Things to know about living in the Fox-Moore Fortress
1. After each meal, it is commonplace to offer the suggestion of "I think this needed more garlic/bacon."
2. There is a strict no-talking through closed bedroom doors rule.
3. Gandolf loves having more space to run around in. In fact he just loves to run... up and down the hallway at full speed. Beware flying cats.
4. We have 3 toilets in the house. That's a safe number for us.
5. The phrase "I apologize for my _______________" is used an average of 18.3 times per day.
6. Always leave the house walking backwards. It's not a superstitious thing, it's a 'Gandolf loves to run outside' thing.
7. We go through a gallon of Orange Juice every 3 days or so.
8. One of the benefits to this arrangement is that the size of our libraries has doubled. Bibliophiles rejoice.
9. Disney tunes are likely to be heard during dish washing times. Join in if you know the words.
10. Household chores are spread out over 4 people, 4x the help, 4x the procrastination.
11. Waffles are on Tuesday nights. Dress is super casual, shoes are optional, waffles flavors vary from week to week.
12. For simple marital miscommunications, an interpreter is usually available upon request.
13. If you desire to enter the house, you'll likely be asked if you're an axe murderer. If you're not, come on in!
14. Don't be put off by the sound of a loud, high pitched, squeal/sneezy-sounding hiccup.... It's normal...for Telly.
15. Netflix + Wii = happy roommates
16. Brandi likes green bananas. Telly likes ones yellow ones with brown spots. Together, all bananas are acceptable.
17. The "baby bump" room refers to the guest room. Don't be alarmed, no human in the house is expecting. But the pink of the walls plus the curious bump around the waist-line of the room has the tabloids going.
18. When we scouted the house, the smallest bedroom was going to be an office, with the sewing stuff stored in there. Then it became the office/sewing room. Now fabric scraps are littered everywhere, the closet is full of projects, and the men usually just poke their heads inside.
19. For your convenience, an eye poking device is located in the living room. In case of emergency, break glass.
20. Books are organized by genre in different rooms. Poetry is in the Fox's room. For kid's literature and coffee table books, stick to the living room. Cook books are in the dining room. General reference, theology, and craft books are in the sewing room/study. General Fiction, SciFi, Classical literature, LOtR, and miscellaneous collections can be found in the baby bump room. See Chris Fox at the circulation desk for more specific information.
For all those that raised their eyebrows and slightly questioned (in a loving way) the implementation of such a crazy plan, know this: Three months into the adventure, it's been amazing. To have a friend at home when my hubby is not, to share in joys and be comforted in sorrows, it's been a blessing.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Headlines
Despite the long hiatus that both Jon and I have taken from updating y'all on our progress as a married unit, let me assure all of you that we are in fact, still married. Just to catch you up, here are some of the recent headlines in our life:
Jon gets job with coffee giant
Thanks to some persistence, Jon has been working at Starbucks since the beginning of July. It's been a difficult adjustment (for a non-coffee drinker/non-morning person especially) but he's been doing great. He gets around 32-37 hrs. a week, the health benefits are great, and he enjoys the people aspect of it (I don't mind the free frappachino's every once in a while either).
Chantelle slides into temp job with Penske
The agency I was doing substitute teaching through also handles temp positions in the Rock Hill/Charlotte area. They found a data entry job for me in Charlotte (about 20 min. away) that was supposed to last about 2 months. So far I've been here for 4 months. They offered me the chance to stay on permanently, but the hours (usually over 45 / week, and mandatory every other Saturday) have been too rough on my family/home life. Also, I want to get back into the classroom, and subbing (though less profitable) is a better way to get my foot in the door.
Long-time friends share house; lose sanity
It started off as a crazy idea to help Jon and I stay in town and save money. It's turned into one of the greatest ideas ever (well, except for sliced bread). Jon and I have known and loved Brandi and Chris Fox for over 4 years. We share many eccentricities, personality traits, and passions. After lots of prayer, questions, and considerations, we decided live together. We've got a decent sized house with a floor plan that suits all of us well. There are lots of up, a couple downs, and tons of love, all of which I hope to write about in another blog pretty soon.
Church hires new intern
The EFCA church we attend was excited to offer Jon the chance to intern with our beloved EPIC pastor Ken. He's taken over the oversee-ment of a couple of ministries, preached a few times, and is learning some great management pointers from the hyper-organized Ken-in-Chief. His 8 hrs. a week at the church help get him through the disheveled mornings at Starbucks. Jon's also working on his Pastoral Connection Form and will be working on his ordination through the EFC in the next few months. We're still not sure what the Lord has for his professional future, but things are nice right now.
Despite the long hiatus that both Jon and I have taken from updating y'all on our progress as a married unit, let me assure all of you that we are in fact, still married. Just to catch you up, here are some of the recent headlines in our life:
Jon gets job with coffee giant
Thanks to some persistence, Jon has been working at Starbucks since the beginning of July. It's been a difficult adjustment (for a non-coffee drinker/non-morning person especially) but he's been doing great. He gets around 32-37 hrs. a week, the health benefits are great, and he enjoys the people aspect of it (I don't mind the free frappachino's every once in a while either).
Chantelle slides into temp job with Penske
The agency I was doing substitute teaching through also handles temp positions in the Rock Hill/Charlotte area. They found a data entry job for me in Charlotte (about 20 min. away) that was supposed to last about 2 months. So far I've been here for 4 months. They offered me the chance to stay on permanently, but the hours (usually over 45 / week, and mandatory every other Saturday) have been too rough on my family/home life. Also, I want to get back into the classroom, and subbing (though less profitable) is a better way to get my foot in the door.
Long-time friends share house; lose sanity
It started off as a crazy idea to help Jon and I stay in town and save money. It's turned into one of the greatest ideas ever (well, except for sliced bread). Jon and I have known and loved Brandi and Chris Fox for over 4 years. We share many eccentricities, personality traits, and passions. After lots of prayer, questions, and considerations, we decided live together. We've got a decent sized house with a floor plan that suits all of us well. There are lots of up, a couple downs, and tons of love, all of which I hope to write about in another blog pretty soon.
Church hires new intern
The EFCA church we attend was excited to offer Jon the chance to intern with our beloved EPIC pastor Ken. He's taken over the oversee-ment of a couple of ministries, preached a few times, and is learning some great management pointers from the hyper-organized Ken-in-Chief. His 8 hrs. a week at the church help get him through the disheveled mornings at Starbucks. Jon's also working on his Pastoral Connection Form and will be working on his ordination through the EFC in the next few months. We're still not sure what the Lord has for his professional future, but things are nice right now.
Moore's are still pet-less.
Jon still won't let me have a cat, or dog, or fish, or bird, or miniature horse. Gandolf - the Foxes skitzoid crazy but sometimes bearably cute cat - will have to do for now.
These are some of the main things happening in our lives, but I hope to fill you in on some of the more quirky, funny, insightful things that happen.
Jon still won't let me have a cat, or dog, or fish, or bird, or miniature horse. Gandolf - the Foxes skitzoid crazy but sometimes bearably cute cat - will have to do for now.
These are some of the main things happening in our lives, but I hope to fill you in on some of the more quirky, funny, insightful things that happen.
Jon gets job with coffee giant
Thanks to some persistence, Jon has been working at Starbucks since the beginning of July. It's been a difficult adjustment (for a non-coffee drinker/non-morning person especially) but he's been doing great. He gets around 32-37 hrs. a week, the health benefits are great, and he enjoys the people aspect of it (I don't mind the free frappachino's every once in a while either).
Chantelle slides into temp job with Penske
The agency I was doing substitute teaching through also handles temp positions in the Rock Hill/Charlotte area. They found a data entry job for me in Charlotte (about 20 min. away) that was supposed to last about 2 months. So far I've been here for 4 months. They offered me the chance to stay on permanently, but the hours (usually over 45 / week, and mandatory every other Saturday) have been too rough on my family/home life. Also, I want to get back into the classroom, and subbing (though less profitable) is a better way to get my foot in the door.
Long-time friends share house; lose sanity
It started off as a crazy idea to help Jon and I stay in town and save money. It's turned into one of the greatest ideas ever (well, except for sliced bread). Jon and I have known and loved Brandi and Chris Fox for over 4 years. We share many eccentricities, personality traits, and passions. After lots of prayer, questions, and considerations, we decided live together. We've got a decent sized house with a floor plan that suits all of us well. There are lots of up, a couple downs, and tons of love, all of which I hope to write about in another blog pretty soon.
Church hires new intern
The EFCA church we attend was excited to offer Jon the chance to intern with our beloved EPIC pastor Ken. He's taken over the oversee-ment of a couple of ministries, preached a few times, and is learning some great management pointers from the hyper-organized Ken-in-Chief. His 8 hrs. a week at the church help get him through the disheveled mornings at Starbucks. Jon's also working on his Pastoral Connection Form and will be working on his ordination through the EFC in the next few months. We're still not sure what the Lord has for his professional future, but things are nice right now.
Despite the long hiatus that both Jon and I have taken from updating y'all on our progress as a married unit, let me assure all of you that we are in fact, still married. Just to catch you up, here are some of the recent headlines in our life:
Jon gets job with coffee giant
Thanks to some persistence, Jon has been working at Starbucks since the beginning of July. It's been a difficult adjustment (for a non-coffee drinker/non-morning person especially) but he's been doing great. He gets around 32-37 hrs. a week, the health benefits are great, and he enjoys the people aspect of it (I don't mind the free frappachino's every once in a while either).
Chantelle slides into temp job with Penske
The agency I was doing substitute teaching through also handles temp positions in the Rock Hill/Charlotte area. They found a data entry job for me in Charlotte (about 20 min. away) that was supposed to last about 2 months. So far I've been here for 4 months. They offered me the chance to stay on permanently, but the hours (usually over 45 / week, and mandatory every other Saturday) have been too rough on my family/home life. Also, I want to get back into the classroom, and subbing (though less profitable) is a better way to get my foot in the door.
Long-time friends share house; lose sanity
It started off as a crazy idea to help Jon and I stay in town and save money. It's turned into one of the greatest ideas ever (well, except for sliced bread). Jon and I have known and loved Brandi and Chris Fox for over 4 years. We share many eccentricities, personality traits, and passions. After lots of prayer, questions, and considerations, we decided live together. We've got a decent sized house with a floor plan that suits all of us well. There are lots of up, a couple downs, and tons of love, all of which I hope to write about in another blog pretty soon.
Church hires new intern
The EFCA church we attend was excited to offer Jon the chance to intern with our beloved EPIC pastor Ken. He's taken over the oversee-ment of a couple of ministries, preached a few times, and is learning some great management pointers from the hyper-organized Ken-in-Chief. His 8 hrs. a week at the church help get him through the disheveled mornings at Starbucks. Jon's also working on his Pastoral Connection Form and will be working on his ordination through the EFC in the next few months. We're still not sure what the Lord has for his professional future, but things are nice right now.
Moore's are still pet-less.
Jon still won't let me have a cat, or dog, or fish, or bird, or miniature horse. Gandolf - the Foxes skitzoid crazy but sometimes bearably cute cat - will have to do for now.
These are some of the main things happening in our lives, but I hope to fill you in on some of the more quirky, funny, insightful things that happen.
Jon still won't let me have a cat, or dog, or fish, or bird, or miniature horse. Gandolf - the Foxes skitzoid crazy but sometimes bearably cute cat - will have to do for now.
These are some of the main things happening in our lives, but I hope to fill you in on some of the more quirky, funny, insightful things that happen.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Jacksonville, Day 3
We got back to work today, a little more tired than yesterday from our work, ultimate frisbee, and a few competitive games of spades. Today brought a few more conversations with people from the neighborhood. As a result, we've heard some good reports about the reputation 2nd mile is developing in the community. We heard going in that some people have praised their efforts and asked where they get all the "nice white people." Today we heard firsthand from a lady who stopped a couple of team members, and hearing we were with 2nd mile she glowed about the wonderful things they bring to the neighborhood. this supports our thoughts that while we may not get to preach the Gospel directly, we are supporting the long term health of the team here and helping them open doors for Gospel conversations.
At the school where we volunteer in the afternoons, we also got high praise from one of the principles and several teachers, even though we just gave a little time to move boxes into storage. It amazes me that even small gestures can have such striking impact. One small church that 2nd Mile has partnered with has commented that they have been a breath of fresh air, and though the initial partnership was hesitant, they have had such a change of heart that they are offering a building which they cannot maintain as a rent-free base of operations.
Today sparked not only a greater appreciation for 2nd Mile but also a greater conviction that this Brentwood neighborhood looks a lot like some of the neighborhoods in Rock Hill. We spent a fair part of our downtime dreaming and considering how God might use Manchester and other churches to reach into the lives of people along the Saluda Street/ Cherry Rd. corridor. Those discussions were intensified as we spent our evening devotional looking at the host Scripture that reveals God's commitment to justice and the poor. With those verses ringing in my ears, I'm more convinced than ever that 2nd Mile may be a long term investment for our church. There are plenty more chances to send teams either for work projects like the renovation of the proposed building offered by Pearl Street Baptist (they hope to get the building in use by the Spring) or through service and relationship building (there is a particular need for people who can counsel some of these at risk teens through the host of challenges they face). 2nd Mile probably won't ever be a bedrock or primary ministry for us, but it's a fantastic secondary opportunity to see long term how the Gospel will bear fruit, and it gives a unique opportunity as a training ground for what God may call us to do in Rock Hill. It's impossible to be a part of this and not be excited about what God will bring. So, as we did tonight, we dream, pray, and delight at the hope of Christ's redemption to others.
Jacksonville, Day 2
Well, today we began our trip in earnest, and it's been what I expected, if not exactly what I hoped for. Overall,this promises to be a rewarding trip, with much to think on and be excited by for weeks to come.
After breakfast and quiet time, we headed out to do street clean-up (trash, mowing, edging; etc.). It started out a tad rough because lots of the equipment we had on hand is.... well let's just call it temperamental. Fortunately, Les Unruh and Eric Ness are excellent field repairmen, and by the end of the morning had more equipment running than we needed. Our goal for the week is to fix up sections of 2 roads that run on either side of the 2nd mile ministry house. Even with the challenge of initially doing all the edging without aid of power tools, I think we're on target to get it all done. In the afternoon, we shifted gears and went to a local elementary school, where we cleaned up their stage, which had been getting used as storage for old books. I think we will continue to be there the rest of the week doing similar service projects.
It may not seem like much, but as Eric very wisely said, our aim really can't be for major breakthroughs. We're really just support staff who help provide credibility and opportunity for the 2nd mile staff who do the real and hard work of building relationships and trust long after we're gone. And it's important to remember that this Gospel ministry, but it is not the Gospel. The Gospel is the message of salvation through Christ, and we may never get to share that message. What we do is show redemption applied, that the promise of the Gospel is true, and that is an exciting opportunity.
The Challenge for me is that I love the deep conversation, the grand story of someone's life and how God is speaking to them, but so far we haven't really had those. We stand out as outsiders, and people are polite but not in general terribly friendly. They genuinely appreciate our presence and work, but we probably won't have those big conversations. I hope we do, but it's more important that we can stand out enough for Ruth or Marc or the rest of the staff to have those down the line.
Two guys that have really stood out for us have been Earnest and AJ. They are local guys who hang out with the gang here a lot, so we've had some chance to goof off and talk a bit. I'm hoping for more opportunity over the course of the week to know them more.
a Few random things I've enjoyed learning so far-
1. One of the interns here is the daughter of our district superintendent
2. I am not old, but playing frisbee with these guys, I am reminded that I am not as young as I like to think.
3. Rachel is now a quarter of a century old.
4. Eric cannot dance, but he plays a pretty good game of spades.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Jacksonville-Day 1
So an opportunity arose recently to be part of a team from Manchester going to Jacksonville, FL for a service trip with 2nd Mile Ministries. Their aim is to reach into one of the poorest sectors of Jacksonville through relational ministry. I didn't think it was going to work out to go based on cost plus work scheduling, but a few weeks ago, Telly encouraged me to consider going with Chris (our roommate). Apparently, God liked the idea too, because my store manager gave me the week off, and to top it off, the church's giving covered the cost of everyone on the team.
So, 7 of us packed up and headed down this morning. The team here is pretty sweet. We spent the evening with 2 of the staff members, and a house full of interns. It's been great to learn all kinds of new things about the team, and get to hear stories from our new friends (one of the interns is the daughter of our EFCA district superintendent).
Most of what we've done to date has been settling in... basic orientation and a tour of the area. In some ways, it's not that unusual... rough neighborhoods here look like rough neighborhoods in Rock Hill. I think the thing that strikes me the most is how much of the neighborhood is empty. Condemned buildings abound. I am curious how the community will react to us. I keep hearing that we stand out in an awkward way, since we're the strange white people. Growing up with Mom and Dad involved in a camp for minorities and having the examples of so many relationships crossing racial lines, it seems really odd for me. I feel at home here as much as anywhere. I'm interested to see how God leads conversations over the course of the week.
For now, good night Rock Hill and hello Jacksonville!
So, 7 of us packed up and headed down this morning. The team here is pretty sweet. We spent the evening with 2 of the staff members, and a house full of interns. It's been great to learn all kinds of new things about the team, and get to hear stories from our new friends (one of the interns is the daughter of our EFCA district superintendent).
Most of what we've done to date has been settling in... basic orientation and a tour of the area. In some ways, it's not that unusual... rough neighborhoods here look like rough neighborhoods in Rock Hill. I think the thing that strikes me the most is how much of the neighborhood is empty. Condemned buildings abound. I am curious how the community will react to us. I keep hearing that we stand out in an awkward way, since we're the strange white people. Growing up with Mom and Dad involved in a camp for minorities and having the examples of so many relationships crossing racial lines, it seems really odd for me. I feel at home here as much as anywhere. I'm interested to see how God leads conversations over the course of the week.
For now, good night Rock Hill and hello Jacksonville!
Friday, July 9, 2010
An update on general things
So here's the general update, because we haven't done that in a while.
1. We're staying in Rock Hill! God has provided.
2. We BOTH got jobs! God definitely provided.
3. Jon is working at Starbucks. He's in week three, and still struggling to get things down. His co-workers are being very gracious and understanding.
4. Jon will also be working with our church, Manchester Creek Community Church, in an internship/portfolio building/working on ordination capacity. God has spoken.
5. I'm doing a temp job (1-2 months) doing data entry at a trucking company in Charlotte. It's full time and will dump me out at the beginning of the school year to start subbing again. God is working it out.
6. We're getting a new place! After a year of love and charm with the Awkward Stair (i.e. 417 Union Ave) we've decided to move. We were looking for a bit more room, a more updated place (namely a dishwasher) and a way to ramp up our part in the community. God found us a home.
7. We're moving in with the Foxes! Brandi and Chris Fox, long time friends (fellow married couple) came up with a random idea for us to move in together to maybe save some expenses, learn from each other, and provide a place for friends to feel welcome. Some benefits are:
a) a bigger place, one we couldn't afford on our own, for about the same rent
b) shared utilities (financial plus)
c) learning from eachother in terms of cooking, budgeting, being good stewards, etc.
d) a new way of life; we'll be forced to share (that's a good thing) and compromise (as if marriage doesn't teach you that enough) living more simply (separately both couples have way too much stuff....collectively...well, there WILL be a yard sale)
e) I get a cat. Well, I share the Fox's cat, but it's still exciting
f)opening our home to the community; this house has enough space so we can have Waffles, Pasta & Panthers, and other special gatherings in a setting where people feel free to relax and not be crowded.
g) love; you know how great it is when you come home from a tough day and your spouse is there to comfort you? Well now you have your spouse, one of your best friends, and your best friend's spouse, who will comfort your spouse, when your spouse is stressed from helping you de-stress from your hard day.
So there it is. That's about what we've been up to.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Contingencies.
As you may or may not know ....actually, I hate that phrase, because you either know or you don't. There are only two options in that scenario, so why make it blatantly obvious and waste words using the phrase? ANYWAY....
As some of you may know, The next month will be a very telling time for Jon and I. Currently we are unemployed. I can't be a sub if school's not in session. Jon can't be a student worker at RTS if he's not longer a student. So we're job hunting. We're beating every bush, shrub, weed, and tree we can find trying to find some income, really ANY income. We would LOVE to stay in Rock Hill. We really feel that God is calling us to do more work in this city, and we can't deny how strong the bonds are with many of the people here. Additionally, Jon's been offered the opportunity to do more work with our local church to help bolster his resume. We don't want to leave.
But the truth of the matter is, if we don't have any for source of income in the upcoming week, things have to change. Here are our four options as we know of them, so that when God does tell us which one, we can communicate with you in code : "Option #3 has arrived people, all clear" or "Option one is here. Meet at 07:30."
Option #1 If neither of us has a "for sure" job offer in the next week, we pack things up and move in with my parents down in Columbia. God has been gracious in giving them a home and with ample space for us to mooch off of as long as we would need to (THANKS MA and PA!). We'd move down there, save some rent money, and begin the job hunting process all over again. This take us away from Rock Hill, so it's not ideal, but we go where the Lord puts us.
Option #2 If one of us is able to secure a job in the next week then we might be able to stay in the place we are in now. It would mean scrimping by, and ultimately we wouldn't be able to stay for long because we can't live here on a minimum wage paycheck. We have some very generous friends at the our church who have offered us the use of their winter home while they're humidity free up north. Again, God has been gracious in providing us this option if we need it. Because it would mean storing our furniture, and it wouldn't be permanent, it's not ideal. But we WILL go where the Lord puts us.
Option #3 If we both get jobs relatively soon, we should be able to afford to continue living in our current place; "The Awkward Stair" as we've affectionately called it for the last 10 months. This would be great and Jon could keep his church opportunity. We could continue building the friendships we have started and contribute to a community we love. This would be nearly ideal, but WE WILL GO where the Lord puts us.
Option #4 If one or both of us gets a job soon, we've hatched a crazy idea with another married couple to move in together (that's right, 2 married couples under 1 roof). The benefits would be saving on rent/utilities/other bills, building a friendship to a higher level, and being able to help each other grow in all sorts of ways. This option has too many "what if's" and "only if's" to count, but it is a fun idea to think about while you're doing dishes. this would also be nearly ideal, but none the less, WE WILL GO WHERE THE LORD PUTS US.
Friday, June 18th is pretty much our deadline for the first option. If neither of us have something by then, it's "Hello Mom and Dad!"
Please pray for us. We need so much of God's direction in our lives. Pray that he will provide jobs, where ever he sends us. Pray that he will be glorified through all the muddled-ness of this time. And pray wherever we are sent next, that there is a dishwasher.
As some of you may know, The next month will be a very telling time for Jon and I. Currently we are unemployed. I can't be a sub if school's not in session. Jon can't be a student worker at RTS if he's not longer a student. So we're job hunting. We're beating every bush, shrub, weed, and tree we can find trying to find some income, really ANY income. We would LOVE to stay in Rock Hill. We really feel that God is calling us to do more work in this city, and we can't deny how strong the bonds are with many of the people here. Additionally, Jon's been offered the opportunity to do more work with our local church to help bolster his resume. We don't want to leave.
But the truth of the matter is, if we don't have any for source of income in the upcoming week, things have to change. Here are our four options as we know of them, so that when God does tell us which one, we can communicate with you in code : "Option #3 has arrived people, all clear" or "Option one is here. Meet at 07:30."
Option #1 If neither of us has a "for sure" job offer in the next week, we pack things up and move in with my parents down in Columbia. God has been gracious in giving them a home and with ample space for us to mooch off of as long as we would need to (THANKS MA and PA!). We'd move down there, save some rent money, and begin the job hunting process all over again. This take us away from Rock Hill, so it's not ideal, but we go where the Lord puts us.
Option #2 If one of us is able to secure a job in the next week then we might be able to stay in the place we are in now. It would mean scrimping by, and ultimately we wouldn't be able to stay for long because we can't live here on a minimum wage paycheck. We have some very generous friends at the our church who have offered us the use of their winter home while they're humidity free up north. Again, God has been gracious in providing us this option if we need it. Because it would mean storing our furniture, and it wouldn't be permanent, it's not ideal. But we WILL go where the Lord puts us.
Option #3 If we both get jobs relatively soon, we should be able to afford to continue living in our current place; "The Awkward Stair" as we've affectionately called it for the last 10 months. This would be great and Jon could keep his church opportunity. We could continue building the friendships we have started and contribute to a community we love. This would be nearly ideal, but WE WILL GO where the Lord puts us.
Option #4 If one or both of us gets a job soon, we've hatched a crazy idea with another married couple to move in together (that's right, 2 married couples under 1 roof). The benefits would be saving on rent/utilities/other bills, building a friendship to a higher level, and being able to help each other grow in all sorts of ways. This option has too many "what if's" and "only if's" to count, but it is a fun idea to think about while you're doing dishes. this would also be nearly ideal, but none the less, WE WILL GO WHERE THE LORD PUTS US.
Friday, June 18th is pretty much our deadline for the first option. If neither of us have something by then, it's "Hello Mom and Dad!"
Please pray for us. We need so much of God's direction in our lives. Pray that he will provide jobs, where ever he sends us. Pray that he will be glorified through all the muddled-ness of this time. And pray wherever we are sent next, that there is a dishwasher.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Out of Touch
Now that the school is done, we're out job hunting for the summer as we try to figure out whether God plans for us to be in Rock Hill or not. The process of beating the bushes has made me increasingly aware of an unusual trend in job applications... a wholly online application process.
Now, I want to be careful about my own opinions, since it's very easy to get righteously indignant about perceived shortcomings that directly affect us. Additionally, I could get so focused on these perceived limitations that I ignore God's sovereignty and care for us.
Still, I do find this trend interesting and potentially disturbing. In these situations, the entire application is designed and managed by the employer and is accessible only online. There are several advantages to this method. For one, companies can take in a huge number of applications without getting bogged down. Additionally, as one friend pointed out, this allows them to instantly screen applicants who cannot meet their availability requirements or such. And by tailoring the application process, they can weight and measure certain attributes that are most important to them.
The troubling part of this process is that eliminates the human interaction factor. I've noticed that companies who do online applications will not even talk to you. They simply promise to review your application, which from what I can tell means they see what the computer says about your application, good or bad. So in a service industry, where personality and communication skill are vital to success, an applicant has little opportunity to showcase his skill. Likewise, there is little chance to showcase intellect, teachable nature, drive and desire; etc. For instance, I know that on paper, my application looks risky in some regards. I'm about to have a Masters degree, which suggests that I would leap at the chance to find someplace better. What doesn't show up is that I'm looking for a means to commit to the area and serve my church here. If I can speak with no one, then how do I convey this desire?
Another interesting aspect is the personality test that is often included in online applications. The application asks a series of questions to get a sense of the applicant's work ethic, work style, instincts; etc. However, these questions are very basic, allowing no explanation of one's views, and certain questions are repeated, though phrased differently (in an effort to catch people who are intentionally lying about their views). My problem here is that the questions carry implicit nuances which the employers don't really seem to care about. For instance, do I like people? Yes, very much. Do I like being alone? Yes, because I have to get away to recharge. Do I like spending time with groups of people? Yes, I love group interaction, but do I like being in the middle of large crowds? No, I find them much more impersonal. My only way of improving things is to strike up conversation with strangers so that I'm not alone in a throng. Answers like these could be seen as contradictory on a superficial level, and I know in a couple of cases, I had to redo an application because these tests threw out my application.
There are major limitations, I think, but my deeper concern comes from wondering if we aren't stripping ourselves of human contact, interaction, and camaraderie. In our quest to streamline and speed life, every time we insulate ourselves from the messiness of personal communication, I fear we begin to forget how to truly know one another and be known. By association, I wonder if this helps make our jobs less personal: more focused on only hours, tasks, and paychecks. In so doing, does this not threaten to strip core meaning from our labors?
I need to think about this more, but I'll try to add another post later on a Christian response and focus to our work in these ultra-modern times.
Jon
Now, I want to be careful about my own opinions, since it's very easy to get righteously indignant about perceived shortcomings that directly affect us. Additionally, I could get so focused on these perceived limitations that I ignore God's sovereignty and care for us.
Still, I do find this trend interesting and potentially disturbing. In these situations, the entire application is designed and managed by the employer and is accessible only online. There are several advantages to this method. For one, companies can take in a huge number of applications without getting bogged down. Additionally, as one friend pointed out, this allows them to instantly screen applicants who cannot meet their availability requirements or such. And by tailoring the application process, they can weight and measure certain attributes that are most important to them.
The troubling part of this process is that eliminates the human interaction factor. I've noticed that companies who do online applications will not even talk to you. They simply promise to review your application, which from what I can tell means they see what the computer says about your application, good or bad. So in a service industry, where personality and communication skill are vital to success, an applicant has little opportunity to showcase his skill. Likewise, there is little chance to showcase intellect, teachable nature, drive and desire; etc. For instance, I know that on paper, my application looks risky in some regards. I'm about to have a Masters degree, which suggests that I would leap at the chance to find someplace better. What doesn't show up is that I'm looking for a means to commit to the area and serve my church here. If I can speak with no one, then how do I convey this desire?
Another interesting aspect is the personality test that is often included in online applications. The application asks a series of questions to get a sense of the applicant's work ethic, work style, instincts; etc. However, these questions are very basic, allowing no explanation of one's views, and certain questions are repeated, though phrased differently (in an effort to catch people who are intentionally lying about their views). My problem here is that the questions carry implicit nuances which the employers don't really seem to care about. For instance, do I like people? Yes, very much. Do I like being alone? Yes, because I have to get away to recharge. Do I like spending time with groups of people? Yes, I love group interaction, but do I like being in the middle of large crowds? No, I find them much more impersonal. My only way of improving things is to strike up conversation with strangers so that I'm not alone in a throng. Answers like these could be seen as contradictory on a superficial level, and I know in a couple of cases, I had to redo an application because these tests threw out my application.
There are major limitations, I think, but my deeper concern comes from wondering if we aren't stripping ourselves of human contact, interaction, and camaraderie. In our quest to streamline and speed life, every time we insulate ourselves from the messiness of personal communication, I fear we begin to forget how to truly know one another and be known. By association, I wonder if this helps make our jobs less personal: more focused on only hours, tasks, and paychecks. In so doing, does this not threaten to strip core meaning from our labors?
I need to think about this more, but I'll try to add another post later on a Christian response and focus to our work in these ultra-modern times.
Jon
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Sold!!
I sold my first sewing project EVER!!!!
I never thought etsy.com would be profitable, since it is so HUGE and has so many crafters who are more talented than I am, but lo and behold my little shop did it! It feels incredibly validating.
My two most recent projects though have gotten by far the best reviews. Hopefully I'll get the pics to post in a couple days.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Old Endings and New Beginnings
I guess I'm still coming to terms with impending graduation. It's strange to realize that being a student has been on of the most dominant traits of my life. The only thing I've been for longer than my 28 years of study is single. And I guess that in itself is a comfort, since being married has turned out so beautifully. Still, it's a big chapter closing. I'll still be given to reading and personal study, but it's hard to imagine returning to formal schooling. I'm not a true academic to go for a phd. and a D. Min. seems like it would be largely vanity, since personal study and discipleship with Godly men can accomplish the same ends.
In some small way, I grieve for the loss of these days that have been so wonderful. But I wouldn't continue even if I could. I'm far too eager to be about the business I believe God designed me to do. There's the rub. God has a funny way of systematically stripping us of the needless things which we hold dear, thrusting us into uncertainty that we may find Him sufficient. We've gone through so much of that financially that it's almost commonplace now, and you begin to feel you truly know how to trust God. Then He brings a new wave of change, a different aspect of that same dependence, a new chance to respond in faith.
That's the great comfort and joy. he knows the end from the beginning. He has seen all of it, and there are no surprises to Him. The process of revelation and growth may seem achingly slow, but the end is sure. He knows me and I will know Him. This is the dawn of a new chapter of His grace. So, I'm sad to say goodbye to His past kindness, but I'm excited to see His coming ones.
In some small way, I grieve for the loss of these days that have been so wonderful. But I wouldn't continue even if I could. I'm far too eager to be about the business I believe God designed me to do. There's the rub. God has a funny way of systematically stripping us of the needless things which we hold dear, thrusting us into uncertainty that we may find Him sufficient. We've gone through so much of that financially that it's almost commonplace now, and you begin to feel you truly know how to trust God. Then He brings a new wave of change, a different aspect of that same dependence, a new chance to respond in faith.
That's the great comfort and joy. he knows the end from the beginning. He has seen all of it, and there are no surprises to Him. The process of revelation and growth may seem achingly slow, but the end is sure. He knows me and I will know Him. This is the dawn of a new chapter of His grace. So, I'm sad to say goodbye to His past kindness, but I'm excited to see His coming ones.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Being sick.
There is a dramatic difference between being sick when you're young, and being sick when you're married.
I started to get sick last Monday. The onslaught was slow, the big symptoms were slow, and the recovery has been, well, excruciating. Finally, a week and a half later, I don't hate every breath I have to fight for, and I'm down to less than a pack a day.. A pack of tissues that is.
When I'm sick, I want attention, chocolate. To rest, but only when I'm ready to. I have to keep busy, but I will be incredibly pitiful too.
Two days ago it started to hit Jon. If you know Jon, you know he doesn't do sick well. Unlike me, he can get fevers, and when he gets them, they're bad. When Jon's sick, he sleeps, shivers, mumbles, eats occasionally, but doesn't need much.
When he sick, I take care of him the best I can. When I'm sick, Jon tries to cater to me. But nights like Thursday night, when we're both sick....who takes care of who?
I started to get sick last Monday. The onslaught was slow, the big symptoms were slow, and the recovery has been, well, excruciating. Finally, a week and a half later, I don't hate every breath I have to fight for, and I'm down to less than a pack a day.. A pack of tissues that is.
When I'm sick, I want attention, chocolate. To rest, but only when I'm ready to. I have to keep busy, but I will be incredibly pitiful too.
Two days ago it started to hit Jon. If you know Jon, you know he doesn't do sick well. Unlike me, he can get fevers, and when he gets them, they're bad. When Jon's sick, he sleeps, shivers, mumbles, eats occasionally, but doesn't need much.
When he sick, I take care of him the best I can. When I'm sick, Jon tries to cater to me. But nights like Thursday night, when we're both sick....who takes care of who?
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A good answer, if hard
By this point, most people already know the basic result of our trip to Swannsboro, but I had some time during my school day to give a little more detailed story for the legions of people who obsess over our lives but try not to show it.
Back in December, I responded to a post on the RTS job board for a senior/solo pastor job at a small church in Swannsboro, NC (coastal town near the Camp Lejuene Marine Base). Well, after many questions and 3 phone interviews, we were invited to come out for a candidate weekend March 19th-21st.
We knew going in this was not our ideal image, since I would've preferred an associate pastor's job and this small church has no budget to pay any pastor in the near term. Also, there were some secondary matters of doctrine (nothing different on the Gospel) where I thought we might differ. And having come out of a small church that has been struggling for a while, I'm very aware of some institutional problems that can crop up with tired people. Still,this was a church who was interested in us, in an area that has some appeal, with seemingly loads of opportunities; etc. So we figured the worst that could happen was God would use it for experience in the search/interview process. And what an experience it was!
I knew but didn't understand how draining these kind of trips are, and I'm so glad that our pastor recommended we specifically ask to be house in a motel. Being the "new puppy", even in love, is exhausting, but Ken was right that having private housing gave a chance to both rest and review throughout the time.
We had to leave straight from work at RTS Friday, so things did not begin particularly joyfully. Traffic leaving Charlotte was pretty much as slow and painful as you might expect, and near Rockingham, I missed a speed limit trap going from 70 to 55 which a highway patrol officer was generous enough to correct. Still, we got in just after 11 and were able to get plenty of rest.
Our motel overlooked the coastal waterway just at the edge of the island chain (Emerald Isle, Indian Beach; etc.) that makes up the southern end of the Outer Banks area. So we had a beautiful relaxing morning of staring at the sights of the sea. Then we met with the current pastor (retiring for health reasons) and elder and their wives. After some fun conversation, we had a whirlwind tour our the local area, including housing opportunities, and then we were back to the church to meet the committee and to the motel for a brief rest.
When we met with the search committee in the afternoon, we began to see more of the issues come to light. For one, they had very few questions, most of theirs having been answered in our phone interviews, but in what they asked and didn't, they reinforced the notion that they are tired... maybe even a bit desperate. As I began working through the list of questions I had prepared (thanks again to Ken's aid), it was clear that they didn't have answers for several points and hadn't really begun to explore them, even having the prepared list for almost 2 weeks in advance. I was glad to see a glimmer of clearer understanding, as they said one of things they needed most in a pastor is vision, but in their answers to what the church needed, they seemed circumstantially and internally focused (things like getting more people and better signage for visibility). Most importantly, we noticed some philosophy of ministry differences that I wholeheartedly agree with in principle (eg. worship is not about entertainment), but the practice of which we would disagree.
That evening, they hosted a church wide dinner in our honor, and if love and food alone made our decision for us, we'd be packing for Swannsboro now. While, being the center of so much attention may be tiring for us, I'm sure they pushed themselves to treat us well, and it showed. They were wholly welcoming and gave us plenty of time to meet everyone and taste everyone's cooking, and they can definitely cook! In all, they are a delightful bunch showing the spirit of love love that is a hallmark of the church.
Sunday, we enjoyed another beautiful morning and then headed over to take part in their morning worship. They had me teach their Sunday School hour, though normally they rotate the responsibility between a few men, and I also gave the Sunday sermon for their worship service. I kept things simple, using material I had prepared for other preaching/teaching opportunities. For the Sunday school hour, we went through the closing verses of Acts 2, looking at the basic principles of the early church (devotion to teaching, breaking bread, fellowship, and prayer) and their outgrowths (visible signs, joy, "communism", favor, new converts; etc.). In the main service, I preached from 2 Tim. 2:1-7 on the heart of pastoral and all Christian ministry. God was good that both were clear and succinct, with good reception from the people.
The worship style was different from what I am familiar but beautiful nonetheless. They use a more formal service, with structured meditation (creeds, church fathers; etc.) and Bible readings, as well as a morning devotional reminder from one of the men (an interesting way of mentoring all the men in teaching at some level). The songs were a mix of classic hymns, mostly familiar, and Psalms (mostly to unfamiliar tunes). I loved the inclusion of the Psalms. We don't do that enough. And as so often happens, the Holy Spirit was at work guiding the pastor's wife in preparing the order of worship so that it meshed perfectly with the message I was preaching.
In all, it was an excellent visit, but we quickly began to sense that God was moving us away from Swannsboro. The first day, after our meeting with the committee, I was getting uneasy about the issues and wondering if I was a good fit for what they needed. When I asked Chantelle's opinion, she said exactly what I was thinking... great area, people and opportunities, but there would be some major issues to fight through that they weren't facing, and it would be a battle... one she was convinced we were equipped to take in our first assignment. I was pretty confident right then that God was beginning to give us an answer. Sunday gave us more of the same, despite the good time with the people. It was even more painful to say it but more reassured, I'm not God's guy for them.
Once we got home, we gave it until Friday to make our decision. The church was ready to vote on me the following Sunday, and we wanted to have answer ready for them before then. Over the days, we didn't get anything different in prayer or counsel and 3 different sources gave me confirmation. So, that Friday, I called and asked to be removed from consideration.
I don't think either Chantelle or I would characterize the visit as anything but positive, despite the result. We ended things with Swannsboro Bible Church on very good terms, and we got better insight into questions we need to ask and answer and the type of ministry position God may be leading me into. Best of all for me, God spoke very clearly to us both in the same way, so we have great confidence that he's guiding wherever we end up.
I knew but didn't understand how draining these kind of trips are, and I'm so glad that our pastor recommended we specifically ask to be house in a motel. Being the "new puppy", even in love, is exhausting, but Ken was right that having private housing gave a chance to both rest and review throughout the time.
We had to leave straight from work at RTS Friday, so things did not begin particularly joyfully. Traffic leaving Charlotte was pretty much as slow and painful as you might expect, and near Rockingham, I missed a speed limit trap going from 70 to 55 which a highway patrol officer was generous enough to correct. Still, we got in just after 11 and were able to get plenty of rest.
Our motel overlooked the coastal waterway just at the edge of the island chain (Emerald Isle, Indian Beach; etc.) that makes up the southern end of the Outer Banks area. So we had a beautiful relaxing morning of staring at the sights of the sea. Then we met with the current pastor (retiring for health reasons) and elder and their wives. After some fun conversation, we had a whirlwind tour our the local area, including housing opportunities, and then we were back to the church to meet the committee and to the motel for a brief rest.
When we met with the search committee in the afternoon, we began to see more of the issues come to light. For one, they had very few questions, most of theirs having been answered in our phone interviews, but in what they asked and didn't, they reinforced the notion that they are tired... maybe even a bit desperate. As I began working through the list of questions I had prepared (thanks again to Ken's aid), it was clear that they didn't have answers for several points and hadn't really begun to explore them, even having the prepared list for almost 2 weeks in advance. I was glad to see a glimmer of clearer understanding, as they said one of things they needed most in a pastor is vision, but in their answers to what the church needed, they seemed circumstantially and internally focused (things like getting more people and better signage for visibility). Most importantly, we noticed some philosophy of ministry differences that I wholeheartedly agree with in principle (eg. worship is not about entertainment), but the practice of which we would disagree.
That evening, they hosted a church wide dinner in our honor, and if love and food alone made our decision for us, we'd be packing for Swannsboro now. While, being the center of so much attention may be tiring for us, I'm sure they pushed themselves to treat us well, and it showed. They were wholly welcoming and gave us plenty of time to meet everyone and taste everyone's cooking, and they can definitely cook! In all, they are a delightful bunch showing the spirit of love love that is a hallmark of the church.
Sunday, we enjoyed another beautiful morning and then headed over to take part in their morning worship. They had me teach their Sunday School hour, though normally they rotate the responsibility between a few men, and I also gave the Sunday sermon for their worship service. I kept things simple, using material I had prepared for other preaching/teaching opportunities. For the Sunday school hour, we went through the closing verses of Acts 2, looking at the basic principles of the early church (devotion to teaching, breaking bread, fellowship, and prayer) and their outgrowths (visible signs, joy, "communism", favor, new converts; etc.). In the main service, I preached from 2 Tim. 2:1-7 on the heart of pastoral and all Christian ministry. God was good that both were clear and succinct, with good reception from the people.
The worship style was different from what I am familiar but beautiful nonetheless. They use a more formal service, with structured meditation (creeds, church fathers; etc.) and Bible readings, as well as a morning devotional reminder from one of the men (an interesting way of mentoring all the men in teaching at some level). The songs were a mix of classic hymns, mostly familiar, and Psalms (mostly to unfamiliar tunes). I loved the inclusion of the Psalms. We don't do that enough. And as so often happens, the Holy Spirit was at work guiding the pastor's wife in preparing the order of worship so that it meshed perfectly with the message I was preaching.
In all, it was an excellent visit, but we quickly began to sense that God was moving us away from Swannsboro. The first day, after our meeting with the committee, I was getting uneasy about the issues and wondering if I was a good fit for what they needed. When I asked Chantelle's opinion, she said exactly what I was thinking... great area, people and opportunities, but there would be some major issues to fight through that they weren't facing, and it would be a battle... one she was convinced we were equipped to take in our first assignment. I was pretty confident right then that God was beginning to give us an answer. Sunday gave us more of the same, despite the good time with the people. It was even more painful to say it but more reassured, I'm not God's guy for them.
Once we got home, we gave it until Friday to make our decision. The church was ready to vote on me the following Sunday, and we wanted to have answer ready for them before then. Over the days, we didn't get anything different in prayer or counsel and 3 different sources gave me confirmation. So, that Friday, I called and asked to be removed from consideration.
I don't think either Chantelle or I would characterize the visit as anything but positive, despite the result. We ended things with Swannsboro Bible Church on very good terms, and we got better insight into questions we need to ask and answer and the type of ministry position God may be leading me into. Best of all for me, God spoke very clearly to us both in the same way, so we have great confidence that he's guiding wherever we end up.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Recent sewing exploits
As previously noted, one of my new missions as a proper married lady is to learn how to sew. This is a bit of a start and go project. Most of the "going" is when I browse the fabric store and get fantastic ideas. Most of the "stopping" is when I can't figure out why the bobbin is making a strange noise, why the fabric is getting crinkled in the machine, and why the result looks more like a hairball than a sock.
Here are some of my first projects:
The cute and flirty dress. Still in need of some adjustments, but the first thing I've sewn and worn in public!
Booties that I made for a baby shower. This was so much cheaper and more fun than picking something off the registry!
And just finished tonight: a professional skirt just in the nick of time (and the nick of colors) for valentines day!
Here are some of my first projects:
The cute and flirty dress. Still in need of some adjustments, but the first thing I've sewn and worn in public!
Booties that I made for a baby shower. This was so much cheaper and more fun than picking something off the registry!
And just finished tonight: a professional skirt just in the nick of time (and the nick of colors) for valentines day!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Which is more complicated?
I don't know which is more difficult to understand..... My husband or my sewing machine.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
God to the rescue!
In a feeble attempt to keep the few and faithful readers abreast on our employment exploits, I shall now divulge God's latest and greatest evidence in our lives.
My last day as a long-term 4th grade sub was to be this most recent Friday. Without any other plans, I was going to become a simple day-by-day sub, where the pay was moderate and the job frequency unpredictable.
Half an hour before the end of that fateful Friday, the principal of the school called me out and asked if I might want to take over another long term sub position for a Kindergarten assistant. The pay was nearly half what I was making, so it wasn't an easy choice. Jon and I had to weigh job consistency over increased daily pay, but in the end, GOD struck again providing for us.
Jon is also working as a day-by-day sub, and we continue to pray for consistency there as well. We're not sure how God will carry us through, but he will, as long as we are faithful.
Please keep us in your prayers though. As the summer comes, Jon and I both face unemployment. I'm getting peeks at job openings in the fall, but that's not till August. Jon, graduating in May, has gotten a couple leads at churches, but again, nothing we are certain of yet.
As of now our summer could be spent in Disney World, my parents house, right here, or half-way across the world. We remember faithfully that God's direction is a lamp, not a searchlight, and we are learning to trust on him before all else. That is the ultimate goal, no?
My last day as a long-term 4th grade sub was to be this most recent Friday. Without any other plans, I was going to become a simple day-by-day sub, where the pay was moderate and the job frequency unpredictable.
Half an hour before the end of that fateful Friday, the principal of the school called me out and asked if I might want to take over another long term sub position for a Kindergarten assistant. The pay was nearly half what I was making, so it wasn't an easy choice. Jon and I had to weigh job consistency over increased daily pay, but in the end, GOD struck again providing for us.
Jon is also working as a day-by-day sub, and we continue to pray for consistency there as well. We're not sure how God will carry us through, but he will, as long as we are faithful.
Please keep us in your prayers though. As the summer comes, Jon and I both face unemployment. I'm getting peeks at job openings in the fall, but that's not till August. Jon, graduating in May, has gotten a couple leads at churches, but again, nothing we are certain of yet.
As of now our summer could be spent in Disney World, my parents house, right here, or half-way across the world. We remember faithfully that God's direction is a lamp, not a searchlight, and we are learning to trust on him before all else. That is the ultimate goal, no?
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Exploits of a married lady.
It's most regrettable that I haven't found time, or really made time, to update this blog. For me (I'm not sure about Jon) writing has always been therapeutic, something I needed to do to work out my problems, gain perspective, and calm myself. Since I've been married I've retired my personal journaling (eight notebooks over 7 years), but for my sanity, and often the sanity of this marriage, I'm pledging to articulate my (and hopefully our) thoughts here.
Tonight is a rare night when I am in the house alone. Faced with an empty schedule an a drive to do more with my life, I've taken this opportunity to pursue one of my many new hobbies, sewing. Currently, I'm sitting in a black skirt with pink and red pinstripes that I have sew myself. The waist band is a mess, I haven't done the hem yet, and there were more than a few hitches when sewing it, BUT I've sewn it! It looks relatively decent and is wearable.
SUCCESS!
This is one of a couple of hobbies I've picked up that make me feel more "wifey." Although it may be old fashioned, as a married woman of a year, I feel there are some things I need to do, both for myself and the marriage. Sewing my own clothes fulfills my need for a hobby, my crafty cravings, and my womanly urges to always have new clothes.
Couponing has been another such thing. After attending a workshop on how to do super-couponing, an watching my sister-in-law who rocks at it, Jon and I are giving it a shot. Generally I gather/work out all the deals, and since he retrieves them with his free time. We're not great at this yet, but we do generally save 60% off of the bill, getting things that are brand name, tasty, and not possibly expired (I love you Grocery Safari...but sometimes I question your expiration dates).
Sadly laundry has not been laid on my heart as a wifely task to improve on. May God change my heart in that regard....or give us enough income to pay for a maid.
I do have short bursts of cleaning obsession fits, and I'm entering one now. Best to put it to good use and clean up the sewing explosion that's taken over two rooms in the house (oh, but how nice ot have more than two rooms in our house!!!).
Tonight is a rare night when I am in the house alone. Faced with an empty schedule an a drive to do more with my life, I've taken this opportunity to pursue one of my many new hobbies, sewing. Currently, I'm sitting in a black skirt with pink and red pinstripes that I have sew myself. The waist band is a mess, I haven't done the hem yet, and there were more than a few hitches when sewing it, BUT I've sewn it! It looks relatively decent and is wearable.
SUCCESS!
This is one of a couple of hobbies I've picked up that make me feel more "wifey." Although it may be old fashioned, as a married woman of a year, I feel there are some things I need to do, both for myself and the marriage. Sewing my own clothes fulfills my need for a hobby, my crafty cravings, and my womanly urges to always have new clothes.
Couponing has been another such thing. After attending a workshop on how to do super-couponing, an watching my sister-in-law who rocks at it, Jon and I are giving it a shot. Generally I gather/work out all the deals, and since he retrieves them with his free time. We're not great at this yet, but we do generally save 60% off of the bill, getting things that are brand name, tasty, and not possibly expired (I love you Grocery Safari...but sometimes I question your expiration dates).
Sadly laundry has not been laid on my heart as a wifely task to improve on. May God change my heart in that regard....or give us enough income to pay for a maid.
I do have short bursts of cleaning obsession fits, and I'm entering one now. Best to put it to good use and clean up the sewing explosion that's taken over two rooms in the house (oh, but how nice ot have more than two rooms in our house!!!).
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