John and Lauren

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-19T22:00:00.000-06:00

May you find time this Christmas week to spend time with God. He loves you more than you can imagine... so much so that He sent His one and only Son.

'Advanced Blogger' Messed Me UP!

2010-12-19T21:47:00.000-06:00

This blog almost got shut down. For months, I've been quiet, because I couldn't figure out how to work the new blogger templates. What happened to simple blogger? Only a couple of buttons ... no funky layout or advance layout? I want the old days back where my blog wasn't so huge. Is this operator error or did anyone else's blog just sort of expand in all directions?

If you notice any odd and out of place pictures and text, just forgive me. Yes, I know it looks weird, but I'm STILL trying to figure this thing out. And if this post actually gets posted, then another one might be coming soon.

Oh how I've missed the blogging world. Not my blog, but others' blogs. Others that seem to go with the flow and can do change well.

Life Lately

2010-09-10T10:24:00.000-05:00

Yet another month has passed since the last post. Ridiculous.

So here's what's happened over the past month...

Baby Samuel Dean was born! Although he is now 3 weeks old and doesn't look much like this anymore....

he is absolutely precious. What a great baby he is! Leah had a smooth delivery --- prayers were answered!

Then we kicked off Crave University with our students at Frazer. We had some cheerleaders and dancers in their outfits, banners were made and university music blaring to kick off the new format. Instead of Sunday school, they have 'Crave U' where the kids get to decide what classes they want to take. Pretty cool!

And then we took about 50 of our students to En Fuego. En Fuego: hot, outdoor Christian Woodstock. Seriously, it wasn't that bad. Especially when you get to sit under a tent all day and crack-up the people you work with!

Chair bags. Good for covering chairs...and makes for a convenient phone booth.

And this is what most students' feet looked like before we got on the bus...

Nasty.

This has certainly NOT been everything we've been up to. Just ones I actually have pictures of. We've got a few weddings coming up, and tonight, we're going to see Whitney in a play. Oh yeah, the actress of the family is having a local debut.

Until the next time ... and hopefully before October gets here.

2 Dresses, 1 Veil

2010-08-10T21:28:00.000-05:00

When we found my wedding dress and veil, the only thing Whitney and I agreed on "style wise" was... the veil. We both adored the cathedral lace veil. So we convincingly told mom that she could get a good bang for her buck, because we would both wear it! At the time, we didn't think Whitney would get married 14 months after me, but she did. And she wore the beautiful veil that I had worn. It was a neat thing to have in common, to say the least.

But the veil got even more bang for the buck when we were "bridal models" for Lisa Marie recently. Lisa Marie got what she needed: models for a photography class. And Whitney and I got what we wanted: pictures of us, in our very different wedding gowns, with the veil. These are just two of the pictures. Haven't seen the rest yet. I believe these are actually two of the students pictures, but needless to say, this captures us perfectly.

Hilarious. And EXACTLY what I had envisioned.

Whitney's Wedding Pictures ... Ahhh!

2010-08-10T21:13:00.000-05:00

Between Whitney and I, Lisa Marie (Whit's wedding photographer) probably wants to block us from her Facebook and email. But it's just because we haven't been able to contain ourselves since the wedding... so anxious to see the pictures! And then her email came today saying half of the pictures are up, and boy were we excited! After spending about an hour with Whit tonight looking at the 500 plus pictures, I'm glad I'm not deciding what's going in the wedding book and what has to be cut!

Here are just a few of my faves. (These are watermarked, though. But you can still tell how pretty they are!)

Could this next picture be any more precious?

I just look at this and smile. You are just a fun, beautiful- in- every-way sister, Whitney!

And the newlywed couple .... Ahhhh....

Can't wait for Whitney to post all of them - or at least her faves.

Photo credit Lisa Marie Photography.

Matthew 20:28

2010-08-07T21:47:00.000-05:00

Matthew 20:28 is pretty powerful. It says, "just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Unlike any other king, Jesus wasn't interested in having people serve Him. He wanted to serve. He wanted to be with people and personally show love to them. You see, Jesus was on a mission to SEEK and to SAVE what was lost (Luke 19). People who had no clue who Jesus was. People who didn't understand the kind of love Jesus is. He wanted to be with them.

In the student ministry, we're calling this year the "Year of Missions." We want to serve. And the really cool thing I love about it is that you don't have to do a big foreign mission trip (absolutely nothing, nothing wrong with that!!) to make known the name of Jesus. My first outreach with CRAVE (our student ministry) was in an inner-city neighborhood right in our backyard. It's amazing what can happen when you just love someone.

blog slacker.... and my reason for it

2010-08-07T16:23:00.000-05:00

So the last time I posted was in June. The last post was from Leah's baby shower, and now that baby should be here any day! But I have to tell you I have been bursting at the seams to post. I just haven't had time! The first two weeks of July were so busy and jam packed, that I didn't have the time to EVEN sign into my account to see what my friends have been doing. I've certainly been out the blog-loop for the past month and a half.

And my reason for it .... I changed jobs. June 30th I left my public affairs job and walked into a completely different job. A completely different "field." Something that had you told me even a year ago I would be doing full time, I probably would have thought no way possible. At noon June 30th, I left the homeland security office and at 1:00pm, I started with our church, Frazer Memorial United Methodist, as the Girls Minister. I can hear some of you laughing now ... minister, what?! Yeah, don't get hung up on that. If you share the Gospel and the love of Christ with others, you're a minister too. :)

I will tell you that it wasn't a hurried decision and that God has an incredible way of piecing events together. Girls ministry (6-12th grade) is a big piece of my heart. I love seeing girls deepen the relationship with Christ and grow into Godly young women. To say I'm doing what my heart screams out would be an understatement. I love God and I love kids (ahem, students, sorry.). Also, the people I work with are A-M-A-Z-I-N-G and always good for a laugh! I work with a Brian, another Bryan, one Jon, a Mama Daisy and a sweet Mary. Pictures of the office are soon to come! You'll crack up at them. But wow -- what challenges are ahead! Only with God will they be successful!

So that my friends is where we've been lately. John and I are learning how to adjust our schedules and how to be even MORE patient with each other. Please pray for us. :)

I'll share some pictures on the next post. And maybe soon I'll have some recent pictures Whitney and I had in our bridal gowns. Oh wow is all I can say. But for now, I'm out. John's waiting on the computer.

Whoever claims to live in him must walked as Jesus did. 1 John 2:6

Baby Samuel

2010-06-25T16:03:00.001-05:00

In just a few months, Leah and Kenny will have their first baby! We are all so excited to meet him. Will he have her jet black hair? Or, will he be a blonde baby like Kenny was? Will he have Kenny's bubbly personality or super-Type A-organized habits like Leah? We'll soon find out!

To help prepare for his grand arrival, we hosted a baby shower with the theme "Showered with Blessings" for Leah and Kenny. It was beautiful and much fun!

And with the soon-to-be-mom .... Leah, you look great girl!

Bringing Back the Flower Girl ....

2010-06-25T14:17:00.001-05:00

What is it about little girls and weddings? Most love them! And this BIG GIRL loves them too! So you can imagine how much I loved it when Katelyn and Owen were at the house recently, and Katelyn had a great idea of taking some of the leftover flowers from Whitney's wedding and playing "wedding!" It went a little something like this ....

Lauren: "OH YAY! I would love to play wedding."
Katelyn: "Ok, well you have to be the bride."
Lauren: "You don't want to be the bride? Who are you going to be?"
Katelyn: "I'm going to be the FLOWER GIRL!" (As she jumped up and down with excitement.)
Lauren: "Well, do I have a groom?"
Katelyn: "Sure - that's Owen's job."

Sweet Owen played "groom" as long as he could. When I wanted a picture of them together, he was tired of playing wedding, and simply asked for his dump truck. Kids - I love them!

Yes, even after one year of John and I marrying, she still wants to be the flower girl. Just precious.

Mr. and Mrs. William Lehmann: The Wedding

2010-06-16T19:35:00.000-05:00

As I posted previously, Whitney's wedding day was perfect.

We had a fun time that morning at the MAC make-up counter getting our wedding faces on. And wow, Whitney sure talks A LOT when she is nervous and jittery.

Then we ventured to the church, and time flew by! Before we knew it, I was prepping her dress and veil to walk down the aisle. (As she was claiming she was about to pass out!) I missed some pictures at the reception. Did NOT get any pictures of her cake or Will's. Didn't get any pictures of them cutting the cake. Where was the announcement that they were cutting the cake? Definitely missed it. Sure didn't get any pictures of them walking out. Where was my mind?! I guess I was consumed with throwing flowers.

And that's why we rely on professional photographers. But for now, here's the gorgeous bride!

Pre-ceremony

Will - you looked SHARP!

My sweet John --- who was totally the best husband that weekend. He said his motto for the weekend was "keep my mouth shut, stay out of the way and do what I'm told." He's really the best.

After Ceremony- The Sword Ceremony.

The Reception

We're one blessed family!

What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate. Mark 10:9

Mr. and Mrs. William Lehmann: The Rehearsal

2010-06-16T19:01:00.000-05:00

Well, they are married. She is now Mrs. William Lehmann. My sissy is married! It's still so odd saying that, but absolutely nothing was odd about their wedding. It was complete perfectness, in my world. I'm pretty sure Whitney would say the same thing too. She was gorgeous, and Will was ever-so handsome in his uniform. The day was incredibly smooth and fun. Simply wonderful!

So let's get to my favorite part - the pictures! Here are a few of the rehearsal night. Mr. and Mrs. William Lehmann: The Wedding will be posted next.

Whit with her gift-ribbon bouquet that I made...with her help. I had never made one before. It was fun!

They gave each other their wedding gifts that night.

Will wanted a Kindle and got one...

and Whitney wanted the sentimental gift, a pearl bracelet. Very pretty!

Whitney's now brother-in-law, Rick. He's a handsome boy too!

The updated family picture. Dad's not alone anymore. He's now got some man support. He's very grateful.

Gone to be with Jesus

2010-06-16T15:44:00.001-05:00

Last week John's grandfather, his PawPaw, went to be with Jesus. Definitely a sad time, but we were all reminded of his love for God, funny personality and caring spirit at the funeral. That was a blessing. He was 88 years old and lived a great life. He will be greatly missed. Thank you to everyone who called and emailed. We appreciate your prayers.

This was the last picture John and I took with him. It was Christmas Eve. He loved opening his gifts and loved the great food that night! He was truly a sweet, sweet man of God!

A Birthday Gala Extravaganza

2010-06-01T11:26:00.001-05:00

My family loves birthdays. If we all lived closer, every one's birthday would be a big deal. But we still try to make everyone feel important on their special day. Whitney definitely felt special on her day. It wasn't just a one day celebration --- but an entire weekend! With the entire family. Since May 27 was Whitney's last birthday as a "single woman," my aunt Trina and uncle Ock planned a birthday celebration at their blue beach house.

(I love this house, by the way. It's a fairly new investment for Trina and Ock, and I already see many years of memories happening here.) This is what we saw when we walked in ...

Oh yeah. Not just "birthday weekend," but "gala extravaganza." Oh, Lord. Whitney will never be the same. I think she's expecting this every year now. And we saw this ...

In just two weeks, Will joins our family. So this was his weekend to be celebrated too --- or a weekend to really think about the decision he is about to make. Smile. Nothin' like a family weekend to break a guy in!

Ock wanted to do something fun for dinner one night so he put together this shrimp boil. Yum. Yum. Yum.

The family loved it, and didn't wait a minute to dig in!

And then we had chocolate cake. Two kinds of chocolate cake, actually.

And would it be a birthday gala extravaganza without a group family shot? I think not!

The perfect shot with the blue house behind us. (The entire family cooperated for this picture. Amazing!) Here are a few more from the weekend.

The beautiful couple we celebrated this weekend. They are simply gorgeous, and so much fun!

The best part of this weekend was having everyone there. It's just not the same when someone is missing. I'm ready for the next family celebration at the blue house. Hmmm...Could it be sometime in late June for John's birthday?

Family. The people who make a birthday gala extravaganza weekend so fun. Happy Birthday, Whitney! Welcome to the family, Will!

My Girls

2010-05-24T16:31:00.001-05:00

If you've heard me talk about 'my girls' this past year, this is who I've been talking about! (Minus about 7 of them!)

Aren't they so fun looking?! Trust me - they are!

Leslie (back row, far left) and I have ~~led counseling sessions~~ taught the 10th grade girls at Frazer for the past year. Not sure if I would have survived without Leslie as this was my first year in the youth group. I can remember the first Sunday morning as I walked into our room. There was a sea of beautiful, chatter-y girls. About 20 of them. Leslie couldn't be there that day, and I'm not quite sure how we made it through that first Sunday. But we did. I managed to get my name out and why in the world I was going to be one of their teachers. (Lucky them! They got a rookie! Again, thank the Lord for Leslie.)

Fast forward now 9 months --- I've had the BEST year with these girls! I told them Sunday I was going to be a little attached to them because they were my very first class. They broke me in. They have made me laugh, put me on the spot with interesting questions, and given me a fashion review with their outfits each Sunday. The best part, though, has been hearing what's on their hearts, and leading them in Truth as they continue to build their identity in Christ.

My girls are incredible!

Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12

The Bridesmaid Luncheon

2010-05-24T16:04:00.000-05:00

I love a nice luncheon. I love it even more when it's all girls. And EVEN more when it's all girls who like to TALK over really girly food!

We had Whitney's bridesmaids luncheon Saturday. It was perfect! Fun girls and great food! The gifts Whitney gave us were perfect for summer. A monogrammed beach towel, flip flops, monogrammed koozie --- all in a cute beach bag! Great job, Whit! (And mom.)

I'll let Whitney blog about her luncheon with all the pictures. I'll share just this one ....

Just three more weeks until she is Mrs. Lehmann! Time- please slow down! I don't know if I'm prepared for this yet! :)

Our Old Pal, Dale

2010-05-20T09:54:00.000-05:00

Friday night we went with our good friends Kenny and Leah to the Biscuits baseball game to see our old pal Dale Murphy!

You may recognize Dale from years past ....

He played for the Atlanta Braves --- and was apparently the only good player the Braves had at the time.

Well, Friday night he was at the Biscuits baseball game promoting his foundation and signing autographs --- and lo and behold, John and Kenny got to reconnect with a good friend.

Ok, seriously, he isn't an old pal. But Leah was the one taking these pictures up in the suite as they got to meet Dale and get autographs. She said you would have thought they knew Dale all their lives the way they were talking to him.

Especially Kenny. But Kenny meets NO strangers. Ever. I wonder what Kenny was trying to explain to him in the last picture .... wonder if it had anything to do with insurance? Smile.

Needless to say, it was a HIT for the boys. And for Leah and Kenny's soon-to-be son, Samuel, Kenny made sure to get that glove signed so Samuel can have a "lucky" glove.

We had so much fun! Love you friends! (Thanks Leah for getting them in the suite!)

The Better Cook

2010-04-30T10:57:00.000-05:00

For some people, whipping up good dishes just comes naturally. This is true for Sister Whitney. I have never claimed to be a better cook than her; she is naturally the better one. However, for those that Whitney have told that I either (1) burn every dish or (2) have made her sick every time with my cooking --- please know Whitney's second talent is in drama.

But, it is very nice to have a talented sister who likes to have John and I over for dinner. (For those that still don't realize Whitney and I live in the same town, we DO! 5 minutes from each other! She's not in Savannah yet. And won't be for at least another year which I selfishly like.)

Last night, Whitney cut up two sirloin steaks

and we fondue'd!

Whitney made a delicious side of asparagus...

and thus John was very happy .... and full.

What was my part in this? Well, of course, the non-cooks of the family are always the better cleaners.

(And the ones who tend to look the most frazzled. My hair was frizzing with each dish I cleaned because of the hot water. Steam + humidity=expanding frizzy hair.)

Now you might be saying, "Lauren - this meal would so not be hard for you to do." Probably not. I could probably win positive reviews by John. (If I could get home with the right meat and if mom would buy me a fondue pot.) But, Whitney has made other dishes that you just want to scream, "HOW IN THE WORLD DID YOU KNOW HOW TO DO THAT??"

That's ok, because we all have different talents. I wonder if she would want to go head to head in a clean-house contest?

Sis' Bridal Tea

2010-04-28T12:08:00.000-05:00

I don't want to scoop Sister's post on her bridal tea, so I'll just post one picture from Sunday. She had a beautiful tea in Gardendale hosted by many wonderful and ever-so giving ladies. (I wanted to slide a few of the gifts in my car and "test" them out for her. Just kidding.)

June 12th is getting close! I cannot believe 'lil Whit-Bit is going to be a wife. Funny and scary at the same time.

Again, just kidding.

100 Years of Crowning

2010-04-19T12:21:00.000-05:00

Zeta Tau Alpha -Nu Chapter is celebrating 100 years on the University of Alabama campus! That's a pretty old sorority if you ask me! That means Nu Chapter started at UA in 1910! To think about "sorority girls" back in the early 1900's sort of gives me a good laugh. Wonder what they would think now... ?

Whitney and I met up with some of our pledge sisters (and women who pledged back in the 60's!) in Tuscaloosa this past weekend. I'm only 5 years removed and at times this weekend it felt like I had been gone for 20 years and other times, like I've only been gone a few months!

Get ready to see the 'sistah's'!

Caris, me, Kristen - Pledge sisters, Christian sisters, college roomies, best friends who hope to ONE day live by each other again!

Whitney and me - my REAL sister, Christian sister, Sorority sister, and 'better-always-live-close-to-me' best friend . We look nothing alike. I know.

Outside the Zeta house. Add in Jodie now! Another pledge sister, Christian sister, college roomie, and best friend who understands what it's like to not live in Birmingham anymore!

A friend loves at all times

Proverbs 17:17

WaterColor

2010-04-12T14:34:00.001-05:00

We're back from our week long anniversary hiatus! Add WaterColor to my "must visit again" list. (That list sure is getting long.)

We chose WaterColor because neither of us had vacationed on this beach before; it was only a 3 hour drive; and we wanted a place to relax. WaterColor "sits" in between Seaside and Grayton Beach. John actually found the WaterColor Inn and Resort. I gave him a great big hug and kiss when we got there! I immediately loved it. WaterColor is mostly a housing community, but we didn't need a whole house for just the two of us! This resort was perfect. Not big by any means, but had all the nice ammenities.

We didn't want a whole lot of commercialization either. WaterColor was perfect in that it felt more like home -- but at the beach. We spent hours by the "quiet pool" and on the beach. I could stay on the beach morning to afternoon straight. John can only handle so much of that. Fortunately for him, there was more to do than just lay on the beach. We rode bikes

I called this community biking. I found it hilarious that everyone bikes all over town. I loved it! Wish I had gotten a picture of the bike madness.

And we played tennis one day. They had really nice courts!

.....And we also ate some truly fabulous food.

Our anniversary night, John took advantage of a hotel offer to check out a BMW. I was thinking he would choose the convertible BMW. Oh no, he wanted to experience the best BMW had to offer ..... with this normally priced $150,000 7-series.

He explained to me how luxiourous this car was ---how it goes from 0-50mph in 5 seconds, how the backseat is just as nice if not better than the driver and passenger seats. Oh yeah, and how if you have this car, you probably have a driver. To that I say "Well, this was a once-in-a-lifetime drive." I took his pictures by the car, because he was so excited. People probably thought we were so super crazy.

We had a nice anniversary dinner at Flemmings where they put rose petals on the table.

This was a several hour meal, but it was nice. We took our time to eat, and it gave me time to quiz John on what's been his favorite parts of our first year. John's so nice and sweet to me. (Mush, mush - I know!)

This trip really rejuvenated us. We needed a break, and we needed time for just us. Just like everyone else, our schedules take too much control sometimes. Days filled with work, meetings, church events, social activities, going here and there to see this person and that fly by. And those days turn into fast months. I'm so thankful for the opportunity to travel with my hubby with cell phones turned off.

And they moved happily ever after into the 2nd year of marriage. The end.

Year One: Part 2

2010-04-04T08:02:00.003-05:00

After we returned from glorious Hawaii,

life happened. And we have learned a lot about each other ... that perhaps we didn't realize before.

Things Lauren now knows about John:

-It really does matter how his pants are hung after coming out of the dryer

-He really hates shoes all over the house

-He doesn't like his bathroom products moved around (in my defense: I hate messy counter tops!)

-Him and I taking a Saturday ride in his old truck will MAKE HIS DAY

-He's actually more patient than I thought (and is becoming better at waitin' on this woman)

Things John now knows about Lauren: (straight from his mouth)

-She is more sensitive than I realized (Lauren: thanks, John. way to tell the truth.)

-How much she really likes lamps.

-That everything in our house you sit on or lay on must have pillows on it.

-She likes to be awakened gently.

-That life is much better when you have cinnamon toast and a diet coke.

-She tries to be a really good cook like her mother and grandmother. (Lauren: not getting there very fast. but thanks.)

And I just know we could keep going. Has this year been perfect? Absolutely not. But marriage is the greatest thing we've ever done. (That came FROM JOHN! Seriously.) I guess he's decided to keep me.

Here's to year two! I wonder what we'll learn about each other this year ....

Year One : Part 1

2010-04-04T08:00:00.012-05:00

I'll never get over April 4, 2009. I'll never get over all the fun John and I had that day. I'll never get over the kindness of everyone who celebrated with us. I'll never get over the huge blessing God sent down when we said our "I do's" to each other. This day means the world to me, because God ordained it. And thus, I'll never get over all the emotions this day brings to mind. These pictures need no words.

When I say NONE of this would have been possible without God, my family, and John's family -- I mean it from my very core. It's the love of these people I'll never be able to get over, either.

So what all have we learned in this fast first year? Ahh .... well, that's a separate post. And even John chimes in on that one.

We ate the cake ... Early!

2010-04-02T10:43:00.001-05:00

This time last year, we were runnning around Birmingham picking up last minute things for the honeymoon. We went to two malls picking up our parents gifts and to Ann Taylor Loft to get tank tops I wanted for Hawaii. It was a great way to distract from the nervousness. But it wasn't a bad nervousness. It was an anxious, antcipation-type nervousness. I feel that feeling right now just thinking about it. I'm going to write another anniversary post, but for right now it's --- WE ATE THE CAKE EARLY! And man, it was good!

We won't be here on our actual anniversary day, and we are not traveling with our cakes. So we ate early! I have to say for one year old cakes, they were really good! John's was better than mine, but his was chocolate; of course it would be! (I highly recommended Olexa's cakes!)

I smiled for this picture, but it's actually a little sad. Time flies so fast. You really don't realize it until you hit a mark like this. This time last year I couldn't WAIT to see how the grand cakes turned out. (See below pictures. Turned out pretty awesome, but that's Diane Olexa for ya!)

Last night it was fun to unwrap the cakes and get the last tatse before they were dumped. For some reason, John didn't think it would be a good idea to refreeze them and try for a 2nd anniversary tasting.

Wow. A whole post just on our cakes. I am obsessed with our wedding day, partly because I'm a sentimentalist. And I praise God for giving me one TO BE obsessed with. Glory to only Him.

Passover

2010-03-30T09:26:00.000-05:00

John, Whitney and I had a very awesome Monday night! We took part in a Passover Seder.

I absolutely love Passover, because you get to understand Christ so much more! We were at a Messianic Passover celebration led by a Messianic Rabbi. It was all about Jesus (called by his Hebrew name, Yeshua, at this service) and about how Jesus paid it ALL for us!

This is the unleavened bread used during Passover. (Thank you Whit for holding it up again for me! Participating in Passover and taking pictures is hard!) We put it up to the light ... so the holes and stripes shine through. The holes--piercings-- represent the nails Jesus took for us, and the stripes (as seen on the opposite side of this bread) reminds us of His stripes by which we are healed. Wow. That was enough to get you right there.

This was the Seder plate. The parsley dipped in the middle cup of salt water reminding us of the bitter life in Egypt. That brown looking stuff is kharoset (mixture of apples, honey and nuts - very good!) is there to remind you that even the most bitter circumstances can be sweetened by the HOPE WE HAVE IN GOD!

We had such a fun time --- especially at our table! It was all young people our age and most had never done a Passover Seder before. We had a neat time getting to know each other....and remembering that Jesus is the Lamb of God - our Passover Lamb - who was sacrificed to take away the sin of the world! He is our Creator, Deliverer, Redeemer and Savior!

But he was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

Nevertheless, I love you

2010-03-29T14:51:00.001-05:00

This is the truck John refers to as the "new truck." It's not new, but it's newer than his beloved treasure, the 1986 red truck (not pictured.) However, it now has a new name in my book: the NEEDY truck.

Since we married last April, this truck has cost us some BIG BUCKS in the repair shop. And that's just since we've been married. In February, it went in for one problem and came out with a total different issue-- thus resulting in another 4-day stay in the repair shop with, again, A HUGE BILL to pay. Poor John received my strong words concerning this special truck for several days as it sat in the shop and the bill continued to get higher and higher. Then God spoke - clearly spoke straight to my heart. It happened through the phone conversation I was having with John when he had just learned of the total bill cost. It went like this:

John: The shop just called.
Me: So are they done yet?
John: Yes, we can pick it up today.
Me: And how much is it going to cost.
John: $$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Me: {moment of silence} Well that certainly makes my case against this truck that much better.
John: Oh, I know. Trust me. You know - it makes me so mad. I've done everything for that truck. I've changed the oil exactly when it needs. I've had the brake pads replaced and tires rotated on time - everytime. I've taken it into the shop as soon as something goes wrong. I've taken good care of it inside and out. AND THIS IS WHAT I GET??

That's when God spoke straight to me.

GOD: That's how I feel sometimes. I answer your prayers. I supply your daily needs. I take care of you --- and this is what I get? ....... But nevertheless, I love you.

More Like Jesus Devotional

2010-03-26T09:19:00.001-05:00

I just HAVE to share this with you! I get these daily devotionals emailed to me, and this is just one that stands out! It's SO true! It's very short. Hope you have time for a quick read and a quick word of encouragement!

Written by: Watson Lott

Becoming More Like Jesus

'We are like clay, and you are the potter.' Isaiah 64:8

God loves you just the way you are, but He loves you too much to leave you that way! His goal for you is to grow, change and begin to reflect the nature of Christ. That means you aren't stuck with today's personality. You don't have to spend the rest of your life with your phobias and hang-ups. You're changeable! You've got real possibilities! Even if you've worried every day of your life, you don't have to worry for the rest of your life. So what if you were born in bigotry and prejudice? You don't have to die that way!

Where did we get the idea we can't change? What's the source of comments like, 'It's just my nature to worry,' or 'I'll always be pessimistic, I'm just that way.' Who says so? Would we make such a statement about our body? 'It's just my nature to have a broken leg. I can't do anything about it.' Of course not! If our body malfunctions, we seek help. Shouldn't we do the same with our soul, our sour attitudes and our selfish outbursts?

Isaiah writes: 'We are like clay, and you are the potter.' God does not consult your past to determine your future. Like the potter, He can take you, mould you and make of you a vessel of honor.

In Just Like Jesus, Max Lucado writes: 'God can no more leave your life unchanged than a mother can leave her child's tears untouched.' Maybe this will explain some of the discomfort you're going through right now!

So good! I think I'll save this one in my email. Have a great weekend!

Burned in a Minute!

2010-03-22T09:24:00.000-05:00

While trying to make this new "Men Like It Casserole" (thank you, Jodie!):

I successfully got through the first three layering steps:

Then I think, "Oh - I need to make sure Whitney got home from Savannah ok." Pick up the phone for a quick second phone call.

Quick second turns into our rants about the soon-to-be passed Healthcare Bill. And then I remembered the rolls.

Which are now burnt rolls.

Thank you Democrats and Healthcare for not only burning me but my yummy crescent rolls.

One Handsome Dude!

2010-03-19T08:23:00.005-05:00

And that one handsome dude is my husband! This week he did an interview with our local NBC affiliate and did such a great job! When John is in a suit, using that anchor voice and his intelligent mind -- I'm totally attracted!

[Sorry! Video quality isn't the best nor is this the whole interview. I had to scheme a bit to just capture this small part!]

Happy Friday everyone! Get some rest this weekend - it'll do you and everyone around you some good!

What's Your Status?

2010-03-01T16:14:00.014-06:00

I don't think I've ever had anyone ask me, "What's your status?" I actually find the question a little odd. And weird. But it's actually something we do every day. Whether you write your status so everyone can see (Facebook, Twitter, BLOG, etc.) or you just think something in your head like: "not feeling pretty today," "I love life" or are reminded that your wife, daughter, friend duties are calling. You have a status. It's where you are in life; it's what you're feeling; it's what you're doing.

So this weekend at Frazer's Disciple Now retreat, we asked our youth: What's your Status? What's your Status - with God? What would God say about YOU? What do you say about Him?

My small group of girls totally rocked those questions. They were vulnerable. They were funny. They shared stories. They shared strengths and weaknesses. They praised God and shed tears. And what we came to is this: This life isn't about us. It's about glorifying God. The girls are all at different points in life but as a group, we all said we wanted God to take our life and let it be His. We want to be giving Christ our all. We want to walk in His truth and love Him passionately while spreading that joy and the Good News to others.

God certainly spoke to me. I know what He's wanting me to do, and it's been confirmed. We know one part of God's status towards us: Loving my children deeply. What's your status?

Some of my awesome 10th grade girls!

They love some hand signs...

Workin' the Adventure Race .... Is this game safe?!

Thank the Lord we had some strong girls in our group!

Late - late - late night. Therefore, looking like a ZOMBIE!

And a PRECIOUS freshman - Ivey!

Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, '"The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness."

Titus 2:19

Vintage Picture

2010-02-25T09:10:00.001-06:00

A friend sent me an email today that said "Memory Lane...." with a picture of John attached. Boy did I EVER get a kick out of this one! This friend knows how I love vintage (aka: old) pictures, especially when they are of my John.

The picture was taken when John worked for Governor Riley - way before he ever worked for the Department of Senior Services or Alabama Nursing Home Association. So two thoughts came to mind. First, working with Alabama's seniors must just be John's destiny [hence the backdrop]. And my second thought: Was John 16 when he worked there?!

I'm sure John's reply will be that I have helped him age. Another friend has replied that possibly child labor laws were violated with him working! WOW! What a laugh I have gotten today!

Love that White Stuff!

2010-02-16T10:52:00.000-06:00

After two physically and mentally exhausting weeks, Friday's snow was so appreciated at the Matson house! There's nothing like being "snowed-in" (not really because the roads weren't THAT bad!) and making yourself relax! So relax we did ... and pictures we took.

And Whitney and Will stopped by for their picture to be taken ....

And for our picture to be taken ...

Thank you, sweet Lord, for this small winter wonderland you blessed us with! Thank you for washing us white as snow!

A Nice Reminder

2010-02-05T08:53:00.001-06:00

I spotted these Scripture boards at a Christmas show last October. I finally got one made and just absolutely love it! This is now what I see when I get up in the mornings ... and when I go to bed at night. Definitely a nice reminder ...

Her Big Day ...

2010-02-01T10:29:00.000-06:00

Whitney's wedding day is soon! Only about 4 1/2 months left! We had her first party this weekend, and it was lots of fun!

Whitney, is that the mixer I ~~told~~ encouraged you to register for? Totally kidding! Love you much little sister!

Must Haves!

2010-01-27T15:33:00.004-06:00

HIGHLY recommend this book. Forgotten God by Francis Chan. Get it. Of course, make sure you have this

too!

"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power." 1 Corinthians 4:20

Makes Me Long for Summer ...

2010-01-25T13:11:00.001-06:00

I can't think of a time I wouldn't want to be at the beach. Perhaps not during a hurricane, but summer or fall - take me to the beach. If you want to be reminded of God's greatness, just go sit on the sand and look into the vast and great ocean. And think, "Now God is telling these waters where to go and where to stop." (Job 38:11) In-cre-di-ble.

We visited this time to see where we'll be hanging out for years to come!

Ah... If this doesn't scream 'BEACH!' I don't know what will. This is my aunt and uncle's new place. It's a fairly new purchase, but unfortunately Whitney has already seen it. And has staked her claim ...

To that I say, "Whatever!" She thinks she's getting the bigger bed and bath when we're all there visiting. Listen, seniority has it's privileges.

Now that's why I'm longing for summer. Bring on the warm weather! I'm ready to spend lots of time here...

Thank you Uncle Ock and Aunt Trina for having us down! I'm looking forward to the family vacations there .. just whenever you want to send the invites out!

Good Eats

2010-01-25T12:50:00.000-06:00

The meals are getting better at the Matson home ... even John agrees. Who knew following directions could lead to a decent dinner?

And if you haven't heard of the Pioneer Woman, she's pretty incredible. City girl turned ranch-cooking wife. Love her .. and her cookbook! Super great recipes!

Keep falsehoods and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Proverbs 30:8

What's At The Cross?

2010-01-25T12:28:00.001-06:00

I love the cross. I have several nailed to the walls in my home. Like this one ...

I have a best friend who has a wall COVERED in crosses. Take a look at it; it's beautiful!

All different kinds. All different sizes and colors. Some are more simple; some are beautiful and shiny. I happen to think crosses make a wall look pretty. But when I think about the cross, this question keeps popping in my mind: "What's at the Cross?" True, there are beautiful "things" found at the cross, just like the beautiful replicas in our houses. Salvation is at the cross; freedom is there. Forgiveness is greatly there. And we could certainly keep going.

But What's at the Cross for me to do? In Hillsong's song "Lead Me To The Cross," it says:

Bring me to my knees

Lord I lay me down

Rid me of myself

I belong to you

Lead me, Lead me to the Cross

Rid. Me. Of. Myself.

I play that song a lot in the car. Perhaps this is why God has me dwelling on it. I keep thinking, "Lord - I sing 'lead me to the cross' but what will I do there? What do you want me to do?"

Rid. Me. Of. Myself.

SURRENDER. Be obedient. Be obedient to where God is calling you, to what He's calling you to do - whether it's comfortable or uncomfortable. Whether you stick out like a sore thumb or are embraced for it.

"Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." Philippians 2:8

What's at the Cross? Obedience. Surrender.

Lord, let the cross be a reminder that you want obedience from us.

Lead me to the Cross.

Blogger Error

2010-01-22T09:01:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the delay in posts! For some reason, Blogger isn't showing my uploaded pictures in the post. I've been dealing with the problem for several days now, and I can't say my patience will last much longer.

Be back shortly ... I hope.

Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!

Psalm 118:24

2010

2010-01-07T09:35:00.020-06:00

Happy belated New Year everyone! I'm really liking 2010. I just like saying 20-10. It's so easily rolls off the tongue, and it just sounds like it's going to be a great year. Let's hope it's a GRAND year. A BLESSED year.

Not one for new year resolutions, here are my goals or things I'm looking forward to in 2010:

(1) Spending more and more time with God in His Word

(2) Thus becoming a wiser wife and friend

(3) Not saying "YES" to everything thus keeping our calendar manageable

(4)Having our friends in our home to eat dinner more often *more on this later*

(5)Saving enough money for us to go to Israel in 2011

And there are plenty more, I'm sure. But those are at the top. John hasn't decided (or at least told me yet) what he's focusing on this year. I'm sure one will be to do his P90x program consistently.

Back to the #4 on the list. We are really going to be dedicated to this one. First, we love being with our friends. Second, we love eating at home. Third, you can actually talk better and visit more when you aren't distracted by other people, servers, waiters, etc. Fourth, this will be a HUGE money saver. And lastly ... this will so help with my cookin' skills. A few nights ago, the Mercer family came for beef tips and rice. YUM! Lori brought a SUPER DELICIOUS dessert, and all my points above were proven; we had so much FUN!

2009 was wonderful. Lots of big events happened. But here's to 2010- May God use it for even bigger things.

A Marry Christmas (Updated)

2009-12-28T14:01:00.009-06:00

Our first Christmas as a married couple was truly wonderful! We were able to spend time with both families and see all grandparents. Lots of great food, laughs and pictures.

We started with Christmas Eve at John's parents' house in White Plains (north of Anniston). John's mom, Elaine, had everything looking so beautiful and smelling SO GOOD when we arrived.

While we were dating, John and I went our separate ways for the holidays. So, this was our first Christmas Eve dinner together! And it was some mighty good food! It was fun having John's parents, sister, aunts, uncles, cousin and grandparents all there.

John wears his Santa hat every year and is responsible for handing out the gifts. That part I loved! Then, we got up Christmas morning, opened more gifts with his parents (yay, I got three magazine subscriptions!) and ate breakfast. Truly a great Christmas Eve/Morning!

Then we headed to Gardendale. Did a Christmas Day lunch with my parents and sister. Opened gifts. Then walked next door to see PawPaw and Jean. Opened gifts. Then hurried home, changed clothes and drove about 5 minutes to MawMaw's house where my mom's side of the family did a Christmas Day Dinner. And yes again ... opened more gifts!

All the grandkids with MawMaw.

Our cousins opening gifts. They got a Wii for Christmas - what more do they need?!

We truly hope you had a wonderful Christmas too. We were so thankful that both our families live within driving distance, and we were able to see everyone. If only all the joy of Christmas and giving hearts would last all year long ...

New Life! New Hope! New Joy He Brings!

2009-12-24T11:07:00.005-06:00

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Isaiah 9:6

Mountains Majesty!

2009-12-23T09:48:00.017-06:00

I've seen SNOW for Christmas! Actually, I've seen FEET of snow for Christmas! Just returned from Winter Park, Colorado with Frazer's youth group. Not sure if our fearless youth leaders, Brian and Bryan, knew when they asked me to go that (1) I've never been a "chaperon" before and (2) I'VE NEVER SKIED! But there's a first time for everything, and this first time traveling with youth and skiing was a BLAST! Leslie (our youth pastor's wife and another ski chaperon) called this my initiation. Well, initiate me again because I had the best time with these teenagers, and I hope the mountains call my name again!

My condo had 4 very energetic and enthusiastic freshman girls. These girls were up every morning at 6:00am, skiing by 8:00am and didn't come off the slopes until they had to at 4:00pm. I, on the other hand, spent the first day in Ski School with Leslie and some of our youth girls. This totally rocked! I only fell twice during our lessons and managed to not break any bones. The second day, Leslie and I felt a bit more adventurous so we found other green slopes. Can you say STEEP, BUMPY hills? If what we did were greens, don't ever take me up to the black diamonds!

But now I can check skiing off my "never have done" list. And it's now on the "I wanna go back" list! Although I can barely walk today as my legs are so sore (skiing is a workout!!), I truly would love to go back with family. It's so peaceful in the mountains and you can't be there without thinking about God the entire time. God gave me this verse while we were there. And please know - my pictures just can't do this place justice!

"Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God." Psalm 90:2

The view from our condo! I love seeing that mountain peeking through!

Leslie and I ready for Ski School

The view from up top! Before we got "adventurous," we took pictures!

The end of "Village Way" slope. Definitely not Lauren's best "way" down ... I bumped my way down, if you know what I mean.

The girls in my condo! Maddie, Cassidy, Ivey and Tori before snow tubing!

I dare say tubing was perhaps more fun that skiing. If you look closely, you can see the start of a HUGE snow hill behind us. We tubed down that hill at least 20 times. Linked together (sometimes we did groups of 15 or more) was wild!

"In his hand are the depths of the earth

and the mountain peaks belong to him."

Psalm 95:4

Christmas Merriment

2009-12-15T11:07:00.012-06:00

Instead of titling this "Christmas Parties" I wanted a more festive word - Merriment! (Actually I had to first look up the word to make sure it was indeed a word!) We were full of merriment this weekend. All our Christmas socials landed on the same weekend. Busy we were and in our bed at 7:45pm Sunday, but we had lots of fun with great friends!

Round 1: Friday Night ~ Christmas Ball at the Mansion
The Governor and Mrs. Patsy did something a little different this year (not as if I've been before, but this is what John and Leah tell me...). It was a "ball" theme with a huge white tent on the lawn. Thank the Lord for the heaters! It was so cold! But the food was great, dancing was fun (to watch!) and the Mansion was unbelievably gorgeous! Thank you, Leah, for inviting us!

Round 2: Saturday Night ~ Devoted Duos (Sunday School class) Christmas Social
This was a fun, relaxing night! Our teachers opened their home, and we all brought food. (I brought my now "go-to" dish - corn casserole! Leah gave me this recipe. It's so good and so easy! Now, it's what I always bring to parties! HA!) Unfortunately, I was too busy eating and talking to take more pictures. I only have a few!

A new best friend, Dori! This girl (originally from Afghanistan) has a story and testimony! It's incredible. It's really neat how God has crossed our paths. In fact, when she allows me, I'm going to do a blog post on just her! It will make you so proud to be an American, to know God ... and if you need proof that God is still active and moving, wait to you hear her story!

Our wonderful teachers, Bob and Sandra Passmore. What a Godly couple!

Round 3: Sunday Afternoon ~ Christmas in Prattville
John and I invited our family to a "Christmas in Prattville" party. If you know John, you know how excited he was for this. It was actually his idea! We made homemade peppermint bark, chocolate swirl cake, sugar cookies and topped it off with wassail. Oh wow - how good! Then, we did a taco soup dinner for them. The part I'm ill about: I HAVE NO PICTURES! It boils my blood. It's so impossible to be the host and take pictures. And I'm torn - because I like hosting and I love pictures!

It's not right to end without saying that while all these parties and socials are fun and create wonderful memories, they are meaningless without our Savior, Jesus Christ, as the focus. Mary said this right before the birth of Christ. Let this speak to you today:

"My soul glorifies the Lord

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior

for he has been mindful

of the humble state of his servant

From now on all generations will call

me blessed

for the Mighty One has done great things for me

holy is his name"

Luke 1:46

(I strongly recommend Todd Agnew's 'Do You See What I See' Christmas album. Mary's song is on there.)

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

2009-12-07T09:44:00.005-06:00

Even our Christmas tree is a compromise! John wanted colored lights and I wanted white. John wanted a tree from a Christmas tree farm. I thought a Home Depot tree would be just fine. So he got the tree from the farm and I get the white lights! Sounds like a good deal to me!

Here's our trip to Wadsworth Christmas Tree Farm. Such nice people with a huge selection!

That's the one we chose! Amazing how different a tree looks once you get it home and decorated ... No pictures of that yet. Happy Monday everyone!

Newlywed Thanksgiving

2009-11-30T10:11:00.006-06:00

Why must Thanksgiving already be over?! Holidays fly by way too fast. This was our first Thanksgiving together-together. While John and I were dating, we spent the holidays with our own families. Now, we divide our time between both families ... and as nervous as I was that trying to see everyone would be stressful and overwhelming, it worked out great! We did lunch in Birmingham with his side of the family. Then, we drove about 20 minutes north to Gardendale and had dinner with my side.

However, I do have one request: Can I just be the holiday photographer? I was busy helping my side of the family get ready for Thanksgiving Dinner that I didn't get the pictures I wanted. And, I also didn't get the family picture I wanted with John's immediate family. Bummer. Well, enjoy what I did get!

Our first newlywed Thanksgiving!

John with his sister, Kelly, and their grandmother.

Playing Go-Fish with my no-longer-baby cousins.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever! 1 Chronicles 16:24

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-11-19T12:42:00.002-06:00

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

Walk as Jesus Did

2009-11-06T10:44:00.003-06:00

Yay for the weekend being here! The only thing that might be stressful for us this weekend is that Alabama/LSU game!

Just wanted to share a verse that's been on my mind lately ... Actually, this verse just keeps coming up and keeps coming up .. and keeps coming up. It's found in 1 John and it's directed towards Believers who needed to be reminded of what the Christian life was suppose to be. It says, "This is how we know we are in Him: Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did." 1 John 2:5-6 This passage talks about knowing God ... and how if we say we "know Him" but aren't obeying his commandments and showing love ... well then, do we really "know Him"? Lord, I pray that John and I will walk as YOU DID!

Speaking of John ... Still loving the pictures Lori took!

I LOVE MY HUSBAND!!!

Oh Those Vols ... Game Day in Tuscaloosa

2009-10-26T09:05:00.004-05:00

Whew! Alabama escaped the Tennessee Vols this weekend...barely! This was our first game to attend this season. Next to the Alabama/Auburn game, playing Tennessee is my next favorite football Saturday. It was a chilly day in Tuscaloosa, but luckily "Rocky Top crumbled under Mount Cody!" (Stole that from a sign on the way home!)

And the best picture ... my sweet John and I. I love being married to a man who cheers for the same team! I love you John and had a fun weekend with you!

The Joy of Family

2009-10-22T08:31:00.010-05:00

Before John and I got married, I tried to schedule a family picture with Lori. Tried being the keyword. There was way too much going on between August and April to squeeze it in. Sunday we finally got to do it! I may be the only one in my family who looks forward to pictures. But, in years to come, I know everyone will be so thankful to have a memory of what life was like then. To get John pumped up for pictures I told him to consider this our "6 month" pictures. He said, "Lauren - we aren't babies! 6 month pictures?!" Guess that didn't work ... but these pictures definitely work for me! In fact, they are everything I wanted because when I look at them I laugh and I 'aww..." Thank you, thank you, thank you Lori Mercer!!

Whitney is going to be a gorgeous June bride! Get ready for more of this, Whitney! By the way, most of the pictures you see on this blog, Lori took. Including the picture header and the black and white to the left side. She's a jewel if you're looking for photographer!

This Could Be Life-Changing!

2009-10-15T10:58:00.006-05:00

All my life this is what I have eaten every morning for breakfast:

Cinnamon Toast! I kid you not - since I've been able to eat solid foods, this is my choice for breakfast every morning. And if I don't have this, I find a way to put cinnamon on something. Pancakes (no syrup! just cinnamon), waffles, biscuits - cinnamon can go on just about anything for me.

Well, this morning I went to the dentist. After requesting medication for mouth ulcers that I usually get about 2-3 times every month, he told me perhaps I need to change my diet. Diet?! I asked what could be in my diet that causes ulcers? He says anything spicy or acidic or perhaps citrus foods. I thought for a moment ... no, don't usually eat a lot of that. Then he says the killer of my morning! "But actually, the worst thing you could eat is cinnamon." "CINNAMON!" I scream. Dr. Hudson was caught off guard. I told him I eat cinnamon every morning to which he laughs and says, "Well, that's got to stop. You really need to get that out of your diet." I wanted to clog my ears and hear no more of it! What in the world am I going to do without cinnamon or my cinnamon toast? No more cinnamon apples? No more cinnamon spicy drinks? After I finally got Dr. Hudson to understand how long cinnamon has been part of my life, he laughs again with "Well, that's probably why you've suffered with ulcers all your life."

I'm really going to miss you cinnamon man ....

Mountain Adventure

2009-10-13T13:06:00.057-05:00

What's an adventure to the Smoky Mountains without awesome friends?! We retreated to Gatlinburg, Tennessee this weekend. And yes, from Montgomery - it's an adventure! It was well worth the 8 hour drive! 8 adults, 1 two year old, 1 toddler and 1 nine month old = ONE PACKED, CRAZY-CABIN OF FUN! Thank you Hal and Jessica for inviting us! John (G-Local) is very much ready for Gatlinburg 2010!

We, of course, got great pictures! And a few sneaky videos too! Better beware my friends - my digital camera also records ...

The group after breakfast at the Pancake Pantry. A must for any Gatlinburg trip!

Great fall weather for fleece! At least that's what I thought ... John went with shorts.

We also ventured to a river-creek. Not sure what to call it - I just called it BEAUTIFUL! Can you imagine having a quiet time, here? Kenny broke away for a few minutes... rock-jumped into the middle of the creek-river and had a few of those moments.

We also had fun just hanging out at the cabin.

I'm so thankful for this time of year. I'm convinced this is one of God's favorite times of year! This is the time we can just simply give thanks. It's not about the presents or the elaborate decorations. Just giving thanks. And I'm so thankful for family and incredible, God-fearing friends!

"I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation" Psalms 118:21

Set Apart

2009-09-29T13:02:00.003-05:00

I just finished this incredible book. I URGE every young woman - single or married - to get your hands on this book. God is really challenging me in several areas. In one of the last chapters, Leslie Ludy writes this:

"Not one of us is 'called' to live the self-indulgent, pleasure-seeking, comfort-craving life of the typical American Christian. If you think that God has called you to merely live in a nice house with a well-paying job and be part of a Bible study group, then you aren't very familiar with what His Word says. It's not that living in a nice house, having a well-paying job, or joining a Bible study is wrong. But those things are not the essence of the Christian life."

Wow. Got ya thinking? It certainly has me thinking...Has me thinking about the "set apart" life God talks about:

"You are to be holy to me because I, the Lord, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own." Leviticus 20:26

An Older Talent

2009-09-24T08:26:00.005-05:00

We all have different talents and gifts from God. Some of us (me!) love children. I love listening to them, teaching them and just plain ole' loving on them! John's precious talent runs shall we say .... a little older.

Meet Ms. Alabama Nursing Home 2009! Now, this is how John shows love! He genuinely loves our seniors. Maybe this is why my grandmother loves John so much. He just has a unique way of understanding them, making them feel so special and loved. So last night at his association's DinnerDance (and yes, to John, it's one word), John took this beauty queen out on the dance floor!

She had the best time! Whatever your talent, gift or passion is, use it for God's glory! You never know how He'll use you. Live life to the fullest for Him!

"I [Jesus!] have come that they may have life and have it to the full." John 10:10

A Southern Wedding

2009-09-22T10:43:00.005-05:00

John and I had much fun Saturday night at a Southern wedding. Amy Southern married Josh in a really sweet, pretty ceremony at Botanical Gardens. Amy is the sister of our best friend, Leah. We love the Southern family! And we love everything that is truly Southern about them!! (Even though they now both have great married names... )

Amy was so gorgeous in that great wedding gown! I told Leah I really wanted to try it on. (Even though Amy is way smaller than me!!) It was so elegant!! Ahhh... weddings. I love them. I really love them! We can't wait to see your honeymoon pictures, Amy and Josh! Hope you have the best time in Costa Rica! Enjoy your newlywed life!

Labor Day Weekend Fun

2009-09-08T11:07:00.004-05:00

John's parents and sister visited with us over the Labor Day Weekend. And of course, what's a holiday weekend without great food? We did a low-country boil for them Sunday night. Talk about good food with a quick and easy clean up?! No dishes to clean here! It was yummy!

Then on Monday, Jared, Kristen, Sittre Paige and Stella came to visit. We are so happy they came! Take a look at these PRECIOUS girls! If I could have a conversation with SP everyday, I would get endless laughs! She's hilarious!

Good luck on your first day of school, SP! We love all of you! What a fun weekend!

Heavenly Glory

2009-08-31T11:00:00.003-05:00

I love to stare at the sky. Stare. Not just look. Sometimes the skies are so blue and beautiful - so calm. That reminds me that God is still in control. Sometimes they have radiant colors, clouds that look like brush strokes on a painting. That reminds me of God's creativity. And at night (especially in our back yard in Prattville!), the stars just glow. That reminds me how God is always there. Always guiding us. When we were at the pool Saturday (during the calm part of the day!), I grabbed this picture.

Not a fancy picture. Just serenity. "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." - Psalm 19:1

Stitches and Sickness

2009-08-31T10:31:00.004-05:00

John and I really try to have nice, relaxing, enjoyable weekends. We try very hard to ditch the schedules and chaos a week can bring and just enjoy a simple life. This weekend was far from simple though. Going into the weekend, John was sick but started to feel much better by Friday afternoon. Good thing - because we had my cousins coming to visit us. Saturday morning and afternoon was wonderful. Whitney and I spent the whole day at the pool with the girls while John rested and continued to get better. But then things started crumbling at 5:30pm Saturday. I sliced - yes, sliced- my finger with a chef's knife while trying to make dinners for the week ahead. After an hour of non-stop bleeding (sorry to gross people!) and pain, John decided I might need stitches. Ohhh just the sound of that word sent me into panics. After about 6 hours in the ER, we finally left. Liquid stitches and all. But thanks to all those germies in the ER, John is back sick. Stitches and sickness- what a weekend. Enjoy the pictures we took during the "simple" part of our weekend!

Quick and Easy

2009-08-14T09:14:00.003-05:00

Yay for finding another quick and easy meal! This is what we had last night. In the picture, you can't really see the chicken on top the noddles, but it's there! The chicken is in a Campbell's Soup sauce. The noddles are whole wheat. Don't be scared to try! They are actually good! Guess that helps balance those yummy Pillsbury crescent rolls!

What's For Dinner?

2009-08-10T10:06:00.006-05:00

After we got married, that question - "What's for dinner" - frustrated me to no end! Partly because I'm not a wonderful cook and also because I have trouble being "creative" in the kitchen... coming up with new ideas and new recipes to make. And please keep in mind, it's not hard for me to find recipes. What's hard is finding recipes that don't require 20+ ingredients!

But more and more lately, I've enjoyed being in the kitchen. I never minded trying a new recipe and "oh well, if it didn't work." (McDonald's is right down the road!) I think John is getting use to that mentality! But, this weekend we had a few good meals. Baked Mahi Mahi with a lemon/garlic/basil mix with rice and baked asparagus. Yum! And healthy! Then for the not so healthy part - apple crisp!

August 2nd

2009-08-03T11:13:00.002-05:00

Sunday was the anniversary of our engagement! I really can't believe it's already been one year! This exact time last year, I was buzzing around trying to get the church lined up... trying to secure April 4th! This 'time flying' thing just isn't cool!

I love you John... Thank you for kneeling and asking me that wonderful question!

Another One Bites The Dust!

2009-08-03T11:01:00.003-05:00

This weekend my best friend since high school got hitched! The phrase 'got hitched' definitely doesn't fit this classy girl! Caris and Jeff had a beautiful OUTSIDE wedding. Rain didn't hold us back! She was so beautifully angelic in her stunning gown. Now they are honeymooning in St. Lucia - aren't we all a tad envious?! :)

Caris and Jeff - We are so happy to see you two so happy! We love you! Here are a few pictures from that fun day!

Devoted Duos - The Girls!

2009-08-03T10:56:00.004-05:00

John and I are very excited to be part of a new Sunday School class at Frazer! We have met some awesome couples devoted to Christ - thus our name, Devoted Duos! Last week, some of the girls had dinner at Sinclair's. We were happy to have our teacher, Sandra Passmore, join us! We all had a great time ... not much eating, but a whole lot of chattering!

Dancing Down the Aisle!

2009-07-24T10:31:00.005-05:00

This video has captivated me this morning! Talk about a memorable way for the wedding party, Groom and Bride to enter the church?! How hysterical! Makes me want to dance!

Perhaps Whitney or Caris would want to do this? I'll help choreograph! Turn up the music and enjoy! (Copy/paste the link - The State won't let me embed.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0

Crazy Love

2009-07-06T09:47:00.003-05:00

There's a radical book that's been floating around our house for several months. It's called Crazy Love. John was reading it with his Bible study group when I told him I wanted the book after he finished it. Nothing more was said. When John finished the book and gave it to me, he said, and I quote, "You may want to go buy that piece of furniture before you read this book." He said it in a joking - but still serious way. (We are still trying to furnish our home.) It honestly spurred me to start reading it quicker.

"So many of us think and live like the movie of life is all about us" - Crazy Love. That was one quote that quickly got my attention and kept me reading. Crazy Love, by Francis Chan, has already had an impact on how I think, how I prioritize needs, my opinions on rich vs. poor...and I haven't finished it yet. This book focuses on the "Lukewarm Christian." Man, oh man, I'm guilty in so many ways.

In no way do I encourage you to read this book so you can feel like a failure and beaten to the core. No, I encourage you to read it because God desires more of us! I'll leave you with some of the more thought-provoking comments from this incredible book. I want that crazy-kind-of love for my one and only Savior!

-"Lukewarm People do whatever is necessary to keep themselves from feeling too guilty. They want to do the bare minimum, to be 'good enough' without it requiring too much of them."

-"Are you willing to say to God that he can have whatever He wants? Do you believe that wholehearted commitment to Him is more important than any other thing or person in your life? Do you know that nothing you do in this life will ever matter, unless it is about loving God and loving the people He has made?"

-"Christians today like to play it safe. We want to put ourselves in situations where we are safe 'even if there is no God.' But if we truly desire to please God, we cannot live that way. We have to do things that cost us during our life on earth but will be more than worth it in eternity."

-"God didn't just give us a little; He gave His best. He gave himself....True love requires sacrifice."

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16

Here Comes Another Bride!

2009-07-06T09:38:00.003-05:00

Congrats to my sister Whitney and her now FIANCE, Will! Will proposed to Whitney Friday over the July 4th weekend. He picked a great setting - on the beach in Tampa at sunset! This is truly a sweet, sweet couple! And here's the thing about Whitney - she just wants to be married! She's not concerned with all the fanfare, the parties, the obsessive wedding details... she just wants to be married. Although there will be so much fun with the parties and the spotlight on her, she has such a beautiful heart about marriage. Over the past several months, I've told her "marriage is not for the immature." Period.

Well, a very mature Whitney will be married in a year. Mature - definitely. Still our BABY - absolutely!! I love you a gazillion times over!

Beautiful Isaiah

2009-06-29T09:18:00.003-05:00

I finally got to see a best friend's baby this weekend. Isaiah is the beautiful baby boy of Ashley and Trey. This baby is just so incredibly adorable! With big brown eyes and a happy contentment, he really steals your heart. Within minutes, we just fell in love with each other! Ashley and Trey are also doing a wonderful job with keeping him on a schedule. They've been very disciplined with his sleeping and eating times... and this is their first baby!! Sign me up as a babysitter for this one!

That flash really gets him...

One of my favorite Bible verses actually comes from Isaiah... and this is what I hope baby Isaiah will cling to in life: "When you pass through the waters, I [God] will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Is. 42:2-3. Love you, Isaiah!

Happy Birthday John!

2009-06-24T08:32:00.004-05:00

Today is my sweet John's 31st birthday! I can't believe he's 31?!? Seems like just yesterday he was 28 ... ha! Last year, he got the 30 penguins placed in the yard. This year, I spared him more embarrassment. We got up at 5:15 to go for a morning walk, and then I cooked him breakfast and gave him his present. And, I'm very much looking forward to our lunch date today. Yay for Japanese! :)

There's a quote that says, "Love is what makes two people sit in the middle of a bench when there's plenty of room at both ends." So glad I get to sit by you all the time, John! Have a wonderful birthday day!

Bay House Weekend

2009-06-18T10:14:00.003-05:00

We went with the Hagoods to their Bay House for Braxton's Wharf Birthday Party. The Wharf has a great water park with a wave pool, lazy river, spa pool (too hot for this time of year!) and regular pools. We had so much fun! The bad thing - I didn't get a picture of Braxton at his party! Ooops...Sorry, Brax!

Yum!

2009-06-18T09:46:00.002-05:00

Doesn't this make you hungry?! Made these homemade chocolate chip cookies recently. They were good, but tasted a bit on the healthy side of cookies. They needed more sugar! Oh to have a chocolate chip cookie now... Yum!

Casting Crowns: The BEST Concert

2009-06-08T08:51:00.004-05:00

Since I started listening to Casting Crowns in 2005, I've wanted to see this amazing Christian group in concert. John saw them at Frazer in 2004 literally right before they hit it HUGE! But, I've never been in the right place at the right time... until Friday. I was so pumped the day of ... during the concert.. and after the concert. I WISH we could have stayed at the amphitheatre praising God until midnight! Thanks David for scheming an interview with them prior to the concert and getting us positioned on the FRONT ROW for an amazing time with God! Let our lifesong sing to Him!

What a Class!

2009-06-08T08:15:00.003-05:00

Married life brings lots of changes - what an understatement, huh? One of those changes for us is finding a new Sunday school class. But with that, brings another big change for me.... putting teaching on a hold for a bit. For the past three years, I've taught 3rd grade at Frazer. My children over the past 3 years have been some of the most intelligent, sweet, ENTHUSIASTIC kids. They are also little Godly sponges! They love talking about God, talking about their experiences. For a 26 year old adult, it can really bring you back down to reality to understand some of the things an 8 or 9 year old worries about. And parents beware: they are open books! They don't mind sharing what's going on at home. :)

Back to the story ... John and I need to find a Sunday school class for us. It might mean we find an 11:00am class which makes teaching not possible for that age. But God will work it out - and I'll be back teaching my babies soon, hopefully! :) For now... here's a picture of a WONDERFUL group. They're in their 4th grade class now, and I already miss them SO MUCH!!! Don't they look like such a fun group?!?

God's Word says, "Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Deut. 11:18-19

I want these kids to know God's Word and be warriors for Christ! I can certainly say this group is well on their way!

At Last!

2009-06-03T16:43:00.014-05:00

At last - I have all our wedding pictures! Jim shot so many wonderful photographs. We have close to 1,000!?!? And get this - I have to pick only 80 for our book! 80 pictures out of 1,000?!? One of the hardest tasks I'll have to do. I've picked only a few to post -- not near enough space for the 500 I would like to share. Thanks Jim, Peggy, Keri and Peter! You guys are just incredible and so much fun to work with!

A Casual Sunday Afternoon... with Braxton

2009-06-03T15:44:00.006-05:00

This past weekend was all about Braxton! We kept him Sunday while his parents went to Atlanta for a day trip. We went to church, ate at Ria's (a pizza place) and then spent about 3 hours swimming! In the midst of running his spark scooter into the pool, blasting a nerve rocket into his eye and figuring out why his face was burning when he "used his goggles under water..." we still had a GREAT FUN DAY! Don't worry Katie and David -- he wants you guys to go to Atlanta more often. :)

The best part was Braxton entertaining us on the way home from church. Broadway is calling his name.. Heaven help us! And his parents! (Click the link. Someone needs to teach me how to embed video. Sorry!)
http://www.viddler.com/explore/LMatson/videos/1

Obviously chocolate pudding makes a great dipping sauce for pizza...

Braxton's 5th Birthday

2009-06-03T11:33:00.006-05:00

Little Braxton isn't so little anymore.... he's about to turn 5! Saturday he had his "friend" birthday party - a swim party at his house! Whitney went with us to celebrate... look at the cake! So yummy!! Happy Birthday B! Can't wait for the next birthday party at the Bay House!

The Wedding Video!

2009-05-18T09:50:00.007-05:00

Randy just posted the "highlight reel" of our wedding. Ahh! It already brings tears to my eyes -- and it's only about a 30 second clip!?! What an incredibly special day that I'm so grateful I can "relive" through Randy's video. You can click here to see the highlight reel. Thanks, Randy!!

Not Your Average Ditch

2009-05-18T09:33:00.003-05:00

After furniture shopping at Dogtown, John asked if I wanted to see this beautiful place called "Little River Canyon." Only about 15 minutes from where we were, he sure wanted to see it. I was a little skeptical thinking it was going to be just a trickle of a waterfall with a few trees around it. Boy was I wrong! This place was beautiful!! Incredible!!

Afterwards John said, "You thought it was going to be a ditch with just a stream, didn't you?" Yep sure did... "May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 115:15 We were blessed that day. We had such a great time together - just me and John and God's beautiful creation!

Our Adventure to Dogtown

2009-05-18T09:20:00.004-05:00

John and I live in Prattville. We're about 20 minutes from Montgomery and about an hour to Birmingham. You would think we would go to furniture stores in those nearby cities.... but not anymore! Saturday we went to Dogtown -- only about 3 hours north of us! It's actually called Akins Furniture, but people know it as Dogtown. What a day! It took us 2 hours to look through this Wal-Mart SuperCenter -size store with NOTHING but FURNITURE! It was truly amazing. I would call it a hole-in-the-wall .... but there's nothing SMALL to this place! And the prices are much less than most places. Well worth the trip! We highly recommend! Needless to say we did not come home with the recliner John fell in love with ... or fell asleep in!

Rolling It Over

2009-05-11T10:42:00.003-05:00

"The Old Truck" (one of John's treasures) rolled it's 200,000th mile this weekend. John and his dad made sure to be in the car to celebrate the 200,000th mile. Yes, my zero's are correct: 200,000. Think it's time for a new truck? Nah... not in John's lifetime. He's completely satisfied and fulfilled when he's driving his "old truck." I think I'll stick to the Tahoe...

Needless to say, I was still in the bed when this monumental event happened. So there are no pictures of John and his dad in the truck. Only of the speedometer... Go figure!

4 Children.... or Just 1?

2009-05-11T10:07:00.005-05:00

This is the sweet, sweet baby that crawled and roamed all over our house Saturday! (So glad John and I had just cleaned the house!) We (with the great help of John's sister, Kelly) watched Owen while his mommy did a couple of photo shoots. Talk about on-the-go and a completely happy one year old! But, for the 5 or so hours we kept him, I think the realism of babies and kids finally set in: IT'S NOT SO EASY!!

We absolutely love the little man as his sister Katelyn calls him. He gave us some great laughs, and he also reminded me of what a GREAT BLESSING children are. But at the end of the day, I thought, "4 babies... or just 1?"

The First Supper

2009-05-11T09:58:00.003-05:00

(Note: I found my camera! So now I can update....)

When John and I returned from Maui, it took about two weeks to get the kitchen in a cooking order. We finally got dishes and pots off the counter and put away... so we could actually cook! I was so excited about being off Monday (April 27th) to organize the house and cook our very first homemade-married meal. As usual, things didn't go as planned. The swine flu broke out so between answering emails, doing phone interviews and setting up interviews for the boss... I was able to make this: turkey meatballs and pasta linguine! It was good.. a little burnt around the edges, but that's what happens when the blackberry keeps buzzing!

Updates

2009-05-05T13:45:00.005-05:00

John and I have been married for a month! It was a month yesterday! Still, life hasn't slowed. We've been busy unloading boxes, stuffing things into closets and cooking - yes, I've been cooking! When I find my camera, I will show you the first REAL meal I cooked!

Still waiting on our pictures from Jim -- agghh, I'm so anxious! And we're still waiting to see the video. Please - I'm in agony folks! I need to re-live the day again! :)

Just thought I would show you one reason I just love my John. This is something so simple, but he knows how much it means to me. In the busy-ness of the day when phones are ringing off the hook, the Swine Flu just won't go away...a simple note is all I need. Just showing he cares...
--------
Sent: Tuesday, May 05, 2009 1:35 PM
To: Matson, Lauren
Subject: Hey
How is your day going? What have you been up to? We're in the afternoon seminar. JM Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Candids!

2009-04-22T09:35:00.004-05:00

As we wait on Jim's "official" pictures, here is a candid shot from John's mom's friend Mary Jane. I love this shot --- sorda gives you that 1920's-1930's feel. Or, maybe it's just me. :)

Or maybe it's the black and white version that gives me that old-timey feel!

This is the Day!

2009-04-20T09:15:00.011-05:00

I love the hymn "This is the Day." Well, you can imagine how much excitement we had on the beautiful day the Lord created for our wedding -- we were rejoicing and were glad in it! Again, a BIG THANK YOU to the incredibly talented Lori for grabbing these shots of the day! If I had to give only one reason to come back from Hawaii, it would be to see the pictures Lori got!

Our wedding day could not have been any more perfect! I firmly believe God ordained our wedding day and marriage, and I couldn't have done it without the peace and fulfilling joy He gave both John and me. Praise be to our God - the perfecter of all things!

Lori got so many other stunning shots! To see them, click here!

Before the Big Day

2009-04-20T08:43:00.014-05:00

Finally, I have some pictures to share with you.... only thanks to Lori Mercer, my sweet sweet friend!! Lori has graciously shared all the pictures she took of our rehearsal, the dinner and the actual wedding day! Her precious daughter, Katelyn, was one of our flower girls, so Lori was with us almost the entire time! These pictures capture so much of those two days -- and Lori wasn't even the "official photographer." Just imagine if she could have been front and center snapping away!

Lori, I will always treasure these pictures! Thank you for that last reminder before walking down the aisle of "taking it all in" -- boy did I ever! How I wish we could do it just one more time!

You can see all the rehearsal pictures here!

Just Maui'd!

2009-04-15T16:01:00.018-05:00

ALOHA EVERYONE!! I'm sorry this has taken me a while to post -- but I've had so many pictures to go through! Well, we are back from our wonderful honeymoon in Maui, Hawaii and what a beautiful place it is! The week flew entirely too fast. We couldn't have asked for better weather, a better hotel resort, a better CONVERTIBLE to cruise the island in... It was the perfect combination of relaxing with adventures and sight seeing. By Tuesday, John had us looking at real-estate! He was searching for how he could take his public relations/communications skills to Maui! Can anyone guess where we want to go for the first year anniversary?!

The above pictures are what we looked at every day! Ahh...Talk about refreshing. Can you imagine what Heaven is going to be like IF THIS is Hawaii? And just as God works, my daily quote says, "Look for the heaven on earth. It is all around you." It surely was all around us in Maui!

And lastly, shouldn't honeymoons be more like 2 or 3 weeks? I love my husband, and I thank him for committing to make our life the most "honeymoon-ish" as possible!

All our pictures can be seen by clicking here!

The Matson's Are Back!!

2009-04-13T15:25:00.002-05:00

We're back and we're MARRIED!! This is still so shocking to realize we are now husband and wife. Pray for John. I can't wait to post all the pictures and video from both the wedding and honeymoon. I will soon -- just as soon as we can get some things settled at work and home! But, we are back -- and we are doing great! God could not have -- ABSOLUTELY COULD NOT HAVE -- blessed us with a better wedding ceremony, reception and honeymoon. As John and I say, we were in a fairy tale! Will post more soon! Love to all of you!!

The Day ...

2009-04-03T07:30:00.002-05:00

IS ALMOST HERE! We are doing last minute things today - getting our bags packed and running to Wal-Mart several times I'm sure! No nervous feelings yet. I'm sure that will kick in around 5:45pm tomorrow! We truly just want prayers for a wonderful service and safe travel to Hawaii.

We plan to have lots of pictures and even VIDEO when we get back. Can't wait to post! Until then... We're off to get hitched!

Re: Capitol Shot

2009-03-25T15:09:00.004-05:00

I could look at photography all day - seriously. It's so neat to see different photographers' work. Here's one more from our session with Lori. I've told Lori that if she ever needs a "partner" I would do it! Pick me!! I'll do all the scheduling and help on shoots -- especially with the precious babies and kids she gets to photograph.

12 more days .... Still can't believe it! Let's get this yucky weather out of the way, and pray for beautiful sunshine on April 4th!

Capitol Shots

2009-03-24T10:30:00.005-05:00

We just saw the "Sneak Peak" of our Capitol pictures Lori Mercer took Sunday! I'm so excited! This woman is incredibly talented, and John and I are so thankful she is a great friend! (We love her whole family, actually!)

The last picture was simply to please John. He is very fascinated, shall I say, with this man. I'll leave it at that. Thank you over and over again, Lori!

Cheer Each Other On!

2009-03-20T09:53:00.002-05:00

I love a good quote! I have a great flip-book on my desk called, "To Love and To Cherish." It has great "love" quotes! I thought I would share today's:

"One of the keys to keeping your relationship special is understanding that you and your mate are on the same team." - Ellen Kreidman

I love that John and I will officially be on the same team in just a few weeks! Go Team Matson! :) haha (I had to say it!)

Rocking the Roles!

2009-03-19T16:30:00.004-05:00

We are 2 1/2 weeks away --- how in the world? It was just August 2nd! Everything has been so smooth, perfect and floating along -- until these last few weeks! No wonder there is a "honeymoon" after the wedding! Nit picky details can really grind at you!

While also trying to get the house ready and the wedding details ironed out, John and I have been in premarital counseling (highly recommend!) and reading a few books on marriage. And, boy, have we read some great ones! One I want to encourage all engaged AND married couples to read is "Rocking the Roles." I won't spend time naming all the reasons you need to get your hands on this book, but I will say this: Robert Lewis and William Hendricks take the Biblical perspective on what a man's role is in the home -- and what a woman's role is in the home. God's words says 'we are fearfully and wonderfully made.' Amen to that! And thank you God for desiring the man to be a "Godly leader and provider" and a woman to be "a compassionate supporter of her husband."

Bridesmaids Luncheon

2009-03-19T15:53:00.009-05:00

Saturday I had the pleasure of spending time with some of my very best friends. I honored them with a Bridesmaids Luncheon. Unfortunately, not all of them could come, and I so missed the few that couldn't be there. But, as always, I got great laughs out of the ones that were there!

It was at the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham. Due to my perfect ability of choosing bad weather days, we had to bring the luncheon inside. Thank you mom for the decor! She can be a genius with a little hot pink netting, lime green silk and tea light candles!

THANK YOU to ALL my wonderful 14 bridesmaids! These girls have made the past 9 months incredibly special and memorable. They've gone above and beyond with showers, parties, gifts and most importantly... ADVICE! I tried telling them exactly how much I adore and love them...I tried doing it without tears. Didn't happen. Made a blundering idiot of myself. But, I do love love love love them! Thank you a million times over!

Praise to God that he blesses us with best friends! "A friend loves at all times" - Proverbs 17:17

(Note: Some pictures I will not post because my eyes were too watery and red! Please, Lord, don't let that happen at the wedding!)

Snowbirds!

2009-03-02T16:44:00.004-06:00

You know that saying, "If you hate the weather in Alabama, wait a few minutes. It'll change!" Could that be more true for this past week? We went from 70 degree weather, to tornadic weather... to SNOW?!? Does anything make sense anymore?

Sunday, John and I were in Gardendale, and watched 1-2 inches of snow fall. It was beautiful around my parents house! And of course, we took pictures!

The dogs really liked the snow! This is Dakota and Cocoa Chanel chasing each other!

Ready to dice, slice and make something nice!

2009-03-02T16:27:00.007-06:00

Saturday, one of my best friends and her mom gave us the most unique, creative and fun kitchen shower! Michelle and her mom Patsy went above and beyond for this special party... that we all know I needed. Not so much for the gifts, but for the HELP in the KITCHEN! Everyone shared a simple recipe in hopes that John can get some good meals out of me! Here are a few of the great pictures from the shower. Thank you so much Michelle and Mrs. Patsy!

And then when I got home, John and I with our "Happily Ever After" plate. I can't wait to display it in the house!

And on a sidenote, if anyone else has a simple recipe worth trying, please email it to me! I'm open to anything that is easy and delicious! Email me at LaurenABethune@gmail.com.

Precious Baby Stella

2009-02-17T12:53:00.004-06:00

John and I FINALLY got to see this precious baby Sunday. Meet Stella Jones. It's the second girl for our great friends, Kristen and Jared Jones. Little Stella was born January 29th ... a little early for her expected due date of March 5th. Needless to say, she is TINY! Pictures can't show just how little. But, for a 4 pounder, she is well on her way in this world. She and Kristen are doing great.

Perhaps Grace should have been her middle name, though, because there's just something so sweet and amazing about her. Congrats, Kristen and Jared! We love her!

This is big sister, Sittre Paige. She's so proud of her sister!

My Sweet Valentine

2009-02-13T12:27:00.001-06:00

I just got back into my office after a doctor's appointment...and look what I found! My sweet John sent the most beautiful red roses! They are gorgeous --- not sure what the pink ones are, but they sure help highlight the red roses. I'm a girl that never gets tired of flowers! I love them, and I save them all! Thank you, John! So glad we're spending Valentine's Day together.

But on another thought, there are so many who really don't enjoy this lovey-dovey holiday. I can understand. But just know -- there is one who loves you more than any person can. God sends his love to you everyday! His love is unconditional, never-ending, without fail, soars far beyond our understanding or imagination and is the only love that can transform any life! To all my friends and family --- God loves you today! Never forget that!

Two Months...From Yesterday!

2009-02-05T11:50:00.003-06:00

We have now passed the two month mark! 8 weeks and WE'RE MARRIED! How awesome and how odd!?! We really can't wait, but there's still so much left to do! I know these next two months will be gone in a blink of the eye!

We are so blessed!

Baby John Harris

2009-02-02T09:00:00.004-06:00

This is John Harris Taylor -- the beautiful boy of Jessica and Hal. John and I saw him for the first time Friday night. He is not only beautiful, but is the most peaceful baby! But, of course he is beautiful .... he has gorgeous parents!

Here are a few pictures of this precious baby. Somehow John ends up holding the baby the most...

Memories

2009-01-27T19:49:00.006-06:00

Tonight, I spent time going through all our pictures....from the days before we were "technically" dating until now. If you understand how much I love and treasure pictures, then you understand what a hard task this has been! I'm getting all these pictures together for our rehearsal dinner. But, I have to keep in mind that people don't want to see 50 pictures of me and John! When I flip through the photos, I smile, laugh and tear-up. What memories we have made over the past 2 years. There is no one I would rather spend the next 70 years with.. yes, 70. I hope we get 70 plus incredible, God-blessed years together!

This is the first picture John and I ever took. It's at an Alabama football game...when we were "just friends."

This is a picture taken at my grandmother's house. Hugging John never gets old! :)

A Nice Surprise!

2009-01-21T09:27:00.004-06:00

January 21st... A beautiful day in history! Ok, perhaps not history to everyone else, but I feel sure if you were to ask my mom, she would certainly say it was a day in her history book! Today is my 26th birthday. Didn't I just turn 21? What has happened here? This morning John surprised me at work with these beautiful flowers! They smell wonderful! Thanks John...I love you a million times over. And then some.