A month in pictures-cookies w/the Stewards

(the kids watching "I want a dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown)

We had Tony and Mandy and the kids over to make some sugar cookies. Funny thing happened too...I had bought the pre-made packaged dough but when we took it out, it was too moist to really cut out any shapes. We knew we needed some flour. I didn't have just plain white flour. I had whole wheat flour and then some white self-rising flour. We thought the wheat would make the cookies taste funny so we went with the self-rising, knowing that we would just need "a little" of it.

The kids cut their shapes out, we had trees, elves and stockings. We put them in the oven and when they came out, they were one big puffy cookie! Apparently, the "little bit" of self-rising flour made a big difference :) They decorated them with many colors and they tasted great!

A month in pictures- Progressive Dinner

(Back row from left: Amy, Cindy, Deleise, Robin M, me and Kim. Front row from left: Elizabeth, Robin S. Nicole, Natalie, and Janna)

This group pictured above is one of the biggest blessings I have received this year. I love all of them so much. We have grown really close. It's amazing to have a group of friends that you can laugh with and also cry with. (There are 2 who couldn't make it to the dinner-Dusty and Jennifer, we missed you!)

We had appetizers at Kims, main course at Robin S's, and dessert at Deleise's. The food was delicious!

Brandon and Josh hanging out before we started eating.

Robin, Elizabeth, Nicole, Natalie, and Janna

We also had an ornament exchange. It was so much fun. I had a great time!

A month in pictures- Deeper Still

I got to go to a women's conference called Deeper Still. Kay Arthur, Beth Moore, and Priscilla Shirer were the speakers. I learned a ton. The 2nd day was the most impactful for me. Besides getting to hear from these amazing speakers, I was so glad I was able to go with some of my girlfriends.

Robin, Cindy, Dusty, and Deleise (some of the girls had already left when I took this. We also had Amy and Mandy w/us :)

The speakers (the picture is a little blurry but I wanted to post because I was so happy to hear from these ladies)

A month in pictures-OU/OSU game

My friend Kristen took me to the OU/OSU game. We had so much fun. We had some funny people sitting in front of us that kept us entertained. We had great seats. We expected a close game but got a blow-out instead.

Disney's Christmas Carol Train Tour

This past Friday was a lot of fun. We were fortunate to be able to spend the day with Becca and Rodo. We have known Becca for a long time and she was our babysitter for almost 8 years! She is pretty much part of the family. Rodo is the special man in her life:) Becca now serves with Back2 Back ministries in Mexico. You can follow along on her journey HERE. Here are some pics from the day:

We had lunch & then cruised over to Pink Swirls which is a frozen yogurt place (yum!)

Then, we picked up the boys from school and headed to downtown OKC for the Disney "A Christmas Carol" Train tour. We weren't sure what to expect but it was fun. It was completely FREE too so that rocked! They had several train cars full of costumes and footage from the set. There were Christmas caroler's and even a snow machine! They are on a 44-city tour and this was their 22nd stop. To see if the train is coming through your US city, click HERE.

This was everyone right before the 10 minute 3-D sneak peek at the film. It was really cool. We plan on seeing the movie when it comes out Nov 6th!

Swim day

Last week we had a cookout at Mandy and Tony's house. Tony cooked up burgers on the grill and Mandy made some fabulous side dishes. Daniel is the newest Church online team member and this was the first time he met our families. His brother, Luke, was also able to drive up from Texas and hang out. It was a great day filled with smiles, sun, and swimming.

Playing ball

Brandon and Ethan

Mandy and Christi

Brandon, Daniel, & Tony

He, She, They

I've been thinking about how we talk about what's important to us...what's going on in our lives. It's at the forefront of our minds and we just want to share it with the world.

When I was pregnant, all I talked about was due dates, nursery colors, and names. I was consumed with our baby for the entire pregnancy(and it didn't stop there).

Brandon and I are stuck in that situation right now. We have adoption on the brain and we are thinking about it constantly. It's almost like we are pregnant again (I'm just not having the physical symptoms-Can I get an amen?)

It's great talking to people who are passionate about it as well, but I'm already a bit worried that we are going to get on people's nerves by talking about it constantly. I just want to be self-aware.

I think it's just a good reminder that everyone (well most everyone) has their own agenda working. Most people have something at the forefront of their mind. It could be good, and it could also be bad:(

Take some time out to ask about others. Try not to focus on I, me, or we but rather he, she, or they. Pray for others. Take time to encourage them. Then, the consumed part will not be as selfish as before (I'm speaking to myself here).

I want to start right here... how can we pray for you? What's on your mind? Do you feel consumed by something right now? You all have done nothing but encourage us for the last month-how can we return that blessing to you?

~Christi~

Merrick's b-day party

Last weekend we had Merrick's b-day party. We rotate "parties" every year and this was Merrick's year to get to have a party. On the odd years, he will have a dinner out with family/friends or something very low key.

He picked Laser Tag. He invited family and a few of his close friends. We had a great time (about as much fun as the kids did!). He was blessed with a ton of fun presents that he has played with non stop the past week (did you see our snow day post? Good thing he had so many things to play with). The pic above is right before the 2nd game (and I'm not sure what's up with all the peace signs but that's OK. I think they started off as bunny ears:)

We are so thankful to live close by our family. We also have some great friends for our kids 9and for us:) Merrick turned 9. It is amazing to me how fast time flies by. I still remember bringing him home from the hospital. It seems like yesterday.

Thank you to those who constantly support and build up our kids. You have no idea what that means to us :) I never knew that being a parent would be so rewarding but I am loving every minute of it.

Invasion

Just wanted to remind you to tune in to Lifechurch.tv this weekend for the "Invasion" series. It's a closer look at some of the people who attend our church. When you see these amazing individuals, you will want to say "I love my church!".

This weekend, there are 2 stories dear to our hearts. The Byer's family is invaded.They are a family that just picked up and moved to London because they felt called to be missionaries there.They have hosted local events and also completely lead an experience online every weekend. They are a big part of the Internet campus!

The 2nd story that we are looking forward to viewing is our friends, the Campbell's. This family lost their little boy back in July of this year. They had prayed and believed and saw many milestones with him for several months before God brought him home. Their story of faith is truly inspiring (and tear jerking). You will not want to miss it. Brandon said they have some incredible video footage of them. While I know their story is hard to re-live, they continue to be open and honest. Jace's short little life has brought so many people closer to God. Makes me tear up just writing about it.

Tune in at these experience times:
January 10th:
Sat 6:30 PM Central (7:30PM Eastern, 4:30 Pacific)

January 11th:
Sunday 10:00AM GMT (4:00AM Central, 5:00AM Eastern, 2:00 AM Pacific)

Sunday 10:00AM Central time (11:00AM Eastern, 8:00 AM Pacific)

Sunday 11:30 AM Central time (12:30 PM Eastern, 9:30 AM Pacific)

Sunday 1:00 PM Central time (2:00 PM Eastern, 11:00 AM Pacific)

January 13th:
Tuesday 12:00 PM Central time (1:00 PM Eastern, 10:00 AM Pacific)

Tuesday 8:00 PM Central time (9:00 PM Eastern, 6:00 PM Pacific)

http://live.lifechurch.tv/

Happy Thanksgiving!

If we made a list of all the things we were thankful for, you would be reading all day. Just know that we feel very blessed and content.


We are MOST thankful for the friends and family that God has put in our lives. Hope you have a great day!!


HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

We really are just kids!

H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y B!!

Today, my man turned 35...35?...Yes 35. I turn 35 next month.

We still feel like kids just pretending to be parents responsible for 2 young boys.

Kids that happen to pay a mortgage.

Kids that laugh and play games a lot and enjoy life to the fullest!

Kids that are naive enough to think that we have met our soul-mates and dreams really do come true.

Kids that still get excited on Christmas morning (only now it's to see our kids faces as they find their "special" present)

Although we may be moving up on the age scale- we are living and loving LIFE! We are enjoying the ups and downs. Looking forward more than we look back...

Guess that comes from maturity, huh? Shoot!

We are kids at heart and always will be.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY VERY BEST FRIEND IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD. BEST FRIENDS FOREVER (aka BFF like in 7th grade).

Friday follow-up #9

Hmmm, let's see- not a real exciting week here but I will give you the scoop nonetheless.

• Merrick started "Chess Academy" at school this week. His school has a great team and they make it to Nationals every year! In 3rd grade, they just get to learn all about the game of chess. He really liked his first week!
  

• I'm heading out on a women's retreat today. I'm really excited. Several friends are going and my sister and I are driving out there together. I will share about what I learned later.

• Fantasy football kicked off this past week. We are in a league with Brandon's family so it's a blast teasing each other. (Brandon is also in a league with the guys that he has been in one with for about 7 yrs. now). B and I both lost our first game of the season. I lost by 1 pt-bummer.
  

• We are both really into twitter right now. If you don't know what it is, read HERE. It's basically like texting all your friends about your day. If you want to follow us on Twitter, it's @brandonaldson and @mrscdonaldson
  

• The Internet campus launched a new mission experience called LIFESHARE. We are really excited about this.You can read what it's about HERE. Also, you can watch the video Brandon made about it below.
  

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND! Keep in touch:)

Friday follow-up #8

Can't believe another week has gone by. Here is a full update on our lives....

• First of all, I wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who has sent encouragement our way. It really means a LOT to us! I've had sort of an emotional week and realize that I still have some emotional stuff to work through. It helps to know people are praying for us and loving on us. THANK YOU for being there through this blog, through e-mails, etc. If you are not sure what I'm talking about, read all about it here.

• The boys are doing great in school. Merrick is going to start attending the "Chess Academy" this next week to learn how to play chess. Their school goes to Nationals every year! Ethan thinks school is cool (and I hope it stays that way!). He LOVES having homework (since it's all new to him) and he just realized this week that he knows how to read. It's fun watching his eyes light up when he talks about all the things he's learning.

• We went to Arkansas to see family this past weekend. What a great time we had! Brandon got to fish as much as he wanted (and we had 2 fish fry's). I got to scrapbook and completed 30 pages! It was the perfect get-away and we can't wait to go back!We took our dog and he had a blast running around in the country! He was a great traveler too :)
  

• I joined a new bible study this week and left feeling so excited about this semester. I didn't know 2 of the ladies, a few of the ladies I know a bit about but don't know personally, and then 2 others I know extremely well. It was a great mix of women and I'm so thankful God blessed me with this new chapter and some new girlfriends!

• Brandon's new co-worker started this week so he's been busy hanging out with him and getting to know him. They are getting along great and Brandon is so glad he's a part of the team! Welcome to Lifechurch.tv, Tony! I can't wait to hang out with Mandy and the kids :)
  

What's going on in your lives? Did I just share too much information from ours? :) Did you enjoy Labor day? What are your thoughts about the 2 political conventions that just ended?

As always, THANK YOU for reading and following this blog!

Friday follow-up #7

It's been a crazy week with a lot going on but I will share just a few of the fun things with you:)

• We rented 'The Astronaut Farmer' tonight since Randy's lets you rent 1 free catalog (non-new release) each Thursday. We really liked it. Just the idea behind following your dreams and supporting those around you who are following their dreams was inspiring! I think we were just in the mood for a movie like this.

• We are highly anticipating the Olympics. We are one of those families that is glued to the TV each night cheering on our fellow Americans. Sometimes I even cry when they win the gold! It's just amazing to think about what these athletes put into it. The time, effort, money, energy...something to be applauded whether someone medals or not.

• I've said it before and I'll say it again. It means so much to have family and friends support around us. Just to know that people are there for whatever reason. You are not alone! Lean on someone around you and you will not regret it. Relationships are the key :)

• I'm thinking about taking a "sabbatical" of sorts. Just to take some time and really pray about our adoption(s), get ready for them, figure out what my next step is as far as job or no job, etc. I'm joining a new women's bible study that I am really looking forward to as well. It's turning out to be an entirely new season for me and I like it.

So- what's going on with you? Are you looking forward to the Olympics? Done any fun stuff with your friends or family lately? What's your favorite day of the week?

Trust (pt 2 of 4)

Trusting Others

It's hard to trust others too. Man- I really have some trust issues, huh? I just know that there are people whom I trust with everything and others who I don't.

If I delegate something, I trust that it will get done. If I tell a "secret", I expect a friend to keep it silent. If I am struggling, I trust my friends to tell me the truth (even if it hurts).

So- that' why I have a hard time trusting. I think I place many expectations and make it difficult to earn my trust.

I'm learning that I have to be vulnerable or I will never learn to trust others. If I hold it all in- how will anyone "earn" my trust? I've come a long way. I have also strived to be that trustworthy friend that others seek.

Do you struggle with trusting others? Are you vulnerable? How many people do you share those "secrets" with? How many people speak truth into your life?

PUMP-IT-UP

Ethan had a great party at Pump-It-Up! As you can see, he had many friends to share it with so that makes it the best anyways.

He has been enjoying his gifts like crazy. On any given day, you will see him walking on stilts through the house, operating on The Hulk (operation game), playing marbles, being Iron Man, fighting with his Ninja Turtle, and driving his HUMMER around the house. With the money he got, he is going to buy a new Bible for Toon Town.

We feel so blessed to have great friends and family around us!! It's never about the gifts but who we can share our lives with!! Thanks for making his special day so special!

Oklahoma= Home sweet Home :)

Friday follow-up #6

Hmmm, it's been a busy week so it all sort of runs together! Here is an attempt at catching you all up:)

• Brandon officiated a funeral on Monday for a little baby. So sad. God has blessed the family with peace. Please continue to pray for Chris and Lisa. Read about their story HERE.
  

• Had a camp parent meeting this week and Merrick leaves for camp on Sunday. I am a nervous wreck- can someone say "overprotective"? The great thing about the meeting was hearing everyone else's questions and knowing I am not the only one who's nervous.
  

• Planned Ethan's party at Pump it up- he is PUMPED! ha ha
  

• Brandon got to see the Foo Fighters live (he'll have to tell you more about that later)
  

• Our good friends John and Bre are moving today...sad day. We will miss them being down the street, we will miss them at church, we will miss them at work....pretty sure we are going to miss them.The picture above was taken at their farewell dinner. I had more to add but can't figure out our new camera software. I think I need a tutorial :)
  

How was your week? The one thing I know is that for me it's all about friendships on this earth- people are the ones who make the difference. What special people in your life help you through?

Gotta brag on our friends for a bit (pt 5)

I wanted to highlight another friend of ours. Meet Josh Shipp.

Josh and his wife moved to Oklahoma to work at Lifechurch.tv right about the time we were leaving for California (which is their home state). Then a few years later, we swapped back and returned to our "home" states. It was kind of funny how we only saw each other in transition. Unfortunately, we did not get to work with Josh and Sarah firsthand but were able to admire their work from afar.

Josh has been a successful motivational speaker for a long time and travels around the globe to speak to teens. He has recently released a DVD and CD . He also has a popular site called "Hey Josh" where people ask him questions and he responds. (Some are serious and some are just hilarious- most are hilarious actually:)

Josh will be appearing on Total Request Live (TRL) on MTV today at 3pm (eastern time). Please tune in and see him and Selma Blair answer questions about teen dating and other topics of interest.

Visit Josh's myspace or facebook to leave him a comment. Or, visit his websites www.JoshShipp.com or www.HeyJosh.tv

Again, I can not stress enough what a great communicator he is.....maybe you should even book him for an event!!

Gotta brag on our friends for a bit (pt 4 of 4)

Want some more good music? Well, check out LUMA! These guys also grew up in the youth group we led. They have grown up so much! They are ALL amazingly talented in the music area. They are also quality men. Brandon and I mentored Stephen (guitar player) and his wife, and Brandon performed their marriage ceremony! Stephen played on the worship team with Brandon for years. Marcus (bass) and Adam (drums) were also active in the youth group and played music with Brandon sometimes. Hunter (vocals) was one of the first "kids" we had over at our house from the youth group. I still remember when he was shy about getting up on stage and singing. I always knew he had the talent!!We love these guys and know they are going to make it big! Great quality music right here, folks! OH- also, their song "Wake up" was featured on an episode of MTV's "The Hills" this past season.

Buy their merchandise here to support their new recording

Go HERE to order their EP

Here's a clip from a live show they performed some time last year. We were actually at this one singing along:)

Gotta brag on our friends for a bit (pt 3 of 4)

Gotta brag on Matt Doane for a bit....Matt was one of our "youth kids" back in the day. He turned out to be one of our best friends. He recently moved out to Los Angeles and is doing great out there (although we miss him!). I don't know all the technical terms for what Matt does but I know he is a smoke artist/colorist, and did editing on "End of the Spear" (by the way if you haven't seen this movie yet, rent it on DVD- we loved it!), "Beyond the Gates of Splendor", and "Miss HIV". The photos on the right were taken when he was on location filming "Miss HIV".

Here are his FLICKR photos, they are amazing!

Here is his editing reel. Pretty cool, huh?

Can't believe all that talent is bottled up in one guy!:)