THE BURDENS OF BEING A CURLY GIRL

If you have naturally curly hair and are unfamiliar w/ this book. Stop what you are doing and go and buy this now. I was introduced to this book my first semester at Seminary by a student with as curly of hair as me but her's looked good. I asked her secret and she gave me this book.

Now, for as long as I can remember I have been a "HAIR VICTIM!"

I have been given the Ronald McDonald hair cut to the imfamous Long Mullet (where it's two layers: one around your chin and then the undergrowth below giving the appearance of the mullet) or even worse the Triangle cut....that always looks good on a girl with a perfectly ROUND face (sarcasm used here). Needless to say a trip to the salon is like going to the dentist for me... unexpected, unavoidable long term pain, and with fear and tremblilng.

Like I said I have since learned the antidote to bad haircuts, and her name is Anne. She worked at Spectrum hair salon on Clayton but since she homeschool's her children - she works from home in West county. I didn't have the time to visit her and thought her counterpart at the salon would do just fine. She did - but I did miss my time catching up with Anne! FYI: Curly hair cuts are done DRY... so that you can cut the curl in a strategic place and then you wash and redry to make sure the shape and style is desired. Also, you have to take into the consideration of the products used. I am a huge Product Snob - always have been yet I never knew there were products designed just for curly hair... I know and now I can never go back. My recommendation is for DEVA - it smells great and works amazingly well.

Now - I haven't cut my hair since around Feb. 2007 since I was growing it out for the wedding and needless to say - it needed it but it was also the longest it has been in years. Michael called it mermaid hair. I got my hair cut on Saturday - I know it takes a couple of days to relearn the new personality of my shorter locks but with the humity it's taking longer than expected. It just seems so short to me. The Bright Side: Hair grows.... i just hope it grows fast. I am fearful of August which proves to be the most humid month in Missouri. I am hoping I can unlock the secret to my hair before sporting a full on afro for the next month.

If you have curly hair, my recommendations are:

1) Change to Deva Products. Find a salon that sells them by going to : http://www.devaconcepts.com/products/

2) Go to a curly hair specialist - ususally found on the previous website by searching the salons and asking who is certified by the DevaConcepts training http://www.devaconcepts.com/ or another resource is http://www.naturallycurly.com/.

3) By the Book and learn how to use the Deva products and style your hair (available anywhere, including Amazon)

Friendship Bread Gone Amuck...

We have been having friendship bread floating from person to person. For those of you who are not familar with this process (aka burden): You have a starter bag of ingredients over ten days and many steps you get to the point in the process where you divide the batter into 4 different bags, keeping one of these bags and completing the process and making the bread flavor of choice.

I was talking to my best friend, Staci (matron of honor) when making the final steps of my bread last night. NOT A GOOD IDEA! I accidentally skipped a step and could not recover without finishing all the starters. What does this mean, you might ask? It means I made enough batter to make 8 loaves of bread. I didn't know if it could be done or how it would all work out and I kind of guessed at how to do it, since others said it was best to make all of the bread starters seperate.

I made 4 loaves of Banana Cream bread and made the batter for 4 loaves of Lemon Poppy Seed bread, which I am making tonight. My kitchen was trashed, and at 11:20pm I was covered in flower, sugar, etc. from head to toe. I finally finshed last night at 12am.

Moral of the story: When baking - don't be on the phone with your best friend or you have the potential for disaster.... or like me, stay up to late baking and overwhelming your house of 2 people with 8 loaves of bread.

WHY CHRISTIANITY? GOT QUESTIONS...HERE ARE "SOME" ANSWERS

When I was searching for answers to the largest of life's questions this could have been useful but it could have also fueled my fire against Christians. I am just glad that God revealed himself to me and I was humble enough to receive His love and help along this journey that pretty much confuses me about 100% of the time. Read with an open heart and I pray that God answers all your questions.

http://www.livingwaters.com/Merchant2/graphics/pdf/WhyChristianity.pdf

This is an explaination - it's not able to answer all of life's questions but it's a start. If you have any other questions - email me. I will answer what I can, and research, ask wiser & more educated people than me and get you answers. I hope you are challenged by what you read and if you are angered...examine why? God might be speaking to you and convicting you to make some changes in your heart and in your life.
GOD BLESS - Carin

QUESTION OF THE DAY....

So today, in the lull of the day I asked, "If you could see any concert front row, of anyone dead or alive, who would it be?" I love music and you can tell a lot about someone by the answer to this question.

My answer:

1. Beatles

2. Rat Pack in Vegas

3. AC/DC

4. Beach Boys

5. Coldplay

6. Tony Bennett

7. Janet Jackson (about 10 years ago)

8. Madonna (after she first came out)

9. Billy Joel

10. Elton John

11. Woodstock - the whole show

12. James Taylor (Seen him but front row would make it better)

13. Neil Diamond

14. Simon & Garfunkel

15. Etta James
16. Bob Dylan
17. The Doors


There were more ... so many more like, U2, Elvis (which I hate), The Who, Pink Floyd, Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks and Wham (Tucker I love this answer). Who would you choose? If you'd like to weigh in please leave me a comment.

I'M LONELY

Michael left for his business trip in Ohio yesterday. Last night, I filled my night with a wonderful visit from my girlfriend Rochelle. She and I haven't really spent quality with her since we've both been married. It was so nice catching up, swapping stories, and sharing struggles of getting used to "living with a boy" - LOL. At the end of the night though - I missed Michael.

He's working in a prison today, setting up computer stuff I can't even begin to explain. I haven't talked to him today and I miss him a lot! I've lived on my own now for 12 years and yet I was a little spooked sleeping there alone last night. I missed my big strong protector.

I am ready for him to be home! I think he misses me too, since he called me about every hour last night. I need to make the most of my time though - cleaning, organizing, me-time, and just all those things that I don't want to do when he's home because I'd rather snuggle with him on the couch.

WANTING TO BE LAZY

This picture was taken on our honeymoon.... and with the weather as wonderfully perfect as it is right now. I think to be sitting in these chairs with a nice glass of Pinot Grigio would be close to heaven right now.

It is just TOO pretty to be indoors today. And after the week I have had - (since I can't make it to Mexico today) to layout under the sun with a warm summer breeze kissing my cheek on a blanket near some water with my husband would be the icing on the cake. Maybe even having a picnic with some brie, and fruit and french bread.......

Ok ... back to reality. I am at work all day....but wouldn't it be nice. By the way, here's my two cents: I think that just because we get older doesn't mean we don't still need a recess.

Happy Friday to All!!

TRUSTING GOD.....even with our finances...

During Michael and I's relationship we have been tested in a big and small ways. We have leaned on God through it all, especially when we, with only our human perspective, couldn't see past the problem to the solution or even have a thought at how powerful, creative and good our God is that we serve. I think in times of trial and suffering we make God so small, that we feel hopeless, instead of understanding that we serve a God that made the universe and if I "need" a new car, engine, honeymoon, etc - He will make sure I get it in His perfect timing. Oh by the way... that timing thing is totally not based on your comfort level, or instant gratification - unfortunately.

Satan knows our panic button and it is on the topic of transportation (our cars) and money. And when he pushes both of them at the same time - our panic mode goes on. During our time getting ready for the wedding, my car went to peices. It went from an oil change to needing an entirely new engine. That means a variance of $30 to $2500 + the engine. What happened? We sacrificed the wedding money saved for our honeymoon and paid the bill in addition to what our church donated to us. So by being obedient and paying for what needed to get done - God didn't say that money was for a honeymoon, I did. But he had other ways to bless us. My father, Alex, paid for our entire honeymoon as a wedding gift - how amazing it is to see God's hand through the love of a family member. It was a GIFT FROM GOD!

So today, we found out that Michael's car has finally hit a point where we have to make a decision - 1)Scrap the car and use only mine - when his is working but the transmission is having problems or 2)sink $2500 into his car to get it up to snuff to pass inspection or 3)walk out on some major faith and buy a new car. Or there might be another option that God will provide that we can't even see right now. Michael and I deal with financial problems very differently - I have never had money... so I live by FAITH ALONE and I am able to rest in God after a mild freak out session. Michael is used to his security and savings and having extra. He is having a hard time realizing that GOD will work this out - like all men - he wants to fix it, but feels helpless. So I am adding some things I found online that brought me comfort. And I ask you to join us in praying for God's provision and direction in this sticky situation. Please also pray for peace and unity for Michael and I.

This is an insert from "What Does Trusting God Mean? " by Daniel N. Brown

"If you love God, then remember that He is in the midst of your circumstances and He has everything under control. When things don’t seem to be working out the way we think they should, remember, God said in Isaiah 55:8-9, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than yours.”
We are told in Proverbs 3:5 to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.” So, “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4).
God has got a plan and trusting Him is knowing that no matter what happens, He will bring good out of it. Romans 8:28 says, "God works all things together for the good of those who love him."
You are meant to be free of stress, reasoning, worry and everything else that can weigh you down. So, if you have been concerned about things to the point where it has stolen your joy, remember, Jesus said in Matthew 6:25, “Take no thought for your life.”
Sometimes, we are to just take our hands off of things and let God take care of them. Let Him do what only He can do and not worry about the outcome. He has our best interest in mind and has a wonderful plan for each or us (Jeremiah 29:11).
It's very reassuring to remember what God says about you, and what He says about Himself, whenever you may be going through a trying situation.
He says, "I am your Shepherd, I care for you, and My name is 'I Am' " and “I will keep you in perfect peace because your mind is stayed on Me, because you trust in Me” (Isaiah 26:3).
If you can truly believe with all of your heart and confess, "God, I take no thought for my life, I am anxious for nothing, and I am still, and know that You are God," then you will experience that perfect peace He is talking about. "

Prayerful.... this has been my current state for the past few days. I find myself in a place of crossroads. Things are changing in my social circles, my family, and soon my schedule.

I feel like God is preparing me for something big - I just don't know what's coming but I am bracing myself for something big. The wonderful thing that I have realized is that I now have a partner in my prayer life. Michael is such a prayer warrior. I chose the picture above because I am learning to lean on Michael and it is so freeing to know I can count on him. And thanks to Bobbi Brinkman Photography, I have this wonderful picture.

Things I am praying for:

1. Peace
2. Wisdom
3. Direction
4. Unity
5. Discernment
6. Boldness
7. Rest
8. Acceptance of things to come ... namely, change.
9. Support
10. To lean on God first and then Michael

MICHAEL SINGS....

Michael has been singing the Spider Pig song for the past 2-3 weeks. I love him but...
Check out this video: The Simpsons Movie - Spider Pig



Add to My Profile | More Videos

I don't like the Simpsons but Michael is sooo funny when he sings this that I had to post it.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HINRICHSENS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Kenny & Megan

You guys are the greatest friends. You have been such an inspiration to me on how this whole Christian marriage and parenting is suppose to look. Thank you for being such a great example and always being so welcoming, as you do weekly. Have a great Birthday to you both. You are definite blessing to Michael and I and to all who know you.

Happy Birthday!

What did we do different?

So.... since Michael now lives with me, we have unlimited time together. It is so nice to come home and he's there. But prior to our wedding with wedding details, class, work, youth group and any other thing I threw on my plate, we only saw each other two maybe three times a week (and that included Youth group). We made the most of our time together and were always watching the clock since we had a curfew of 10:00pm. We went on dates, hung out, and spent time with friends. Nothing exciting but it was something and we did it together.

As I was sitting on the couch yesterday with Michael upstairs studying , I had a thought pop into my head, "I am really boring." My days consist of work, dinner, clean the house and then ....... can you hear the crickets..... Bed. I know that Michael and I have more time together so it can't be all exciting all the time but we are at a loss of things to do with all this time, since we're trying to buy a house in the next 2 years... we're trying to be frugal. Oh, and when you get home after a full day of work .... cook a meal and then clean up... I am not left with a lot of energy to go have some great adventure.

So did I get boring or are we just settling in before the storm. The store being the madness that is me back in school, taking 6 hours plus work plus.... you get the gist. Or is this how all married couples are who don't live together first?

I think my ADD doesn't know what to do with this relaxed way of life. I am used to being on the go 24/7. And I have some breathing room and I feel like I should be doing something ... but there's nothing coming to mind.

I'M A BIG KID NOW

Michael and I received a lot of wonderful wedding presents but the best ones of all were all our generous family and friends who gave us money. Why am I saying this.... because of this money, we've been able to buy a bed.

Since January, (when I moved into our house) I have been sleeping on a mattress on the floor. My boxspring was not able to make the journey up the stairs due to a very tight stairwell. So I have reverted to a college style bedroom. As of yesterday - I am officially a big kid now. Michael and we bought a bed from Ashley Furniture.

I would have taken an actual picture but our bedroom is so small and the bed takes up so much room I can't even get a good picture of it. But it is just as beautiful as it is in the picture. For the first time since we've been married I actually slept through the night and when I got out of bed I did not have to hurl myself up (which is horrible on your back every morning). I also like being off the floor since we have such a spider issue. The thought of spiders being that close just freaks me out. However, the exterminator is coming to give us an estimate today - so the spiders' days are numbered... !

WHAT I AM READING....

"The Strong-Willed Wife" by Dr. Debbie Cherry

I know those of you who know me are laughing at that I am reading this book. But believe it or not, I bought this on my own. No - it wasn't a gift or a recommendation by my husband. I have always been strong willed - almost out of necessity growing up. But I as I was confronted with the difficulties with sharing, giving control over to Michael - when I had been doing it all for so long, I realized the only way to honor God with my marriage was to learn how to work my personality into the marriage instead of trying to change everything about me, but I did need to change my perspective on things and do it God's way.

I "HIGHLY" recommend this book to any woman who feels that she will never fit the image of the "perfect Christian woman" (married or single) because God/ and life has made her too strong. God makes strong women but He has some things to teach us about our strength and the author illustrates this through scripture, grace and lots of humor.

*Below is the book description by the publisher:

In today's world, the Bible's design for marriage is under constant attack.
It seems that women receive two very different messages: The church teaches submission to all God-given authority, while our culture encourages independence from anyone or anything. And while the idea of submission is tough for any woman to accept, it can be even more difficult for those with strong personalities. All of this can leave many wondering if submission in marriage is even relevant to today's woman.

Author Debbie L. Cherry believes that authority is still essential to a healthy, vibrant marriage. Join Debbie as she takes an honest look at one of the Bible's most misunderstood teachings. By tackling the common concerns and misconceptions that distort the truth, Dr. Cherry presents the scriptural concept of authority and how it's designed to be a vital part of a loving, secure relationship. You'll discover freedom in letting your husband lead, because submission doesn't mean denying who you are.

Happy 4th of July

Happy 4th to everyone. I enjoyed the day sleeping in while Michael and our friend Andy went to "Transformers" Apparently, it was "Awesome!" Not really my cup of tea. I got time alone in the house to read... it was wonderful. And then Michael and I went to Kirkwood to the McNett's house (a family in our church). They were the ever gracious host. The food was great! Thank you so much for having us.

After eating, we all trucked over to Kirkwood Park. The fireworks were wonderful, the weather however was unbearable... I could have rung out my clothes afterwards. And my hair almost hit full afro status... my word. I think I need to move towards an ocean... or north w/ little humidity.

Let the Games Begin

Games is a staple in our group of friends. We are highly competitive from softball to cards. Tuesday night we had a pre-4th of July bash at Kenny & Megan's house . They are the most gracious hosts. We had a BBQ, and tons of fun. I made Cheesy Potluck Potatoes - and they were a big hit (which I was excited about since it was the first time I had made them - Thanks Brenda). Here's some pictures of our fun filled night.

Acting out for Crainium
Who's turn is it?
Yo' Dustin!
Killer Bunnies....

My attention span was gone in 5 minutes after trying to figure out what to do.

Not a game for anyone w/ A.D.D.

Oh Did I mention..... I beat Michael at boxing on the Wii. The satisfaction was overwhelming... and of course, he said I cheated. He's a poor loser... oh well. I beat him and that's all you have to know.

We've made it "1 Month"

Today... after looking at the calendar, I realized that Michael and I totally missed our one month anniversary. It was yesterday.We are so bad at being newlyweds. Well... we did have dinner together - Pizza and salad. Maybe we can celebrate month 2 - if we remember. LOL

It seems crazy to think that it all happened a month ago, it feels like just yesterday. I would like to see my wedding video just to relive the day... but I will probably never get it. Oh well. I have wonderful photos.

Our home...after the wedding

It's finally coming together... so I thought I would post more pictures...
.............

Another Busy Weekend...

This weekend was another busy. Michael and I had a couple over for dinner. I made pork tenderloin, rosemary red potatoes, brocoli and carrots and french bread. I thought it was great. We had so much fun having them over and talking about their upcoming wedding. Thanks Katie and Tom for sharing an evening with us.

We sat outside w/ wonderful cool weather.

Saturday:

Michael had softball practice (this time he didn't come home w/ head trauma). And I went to Pinckneyville to visit my parents. My dad graciously flushed my transmission fluid = saving me $220. Thanks Dad. I got to go through all my pictures with Brenda. It was fun to go through the day again. I really hope to get my video... but that's to be determined.

Every time I go home, I am amazed at how little changes.... It is the land where time does not exist.

My parent's house

Sunday:

Michael & I had church, and our church picnic. It was so much fun! Here's some pictures:

Leci with Michael and her Tata

She's just so darn cute......... or is she up to something... hmmm

Desi and Abbie.............and 2 wild and crazy girls (Angie and Cathy)

And I am not so sure what Kenny is doing in the background?

After the picnic Michael and I went to "Evan Almighty" w/ his mom. Overall I'd give the film a "B". It was funny, good for the whole family, and it had a great message. You always get what you pray for .... just not always the way you expected the prayer to be answered. Michael had a game at 8:40pm last night, and the guys played WONDERFUL. Everyone took ate their Wheaties ... because they were hitting like pros. Way to go guys.