was not a coincidence and my mom met her for coffee again. She saw that failed attempt as a huge sign but also informed my mom of how dire of a situation she was in. My mom offered for her to come live with us. So she did. This girl, who was originally a tall mocha ended up living in her baristas house and we helped her find a home with whom to place her child and get her back on her feet again.
4. Dominic. Upon entering & opening my second store, I met a boy named Dominic. He and I formed a fast friendship and I just adored his energy, humor, spunk, and spirit. He was a few years younger than I was and I viewed him as a younger brother. I would chastise him if he made silly mistakes throughout life. Dominic was killed in an ATV accident and we had his memorial service in my backyard. I miss him. But I would never have met him if not for a little company called Starbucks.
5. Sarah Beth Ballard. My dearest and bestest friend. We met at the same store that Dominic and I worked at and I just love her to death. I am so blessed by her friendship and we just seem to always encourage and inspire one another. I cannot imagine life with out her.
6. At work, a few months ago, I was at a store in downtown Tempe where homeless people were found in mass quantity. We had one particular homeless man who would sleep in our parking lot in full view of several customers. One morning it was particularly chilly and a woman was sitting at our drive thru window awaiting her drinks. She glanced to her right and came upon this man sitting in his sleeping bag. She immediately asked for an oatmeal, bottle of water, and a 'green machine' Naked smoothie. She drove her extremely nice car over to him and offered him these items. It truly warmed my heart. On another occasion, but same man (I think his name was Michael), our property manager came to our window one morning and informed us that if we saw homeless people 'loitering' in our parking lot we had to kindly ask them to leave.
yeah. right. I could never do that.
So she was cleaning our parking lot a few Sundays later and saw this man sitting in his corner. I was so nervous as to what she would do. She approached him and began conversing with him. He got up and my heart sunk. I just felt so bad that she kicked this man with nowhere else to go out of a parking lot.
but then. she walked with him, over to our window. She purchased him a cup of coffee, lunch sandwich, and muffin. All while offering him tips on how to avoid the cops and where to go. Good deeds still do happen in the world.
7. I met Matt because of Starbucks.
8. I have had a job all through out this economy nightmare that has enabled me to work in California during school and come home to pick up shifts during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Summer breaks. Such a blessing.
So I know that Starbucks takes a lot of low blows from people but there are some pretty incredible things that happen every day. I was reading someone's blog yesterday and they wrote about a barista who offered a kidney to a regular customer who was desperately in need. I often get so wrapped up in the millions of things I have to do while behind the counter but every once in a while it's good to stop. and think about why I do what I do.
and I can work another day.
Onward,
Carley.
Monday, April 5, 2010
wife 101
I would consider today my first day in wife 101 training.
Here is what I have accomplished:
I never thought wife training could be this fun! I can't wait until this all takes place in an apartment with both our names on the mailbox.
Which reminds me:
1) We are going apartment looking tomorrow. We both have a rare Tuesday off so we are going to make the best of it!
2) We took our engagement photos with sessionninephotography on Friday. All I can say is oh. my. gosh. If you are looking for a photographer for any occasion and live in the greater phoenix area or have money to fly them to you...I could not urge you more strongly than to get a hold of them! I can't wait to see them (3 weeks seems like forever and I'm not gonna lie, I've checked my inbox and their website at least twice...it's been 3 days...uh oh)
Sorry about all of the lists but it's just been that kind of day.
Here is what I have accomplished:
- I cleaned my room.
- I cleaned my bathroom.
- I made a grocery list. (which is SO much easier than just showing up at the g-store and hoping for the best)
- I almost went face down on the cement outside of Sprouts in a skirt because I underestimated the height of the curb...i realize this is not really wife 101 but it was too funny to leave out
- I made lists...long lists...of what needs to be done during the next 68 days. (*sidenote: I checked my calendar and I only have 2 available weekends until my wedding....gasp!*)
- I did laundry. (if you know me...this is saying something)
- My sheets are currently blowing in the breeze out on the line.
- I made dinner while drinking a glass of pinot noir. (Turkey Mexicali Chili...a recipe my sister-in-law gave me for Christmas 2 years ago that is phenomenal...I will have to seek approval before posting said recipe for the greater general public)
I never thought wife training could be this fun! I can't wait until this all takes place in an apartment with both our names on the mailbox.
Which reminds me:
1) We are going apartment looking tomorrow. We both have a rare Tuesday off so we are going to make the best of it!
2) We took our engagement photos with sessionninephotography on Friday. All I can say is oh. my. gosh. If you are looking for a photographer for any occasion and live in the greater phoenix area or have money to fly them to you...I could not urge you more strongly than to get a hold of them! I can't wait to see them (3 weeks seems like forever and I'm not gonna lie, I've checked my inbox and their website at least twice...it's been 3 days...uh oh)
Sorry about all of the lists but it's just been that kind of day.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
two.
Hudson turns two today!!! We had a party for him on Saturday, but today is his official second birthday! what a honey. here are some of him at his party...
haha. oh gosh. it was a robot theme party and Katelyn, the crafty creative mom she is, made robots out of boxes so the kids (and parents!) could try them on for size...
so cute...
happy birthday buddy. i love you so much.
haha. oh gosh. it was a robot theme party and Katelyn, the crafty creative mom she is, made robots out of boxes so the kids (and parents!) could try them on for size...
so cute...
happy birthday buddy. i love you so much.
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