Trying to catch up...

Friday, Pay Day, 1/2 Day at work, Minnesota Day. It's just after Midnight, and officially January 15, 2010. I've been looking forward to this day for quite sometime. It's been a month since I last wrote, updating you on my last adventure to Minnesota, and tonight packing for yet another one. The month has flown by. Christmas was busy, the week after consisted of a road trip around Texas with Jason, missing a dear friend's wedding, Jason getting sick, and ringing in the New year in San Antonio.

I wish I could say it's all in the past, but as I sit here tonight, my heart still aches in missing Ang's wedding. My computer actually allowed me to log in to Facebook tonight without shutting down, and I was able to look through some of the most beautiful wedding photos I've ever seen. I had a hard decision to make a few weeks ago, mainly based on a financial decision, and I'm wondering if I made the wrong decision. Ugh. I guess it is in the past, but Ang, if you're reading this, know that I love you dearly and am so happy for you and Jason. I never dreamed I would miss Ang's big day, plus becoming a "Naumann," but I did - and for that, I am so sad. It's been awhile since I've just blurted out thoughts running through my head, but right now, this is what's on my mind.

In addition to missing Ang's big day, Liz is on my mind. I've been so blessed to be surrounded by like-minded individuals, people who travel and seek adventure around the world serving God, and right now, I am remembering the anticipation that is probably running through Liz's mind this last night before she flies off to Peru for a year. What a step of faith she is taking. I remember the night before I made my first journey to live across the ocean - the anxiousness, the careful overweight packing of the luggage, the goodbyes and "not knowing" what was instore. I guess I kind of miss the thrill of the unknown - knowing God is in control, he provides, and just "going with it" as best as I could! :) Gosh, what great memories! Liz, if you read this, know that you AND your family are in my prayers tonight. I am so excited for you and can't wait to hear how God will be working at the orphanage in Peru. Don't forget to write in your journal and blog! :)

So not only are these two ladies on my mind, I'm also pondering upon what this weekend will bring. Jason and I have been dating for 5 1/2 months now. In that time, we've gained many air miles, he's met most of my family, I've met his girls, and now it's the weekend to meet HIS parents up in Duluth! It's only natural for this progression, but gosh, why am I nervous?! I guess it's not really "nervousness" - just interested in what they'll think of me! I know the weekend will be great, but please keep us all in your prayers! I'm also looking forward to seeing the girls again. I've gotten to talk to Mallory quite a few times on the phone, but there's nothing like being there in person.

With all of this said, it's way past my bedtime and I have a long day tomorrow. Thankfully, I arranged for a 1/2 Day off so I don't have to rush off to the airport. It should be a nice day! I will be sure and update you as soon as I arrive back - but please keep everyone mentioned in tonight's blog in your prayers! Have a blessed day.

Sugar and Spice in Minnesota

It was finally time to meet the girls. On Saturday I made the journey to Minnesota once again, but this time I was looking forward to meeting Jason's two precious girls, Mallory (5) and Marissa (1). The visit was a true blessing and I thank each of you who prayed for us during this time. It was a fun-filled four days, and I was sad to have to leave the beautiful winter weather! No worries - I'll be back again soon. :)

Although the flight left extremely early (7:30am), the views I was able to see were breathtaking! This is what I was fortunate enough to see as we were descending into Minnesota.

The clouds disappeared and to my surprise the sight of snow covered plains came into view. Wow - I hoped I was ready to endure the winter snow and cold!

I arrived at the MSP airport a little early and ready to meet the girls. On our way back to Jason's house we picked up the girls and the adventure began! The first order of business was to decorate the tree!

Here is Marissa, ready to help - or at least watch.

Mallory was excited to put out the Christmas Tree cookies her Daddy surprised us with. Yum!

Hanging the ornaments - such a delicate process.

Mallory and Marissa each had a gift under the tree from their grandmother, to open up after the tree was decorated.

What a beautiful Christmas Tree!

We ALL love bookos!

Nemo the Fish spent the weekend with us as well. Nemo is Mallory's fish friend she got for learning all her letters!

A Night out on the Town - We drove into the city for their Holidazzle Parade. Thankfully, we were able to spend the evening indoors, out of the cold!

We watched the parade from the Barnes and Noble Bookstore. Books are our friends. :)

A little fun with Mallory on a afternoon indoors...

But then they couldn't resist making a snowman!

Sunday evening we bundled up and headed to the local Fairgrounds for a Winter Festival of Lights.

There were lots of lights to look at and even a hay ride!

We finally made it to the North Pole to meet a friendly Santa, that we stayed a safe distance from. :)

Did I mention it was really, really cold?!

It was then time to head indoors, thaw out, and drink some hot cocoa with sugar cookies.

What a fantastic snowman Mallory and her Dad made!

Sunday night brought us a few more inches of snow, and I loved every bit of it!

Monday morning we jumped in the car and headed to Mallory's Gymnastics Lesson - and she did great!

Does she look excited to be riding in the car?

After naptime Monday afternoon, we bundled up again and headed to the sledding slope with Mallory's new sled!

Mallory decided to try out all of the sleds before we headed up the hill.

Jason had the task of making sure Marissa was snug in her sled.

Time to head up the hill!

Mallory flew down the hill and had NO fear!

Jason looks like he's having fun doesn't he?!

I don't know if Marissa had much fun, but she was sure cute!

We had a successful afternoon of sledding.

Monday ended with snuggling on the couch watching "The Polar Express" and eating popcorn with Jason and Mallory. Tuesday Jason surprised me with a new pair of ice skates and some time out on the ice. He never ceases to amaze me! I'm a lucky girl. :)

Unfortunately Tuesday afternoon came around much faster than I had hoped, and like I said previously, my trip was a true blessing.

I left Tuesday afternoon to low temperatures and a beautiful blue sky. I miss it so much!

Not only have I fallen in love with Jason, I've definitely fallen in love with Minnesota!

Christmas Cookies and a Day of Snow

It was my turn to make a "Christmas Sweet" for the upcoming "Pick Family Christmas." This Friday brought us snow and some delicious Christmas cookies! I was trying to be a tad bit creative, and laughed at the mess I made! They might not look that pretty, but they sure tasted good and were completely gone at the end of the Reunion.

Friday = Snow Day - a day were the kids went crazy! It was also a day I had planned a test, and would you believe, that I went ahead and gave it! We were in school ALL day - no need to change my schedule!

Congratulations Kara and Ron!

Finally - so glad the two of you are officially engaged! Congratulations Kara and Ron! Looking forward to adding a new member (and sister) to the family!

Galveston - Festival of Lights

Jason and I needed some time alone, so on Saturday we headed to Galveston. We made our way down the scenic drive to Galveston, watched a movie, and then ventured to the Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens. I would highly recommend it! We were thoroughly surprised by the amount of lights and attractions there and enjoyed an evening together walking through the lights, eating some "street" food, and trying our best to ice skate, although it was a bit tough with the other hundreds of people on the ice!

Not the best ice skates, but it was an adventure.