Pick my Brain

2012-01-24T09:22:00.000-08:00

Enjoying the Silence

During these last few weeks of the Daniel Fast I've been thinking a lot. A lot of thoughts about coffee, but also thoughts about Jesus, my marriage, our precious baby, and this life I'm living. I was privileged to read Jen hatmaker's book 7 last week too. Not only did it have me busting out my infamous laugh outburst, waking up my sweet husband at night (sorry babe), it had me close to tears at many points. Her books is basically about simplifying life for the sake of Jesus. How reducing what we have, do, eat, wear can all have an impact on the kingdom and give the Lord more room in our hearts. I felt really affirmed as we have already done several steps she suggested in the book, including the Daniel fast, and purging. Oh the purging we have done in the last 4 years is really incredible. I'm like the opposite of a hoarder. Anyways I digress.

There were several things that struck me as I was reading/thinking/meditating/dreaming of my next cup of coffee. I need more silence. Or less noise, however you want to say it. My first starting point is the tv. I'm drastically cutting it. Unless it is biggest loser, project runway, or a hallmark movie I haven't seen yet( there's probably not many) then I'm not watching it. Of course we do live with my parents so I do not want them to have to not watch what they want, but I am trying to occupy my mind and time otherwise. I have already noticed a more calm spirit inside of me. More time alone spent with the Father, and I was able to finish up some projects I'd been working on.

This is a good thing. God is doing a new thing. And I love it.

Angela M.

2012-01-09T20:10:00.000-08:00

Daniel Fest 2012

So it has begun. 5 years ago my dad introduced me to the Daniel fast. I was newly married. A lively youth pastor of a bunch of rowdy jr and sr high kids. And I was up for an intense challenge. Thus doing the crazy spiritual challenge such as the Daniel Fast seemed like the perfect thing to do. So for 3 weeks my food intake was limited to vegetables, brown rice, fruit and nuts. That first year my creativity level was at about a negative fifty and Jared and I ended up eating half a bag of mixed veggies per meal. I'm sure you can imagine the insane depravity of it all. I still apologize to my husband for the immense amounts of carrots and broccoli.
Of course the DF is about much more than coming up with creative ways to make cauliflower edible. In the Word (also known as the Holy Bible) Daniel our main man chose to eat veggies and fruits (and probably millet) rather than the food the rest of the kings army was indulging in. In the course of 21 days he proved to be stronger physically and mentally then everyone else. In a similar way, 2 years ago when I was on the DF I had my annual check up. The Dr. Told me that my cholesterol and blood pressure were the best she had ever seen! Coincidence--I think not.
Spiritually speaking, I have found it to be a fairly extreme sacrifice. (we're talking no coffee or chocolate for 3 weeks people. Lifeblood.) It is easy to complain and think too much about all the foods I'm not eating. Ugh just makes me sick thinking about how disgustingly self absorbed I can be. (makes me throw up a bit of spinach in my mouth) what really comes to the forefront during this three weeks is how I can never out give God. His sacrifices He made for me are completely untouchable. Nothing I give up for Him-- not even coffee (please no condemnation) can compare to my incredible Savior. I am able to focus more clearly on Him and my many reasons to say Thank You with my life for Him.
So here I am 5 years later embarking on Daniel Fest 2012. Food options are much greater than in the past (sweet potato chips anyone?) but the 3 weeks are still sobering. I am praying my focus will magnify the Lord and His unending love. It is totally worth every caffeine free moment.

~Angela M.

2011-09-12T13:51:00.000-07:00

My New Daily Grind

No I'm not referring to coffee (although I made a delicious French Press this morning)-my life as I know it has completely changed. Friday was my first official day of stay-at-home mom world. Jared is back to work, and though I live at my parents place, mom and dad are usually gone for most of the day as well. Leaving Caden and myself to fend for ourselves-how dare they!:) So that means I have to figure out how to survive and make the most of these days at home with my baby. Now let me be very clear that this is totally by my own choice that I am in the position I am in. Having Caden was not a surprise to us, I mean I'm 30 years old for crying out loud, I should be totally fine with all of this right?

Anyhoo, in my attempt to make some sense of my days, I'm following the advice of my fabulous sister in law Becky and have made up a schedule for each day of the week. A little overkill for some-perhaps. But I think it will work really well for me and the babe. It looks something like this:

7:00-Wake up-God Time
8:00-Wake Caden-feed/change
9:00-Go for a Walk
9:30-Nap
10:00-Clean
11:30-feed/change Caden
12:00-Lunch
12:30-nap-do coupons
2:30-feed/change Caden
3:00-workout (Caden LOVES to watch:)
4:20-shower
4:30-feed/change Caden
5:30-Dinner
6:30-feed/change Caden
7:20-bath
8:00-feed/change/bedtime for Caden
10:00-Go to sleep
4:30-feed/change Caden-back to sleep:)

Sounds thrilling doesn't it? I'm hoping the routine will be beneficial for us all. Well right now Caden is screaming his brains out-resisting his nap...I just keep remembering tomorrow is a new day. And I know his many smiles will cancel out all the tears.

~Angela M.

2011-07-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

June 17th 2011

Three and a half weeks have already flown by and yet it seems like it was only yesterday I was in labor.

It was about 11:30 at night on June 16th--we had just finished celebrating my Dad's 60th birthday at a local restaurant. I had a feeling all day long that labor was very close even though my due date was still 6 days away, of course I told Jared I thought it would be soon, but we didn't mention anything to my parents or anyone else-not wanting to get anyone's hopes up. So there I lay in our bed, and almost like our little boy knew when I clicked off the light, the contractions started.

I decided to wait to say anything to Jared until I was sure the contractions were consistent. I kept an eye on the clock as each contraction would come and go. After 30 minutes of contractions that lasted 30 seconds each and were 5-7 minutes apart, I decided the time had come to wake Jared up. I must not have done a very good job waking him up as his response to me was "ok well I'm going back to sleep, let me know when they get closer together."

Ten minutes later as I was laying in bed I very distinctly felt a snap inside, I turned over and told Jared "I think my water just broke." My husband jumped out of bed faster then I could have even imagined and started making sure everything was packed, pacing around, and asking how he could help me. Our plan had been to stay at home as long as we could, knowing that the longer we were at the hospital, the more they would try to offer me drugs etc. (and we live about 2 min from the hospital) As soon as my water broke, (just like my doula forewarned me) the contractions become much stronger. We were probably at home for 10-15 min later when Jared made the call that staying at home was no longer an option. I believe at that point the contractions were about 2-3 min apart and lasting close to a minute each time.

Upon entering the ER, episodes from the Cosby Show and other sitcoms kept running through my head as I sat in the waiting room as Jared desperatly sought out the attention of the Dr.'s and everyone else is staring at me as I'm breathing and making weird noises like a crazy person. It thankfully only took a few minutes before a man came over with a wheel chair and started carting me through the eternally long hallway. After answering a series of strange questions and being assessed, I was told I was about halfway to the pushing phase and placed in the delivery room. I was blown away at how quickly everything progressed. Before I knew it, several hours had gone by and everything was set for the baby to come out! I was so thrilled at the thought that it would not be much longer before we would see our beautiful boy! I started pushing around 4:30 am, and to my dismay by 6:00, nothing had really changed. The nurse got the Dr. to ask him his opinion and he told me exactly what I did not want to hear. My bones were too close together and not allowing our baby to come down like he needed to. I could try to continue pushing or have a c-section. Exactly what I did not want to hear. For the last 9 months I had this vision in my head of how the birth would go, but this was not at all what I had hoped for. They gave Jared and I a minute to decide what we want to do. I still can't believe the words came out of my mouth when I turned to Jared and said "let's just do it." I don't remember too much other then us looking at each other with tears streaming down our faces-happy because we knew it wouldn't be much longer before he was here--and I was sad because I knew the process would not be what I had hoped for, although the outcome would be perfect.

Each contraction from that moment on was torture as I knew they were "pointless" in a sense. It was about 20 minutes later and there I lay on the operation table, the anestesiologist became our new friend, including taking pictures of the event for us. The procedure actually took longer than I thought. I had expected them to start the surgery and to hear our little guys voice 2 minutes later, but time seemed to slow down as we waited in those moments. Though they stretched out, those moments between Jared and I were very intimate and sweet--I will always remember when we first heard his cry as Jared and I looked at him and back at each other. Such a time filled with love.

Caden Levi Amerine entered the world at 6:58 am at 7 lbs and 1 oz, and 21 inches long.

Jared brought him over right by my head and the three of us just sat there soaking in each memory. Caden just starred at us--we were blown away at how precious and perfect he looked. Anything I had ever imagined or dreamed was taken to a completly new level when we saw him. Little Baby Caden is such a gift from God-such a victory in our lives.

And so that is the story of how Caden entered the world--but the story of the victories God will continue to have in His life are still to come:)

~Angela M.

2011-07-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

When my Baby was born...

~Angela M.

2011-06-02T12:43:00.000-07:00

What's in a Name?

It was the day we had anxiously waited for. January 24th my husband Jared and I would be able to see our baby for the first time together at our 18 week ultrasound. I had visions in my head of what the moment would be like as we would watch our child squirming around-probably thinking about how much “it” already loved us For almost an hour we had the joy of watching our (as we later found out) son wave at us and move around to his hearts content. How perfect he looked in every way!

Our Dr. came into the room after about 20 min of waiting, as we expected to have him tell us we had a perfectly healthy growing baby and we could be on our way. However, the look on his face told us that we were going to be having a very different conversation than we had anticipated. The Dr. asked several somewhat strange questions and proceeded to explain that they had seen a cyst on our baby’s precious little brain. He said it could be something as simple as extra fluid in the brain as it was still growing, and could simply go away on its own…or it could be a serious genetic disorder.

In that moment, I became very conscious that I had several choices. I was reminded of a friend of mine, when he was diagnosed with cancer-his first reaction was to quote 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Contrary to my typical reaction, I found myself reminded of that verse “Be Joyful Always, Pray Continually, and Give Thanks in all Circumstances.” Remarkably as our Dr. continued to explain our different options, my mind was able to focus thankful prayers to the Lord (this makes me sound like a very spiritual person, however I assure you, this has typically not been my response to a difficult situation-I am a very good worrier).

We decided against having an amniocentesis done, knowing that regardless of the outcome, it would not change how we felt about the birth of our boy. We scheduled a follow up ultrasound 4 weeks later. I knew the next 4 weeks would either be the worst 4 weeks of my life, or that I could look back at it and marvel at all that God taught Jared and me. There were many times (too many to count) when I was tempted to feel sorry for myself, freak out, and worry about how we would handle everything—but God reminded me continually of that verse in 1 Thess. I had to make the decision to lift up my thanks when my temptations to worry would overtake my mind. This was not an easy thing for me to do as it seemed so contrary to my natural tendencies.

I desired to learn how to fully trust God, wondering what trusting God in this particular situation looked like. When we left the office, we both decided in the car that the best way we could trust the Lord would be to not google the genetic disorder or tell all our friends. Our best response was to pray, be thankful, and ask our immediate family to pray along with us. Whenever I felt anxiety or fear, I decided to combat those thoughts with more prayers of thankfulness for anything and everything I could think of. In those moments I knew if I truly believe in a God who parted the Red Sea, protected and cared for His people, and sent Jesus Christ to earth to live and die for my sins, I needed to believe that regardless of what the outcome was of the next ultrasound, God would fulfill every need we had. I could not believe in only pieces of the Bible. I needed to believe every part.

Our small group had been going through the book of Psalms during this period, and it was an amazing blessing to be reminded everyday of God’s many promises. It was amazing to have God speak to us through His word on a daily basis. Psalm 25:3 “No one who trusts in You will ever be disgraced.” And Psalm 20:5 “We will shout for joy when You are victorious and we will lift up our banners in the name of our God.” Were several of the verses that God sang over my soul.
4 weeks later, as we returned to the Dr, I knew that regardless of the outcome, God already had a victory in how He had softened my heart, and taught me to respond in a way that was honoring to Him.

In the next hour, I marveled at a God who was big enough to heal a cyst in a brain, while being small enough to touch a tiny little baby still inside my womb. Talk about God having a victory! I feel that even more importantly then seeing that God was powerful enough to heal our baby physically, was learning that God is trustworthy---He is faithful. His character does not change. Moreover, God is big enough to change my heart to learn to be more trusting. I have learned in a new way that my response while I’m waiting is many times more important then the outcome itself. And I am convinced that had the result not been what it was, God would still have already had a victory in my heart-and would provide us with everything we needed.

It was during this time that I asked God to give us a special name meaning…victory…God’s Victory kept flying out of the pages of scriptures to me. What an incredible joy it would be to be reminded of God’s victory every time I say his name! And so this is what we have done. Our beautiful precious boy who is a victory to the Lord’s credit. This is the story of our boy, and how God gave us his special name…to be revealed upon his arrival in just a few short weeks

~Angela M.

2011-05-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

Baby Amerine

How far along are you?
37 weeks today! Baby Amerine is now considered a "full term" baby which couldn't make me happier! It's so relieving to know he is developed enough to enter the world :)

How much weight have you gained?
Closing in on 30 lbs which is the most I wanted to gain! Hopefully it won't get much higher since I only have a few more weeks to go! I walk between 40 min to an hour almost everyday, and eat really well so I know I'm staying healthy.

How big is baby?
Probably at least 6 lbs, but it's all guess work. I am hoping the Dr. doesn't even give me an estimate because I know they can very easily be off by quite a bit, and I don't need to worry about his weight. He is what he is:)

How are you feeling?
Pretty good today, backache quite a bit, and contractions every now and then, but emotionally I'm feeling really good! The end is near and I know I am approaching my most uncomfortable days, so I'm prepared!

Are you sleeping?
Very sporatically. But I have a feeling my body is just preparing me what it will be like once the boy is here. Sleeping habits will change and I will have to find a new "normal".

What are your current cravings/aversions?
Chocolate anything has been sounding really good for the last few days:) But when does chocolate not sound good??

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
So much is going on outside of his little protected space to prepare for him, I wish he could see how hard his dad is working to get everything ready for him! We are currently finishing my parents basement so we can move in, so life is very very busy for Jared especially!

What are you thinking about this week?
Anticipating what going into labor will be like. I am very curious to see how my body will react. I'm praying I will go into labor on my own without being induced, but you just never know! So that's on my mind a lot. Also that this is my last week of work. Wow, life is about to change in a big way!

What are you Looking Forward To?
As weird as it sounds I'm relaly looking forward to figuring out our new normal for our family. I'm excited for this transition in life and I know it will be extremly different...but that's ok. I really can't wait till my brother and his family come out here for a month after the baby is born! What a wonderful wonderful time that will be!

~Angela M.

2011-05-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

36 weeks!!!

How far along are you?
36 weeks today:) Yikes the end is really approaching!

How much weight have you gained?
26 lbs as of my last appt. Our scale battery is dead, which I figure as of this point it's probably a blessing!

How big is baby?
Around 5 1/2 to 6 lbs according to the books. Hence the backache:)

How are you feeling?
Very tired the last few days...I can tell the end is near so that is a good thing!

Are you sleeping?
a LOT! The last few nights I slept for about 8-9 hours which is way more than normal for me! I think this baby is wearing me out!

What are your current cravings/aversions?
Nothing really in particular these days. I have not been very hungry recently=probably because the boy is taking up so much room.

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
He is almost fully cooked! If he were a computer that was being updated, he only has like 2% left to go:) I had my shower on Sunday and this boy has sooooo many adorable things!

What are you thinking about this week?
Trying to work as much as I can in the next 2 weeks--just preparing myself for labor and most of all for life with a baby...I still can not fathom what life will be like!

What are you missing?
Lots of stuff--like sleeping on my back. I'm trying to forget about the things I can't do and just cherish the moments I feel him moving around inside of me. The time will come soon when I will again be able to do all the things I miss:)

~Angela M.

2011-05-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

How far along are you?
34 weeks and 5 days

How much weight have you gained?
25 lbs--starting to feel scared of myself!

How big is baby?
Between 5 to 5 and a half pounds! A nice healthy weight:)

How are you feeling?
Today felt like a milestone in uncomfortability...which is not necessarily a good thing:( I just keep reminding myself I have about a month to go! And then our beautiful boy will have made it all worth it.

Are you sleeping?
Yes, for the most part. I have been waking up about 3-4 times a night to pee which is really fun:) I usually fall right back to sleep unless our boy is moving like crazy...which happens a few nights a week. But I do love having an active little boy!

What are your current cravings/aversions?
Still the Hot Cocoa, and nice fresh berries now that they are in season. Oh and some delicious Canada Dry Ginger Ale! Yummmmmm!!!

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
His lungs and kidneys are fully developed:) Yea! He will technically be "full term" in 2 weeks which is really hard to believe:) I can't believe he will be here before we know it!

What are you thinking about this week?
I'm so thankful that Jared finished up his Master's Degree this last week! I'm so so so proud of him, and I'm so thankful he was able to finish BEFORE our boy is coming! Jesus is sooo good! I'm thankful we can now get everything ready for baby!

What are you missing?
I miss feeling "normal". I am so thankful for this time in our lives. I know it will be over before we know it, so even through the uncomfortability is pretty high right now, I try to be as thankful as possible.

What are you looking forward to?
Holding our boy! Kissing his cheeks! Cuddling with him!

~Angela M.

2011-04-24T21:12:00.000-07:00

How far along are you?
31 weeks and 5 days

How much weight have you gained?
20 lbs--not fun

How big is baby?
About 3 and a half lbs or so according to all the books

How are you feeling?
Exhausted and starting to feel very uncomfortable...I guess that comes with growing a baby inside of you! He'll be here in about 8 weeks give or take so it's pretty normal to me that everything is starting to ache:)

Are you sleeping?
In the last few weeks I've actually been sleeping really well--I just never feel like I get enough!

What are your current cravings/aversions?
Hot Chocolate:) I have tried it from most of the coffee stands in town--I love it from Bean me Up espresso--hate starbucks cocoa--blech

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
Little baby boy is starting to pack on the pounds. His little body is just preparing itself to join us out here! A few weeks ago I made some stuffed owls for decor for his room which I am super excited about!

What are you thinking about this week?
I am constantly telling Jared---I can't believe he is going to be here so soon! This time is just flying by. I'm trying to get as much rest as I can now and also finishing up all kinds of things I need to do now.

What are you missing?
I'm missing running and working out hard. I also miss just being able to walk up a flight of stairs without getting out of breath!

What are you looking forward to?
Showing off our precious little miracle to our family and friends:)

~Angela M.

2011-04-10T21:10:00.000-07:00

How far along are you?
29 weeks 5 days--so close to 30!!

How much weight have you gained?
20 lbs---yikes!

How big is baby?
About 3 lbs-he'll be putting on about 1/2 a lb. every week.

How are you feeling?
Pretty good these days--It kind of depends on the day. I'm starting to get tired again-I guess that's the 3rd trimester for you:)

Are you sleeping?
Yes I sleep--how long is another story. I just figure God is preparing for what it would be like once the baby is waking me up in the middle of the night:)

What are your current cravings/aversions?
Cravings are mostly things I can't have these days-like regular coffee.

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
Baby Amerine is mostly developing his lungs, and putting on some weight:) All good things. He's just getting ready to come out into the world.

What are you thinking about this week?
Thinking about getting as much rest as possible while I still can:) Also thinking about our baby boy and praying about the man God will shape him to be.

What are you missing?
I'm really starting to miss just how my body normally feels like. Although I'm just trying to keep in mind that the pregnancy is only going to last for a few more months:( I'm trying to enjoy every moment of this pregnancy:)

What are you looking forward to?
Smelling the skin of the little baby boy and kissing his little face:) I'm also looking forward to dressing him in all the cute little outfits we've already gotten for him.

Random question:
Have you picked out a name?
Yes! We have his full name picked out...Froyo Bongo Amerine!!! Well that's my dad's nickname for our baby. But in all reality we do have his name picked out--it has a very special meaning for us, plus we just like the names:) In about 10 weeks everyone will know what it is!
~Angela M.

2011-03-05T22:26:00.000-08:00

How far along are you?24 weeks 5 days.

How much weight have you gained?14 pounds--My back is really starting to feel it!

How big is baby?
Close to 2 pounds--still so tiny:)

How are you feeling?
My back is not loving me right now. I am recalling anytime prior to pregnancy when I thought I was uncomfortable. The only thing remotely close to this is when I was having major back pains while running. Sigh.

Are you sleeping?
Yes-I'm never really sure how much I sleep--on average I've been waking up about 4-6 times a night just to get comfortable.

What are your current cravings/aversions?
Today I wanted some homemade biscuits:) I'm planning on making some this week!

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
In this next week his spinal cord and vertebrae will really be developing. His nose is becoming unplugged, although his eyes are still fused shut. He LOVES moving around, and I love it too:)

What are you thinking about this week?
We've been praying for our little guy a lot. It is so important to us that we display Christ in everything we do so our son will come to know Christ's love early on. The closer it gets the more desperate I feel on the guidance and love of God! Raising a kid is a scary thing!

What are you missing?
I miss not running out of breath after going up a flight of stairs. Oh lungs you are running out of space.

What are you looking forward to?
Facing my fears of being a mom.
Preparing a room for our baby.
Drinking coffee again.

Random question:
What is your favorite piece of maternity clothing?
Um hello...elastic waist pants! I can't believe I've been missing out on these things!
~Angela M.

2011-02-25T14:46:00.000-08:00

How far along are you?
23 weeks 3 days.

How much weight have you gained?

12 pounds-terrifying!!!

How big is baby?
A little over a pound! He's measuring almost a week big-which maybe means he will come a little early--one can hope!

How are you feeling?
I've been feeling uncomforable recently. With the added weight in the front, everything just hurts most of the time. Trying to do Yoga several times a week to help. Emotionally I'm doing great though!

Are you sleeping?
It depends on the night. I am waking up at least 2 times a night---I guess my body is just preparing me for what it will be like!

What are your current cravings/aversions?
Puppy Chow (or Muddy Buddies as some people call them). If you've never has it before you are missing out on one of the great joys of life. Chex cereal with peanut butter, melted chocolate chips covered with powdered sugar. Soooo good.

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
Our little BOY is growing and packing on the weight these days--which is a great thing! I've been continuing to score big time at the Other Mother quarter sale! Jared keeps telling me that people are going ot buy stuff for us, but I just can't help myself when it's only 25 cents!

What are you thinking about this week?
Overwhelmed with thankfulness for God's faithfulness-knowing that we have a healthy baby boy!

What are you missing?
Still missing running and also a delicious French Press of Guatemala Antigua...

What are you looking forward to?
Showing our guy off to everyone:)
Working out hard again-weird I know.

Random question: What is the weirdest name someone has suggested for you to use
My dad for some reason thinks our baby should be called Froyo Bongo. I rather like Marco Polo:)

~Angela M.

2011-01-16T19:12:00.000-08:00

17 weeks and counting:

One of my old roomates from Cali recently had a baby, and she kept this cute little update on her blog during her pregnancy that I just loved:) It was such a clever way to keep people who were interested updated on all the weird questions everyone wants the answers to. So I thought I would steal Carrie's idea-thanks friend!

How far along are you?
17 weeks 5 days.

How much weight have you gained?

5 pounds-scary!

How big is baby?
about half a pound, and about 5.5 inches long:)

How are you feeling?
I really feel great! I just can't complain. My energy levels have been up recently which is much relief to Jared and myself. My winter allergies have kicked in the last few days, but it is nothing out of the ordinary and some symptoms are starting to go away! Just trying to stay positive and beat the allergies naturally!

Are you sleeping?
Pretty good. I wake up 1-2 times to pee (which is my normal routine even when I'm not pregnant lol). I'm usually pretty uncomfortable by the time I wake up, so that helps me get out of bed.

What are your current cravings/aversions?
The only craving I've really had is Salt and Vinegar chips and a Frosty fron Wendy's every time we drive by one, but I'm not sure if that is a pregnancy thing:) The only aversion I have is the smell of this candle at my parents place. Good thing I'm not going to eat it.

What’s new for little Baby Amerine?
I just scored at a second hand store for baby clothes. They were having a quarter sale, so I got about 7 outfits and other random things for $2.40!! Not really getting much else until we find out the gender.

What are you thinking about this week?
Feeling overwhelmed at how much our lives will change--enjoying my moments of quiet--praying that God will help us to raise our child to love Him.

What are you missing?
I miss running. Sooooo much.

What are you looking forward to?
Smelling our little baby---holding our baby---watching Jared take care of our precious child.

Random question: What do you think it will look like?
I can't even imagine! I think our child will be easier to imagine once we find out the gender in a few weeks!!

~Angela M.

2010-12-29T21:15:00.001-08:00

New Years Blessing

I have not posted in quite some time: mostly because all I can think about these days is our little precious baby that will be born in June!!! We kept it a secret for a while since we were waiting to tell Jared's family in person.

So far, pregnancy has been a great experience for us! I really did not get sick much in a first semester--several of my friends have, so I feel like my slight nausea is nothing to complain about. Although the fatigue scale was like an 11 out of 10, I took advantage of the fact that this is the one time in my life where I can sleep as much as I want and not feel guilty about it.

We are already 15 weeks into the adventure--I'm relishing each quiet moment at our house knowing in about 6 months everything will change!!!

We have known for a few years now that we are going to adopt, and of course us being pregnant does not change that plan at all--it may just be a few more years before we start the process. We are thrilled to see the family the Lord is bringing together as we speak:)
~Angela M.

2010-11-29T11:10:00.000-08:00

My Favorite Time of Year

The month and a half before Christmas are my favorite of the entire year. I love the sounds and smells of the season. I love the red and green--the silly looking Santa's---multiple manger scenes---the Christmas Trees---the songs---the delight of a sip of hot cocoa after spending a few hours shoveling or sledding.

There is no other time of year like this one, and I love to embrace it for all it's worth. I feel particularly blessed this year as we already have over a foot of snow! Some people see this as a curse rather than a blessing, but I just can't help but marvel at the power God holds to completely cover creation, and the symbolism of Christ covering my sins and making my whiter than snow.

I'm hoping and praying that this Christmas season will yet again bring life long memories. I'm looking forward to playing in retirement homes as I did last year, bringing smiles to the faces of those who are often forgotten during the season.

Love most of all celebrating God, and the gift of His Son Jesus. As it says in the song I'm currently listening to:

How many kings, stepped down from their thrones?
How many lords have abandoned their homes?
How many greats have become the least for me?
How many Gods have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that has torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their sons for me?
Only one did that for me

Merry Christmas:)

~Angela M.

2010-10-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

Time seems to be a phenomenon to me.

It feels like it was just yesterday when Jared and I became no longer individuals--but a united couple...the "A-Team" as we like to refer to ourselves as. Wasn't it just a few weeks ago that all our wonderful friends and family were surrounding us and showering us with the blessing of joining us in our celebration? It seems like Jared was just promising to be with me as long as our earthly lives endure...

And yet--it was almost 4 years ago...wow.

In those 4 years, I have understood even more fully what a blessing Jared has been to my life. Not that I couldn't live without Jared, but without a doubt-I would never want to go through this adventure without him. It seems almost impossible to try to express what a joy this journey is. But it really all goes back to our loving Savior. Without Him-there would be no journey to have. No family. No friends. No purpose or joy.

Praise be to the God of all things good.

I remember journaling before Jared and I got married: I decided I did not want to be with anyone unless we were bettering the kingdom of God together more so than we were apart from each other. Then when I experienced the ministry Jared and I were able to do together, I knew it was an answer to prayer.

Thanks God for this gift.
~Angela M.

2010-08-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

Don't judge me, but I can not help but just LOVE "On the Road with Austin and Santino" This show is simply amazing, funny, and hysterical---even Jared enjoys watching it with me simply for the sheer laugh factor. ADORE.

~Angela M.

2010-08-16T22:34:00.000-07:00

Answered Prayer:

Have you ever really prayed for something? I'm talking about on your knees, practically begging, pleading for God's will to take place while you are waiting? That is where Jared and I have been the last few months. Since Jared completed his student teaching in May, he quickly began filling out application after application for Math Teacher positions. We began our process applying here in Spokane and over where my brother lives in Michigan, thinking surely something would happen with one of those jobs...May came and went, June came and went, and by the time July was over, we had applied all over Washington, some in Idaho, and over in Michigan. We went from praying everyday, to praying multiple times a day! I recall one particular day just over a week ago: I was working at Starbucks, and Jared had spent yet another day filling out applications. I am so confident that teaching is exactly where Jared is supossed to be, and I know he will be fantastic, but most employers don't let you put your wife as a reference;) That day, I felt like an Israelite...my prayer sounded something like this "Oh Lord, please let Jared feel like all his hard work and effort is paying off...He needs something...anything...I know he doesn't deserve anything, but he would be so great at serving You through a teaching job. More than anything Lord, we want what You want."
a few hours later, Jared called me with the news that he has been asked to interview for a middle school teaching job here in Spokane he had applied for several months ago. Several days later, he had the interview, 2 days after that, Glover Middle School offered Jared a full time teaching position.
Now what does this have to do with my prayer...I don't know, maybe not much in the realm of Jared actually getting the job, but what I do know, is that God brought me to a place of complete and utter desperation. It was a good place. I found humility in that place. I found that I could not fix everything for Jared. I
found hope and rest in no knowing.
God taught me so much in those desperation prayer moments. I'm so thankful that I feel we have truly grown and learned through this process. We know this job is a complete gift from the Lord and nothing done on our own strength. Jared will be a fantastic teacher, and I feel ready to embrace the times of "not knowing".

~Angela M.

2010-08-02T15:39:00.001-07:00

Several weeks ago my wonderful husband surprised me with a fun and exciting photo scavenger hunt--here are a couple of my favorites from the afternoon! All were taken in the lovely downtown Spokane...hopefully you can tell what we were trying to take pictures of!

~Angela M.

2010-07-12T16:33:00.000-07:00

Recovery and Celebration!!

Wow.

I just ran a marathon. A real true live marathon! The preparations in getting ready for the event have been such a long process...5 months of training, but much more then that mentally preparing. It has been a life goal of mine for a few years now to run a marathon, and to run it with my husband. Yesterday I accomplished that unbelievable goal. Unbelievable in the sense that I know with all my heart that I could not have done the race without God's strength. Running this race was an amazing way to connect with God--enjoying His beauty in people and in creation, and in the ability to push through the pain, even when I felt I could now take another step-I was reminded it is Christ's power IN me, living in me, working through me-to take me further then ever before.

Highlights of the Race:
Having my Parents there. I can not express enough how much it meant to me to have my parents there supporting us not only emotionally, but physically being there. At about mile 20, 24, and 25, my parents were there holding signs, cheering for us--telling us how good we looked (even though I'm sure we looked like Zombie's with concrete shoes). I have probably some of the very best parents in the entire world. No exaggeration.

Watching the Sunset over the Mountains:
Probably my favorite moment of the morning in terms of connecting with the Creator. I could not stop looking over to the side as the gorgeous rays of sunlight shattered the skies. "The Heavens Declare the Glory of God".

Seeing Jared and Daniel push through the pain:
I think worse than experiencing any physical pain myself, was seeing Daniel and Jared experience pain. Jared is always the encourager for me, and for one of the first times ever, I was the one being the encourager. And boy did they make me proud. Jared is one of the most amazing men I've ever met in my life--and being with him while I know he was going through excruciating pain, and still going was an amazing moment.

Finishing:
Nothing else to sum it up. You can actually see our finish here

Just type in my bib number: 20

~Angela M.

2010-07-04T13:58:00.001-07:00

1 Week to Go...

It's hard to believe that after about 4 or so months of training, the marathon is only 1 weeks away. I can almost feel the muscle and joint fatigue already! My 20 mile run earlier this week proved to go over better then I thought---I was even able to work a 4 hour shift at work an hour after I had finished running. The difficult thing about this week is actually the lack of running we will be doing. Short runs of about 4-6 miles with 1-2 days of rest somewhere in there.
I am so often reminded during the run that "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength". I'm sure that verse will be quoted more times then ever before next Sunday morning! In the meantime, resting, stretching and light running. I'm about to go out the door for my last "long run"--just 10 miles today. Never thought I would say I'm "Just" going to go run 10 miles!!
~Angela M.

2010-06-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

Countdown to the Marathon:

It's so hard to believe we are actually in the final days of marathon training...
Less than 3 weeks away!!! Jared, Daniel and I ran 18 miles yesterday, in perfect running conditions-60 degrees and overcast--and I could not believe how great it felt! What a relief that was. So far I'm feeling really good-minus the gigantic blisters on both big toes. Occaisionally I'll start to have hip pain after about an hour of running, but I've been trying to be diligent about icing them. Jared has been struggling with some knee pain, but we think it is probably his IT band, so hopefully we can get it under control. And we've gotten a hang of the whole hydration thing-we've got a water belt and every 20 min we walk for about 30 sec or so while we get a drink.
It took us just over 2 and a half hours. I know in the back of my mind I am hoping to finish the marathon in under 4 hours, although I also know it is best to not set a time goal for the first marathon. I know I will be happy just to finish! I'm super thrilled that my parents are both going to make the trip out to Missoula to cheer us on-Wow it will be so amazing to have them there to see us make that accomplishment. We've all got our hotel rooms, registration is complete, and running will start to taper off.

I'm so excited...we have actually started planning our next marathon for the fall!! We're open to suggestions-September or Octoberish
~Angela M.

2010-05-03T17:19:00.000-07:00

So Proud!

So much to be thankful for! I am really loving running these days-yesterday My mom, Jared, and myself all ran in Bloomsday-the local humongeous 12k race that over 50,000 of my closest friends were also running. My goal was to do it in less than an hour...and I just barely squeaked under the radar at 59 min and 46 sec! It even got me into the top 25 of all 29year old women who were racing:) Maybe I should do more of this running stuff!

~Angela M.

2010-04-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

Going Further Than Before:

So much is changing in us, and in me these days. Good changes/difficult changes all at the same time. It's been interesting to see the changes happen in every area of life all at once: physical, mental, and Spiritual.

Today I won a race. It was just a little 5k fun run to help raise money for the Arc of Spokane. Jared let me go past him at the finish line, a time of 22:17-a little slower then I was hoping for, but definitely much better then anything I have ever done before. Never in my life would I have expected to win any race...especially running. I've never considered myself an athlete until last year when we completed the triathlon. After years of casual running to maintain weight goals, I am baffled by how well I am doing, and more importantly how much I am enjoying it. I love reading about running, talking about it, sharing info, getting better, watching other people, and now I actually love doing it.

More importantly, God is just rocking our world these days. and I LOVE it. From reading Interrupted by Jen Hatmaker, to Serving God, Saving the Planet, to Make Poverty Personal...hardly a day goes by when my heart to being tugged closer and closer to what I think it is really supposed to look like. It has been excruciating to look at myself--deep in my heart. When I was in college at Spring Arbor University, I remember several friends of mine who had true compassion for the poor and needy in our community, and they did something about it. The way they lived was different from the way I did. Probably mostly in the way that their hearts were consistently in tune with God's. I think I have lived most of my adult life giving here and there with my time and resources, but my heart has not ached for the poor. I have not lost sleep over the fact that there are 144 million orphans in the world today. Until a few weeks ago. I feel like God has given me a new pair of eyes, that see so much more clearly then my old ones.

We are still figuring out all the changes this means for our lives--some are easy to make, some more painful (primarily because it means seeing my humanity)---but I love making them.

We know without a doubt this will mean adoption for us sometime in the future (once Jared gets a full time teaching gig). Hopefully not too far off in the future. We know this means letting go of many of the "american dream" ideas we never even realized we had. For me, it even means something as simple as trying to never use another disposable cup, having a birthday party in the park downtown and inviting the poor and needy to celebrate with us, and trying to find ways to make a difference with God's love.

So many other small and large changes will come, and I embrace them all.

~Angela M.

2010-03-23T20:17:00.000-07:00

Counting on God

Good Times coming up on Easter morning at Timberview! Be Prepared...
~Angela M.

2010-02-17T09:39:00.000-08:00

Upcoming Daniel Fast...

Once again the Daniel Fast is approaching so quickly! I can hardly believe a year has gone by since we last did this Spiritual Discipline. It was 3 years ago when I first heard about the DF (as we lovingly refer to it as). That first year of 21 days of eating nothing but Veggies, beans, lentils and fruit was rough to say the least. Jared and I had only been married a few months, and figuring out what to make for the two of us was increasingly difficult. Embarrassingly enough there were several dinner-time meals where I simply heated up a bag of frozen veggies. But we made it through.

Year 2, we knew much more of what we were getting ourselves into, and found many different options that tasted so delicious. We also ate most of our meals with the Crydo family which seemed to make everything more exciting.

Last year (which would be the 3rd if you're keeping track), 3 weeks did not seem quite long enough, so I added on another week, making it 4 weeks total of the DF.

So here we are entering the 4th year of the DF world. I'm really not concerned about what we will eat during the next 5 weeks. I seem to have a good handle on things that work and are very fulfilling (which can be challenging when you consider no meat, dairy, sugar, flour, pasta, caffine), but this year, I am feeling really challenged to break away from the food focus and to move onto the focus of the Holy Spirit in my soul. I do not want to be concerned about impressing anyone with my sacrifice of this food substituting-and I'm not even concerned with impressing God (have i ever really thought that was possible?? ugh...) Maybe this year as I empty myself of some things, the Lord can fill me up more then I thought possible. And not because I'm doing anything great, but hopefully just because I'll make more room, more space, more permission for free reign...that would be an awesome result and a successful DF for the year.
~Angela M.

2010-01-24T18:09:00.000-08:00

FOOD INC.

I just rented Food Inc.

My family isn't exactly enjoying all these crazy ideas I'm having (especially when it involves me forcing them to watch and read everything I'm filling my brain with). They think I'm weird enough with food and preventing excess trash etc. (but on the other hand, I have had to endure far too many hours this afternoon of stupid football games....ugh)

I already know how bad most of the food in our supermarket is, I can only imagine the truths this movie will bring to light on the subject! Review on the movie will follow-

~Angela M.

2010-01-23T11:48:00.000-08:00

I want change. I need change. I crave change in my heart and to spill out to my life.

After my most recent reads and taking the time to listen to the Lords stirring, I feel a change coming on, and I can tell it is one that will effect my daily life. Not just a fancy thing way far off in the distance. I'm still praying through some things but I know there are things I can do today to really and truly care for the poor and oppressed around the world. One of those things is making changes at work

I work at starbucks. We waste so much paper plastic electricity and dairy it is disgusting. But I'm not looking to get out of here. That woud be the easy thing to do and would not change anything. So today I went berserk. (who knew that was an actual word?) I created a list of all the things we waste, how we waste it, and created a list of ways to end our excess waste that only adds to the vicious cycle the American lifestyle is in. Some co workers love the idea. I'm sure others will not be too happy.

But today I felt like I made real change.~Angela M.

2010-01-22T11:19:00.000-08:00

My dad brought me back from his trip to Florida a few books to ruin my life. The aforementioned interrupted by Jen hatmaker and serve god save the planet by Matthew sleeth. I finished jens book in just over a day and am a quarter through the next. God has been moving and shaking some life changing ideas in my head for a while now and these books are just continuing to rip up my heart and brain to shreds.

I love it.

Angela M.

2010-01-21T12:23:00.000-08:00

How to be a Christian in America

For the last several years there has been a stirring inside of me--something that made it obviously clear to me that serving Christ and chasing the American dream did not go hand in hand. I know many other followers of Jesus who are caught up in that very same dicotomy. I don't want to live the same as the rest of the world who are pursuing personal gain, status, happiness, and more and more things. If the only difference between myself and someone who doesn't know the Lord is that I read my Bible and go to church, but nothing else in my life tells otherwise, then it's not really living the way Christ did.

So here I sit in the familiar place I've been in for a few years now...thinking, reading and praying about how life needs to change. Several new books I am reading, including "Interrupted" by Jen Hatmaker are helping my process through the turmoil in my head. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has had similar thoughts to mine.

It's time for a change.

~Angela M.

2010-01-16T19:19:00.000-08:00

Running Year:

One list I have made for the year is a list of runs...no not the kind in your stockings, or the kind after you've eaten too much Taco Bell...the kind where you train and beat your body until you stand at the starting line with your heart pounding, legs shaking, and you feel like you're going to have a case of either the runs or like everything you ate in the last 48 hours will come bursting out of your mouth...alas, I digress.

So here are my running goals for the year:
March-St. Patricks 5k run
May-Bloomsday 12k
June-Missoula Half Marathon 13.1 miles
Sept/Oct.-Full Marathon 26.2 miles

So there it is. Quite the challenge to myself. I'm sure trips to the Chiropractor will be more frequent, and I should have many stories to share somewhere between here and the finish line. I am starting to run with a new gals running group tomorrow and did a 3 mile run 3 times this week already. And in the meantime, I'm doing a bunch of reading and research to help prepare myself. Anyone care to join the list?

~Angela M.

2010-01-07T13:27:00.000-08:00

Baby It's Cold Outside:

Winter time is always a challenge for myself and probably many others in terms of exercising. I'm a runner--but I HATE running when it's freezing cold out, and hours are limited by sunlight. Also, since Jared and I are saving up every penny so we can pay of his Master's work debt free, we do not have a gym membership.

Problem: No running, biking, swimming, or gym.

Solution: Jillian Michaels

About a year ago I first found Jillian's workouts on comcast ondemand. I have since become an addict-
Here is my review on the one I do most often: Banish Fat Boost Metabolism (which is great because you don't need anything but a little space)

The workout begins with a little 5 min. warm up: (sidenote, one of the great things about this workout is that she gives explanations behind things like why you should not raise your hands above your heart while running etc.)

She then goes into 7 different circuits each with about 5-6 repeating moves.
The first circuit is kickboxing: kicking and punching, which I think is fantastic--it really gets your heart rate up there in a hurry.
2nd Circuit is balistic craziness: burpees, 180 jumps, 1 legged hops. By the end of this one I am usually way out of breath.
3rd circuit is callistetics, butt kicks, high knees, leg raises. Nice rest time during the leg raises.
4th Circuit is abs and butt all on the floor. Anything from supermans, to oblique crunches.
5th circuit It think is back to kick boxing stuff-more kicks and punches
6th circuit This is the toughest one and I just want to stop throughout the whole things, but I don't. Jump squats and a bunch of other mean stuff (like standing mountain climbers...ugh)
7th circuit is some punching, knee crunches, and jump rope.

Then there is a cool down and that is it! Beware, this workout is not for the beginner! It is extremely high intensity and if you are pretty fit, I have found you can always modify to make things more difficult. Part of what makes this so difficult is the fact that there is no resting at all. I highly recommend this workout to anyone who likes to workout at home or just needs a change of pace and needs something challenging!

The 2 girls doing the workout with her are disgustingly in-shape, and of course so is Jillian so it is a great motivation too:)

My favorite quote from Jillian in this workout is: "I want you to feel like you're going to die!"

~Angela M.

2010-01-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

Recipes for a New Year

Several friends have been asking for some of my healthy recipes, so rather then just send a bunch of e-mails, here they are for all to share:)

Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs with Edamame

1 ½ C. Brown Rice
1 ¼ Lbs. Ground chicken or turkey
¼ sweet onion
2 Tbsp. grated fresh ginger
2 Tbsp oil
1/2 lb snowpeas
1 C. frozen shelled Edamame
½ C. low sodium soy sauce
2 Tbsp Brown Sugar

Cook Rice according to pkg. Meanwhile in a large bowl combine meat, onions and ginger and shape into balls. Heat oil in pan-cook meatballs 10-12 min. Empty and wipe out pan, add meatballs and veggies, soy sauce and brown sugar-cook 2-3 more min.

Grilled Halibut Soft Tacos with Orange Salsa

1 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp. lime juice
¼ tsp salt and pepper
Halibut fillets (I use tilapia too)
8 6 inch corn tortillas

In a large Ziploc bag, combine oil and spices—add thawed fish and shake till covered. Place on grill and cook through. When cooled, use a fork to chop fish into small pices.

For salsa
2 Large Oranges
2 Medium limes
1 tsp cilantro
½ garlic clove
2 tsp. red wine vinegar
1 medium Serrano chile
1 Tbsp Olive Oil

Peel oranges and limes—remove all membranes—finely chop fruit. Mix with all other ingredients---pour over tacos!

Black Bean Soup

1 Tbsp Olive oil
½ yellow bell pepper (chopped)
1 Green Pepper
1 minced garlic cloves
1 lb. dry rinsed black beans
5 C. Water
3 C. broth
2 4 oz. can chopped green chilies
1 Tbsp cumin
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp salt
2 dried bay leaves
1 ½ C. salsa
1 can corn
½ Red Pepper
¼ chopped cilantro

In a crock pot add oil-turn on high-stir in onion-cook for 5 min. Add green papper, garlic, beans, water, broth, chilies, cumin, thyme, salt and pepper, and bay leaves. Cover and cook 7 and a half hrs on high. Remove bay leaves, add corn and salsa-cook another 30 min. Mash soup and top with peppers and cilantro.

Red Lentil Stew

3 Tbsp. Olive Oil
Medium sweet onion (chopped)
3 celery stalks
3 carrots
2 garlic cloves
1 Bay leaf
1 tsp Cumin
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 Can diced tomatoes
7 C. water/broth
1 ½ C dried lentils
3 potatoes
2 Tbsp vinegar

Heat oil in pan. Add onions, carrots, and celery-cook 5 min. Add garlic-heat 1 more min. Add bay leaf and all seasonings, tomatoes, potatoes, water, and lentils. Boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 45 min. Add vinegar just before serving.

Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup
5 C. broth
1 C. dried lentils
½ onion
3 sweet potatoes
3-5 minced garlic cloves
2 tsp cumin
½ tsp. tumeric
¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
½ c. cilantro
1 lemon

Peel and chop sweet potatoes. Combine all ingredients except lemon into a large pot. Bring to a boil. Bring down to a simmer for 20-30 min. Puree with food processor or hand blender. Add lemon juice and serve

Lentil Salad
1 ¼ C. Brown Lentils dried and rinsed
¼ C. red wine vinegar
3 Tbsp. Olive oil
1 Large cucumber (chopped)
½ C. chopped parsley
½ C. Chopped red onion

In a small saucepan, cover lentils with water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 min. Drain well. Wisk oil and vinegar together in separate bowl—add lentils and all ingredients to oil and vinegar mixture.

Lentil Taco Meat

¾ C. Dry lentils
¾ C. Brown rice
¼ chopped onion
2 minced garlic cloves
4 C. Water
2 boullion cubes
4 Tsp chili powder
1 tsp. cumin

Bring water to a boil, add all ingredients. Turn down to a simmer and cook till done (20-30 min). Stir well.

3 Bean Salad

¾ C. Red Wine/Pomegranate/Balsamic Vinegar
3 Tbsp. Olive Oil
2 Tbsp. parsley
½ tsp salt
1 can kidney beans
1 can garbanzo beans
1 can black beans
1 yellow bell pepper
½ onion chopped

Rinse and drain all beans. Combine in a medium sized bowl vinegar, oil and spices. Add beans, pepper and onion. Chill for 2 hrs before serving for best flavor.

Oatmeal pancakes

2 ½ C. oats
6 egg whites
1 C. soymilk
1 Tbsp. flaxseed
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 Tbsp. Applesauce

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Cook over griddle. Serve with honey or natural peanut butter.

Vegetarian Chili

2 Green Peppers
1 Red Pepper
3 Celery Stalks
½ Onion
¾ Cup Corn
1 Can diced tomatoes (or fresh)
½ Can tomato paste
½-1 Cup of Water
1 Can Black Bean
1 Can Kidney beans
1 Can White Bean
1 tsp Chili Powder
Salt and Pepper

Chop up vegetables, combine all ingredients into Crock pot-Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours!

~Angela M.

2010-01-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

Operation 6 months No Sugar Underway:

January 2, I started my second annual fast from sugar. No I am not going extreme, I know there is sugar in just about everything from bread and pasta to yogurt, but I have cut out all sweets-ice cream, cookies, sweet breads, candy, juice with added sugar etc. I do use honey and agave as a replacement in oatmeal, and some recipes. (side note, I NEVER use artificial sweetners---they are worse for your overall health and are proven to have negative side effects such as CANCER!)

Last year, I went from January 2 until April 22 on my birthday. This year I want to push myself to do 6 months (for those of you who may have trouble with the math that is until June 2). The first few days as always difficult-especially since I work at starbucks, but I always notice great benefits from having more energy, sleeping better, and losing weight. It's pretty awesome to say "this double chocolate brownie with ice cream and fudge is not worth my health" (well sometimes it is;)

Taking out sugar from my diet also makes the transition to the Daniel Fast we will do for the lent season easier.

Anyone who wants to join me in this venture please let me know! I know sometimes it seems impossible, but I love being in control of my own body---you can be too:)!!!

~Angela M.

2010-01-02T18:47:00.000-08:00

New Year New Post

It has been a loooong time since my last blog. Life has been busy-much has changed, especially through our Whirlwind Christmas Season.

Grandma and Grandpa Teal passed away last week. We actually got the call 8:00 am on Christmas morning that Grandpa went to be with Jesus. My poor dad spent almost all day on the phone with airlines trying to work things out for all of us to get to Niagara Falls for the funeral---the most touching moment of the day for me was when a family friend gave a generous gift to me by purchasing my plane ticket for me----an unbelievable gift.

We all left Sunday morning and arrived in Detroit to stay with my brother and his family. Drove to Niagara Falls on Monday. Alex and I walked up to see Grandma in her room at Bella Sr. Care---Jared and Becky stayed with the kids downstairs...Grandma was hardly conscious. We talked to her for a bit and then sang How Great Thou Art to her. I could hardly sing most of it. I just had a feeling that would be the last time I saw her. We kissed her on the forehead, said I love You, and left the room. It wasn't more then a few hours later at Grandpa's viewing that my Grandmother slipped from this earthly world into the heavenly realms.
2 days later, we held a double funeral for both of them---it could not have been more fitting. Sad of course, but somehow very comforting to know my grandparents have new heavenly bodies and are in a place of no more tears, sorrows, or pain.

We arrived back home New Years Eve--a Whirlwind of a week.

So now here we are back in Spokane--resting and recovering. Mourning and Celebrating. Enjoying a new year and waiting with anticipation for what the Lord has in store.

~Angela M.

2009-11-20T13:19:00.001-08:00

Coffee Dream Date:

So the other night, Jared and I were trying to come up with a list of fun dates we could do. One at the top of my list (probably because it's actually in our budget), is a coffee tasting date. We take our own mugs and go around to every coffee shop we can find-order a tall coffee, share it, taste it, and take notes to compare. I think it sounds like a blast, plus then you could stay up all night partying with all that caffeine in your system!!! I hope we can go soon!

~Angela M.

2009-11-18T10:39:00.001-08:00

Singing in the Season-

I love Christmas. More then any other time of year---I just feel happier, everything smells better and looks prettier---

Let's not forget about the best part of the holidays---

The Music.

Each year I start listening to Christmas music towards the end of October. I know people think that is strange, but I just think there are far too many wonderful songs, and a month of listening to them doesn't do them justice. In fact, I think Christmas is such a wonderful season, I don't understand why anyone would wait until after Thanksgiving to celebrate it!!

This year, I've decided to celebrate in a slightly different way then I previously have. You see, my grandparents over in Niagara Falls ONT live in a retirement community, and every time I go to visit, they always want me to sing, not just for them, but for their friends down the hall. Since I can not sing for them, I've decided to take to the retirement communities of Spokane--volunteering my love of Christmas carols for those who may not have anyone around them who can stop by and share God's love with them. I know I appreciate every person who can do that for my grandparents.

This morning I've been in contact with many different places in town and have been met with such a joyful response from those running the activities. I'm so excited to celebrate the season in this way!
~Angela M.

2009-11-01T08:36:00.001-08:00

My Work Costume: Venti---the next American Gladiator (name thanks to my sister Becky:)

NO ONE else from work dressed up! They missed out!

~Angela M.

2009-10-30T19:17:00.000-07:00

Costumes, or closer to Reality???

This Halloween, I get to wear 2 different costumes--by day (at Starbucks) I will be an American Gladiator---by night, a ninja. Both are 2 jobs I have already considered doing---maybe I should look into it---
~Angela M.

2009-10-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

Fa la la la la la la la la

Well it has already started...the search for new and wonderful Christmas songs! Now I am completely obsessed with Christmas songs in particular, and I enjoy listening to them from about October until January---some people think the "Christmas Spirit" including movies, music and decorations should only last between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, but I disagree. It has always been one of my favorite times of year, and I want to celebrate it as long as possible!!

One of my most recent finds of a fantastic new Christmas song is:
Hallelujah by Darlene Zsech (or however you spell it)

and I just heard
Sing by Josh Wilson which was also pretty powerful!

Anyways, I'm always interested in hearing what other people are finding---anyone find anything interesting???

Angela M.

2009-10-23T16:38:00.000-07:00

Celebrating 3 wonderful undeserving years!!!! This weekend we finally get to have our anniversary celebration and I could not be more excited! I look forward to many many wonderful years ahead of us---and I can't wait for Jared to surprise me tomorrow!!!

~Angela M.

2009-10-19T21:40:00.001-07:00

Almost 3 years ago....

~Angela M.

2009-10-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Carving

Jared's pumpkin is the really cool one--he actually free handed that puppy--no stencils for him.

His reaction when he saw my finished product?

"Love? What does that have to do with halloween?!"

~Angela M.

2009-10-09T16:16:00.000-07:00

New Hobby:

I decided a few weeks ago that knitting would be my new hobby in life. I don't know why, but I just think it sounds like a fun way to make nice things for other people in a fairly inexpensive way. Today I went to JoAnn Fabrics and bought a few thingys of yarn (I should probably learn the technical term for everything) and my aunt Judy is going to teach me how to knit sometime in the next week--possibly after church on Sunday! I'm so excited to start a new hobby! I'll post pictures of my progress along the way!

~Angela M.

2009-10-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

When Seasons Change:

One of my favorite times of year is during the seasonal change...especially when summer turns to fall. The air smells cleaner, the leaves turn the most amazing shades of red, orange, and yellow, and it reminds me of that wonderful time of year almost 3 years ago now that Jared and I made a covenant before the Lord and all our friends and family to love and honor each other all our lives long.

Last week we were in California for Jesse's (Jared's best friend) wedding. As we went through the process of helping with all those fun details that can not be done until the last minute, I was reminded of all the changes that have occurred in our lives since our own special day---it is amazing how much our love has grown! Last night we were up late just talking about if we are "normal" because we love to spend every moment possible together! (really, we would spend all day every day together if we could)

As I look ahead at all the new seasons of life we will continue to go through, the thing I am most concerned about is if I am continually growing and changing in my character, in who God wants me to be. I so desperately want my life to make a meaningful difference for God's kingdom--in the big and little things. So as the seasons do change---so should my heart.

So my prayer this season's change...Lord change my heart. Transform my soul. Make me into something new today. Make my heart like Yours.

~Angela M.

2009-09-24T07:48:00.000-07:00

Celebrating A Hero:

It was one of my dearest friends/hero/amazing woman of God birthday yesterday! Mary Crydo turned 30 yesterday (again):) She is such a special person in my life and has taught me so much about being a woman of God (though I have a long long way to go!) Mary is married to Mark who is a Lead Pastor at an awesome church in Portage MI. She and Mark have 3 of the most amazing kids in the world---which only attests to what an awesome job she has done as a mother! When I look at how they turned out it really inspires me of the importance of being a mom and what a difference it can make in this world. Mary is also a cancer survivor--several years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer, but now after surgery and much prayers--BOO YA!! cancer is gone!!!
Mary also inspires me because she is a runner. This may seem silly, but Mary has really never been a runner. She has been a walker-especially after having cancer. Mary and I would meet up at Lifestyles and walk together on the treadmills (it was FREEZING outside)-we would talk and pray together. Pretty soon, Mary who used to tell me she could never run, started walking for 5 min, running for 1 min...for an hour. Not much later, she was running 5 min and walking 1! Now Mary calls me up the other day to tell me she just ran 7 miles!!!! WOW!!!
Mary has poured her heart out for the Lord's Kingdom time and time again. She is a prayer warrior, spending lots of time connecting her heart to that of the Father. She gives so much of her time, energy and joy to all those around her. I just LOVE that she is one of my closest friends and find it to be such a blessing in my own life. We have prayed together, lived together, dyed our hair together, cried together, laughed and laughed and laughed together, worked out together, run together, worked like Huskies together, and made Daniel fast food together!
Thank you Mary for inspiring me most every day. Your character is challenging and encouraging! Happy Birthday to my Hero!
~Angela M.

2009-09-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Finding the Athlete in Me:

I know I know it's not proper grammar...but it's how I feel these days. Just a week and a half ago Jared and I completed our first Triathlon---which I've done several posts about. We decided a few days later we would do the Spokane half marathon, which is 13.1 miles of running!!! Last week we went pretty light since we were recovering from the Triathlon, and on Sunday we went the farthest I've ever gone before, 8.8 miles! It felt so great to be accomplishing something I never knew I could do. Today I decided to use the treadmill at Oz Fitness to help get my cadence a little less then 8 and a half minute miles. I ran for an hour and did 7.2 miles---although I was SOOOOO bored on that stinkin treadmill...nothing to look at but the tv screens which were way to far to even see, and when running on a treadmill I don't dare lose focus. I do not want to be that person who falls off the back!

Tomorrow I will do another run for about an hour or so. This weekend when in California we will do another long run-probably 10 miles! It will be another break through for me!

What a blessing to be healthy enough to do this kind of thing--I am so so thankful and try to really enjoy the ability and strength the Lord has blessed me with during the time spent outdoors running running running.

Step after step I remind myself...relax your upper body... get a slightly higher kick...relax your breathing...let everything go...just enjoy the run...it's all a mind game...turn off your mind...your body is strong enough...you ARE an athlete...thank you thank you thank you Lord...don't trip!!!
~Angela M.

2009-09-15T14:38:00.000-07:00

The Half

As Jared and I spend the week recovering, I can't help but think about my next form of personal torture to put my body through...there is a Spokane Half Marathon on Oct 11...less then a month away!! It's obviously twice the amount of running that we did this weekend, but I KNOW my body can handle it...and it's only a $35 entry fee...why not while we're still reaping the benefits of the last few months of training???
~Angela M.

2009-09-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Our First Tri...

Wow. I can't believe the Triathlon is actually over! What an amazing day and experience it was!

We woke up at 5:00-which wasn't too bad for me since I often wake up that early for work-but Jared had a difficult time getting out of bed! Praise the Lord I actually slept really well too! Our stuff was already packed, so after getting dressed, making eggs and toast, and loading our borrowed bikes, we were ready to go (a little later then anticipated which was a bummer)

We arrived at the race site around 6:10 by the time we unloaded our bikes and walked over there. Most everyone was already there, so we had to put our bikes toward the back and really felt rushed especially after waiting 10 min to use the "honey bucket"! By the time all was said and done I only had 15 min to set up my transition area and get my wet suit on! I would definitely get there about 30 min earlier next time!

The men were first to get in the freezing cold 58 degree water at 7:00--They swam to the middle of the lake and started at the sound of the air horn--I of course cheered nice and loud for Jared--which I'm sure he heard:) As soon as they were off, us women entered the water...yikes it was soooooo cold! Several people actually got hypo-thermia and were taken away by ambulance! I was unprepared for the air horn to go off, so I was taken by surprise when it did. The water was extremely shallow and Jared and I both scraped our hands on the bottom multiple times!! The swim was ok over all--not great and not bad. When I got towards the end I was just so grateful to be done! It took me a few minutes longer then usual, but whatever. As I ran up to the transition area, there was my handsome husband waiting for me cheering me on:) What a great boost that was!

After warming up enough to step out of the wet suit, Jared and I took off on our bikes-we could tell we were behind the majority of people (due to my slower swim), but we had such a fun bike ride together. We were able to talk and laugh through the 24.8 miles together and encourage a lot of people along the way--we feel like we made a lot of friends today!

Getting off the bike and switching to running was WEIRD!!!! Holy Moley my legs felt like jello! Fortunately I've run 6.2 miles many times, so I wasn't too concerned. The first 3-4 miles were quite enjoyable-we prayed aloud together for our church service that was about to start, and for some other churches, and talked about how much we had to use the bathroom:) But by the 5th and 6th mile, I just wanted to be done! My knee, hips, and back all started hurting but I knew we were in the home stretch! **side note, we actually passed quite a few people on the run which felt fantastic!**

Jared was such a wonderful encourager the whole way through---constantly telling me how proud of me he was. What a great man I'm married to!

As we came through to the home stretch, they announced our names over the loud speaker "It looks like we have a husband and wife team here-Jared and Angela Amerine!" Jared grabbed my hand and was busted out those last few hundred yards together---what a powerful moment! I almost broke down in tears at the end---just so grateful for the strength and mental capacity the Lord gave us, and the blessing of doing something so wonderful with my amazing husband!

Thank you Jesus!!!
~Angela M.

2009-09-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

Feeling Stuck...

Today is one of those days where I just feel STUCK.

A few weeks ago I had a job opportunity to long term sub for a music classroom at a local middle school. I of course jumped at the opportunity and was honored the teacher requested me.

Today I went to the classroom to meet the teacher and check out the classes, only to find out the district won't allow me to long term sub because I do not have my "music endorsement".

I never would have thought I would be at this place--I've had 5 years experience as a youth pastor---I have an undergrad degree in Elementary Ed., and a graduate Degree in Worship Leadership...and I just can't seem to get anywhere---how is this even possible???

Today is a day that requires much praying and soul searching for me--I want to make the most of this time I have to grow, study, lead, change, be a world changer...I just need God's eyes to see how that will happen...
~Angela M.

2009-08-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

New Healthy (almost organic) Banana Muffin Recipe

We had a bunch of old bananas that I wanted to make into banana bread minus the sugar and nasty flour and butter: I found a recipe and tweaked it a bit and LOVED how the muffins turned out! Jared even took some to work and his co-workers want the recipe--here it is!

3 ripe bananas
1/2 C. Shredded Zucchini
1/4 C. Shredded Carrots
1 egg slightly beated
1/4 C. Honey
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp. Baking Powder
1/2 C Applesauce ( or maybe it was a 1/3 C...)
1 1/2 c. Whole Wheat Flour
1/4 C. Flaxseed
Raisins (optional)

Mash up bananas and mix with carrots and zucchini.
Add egg, honey and vanilla.
In a separate bowl combine dry ingredients
Add Applesauce to dry ingredients
Fold dry ingredient mixture into banana mixture--add raisins
Bake for 18ish minutes at 375!!! Boo ya!!!
~Angela M.

2009-08-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

An Ode to My Shorts:

On our most recent trip to California, my lovely mother in law decided to take us on a mini shopping spree much to my surprise. She insisted on buying me a new outfit for working out etc., which I actually really needed. So she got me these cute pink shorts and matching workout shirt and 2 new sports bras-all from the wonderful store-Target (please say with an accent).
Upon returning home, Jared made a funny comment about how now I could get rid of my yellow shorts which I've had since I lived in california 4 yrs ago--I knew they didn't bother him...but I thought to myself "self, it's time to get rid of the bright yellow shorts that you only bought because they were on clearance for $3."
So as I was unpacking my things back home, putting my new shorts away, I saw a glimpse of my yellow shorts (kind of hard to miss) and decided it was now or never. I grabbed them, walked down the stairs and headed for the garbage bin in the garage--I knew if I put them anywhere else I might be tempted to get them back out!!!

Farewell my dear shorts! You have been so good to me! Thank you for being so bright so that people could always see me running down the road with plenty of warning. You have traveled so many a road. You will be missed greatly!!!! (tear)
~Angela M.

2009-08-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

Training Days-

So I know most of my recent posts have been about running, swimming and biking--anything regarding our triathlon training--and I guess it's because it is such a huge and important part of my life right now.

This week marks about the 3rd or maybe 4th week of serious training we have done for the triathlon. It has been so hot outside recently most of our training has been done in the gym at OZ. Training consists of usually biking first, running, and then swimming--depending on the day and how I'm feeling. Sometimes I'll focus on one of the legs of the race specifically and do some lifting as well. Swimming happens almost everyday since that is my weakest, or I guess segment I'm most concerned about. Things for the most part have been going extremely well-last week I hit a wall--I had over-worked myself and could hardly pedal my bike, it was really strange. So I took 2 days off over the weekend and yesterday I felt great again!

We've got 6.5 weeks left to train and we're hoping to go to the race site and do some swimming in the river and using the actual trail we'll be on--I know swimming in the lake will be MUCH different then swimming in the pool!

I'm so nervous and excited all at the same time to make such a huge accomplishment in my life, knowing that it is only by the strength of the Lord it is able to happen!

~Angela M.

2009-07-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

My Running/Biking Playlist:

Bonito-Jarabe DePalo
You Are Good-Israel Houghton
Da Le Yaleo-Santana
My God-Hillsong
Smooth-Santana
Make It Glorious-Tommy Walker
Sunday Mornings-Maroon 5
You Found Me-FFH
You Are Here-Need To Breathe
Irene-Toby Mac
How Sweet It Is-Michael Buble
No One Like You-David Crowder Band
Take My Hand-Shawn McDonald
Revolutionary Love-David Crowder Band
Sway-Michael Buble
I'm Not Alright-Sanctus Real
Save the Last Dance-Michael Buble
Everything About You-Sanctus Real
Let God Arise-Chris Tomlin
This Love-Maroon 5
Filled with Your Glory-Starfield
Canned HeatJamiroquai
Clocks-Coldplay
Your Grace is Enough-Chris Tomlin
Love Addict-Family Force 5
Crazy Little Thing Called Love-Michael Buble
Free-Shawn McDonald
Beautiful Day-Sanctus Real

I-Pod. Don't Leave Home Without It.
~Angela M.

2009-07-15T19:49:00.001-07:00

It's Official:

I just did it. I registered myself and Jared for the Spokane Triathlon...Holy Cow!!!!!!!!!! There is no turning back (not after the registration fees!) and I am excited...but mostly nervous!!!! We have 9.5 weeks to get prepared for the race-and so far the training is going really well. Today was the first day it actually felt do-able. You can check out the race maps and everything at http://www.spokanetriathlon.com/

Sept 13th...come cheer us on if you want!!!

~Angela M.

2009-07-12T22:42:00.000-07:00

From the Rising of the Sun to the setting of the Same...

I love a wonderful weekend alone with my Savior and my husband. I love enjoying the Lord's creation--He is amazing amazing amazing--I love Him more and more everyday.

~Angela M.

2009-07-09T21:35:00.000-07:00

Triathalon Training...Part 3 now in place

So here Jared and I are on the road to the Spokane Triathalon on Sept 13, and we finally started the 3rd component tonight: Swimming.

Now I go swimming every now and then, but not this kind of swimming. We're talking lap swimming---something I have not done since probably 8th grade or maybe before then. And in case you didn't know my age, that was about 14-15 years ago!!! And I was never that good at it.
Jared on the other hand is like a fish in the water! I knew he was on the swim and water polo teams in high school, but he impressed me so much tonight--it was like Michael Phelps in the pool breaking a new world record!!!!
Needless to say, tonight was tough. Just when I start getting confident in my running abilities, I learn just how difficult swimming the 1500 meters will be...
Not to mention the 24.9 miles and 6.1 mile run after that!!!

September 13th-bring it on!!!
~Angela M.

2009-07-02T09:28:00.000-07:00

Let Your Conversation be Seasoned with Salt...

This morning my mom was re-telling us the story of her trip to Wal-Mart yesterday, which sounded a lot like trips I have taken to that store many times as well as trips to Winco...

The trip to Wal-Mart seemed to be a family affair, as there were many parents with multiple children, and she said she was just appaulled with how many parents were yelling at their children-full on yelling at them in the store, parking lot, anywhere really. This of course reminded me of a recent trip to Winco where Jared and I overheard a young mother telling her 8 year old son to "get the f*** of my purse!".

There is something really disgusting about our culture, parents yelling at their children, kids screaming back at them...people are just creating a viscious cycle of dis-respect and just disgusting behaviour! Now I know that I am not perfect and have said many unkind things in my life, however, my parents instilled in me that there are certain things you say and don't say to others, as well as how the tone in your voice portrays messages to everyone around you. Our culture needs lessons on how to talk respectfully to others FAST!

I believe all these stupid reality TV shows where the contestants feel the need/right to scream at others in order to get what they want is not helping the state of our culture. We are simply teaching the viewers at home that it is normal and acceptable to not have respect for others.

I believe it is perhaps best spoken of in Matthew 12:34 "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks."

~Angela M.

2009-06-28T22:20:00.001-07:00

My Summer Movie Highlight:

Of the many movies coming out this summer, there is one I am looking forward to the most--My first year out of college, a friend of mine forced me to watch Harry Potter, he was a pretty hard core fan-he had read the books that were in print, and loved the movies. After making fun of him many times I finally sat down and watched the first 3 which were out at the time.

And now 6 years later I have read all 7 books multiple times, and own the first 5 movies...and watch them frequently. I love the books-really fun reading--extremely entertaining, and the movies are great non-thinking kind of movies. You better believe I will be at the theater opening night with my wand and Hogwarts Badge on:)

~Angela M.

2009-06-21T17:05:00.000-07:00

Escaping the American Dream

As many of you know, Jared and I love getting rid of "stuff". When we moved out here we literally only took what we could fit into 2 cars. And we couldn't feel any better about it--it was a difficult and long process at the time, but it was also extremely freeing!!!

Once a month or so we receive a "Compassion" magazine from compassion international through which we sponsor a wonderful boy James. In this months magazine, there was an awesome article about "escaping the american dream". The article spoke of a christian man who was very well off, owned a sports car and a really nice humongeous home...and one day he decided to live with less, sold the sports car and bought a 1993 toyota camry, and downsized to a house half the size. You can join the club and get more info at www.junkycarclub.com

It's obviously not for everyone, but with loving my very freeing feeling of not owning much stuff, I LOVE the idea:)
~Angela M.

2009-06-21T16:55:00.000-07:00

New Post for a New Day

Today is June 21st. My brother Alex is 30 today--it's Father's Day, and also the 1st day of summer. Why it chooses to be 57 degrees and rainy on the 1st day of summer I'll never know. Father's Day-we decided to go with the golf outing as a gift for my dad, so it looks like Thursday will be golfing galivanting! (hopefully it won't be 57 then).

Oh ya, and my brother is 30 today. Which is really weird. really.
You know when you're a kid and you just feel like you will always be a kid? Well I guess I just always thought we would be kids...and then teens...young adults...young married couples...and here my brother Alex is, married for 8 years now with 3 kids to his credit (the best sister in law and niece and nephews anyone could ask for by the way). and now he is 30. Which means we are not kids anymore (in case the marriage and kids thing didn't give it away already). The one truly great thing about getting older that you don't always get as a youngster is you learn to really appreciate your siblings, or in my case, sibling-singular. Alex and I always played together as children and had lots of fun, but I really do enjoy all the laughter and friendship that we have now. As scary as it is to get older, I embrace the changes that it brings with it.

Happy Birthday Bro. Happy Father's Day Alex and Dad. And Happy 1st Day of Summer everyone.

~Angela M.

2009-06-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

Our New Hobby

We LOVE rafting down the river! And this last weekend we got to ride down with 8 of our fantastic friends---and boy was it ever an adventure!!! The police in Spokane are saying the river in dangerous and the water is really cold, but we disagree. The only thing that made the rafting somewhat scary was the massive construction they are doing on the Barker bridge. We had to get out of the river and then walk about 2 miles with all our gear until we could put in again! But we loved it! Can't wait to go again soon.

(as you can tell, we like to have Jared do all the grunt work, I just sit and look pretty)
~Angela M.

2009-05-28T17:11:00.000-07:00

A Lesson Well Learned:

So whenever I'm running or biking, I never want to take my cell phone with me because I have no place to put it, and I'm like "I don't need it".

Today I went for a nice long bike ride for my workout since I've been waiting to run for another day to help my ankle heal from last week. Jared and my parents knew I was going for a ride, and I knew I would be getting home before Jared so I didn't think it made sense to even try to bring my phone.

I went on a lovely ride down midway road, and over to the little spokane road-exploring through side streets etc. I did some serious biking, because I believe a workout should be insanely intense (see previous post) and because I'm crazy. Just over half way through my bike ride, I discovered this new little park right on the little spokane river, and I thought to myself "oooo, I should ride down there and check it out!" So i did. I went through the grass to the river. Looked at it, and then decided it was time to continue on my journey, especially since I knew I had the dreaded wandermere hill to climb...(it's a looong uphill rd. for those who don't live around here). When I left the park, I noticed a stick wedged in my tire, so I pulled over and removed the stick...only to immediately hear a hissing sound "oh crap, i popped my tire and I'm like 2 miles from home!". I decided to go as far as I could on my bike before the tire went completely flat (which was about .15 miles). Then I started my ridiculously long and strenuous walk up the stupid road with my stupid bike.

Did I mention it was 85 degrees outside???

I finally made it home. Next time, I am taking water and my phone. Lesson learned.
~Angela M.

2009-05-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

Drive Thru etiquette

So after working at Starbee's for almost a year now, and spending the majority of that time in the drive thru, I have decided to create a list of Drive Thru etiquette---trust me, there are many people who really need to see this:

-When arriving to the speaker box, let the person finish their little schpeal-they are supposed to offer certain "promotions"

-Please speak clearly and just a bit louder then normal. Often times there are people speaking into the other ear of the person taking the order--or a jack hammer if they are doing construction next door.

-It is helpful (but not necessary) if you have your money ready

-If the person taking your order asks you to repeat it, they do speak english, they just need to hear it one more time. You'd be surprised to know how easy it is to get orders mixed up.

-When you pull up to the speaker box and only say "hello, I'll have my usual"--they CAN NOT SEE YOU. If you do not identify yourself, and the person taking your order does not identify themselves as a psychic, please don't expect them to know your order.

-When there is a new person at the window then you have seen before, please do not ask them "where is the A team?" (that happened to me today...thanks)

-When picking up your order-go ahead and take the time to taste your drink to make sure it is what you want. I would rather re-make a drink then have you pay for something that you didn't want.

-A smile and a positive attitude can make the day of a drive thru worker!

There is my short little list. I'm so grateful for my experience working at Starbee's! It has really opened my eyes and shown me to be Jesus even more in this world.

~Angela M.

2009-05-23T10:05:00.000-07:00

Minor Setback...

As previously mentioned, Jared and I are training for a half marathon on July 12 in the big city of Missoula Montana--I'm really really looking forward to it. I've been running as well as doing my Jillian Michael's workout videos.

Those of you who have been my roomate, or have ever worked out with me know that I workout like there is no tomorrow. I don't believe in working out without sweating like crazy and feeling like I have nothing left at the end. Such was my workout 2 days ago with Jillian Michael's Boost Metabolism video. Everything was going really well-good strong workout, and then I guess I just lost my focus and completely rolled my ankle outward with all my weight on it, and heard many cracks in the process. It did not immediately hurt an I could still walk on it, so I tried not to think too much of it-though I knew I had never done anything like that to my ankle before. Yesterday it was a little tight but nothing I could not handle, and then last night Jared and I went for a long bikeride downtown, and I thought to myself..."hmmm, my leg is kind of tight" and I reached down to touch my ankle to find it was swollen bumpy and bruised! Last night I elevated the ankle and tried to stay off of it for the evening, and I iced it already today. My fear is that there will be a long recovery time or that I hurt it more then I originally thought! I have heard horror stories about ankle injuries that stick around for a long time, and I just don't think I could handle that!

I guess I'll see how it is doing in the next few days and will try to find the nurse that goes to our church tomorrow!

~Angela M.

2009-05-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

Blog Updating

Every time I go to my blog to check and see who on my list has updated their blog, I'm like "Why hasn't anyone updated their blog!?!" and then I realize it's been a good week since I've updated mine!!! (oops!)

Last week was a big week for us. It was the season finale of Biggest Loser and LOST, so needless to say, we had a few late nights at our house. Now I'm not a TV junkie and I know I have wasted waaaayyy too many hours in front of the stupid thing, but LOST is practically real life. If you have never watched the show, I encourage you to find someone who owns season 1 and borrow it, or rent it. Jared and I did not start watching until season 3 had started. I remember the day well...it was the day after Christmas, and Jared and I had bought Alex (my bro) a LOST season 1 puzzle, and Becky (my sis in law) had bought him a season 2 LOST puzzle. We worked with him to put them both together, and when they were complete, we had so many questions about all the different scenes that compiled together to create the puzzle...things like "what the heck is a hatch?" "what's the big deal with the numbers 4 8 15 16 23 42?" "Where is the island?"
By the time my brother explained everything, Jared and I asked to borrow their season 1...and then we watched and watched and watched the show! It would be 1:30 in the morning and I'd ask Jared...just one more episode before we go to bed please!!!...and we would.
With only one more season to go I still have so many questions about what is happening on the island, and 2010 can't come fast enough!

Anyways, that was all to say, last week was a big week for us.

~Angela M.

2009-05-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

Cheese and Rice!!!

Yesterday while working at the drive thru at Starbees, I had several customers complaining about how windy and cold the weather had gotten...to which I agreed. Their reply was "I just can't stand this (fill in with explative here) weather anymore!" This happened late on in the day where a customer used a gross curse word to emphasize what theyr were saying and I think they were trying to sound funny as well. What they didn't realize is how rude and offensive it came off! I just can't stand when people I don't even know think it is ok or funny to use crude curse words in their conversations!

I can still recall the day in 2nd grade when I discovered curse words. I was playing during recess and a fellow student used a swear word, and they discovered I was not also saying these words. They asked me why I did not swear. I knew it was wrong and that it didn't honor God, but I suposse I did not have the courage to stand up for myself. So I swore. All day long, I think I used about every curse word I could think of-yes I gave into peer pressure-even though the words just sounded stupid coming out of my mouth. I'm not sure what changed my mind--I don't remember if I told my parents about what happened or if I just decided I wasn't going to do it anymore, but the next day at recess, I proudly walked up to my girlfriend and told her "I'm not going to swear because God doesn't want me to, and because it sounds stupid."

Pretty profound words I could basically say still today. I know that swearing is not the worst thing I could do, and I know it does not make you less of a christian if you do...but I just don't see how it is honoring to the Lord.

Now even if you are not a Christian, or if you are and don't feel any personal conviction about it, there are several more reasons I would have for not using these words:

1) It sounds un-educated
2) It sounds rude
3) It sounds inconsiderate
4) It can be very offensive
5) There are more creative words to use
6) You never know how the person you are talking to will take it
7) It does NOT sound cool
oh and 8) Your mom might wash your mouth out with soap

~Angela M.

2009-05-07T09:07:00.000-07:00

Our Next Adventure Challenge:

After successfully pushing ourselves to do the 7.5 miles at Bloomsday, we are both feeling inspired and challenged to try something a little more difficult. (like that isn't difficult enough) On July 12 the Missoula Montana Marathon/half-marathon is taking place, and we are going to sign up for the half! (which is 13.1 miles) I'm thinking if it is a good experience, maybe we will sign up for a full marathon in the fall!!! I'm soooooo excited to take on this newest challenge, and am really really excited to take it on with Jared!!!! BOO YA!!!!!!!!!!
~Angela M.

2009-05-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

My Results:

Angela M Amerine

Finish Time: 1:04:20

Overall Place: 3,947 out of 44,490

Ran with a pace of 8:37 per mile

The average pace for 28-year-olds was 13:40

Placed 119th among 827 people the same age

Placed 37th among 582 people from Colbert, WA

Placed 2,992nd among 35,983 people from Washington

Placed 1st among 2 people with the same last name

Placed 996th among 26,349 females

Placed 30th out of 536 among 28-year-old females

~Angela M.

2009-05-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

BLOOMSDAY!!!

Well the day finally came---after deciding 3 weeks ago that we were going to do Bloomsday (for those of you who don't know, it's a 7.46 mile, 12k run through Spokane). I've been running fairly ofter during the last few weeks, but had not done more then 4.5 miles. Jared had not done nearly as much running, and I was concerned that I would want to speed through it and we might get frustrated at eachother (hard to imagine I know). Did I mention earlier that Bloomsday is like the biggest timed race in North America or something like that?
Anyways, we started off well, and I felt fantastic for the 1st 4 miles...I was really surprised how easy it felt...and then once I hit mile 5 I was just tired. My legs hurt, my feet hurt my hips hurt...but there is no way I was going to stop. What amazed me and made me so proud was that Jared had to walk for a bit when his foot went numb...and about a mile and a half later he runs up right next to me!!! I couldn't believe he made up all the time!!! What a champ! The last mile was pretty tough for me, but we kept going and finished with a final time of 1 hr. and 4 minutes! I was really hoping to do it in under an hour, but that just gives us a goal for next year:) We had a great time together-I was so proud to do that race with my amazing husband in just over 8.5 min miles.
After we got our shirts and walked around for a bit, we went back through the course and waited for my mom and ran the last half mile with her--she is so great--powering through it all! She definetly did better then her last years time!! We will get all of our "official" results in a week or so I think. So proud of our accomplishments!!
~Angela M.

2009-04-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Life:

So this week has been birthday week for our family of 2--Jared's birthday on Monday and mine yesterday. My parents left town on Tuesday to spend the week with my brother and his family, so we decided to celebrate with them on Sunday (which worked perfectly with my plan of celebrating my birthday for as many days as possible). Jared and I went on a great bikeride Sunday morning after attending 1st service at church--the weather was awesome! When my parents got back from church (side note, Jared and I finally took down mom and dad's christmas lights while they were gone...we didn't want to be that house anymore), we decided to go to lunch downtown at a new place we hadn't tried called the Steelhead Grill. It was fantastic food, and we decided that Jared and I want to live there we love the decor so much. Anyways, we then decided to try to find a place for dessert and drove way south, went by a golf course that had a driving range right into this lake, and we decided we needed to get our golf swing on since dad had his clubs in the trunk! After some nice hits--especially by mom--we continued our venture for dessert which led us to the Davenport hotel downtown---it was awesome AND they gave Jared and I our dessert for free since it was our b-day-NO ONE does that anymore, so we were especially appreciative.
On the way home we stopped at Auntie' Bookstore to browse around for a while--upstairs there was a live band playing, and they played the theme song from O Brother Where Art Thou, which I love for some odd reason.
After heading home, we all went off to workout together at Anytime Fitness since Jared and I had a free week's pass and made it home in time to watch Amazing Race together! We had a fantastic time with them!

On Monday I wanted to do something special for Jared, so immediately after I got out of my subbing job, I went to Just American Desserts and picked up a white chocolate cheesecake for Jared, along with a picnic dinner of his favorite things. When he arrived home, we hopped in the car and went down to Riverside state park where we walked around, ate our dinner, and just enjoyed spending time together.

Yesterday I had to open at work, and then decided I should not have to do my own hair on my birthday, so I got it cut, and when I came home my fabulous now 26 year old husband had a beautiful bouquet of flowers waiting on the counter for me:) We met up for lunch later on during the day and I went to youth group last night while he was in class--maybe not the most eventful birthday ever, but still great.

Saturday we are having a big LOST party here at the house-I don't even remember the last time I had a birthday party!! It's strange how every year older I get, the more aware I become of who I'm allowing the Lord to make me. My prayer this year is that through all of my life experiences, that the Lord would increase in me and I would decrease. I'm so thankful for all of our family and friends who either called us or gave us a card, or were just kind and thoughtful to us as we celebrate this week. We are so blessed!
~Angela M.

2009-04-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Another Year

Another year older
Another year smarter
Another year of life experience
Another year of laughter
Another year of drawing closer to God
Another year of loving
Another year of Joy
Another year of challenges
Another year to grow
Another year to dance
Another year to laugh
Another year to change
Another year to become more like Jesus
Another year to share love
share life
share joy
share peace
share patience
share dreams
share hope

I'm so thankful for another year, I think 28 sounds pretty cool.

~Angela M.

2009-04-18T17:51:00.000-07:00

SUGAR FAST

So many of you know Jared and I did the Daniel Fast for a month before Incredible Easter this year--good times and great discipline. What I may not have shared is that since Dec. 31 I have not had any sugar* and decided not to have any until my birthday-which is this coming Wednesday. I have done a fast like this before, but never for this long. I have been so proud of myself for resisting the urge to eat cookie, candy, ice cream and anything else scrumptious. I really feel like if I have had the discipline to do this, I can discipline myself to do about anything!
To break my fast, my friend Charese has offered to make an ice cream cake for our birthday party!!! I can't wait for that first delious sugary bite!!!

*I have had natural sugars and honey-but honestly come on, it's a pretty big deal in America to give up all the stuff I did!

~Angela M.

2009-04-13T13:42:00.001-07:00

Bloomsday is Coming!!!!

Since my parents told me they did Bloomsday last year, I have really wanted to do it. I planned on registering really early and training for months beforehand. Well, today was one of the last few days to register for the early bird price...and Jared and I decided to sign up! The race is about 7.5 miles...and neither of us have been running (although I did run 3 miles with Mariah last week). So the race is on May 3...I think it's 3 weeks away. We better start training...yesterday.
~Angela M.

2009-04-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

Incredible Easter Miracle!!!

I love Amazing Easter. It is probably the best day of my life every year. And this year, not only did Jesus rise from the grave (again), I had a little Stupendid Easter Miracle happen.

For about the last 5 months I have been missing 2 very important things. My ipod (which I had gotten for free from my bank in Michigan), and my car keys (so we were down to 1 set-not very convenient). I had searched through every purse and bag I own, and could not find them anywhere. I re-traced my steps months ago and came up with nothing. I knew they had to be around somewhere...but where!?!?

Yesterday as I was running out the door for church, I grabbed my brown jacket thinking to myself "self, it's kind of cold out today, grab this brown jacket."
As we arrived at the church, I put my jacket on. (it was cold memember?) I of course kept the jacket on once I got into the sanctuary/auditorium since that is always the coldest room ever...and stuck my hands in the pockets...

IT WAS A FABULOUS EASTER MIRACLE!!!! In one pocket was my ipod, and in the other were my keys!!!! I announced to the rest of the music team what an Amazing Easter miracle it was, and they all raised their voices in praise to God! (ok, maybe they were singing the song we were rehearsing, but I'd like to think they were as happy as I to find them.)

The end.

~Angela M.

2009-04-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

Florida Update:

Well Jared and I arrived home last night around 11:30 p.m. (and yes I did open at work at 4:30 am....yes I'm tired)We had the greatest time in Florida with our dear friends the Crydo clan. Here are a few pics of our travels!

~Angela M.

2009-03-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

A Much Needed Trip

Last year over Spring Break, our dear friends M, M, M, M, and M Crydo were heading out to Florida. Jared and I were over at their house late at night just a few days before they were going to leave. They were telling us all about what they were going to do, the campground they were going to stay at etc. I don't know who said it first, but somehow we started joking about how Jared and I should join them on the trip. Pretty soon, our joking turned into checking out airfares down to Florida at the last minute and before we knew it, we had booked tickets and planned on leaving about 2 days later!!! The trip we took last year was full of a lot of much needed relaxation, lots of fun and laughter, but most of all, really deepening our friendship with the Crydo clan. We had such a great time together that we all decided right there and then that we had to do the same thing again next year...

Which brings us to today. Jared and I get to leave on Tuesday for Naples FL for a week long vacation with the Crydo's!!!! We are so thrilled that our dream of getting together with them again, especially after moving away last summer, is actually happening! Thanks to some airmiles and saving up our tip money, our Florida Cramerine trip is possible once again! I can't wait for all the stories, fun times and memories that come from this trip:)

~Angela M.

2009-03-27T16:02:00.000-07:00

What A Pain in the Knee

So for about the last month, I have been a dedicated die hard Jillian Michael's client...ok maybe she's not screaming at me in person, but through the television. Her 2 workouts that are my fave are her Boost Metabolism and her No More Trouble Zones workouts. Recently a few times a week I've been doing them back to back (they are an hour each). I've seen great results and think they are really fun.

About a week ago I started having some knee pain in my right knee--I had the same a few years ago when I was running a lot. I try to do everything right when doing squats and all the Plyometrics--don't let your knee go over your toe, don't let you knees go out or in, land on your toes...but still the pain-I think I'm on my way to get a little knee brace thingy.
I'm old.
~Angela M.

2009-03-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

Can People Really Change??

Tears were streaming down my face this morning as I heard the story of a pastor in New Hampshire who has recently allowed a former inmate and convicted child killer--and convert to Christianity--into his home for a few months while the man (Raymond Guay) gets back on his feet after serving 35 years in prison. (click here for full story) Raymond met Jesus while in prison in 1993, and has only returned to this community after being ordered by a judge to spend his time there while on parole.
What completely broke my heart was how the entire community, and specifically his neighbors were re-acting to this great Christ-like act of the pastor and his family. Every time Raymond steps out of the home, someone fires a warning gun shot and yells and screams at him. They have a tent set up across the street so someone from the neighborhood can continually watch Raymond. People in town have posted signs in their yards saying "no kid killers". Neighbors are not allowing their children to go outside to play by themselves, and have tried to get officials in the town to kick out Raymond Guay. They are also purchasing firearms. Not only that, but Pastor Dave Pinckney has received several threats, including one threatening to burn down his house.
Now I want to get one thing completely clear-what Raymond Guay did in the past was in every way completely wrong. He murdered a little 12 year old boy for no reason, which brought on a lifetime of grief and pain for this boys family. I can not even imagine how terrifying it would be to go through something like that. Does what Raymond did in the past mean that defines who he is for the rest of his life????

When Good Morning America interviewed people in the neighborhood, they asked people if they thought Pastor Dave was doing the right "christian" thing. Their responses shocked me. One woman said "I'd say there are more deserving people to give second chances to. The child he murdered doesn't get a second chance. His mom doesn't get a second chance."
The sister of the murder victim was quoted as saying "You don't shoot a little boy in the face and find Jesus. A person who can do that is just not capable of that."
The pastors response to the threats is this: "I think people change. If people don't change, the Gospel has no merit," he said. "And we're kind of a hopeless society if we don't believe people change."

I simply can not believe that other Christians may feel like this act of grace was unmerited. When you look at the life of Christ--the very people He chose to hang out with were the worst "sinners" of that time. People can and they do change all the time by the love of Christ. I may not have killed anyone in my past, but I am a different person because of God's love. I have met countless people who have been radically changed by the love and sacrifice of Christ. I am praying today for Raymond, Pastor Dave, and his family as well as the Zimmerman family who are still feeling grief and pain. I hope that there will be others in the town who will show the love of Christ in this situation. If we do not show compassion and mercy, how can we truly be called a Christ follower?

~Angela M.

2009-03-15T17:59:00.000-07:00

Where Have I Been!!!???
I have been such a bad blogger recently! All of you fans who are just sitting on the edge of your seats in anticipation for my next blog...I deeply apoligize-the waiting must have been hard!
This is the start of our 3rd week of Daniel Fast-I am planning on doing it for 4 weeks, but once those 4 weeks are over, I don't anticipate changing my diet too much from the DF. I've been enjoying being creative with meals, and have really enjoyed knowing the food that is entering my body is actually beneficial for me! I have also greatly increaed my exercise level, doing at least and hour-an hour and a half of workout videos a day. I alternate between Jillian Michael's Shred, Metabolism Boost, No More Trouble Zones, and our P90X DVD'S. I'm definetly loving having OnDemand! Although it just means no one in the family can watch tv while I'm working out!
We are thinking about buying another car. It is just getting too difficult to share the car especially when I am subbing and need the car all day. Jared tells me about every other day a new car he has found that we need to get:) I love my husband:)
The most exciting thing in our life right now is our much anticipated trip with the Crydo's to Florida in just over 2 weeks! The Crydo's have been so influential in our lives-we love all of the M's:)
Well that's the brief update on our lives. I will finish with a post of todays newest DF meal:

Sweet Potato Soup:
3 Sweet Potatoes
5 Cups Broth/Water
1/2 sweet onion
1 Cup Lentils
1/4 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
1/2 tsp Tumeric
1 tsp. Cumin
(I added cinnamon too)
1 lemon full of juice

Add everything to a large pot and bring to a boil. Simmer for 30 min. Add lemon juice. Blend/Mash soup and serve.

~Angela M.

2009-03-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

DF MEALS WE LOVE:

Red Lentil Stew (as shown to me by my friend Karen-although I changed things a bit)
3Tbsp Olive Oil
1/2 chopped onion
3 celery stalks chopped
3 carrots chopped
2 garlic cloves chopped
1 bay leaf
2 tsp. cumin
1 can diced tomatoes (undrained)
2 tsp. italien seasoning
7-8 C. Water/Broth
1-1 1/2 C. Dry lentils
3 potatoes
2 Tbsp Vinegar

1. Heat Oil in a large soup pot, add onion, carrots and celery and heat for 3 min.
2. Add garlic and cook 1 more min.
3. Add all other ingredients EXCEPT vinegar...bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer covered for 45 min-1hr.
5. Add Vinegar just before serving

Sufferin Succotash Salad

1 bag frozen lima beans
1 bag frozen corn
1/4 bag frozen peas
1 Can diced tomatoes (drained) --OR 1 chopped tomato
1/4 onion chopped
1 Tbsp Parsley
1/4 Cup Balsamic vinegar (I used half balsamic and half Apple cider vinegar)
1/4 tsp. dry mustard

1. Cook up frozen veggies and drain
2. Combine all veggies and Parsley
3. Mix Vinegar and mustard together and pour over salad.

~Angela M.

2009-03-01T17:23:00.001-08:00

Argyle Day at Church:

Not too sure why we did this today...because we can I suppose:)

~Angela M.

2009-02-25T22:35:00.000-08:00

DF DAY ONE

Well today I officially started the Daniel Fast. Since I had to work through breakfast and lunch today, I was hungry as usual when I work that kind of shift because I never remember to bring enough food to fill me up during that time. Oatmeal with dried fruit and nuts for breakfast, a grapefruit, grapes and carrots for lunch, and then we ate stir fry with brown rice and veggies for dinner. We just came back from a WINCO trip with our friends Matt and Jessica and bought soy milk, beans, lentils, fruit leather, nuts and dried fruit. It is great to have some fabulous snack food in the house that we can eat now. Tomorrow we are planning on having Vegetarian Chili for dinner-using this general recipe (how do you spell that word anyways? recipie? recipee? receppppeee??)
Veg Chili:
Kidney Beans
Black Beans
Green Pepper
Red Pepper
Yellow Pepper
Tomato Sauce
Tomato Paste
Chili Powder
Basil
Oregano

Crock pot on low for 4 hours. I kind of tweak it each time I make it, but I always LOVE how it turns out!

I'm really excited to do these food sacrifices for the Lord during this time and hope to draw nearer and nearer to Him!

~Angela M.

2009-02-23T18:59:00.000-08:00

My Mom's New Favorite Show

About a month ago, just before dinner, Jared and I were watching cash cab the "gameshow right here in my taxi". My mom caught a glance of it and didn't think it sounded too exciting, until she saw people get into the cab and become startled when Ben Bailey turns on the lights inside and tells people they are on his gameshow. Then everytime she would ask "did they jump? what was their reaction?"
Thus, it turned into everytime she sees it is on tv, she is completely hooked and yells at the tv "SHOUT OUT! USE YOUR SHOUT OUT!". And of course my mother, who is one of the last people in the world to ever take a huge risk always tells the contestants to "TAKE THE MONEY!" at the end and not to risk it on double or nothing. She even comes up with questions she thinks Ben Bailey should ask...although I should let you know they all have to do with "I Love Lucy".
~Angela M.

2009-02-19T17:18:00.001-08:00

Preparing for Daniel

This will be the 3rd year in a row that Jared and I will be experiencing the "Daniel Fast" for a portion of lent. It is called the "Daniel Fast" after what Daniel from the Bible did “In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.” Daniel 10:2, 3

Each year we have done the fast, we have been in community while doing it, which has made it much easier and even kind of fun. This year, I decided to push myself a little more, and am going to be doing the fast for 4 weeks instead of three. I think this year will be easier for me for a few reasons:
1) I know what to expect
2) I have found plenty of really good recipies (the first year we did the daniel fast we basically just cooked up veggies...that was really interesting)
3) I am already eating an almost vegetarian diet as is.

We have really enjoyed this challenging fast and we look forward to doing it again starting nexy Wednesday! Here is how it works for anyone who may be interested. I will be posting recipies throughout the time as well to help boost creativity!

Foods to include in your diet during the Daniel Fast:

All fruits.
All vegetables.
All whole grains, including but not limited to whole wheat, brown rice, millet, quinoa, oats, barley, grits, whole wheat pasta, whole wheat tortillas, rice cakes and popcorn.
All nuts and seeds, including but not limited to sunflower seeds, cashews, peanuts, sesame. Also nut butters including peanut butter.
All legumes. Legumes include but are not limited to dried beans, pinto beans, split peas, lentils, black eyed peas, kidney beans, black beans, cannellini beans, white beans.
All quality oils including but not limited to olive, canola, grape seed, peanut, and sesame.
Beverages: spring water, distilled water or other pure waters, caffine free teas
Other: tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices.

Foods to avoid on the Daniel Fast

All meat and animal products
All dairy products
All sweeteners
All leavened bread
All refined and processed food products
All deep fried foods
All solid fats
Beverages including but not limited to coffee, carbonated beverages, energy drinks, and alcohol.

~Angela M.

2009-02-07T14:06:00.003-08:00

Birthday Present

So apparently my brother is trying to hint around as to what he wants for his birthday in June...

I think your birthday this year will be a good one!

~Angela M.

2009-02-02T20:35:00.000-08:00

25 things about me: from my Facebook account (the newest craze)

1. I basically ONLY by items if they are on sale. Clothing, food, etc.

2. I drink less coffee now that I work at Starbucks then I did before hand

3. In the last few years I become a VERY health conscious eater-lots of fruits and veggies-no dark meat

4. I love to wear gym shorts and a t-shirt regardless of how cold it is outside-I just need a nice heavy blanket on top of me too:)

5. I am anti-television and yet I find myself obsessed with LOST and the dog whisperer

6. I love serving. I developed this while in college, and I pray I never get over it.

7. I love taking good pictures but don't have the eye for it--I sure wish I did!

8. I have dual citizenship still, and will always be Canadian and American.

9. Celine Dion's cousin was my french teacher in Elementary School.

10. I LOVE snow! Many people get sick of it, but I just can't get enough!

11. I have never been excellent at any particular sport and it's always bothered me. I'm just "kind of good" at several different sports.

12. I am very sentimental. I still have birthday cards from elementary school

13. I wish I could travel the world training other worship teams.

14. I love researching the best deals on vacation stuff, hotels etc. I LOVE finding an amazing deal!

15. I will be doing the daniel fast for the 3rd year in a row---sooo excited!

16. I wake up at 3:30 in the morning for work several days a week. yuck.

17. I love to travel, especially with Jared. Love love love it!

18. I was in the Miss Azusa pagaent and won-and then went to Miss California and didn't win.

19. I really enjoy being with Jr. and Sr. High kids and don't understand how some people can't stand it.

20. I am not very patient. Jared is very patient. I think God wants me to learn and thing or two from him.

21. All Dressed Chips are the best ever.

22. Today I watched Yours Mine and Ours and actually thought it would be fun to have 17 children. I am weird.

23. I love to be surprised-in a good way though.

24. When we first got married, I used to wake up early and make Jared a big breakfast...I did today for the first time in a loooong time.

25. We can't wait to adopt at least one child someday!
~Angela M.

2009-01-30T16:24:00.000-08:00

The Letter "M"

Here are my 10 things I love that start with the letter M as given me by Rachel!

Marriage: I can't say enough about how I love the symbolism of earthly marriage and our relationship with the Lord. I love my husband so so so so so so so so so....and so on, much! We LOVE being married-it's fantastic.

Music: I have been blessed abundantly with a natural love and gift in the musical arena. And I LOVE using it for the Lord. I could go on forever, but will not.

Mango's: They are a delicious fruit, you should try one sometime.

Movies: I think few things are as relaxing as sticking a movie in when you are tired.

Microwaves: Seriously, where would I be without this invention. I mean, hello, the Hot Pocket?

Memories: I love remembering how good the Lord has been---so so faithful. I love remembering fun family memories from when I was a child, and memories of silly things I did in college (like trying to re-arrange my room a zillion times..."it'll fit in the hallway!") And remembering when Jared and I first fell in love.

Mercy: I would not be here if not for great mercy shown upon me from Christ. I am learning more and more to be more merciful.

Mountains: Everytime I look at a mountain, I am reminded of the hugeness of God (don't know if that's a word, but I made it one)

My mom: She is giving and forgiving, serving, loving, and so many other things. Probably about the best mom ever.

Mark, Mary, Micah, Mariah, McKoona---they are like family. I think about them so much and pray for them so much-they are so important to me. This is a fabulous family who treats us like their own. The let us sneak our way into their lives, and then we ended up living at their house. Plus we all got food poisoning together--how much closer can you be then that?

Of course there are many other things I love that don't start with the letter M, but that's my M list. (of course my dad, bro, sis, nephews, niece, and many others are on the list too, so don't feel left out!)

~Angela M.

2009-01-28T14:06:00.000-08:00

Sometimes You Just Have to Talk to the Right Person

I'm sure I am not the only person to experience this situation. It has occured many times in my life, but recently it seems to be happening more often. Here is the set-up: You call someone...you have a problem/question that needs to be resolved...the person on the other end of the phone has absolutely no imagination whatsoever, thus leaving you feeling more frustrated then you were when you made the call in the first place. Here is my story:

Yesterday I called the Dr. to get in to resolve some weird health issues I'm having. I am a new patient, so I understand that I do not have first priority among patients...recap of the convo:

Me: "Hello, I'm wondering if Dr. ______ is accepting new patients."
Receptionist "Oh yes she is."
Me: "Great! When is the soonest I could get in, I would like to get in as soon as possible. Do you have any upcoming cancellations?"
Receptionist "(laughing) oh, well since you are a new patient, you can't just get right in-you have to come in for a consultation...and why are you calling right now, it's the lunch hour? Can you call back later or do you just want to leave a message?"
Me: "(silence)...umm...I guess I'll just call later."

Seriously. If she couldn't help me, why did she even pick up the phone??
Sometimes you just need to talk to the right person...here's what happened just a few minutes ago. Same Dr.'s office, new receptionist:

Me "Hello I'm wondering if Dr. _______ is accepting new patients."
Receptionist "Oh yes she is"
Me "Great I'm hoping to set up an appointment as soon as possible"
Receptionist "Great, let me start a file for you! (takes info over the phone)
Receptionist "Well it looks like we have a cancellation tomorrow unless that's too soon"
Me "It's perfect!"

I'm sure as you read this story, you can think of a conversation of your own where all you needed was someone with a little creativity and a lot of grace. I am soooo thankful for those people who go out of their way to be the right person to talk to!

~Angela M.

2009-01-25T20:17:00.000-08:00

Memories

A few picture memories I thought I'd share with you:

One of my favorite pics of Jared and I snowboarding at Mammoth

One of Megan and Andrea and I headed to "stupid class" as we referred to it as...ah the memories...

~Angela M.

2009-01-25T20:06:00.000-08:00

The Lovebirds Snowboarding

As you may recall, over Christmas break Jared and I were going to stop at Mt. Hood for a snowboarding excursion as our Christmas gift to each other. Those plans obviously did not work out since we could not even drive down in the massive blizzard we were experiencing at the time.

This last weekend, we decided to take advantage of the fact that we did not have to work and headed up to Schweitzer for a few days! We had an absolutely fantastic time just the two of us-here are a few pics of the weekend. For once there are pictures of me, which is odd since I'm usually the picture taker:)

~Angela M.

2009-01-13T16:00:00.000-08:00

Expressive Worship

Worshipping the Lord is what you could say is one of my all time favorite activities. Whether it be singing, praying, dancing, with others or by myself, I just can't seem to get enough of it. I love it so much in fact that a few years ago I decided to go to school to get my Master's in it! Who knew you could do that???
A friend of mine (the lovely Jessica) came up to me the other day after church and commented on how she just wanted to dance during our worship time at church, but didn't feel comfortable doing it because our church isn't exactly "charismatic".
Most of my church experience has been at places that are not charismatic other then my 2 years spent at Light and Life Christian Fellowship in Long Beach CA. It was during this time while I was studying Worship at Azusa Pacific University and serving at Light and Life, when my own expression of worship became stretched and grew to new heights.

When I sing songs to the Lord I imagine myself physically in His presence, and I just can't contain myself. Usually there is a song that is sung during the course of a worship set that reminds me of how much the Lord has saved me from and how much He loves me, and I just can't get over it! I don't want to get over Him! It's not about the music, the song, or the singing itself. The Lord has blessed me so much with being really drawn close to Him during times of singing-it is one of my connections to the heart of the Father. I don't know if other people feel like they will explode while they are Worshipping, but I do! I suppose that's kind of how David felt when he danced in the middle of the street!

I consider myself to be an amateur worshipper, but I decided a long time ago to be an completely obsessed student of it-knowing someday in heaven I will finally reach the professional worshipper title.

So to my dear friend Jessica...dance...don't hold back before the Lord...just dance...

~Angela M.

2009-01-09T10:59:00.000-08:00

The Update

One of my 2009 list of 100 things I am going to do is to update my blog more often. So here's my update! Plus, I love when I see my fellow blogging friends have updated theirs. I'm just trying to give everyone some good entertainment for their day.

Today is Friday. A day I have been looking forward to for a while now because today is:
1) Prayer service at the church at 7:00
2) Psych Season 3 starts tonight

Now you may look at number 1 and say "Of course she's looking forward to a prayer service at church. Good times spent with God and people and Holy Spirit presence going on.
But those of you who are unfamiliar with number 2, the show Psych should highly consider watching tonights episode. Jared and I were first introduced to the show Psych when we were living with our dear friends the Crydo's. We just happened to stumble across an episode and laughed so stinkin hard that we became addicated. The show is about Shawn a detective who claims to be psychic so he can be hired by the Santa Barbara PD to solve different cases. He's really just super observant, but manages to fool just about everyone. It is very funny-we love it. I bought Season 2 for Jared for Christmas--can't wait for the next season to start!

~Angela M.

2009-01-04T19:12:00.000-08:00

Recent Snowboarding Pics...

We are sooo blessed to have been able to snowboard up at Sweitzer Mountain with the students from Timberview! Of course the boarding itself was only secondary to the fabulous time spent with God and the students---we loooooove students and sharing life with them! Such a cool thing that 2 of our favorite things to do were combined in one weekend!

*that's me in the middle picture in the middle of the picture-meeting up with Jared as he is much faster and better then me and I'm always trying to catch up to him!

~Angela M.

2009-01-01T13:10:00.000-08:00

100 Things to do in 2009...

I got the idea from Chris Sloan to make a list of 100 things I'd like to do in 2009. Some are silly, others are a little more serious. It was a fun challenge to think of 100 things that's for sure! Here are a few of my favorites:

-Run in at least 2 races
-Write several worship songs
-Go to Florida with Crydo's
-Try a new vegetable
-Go ice skating
-Watch the new Harry Potter movie in the theater
-Go to 4 new campsites
-Do the Daniel Fast for 28 days
-Read through Proverbs each month
-Memorize 30 new Bible verses
-Find a Tim Horton's and go to it

~Angela M.

2008-12-21T18:24:00.000-08:00

Stuck in Spokane

Well, our Christmas plans have been changing, changing, and changing again. Jared and I were originally planning on driving down to Livermore CA to spend the week with his family. With the car, we were planning on stopping at Mt. Hood for an awesome day of boarding, and on the way back, we were going to see Jared's best friend Jesse and his girlfriend in Tigard Oregon. And then, the storm hit. Those of you who live in the area know what I'm talking about...the non-stop snow that started on Wednesday and then continued all throughout the night--leaving us with 24 inches of snow! Everything was closed down on Thursday and we had plenty of fun playing in the snow etc. However, we knew driving down was no longer a safe option for us.

Plan B. Jared's family very graciously offered to help get us some last minute plane tickets! So this morning, we woke up early, loaded up the car, went to the airport, checked in, and then waited. It wasn't too long before the announced to us that the Portland airport we were flying into was closed, and the stand by lists we so long that they were not putting anyone on them! So...

Plan C. We are now booked for a flight that is supposed to leave tomorrow morning at 7 am and goes directly to Oakland. We did get about 5 MORE inches of snow today and we are expected to get more tonight...and so the saga continues! I hope we make it!
~Angela M.

Us and Evan, Aaron and Ashlyn!

2008-12-19T13:37:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

2008-12-18T14:35:00.000-08:00

What we do when we're all stuck at home...

~Angela M.

2008-12-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

More Pics of the snowfall that continues...

~Angela M.