tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61549919005423761452011-11-08T22:20:43.249-05:00Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.comBlogger1651100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-30168917749051117212011-10-22T23:07:00.004-04:002011-10-22T23:53:38.700-04:00

I am back. I don't know if I am still on anyone's blog reader. I don't know what I will write about. I don't know how often I will write. But what I do know is this: I love to write and I have missed it. When I get up and running and have managed to write a few posts, maybe I will remind folks that this blog still exists. Until then, I have no idea who is reading, but I shall write.There

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-81395870560517766142010-07-05T17:46:00.000-04:002010-07-05T17:52:11.455-04:00

So, the whole "muh Jesus year" thing didn't really pan out the way I'd hoped. I spent more time posting about not posting than I did posting about....anything, really. Figured I might as well pack up shop there, mesh the two blogs, and come back over here. So, here I am. :)

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-35009822637292060112010-03-10T22:33:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.091-04:00

So, several (ok...two) people have told me in the past week that I ought to get back to blogging. And, truth is, I really want to. When I'm not blogging it is often because there is SO MUCH that I want to write, it is easier to write nothing at all. Which is so against my nature when it comes to speaking...I rarely hold back my words - although I am working on that! In any event, I need to

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-9507797297707882542010-01-18T23:32:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.102-04:00

I'm just over a week away from my one year anniversary of home ownership. I can honestly say this is one of the best things I've ever done in my life. Last night I hung a few pieces on my living room wall which completes my wall decor in that room (with the exception of one small frame that I need to find a picture for, on a small wall). It is hard to accurately express how happy I am each

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-58252592641253571672010-01-16T13:06:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.111-04:00

When something as tremendous and traumatic as the earthquake in Haiti happens, there is much perspective to be gained. We tend to filter our complaints, at least for a little while, because given what other people are going through, nothing in our lives seems all that bad. Of course that only lasts so long.During my first month or so on Twitter, I noticed a trending topic called #whitewhine .

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-41479352447854778652010-01-12T09:57:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.120-04:00

This is a bit of a drive-by posting, sorry I can't sit down and stay awhile. But, a few things to share:- The hot water heater has stayed on since last Wednesday afternoon. I put some bricks in front of it carefully crafted a shield from the wind and it has proven successful. Little Holly Homeowner reigns supreme.- I am now a believer in the Snuggie. I don't think I ever laughed at people who

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-41434183037537182572010-01-09T00:03:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.128-04:00

Last year's post-Christmas shopping event (now an annual standing date for the BFF and I) brought me a great many deals, most of them house-related, but my absolute favorite would have to be the last buy of the day. Muh Christmas tree. It was the big item on my list that day but we were just not seeing anything that looked worthy of being in THE house. My contract had just been ratified and I

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-65018824129770545482010-01-06T19:46:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.136-04:00

I know how to relight the pilot light of a water heater, I've known how for years. Which is good...I've had to do it four times in the last week. We've had ridiculous winds around here - at least ridiculous for our area. We're talking winds that blew the roof off the stable of our creche at the parish...winds that blew away a bag containing my nephew's dirty diaper (it was next to my stoop as

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-26800205619149781632010-01-02T14:20:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.163-04:00

Wow. Yesterday's post was way longer than I'd planned. I guess when there's a decade's worth of thoughts swirling around to process, it's going to be lengthier than your average post. Also, I'm verbose. So while I'm not surprised, I am going to try to keep things short and sweet today. We'll see how that goes. Verbose, remember?This morning I got up and went to confession, just feeling the

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-18888551685328509542010-01-01T14:47:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.172-04:00

When most people remember New Year's Eve, 1999, they recall the Y2K frenzy. The excitement, the nervousness, the curiosity about what would happen once we entered in to the year 2000. As for me? I was just glad that 1999 was over. I remember begging please please please God just let this year end and PLEASE make this next year better than the year I had just endured.Now, the decade as a whole

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-82473663536838081392009-12-30T23:33:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.181-04:00

Right now, the sweetest little five year old I know is curled up next to me sound asleep, her head resting on one of my fancier pillows (which she and I refer to as princess pillows...it makes life fancier!). Clearly, I speak of my sweet niece, Alexia. She's my little princess and right now is certainly a sleeping beauty! This was not a planned sleepover - they rarely are. Usually it is a

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-56569751141747508162009-12-28T13:08:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.190-04:00

Technology astounds (and frightens) me. It seems like there is a gadget (or an app) for everything. What I would really like to find, what would make me so very happy, is a way to post the blogs I write in my mind right on to the page here. You know, bypass the whole typing them out thing? That would be a seriously amazing ability. Because, people, I am here to tell you...the blogs I write

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-46718537224000239542009-11-08T10:46:00.000-05:002010-07-05T16:29:31.210-04:00

Yeah, me again. Yup, starting off a post with a danged blog-slacker I am. I know. It gets old. And, as always, I'm going to try to be better about it. I really enjoy blogging and I don't know why I haven't been doing it more often. Or, even at all, really! Using the busy excuse is some lametastic, and I'm really not so busy I can't log in for at least a minute or two to write a bit. I

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-5469482012373949252009-10-06T14:22:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.223-04:00

It is with great joy that I tell you all that my friend Chantel had her little boy today!! Just saw the news on Facebook and am so grateful that the little one has arrived! Congrats, Chan and Craig, on Curtis and Claudia's baby brother (don't know the name yet). Rejoice!!

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-10036749554261998432009-10-06T00:41:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.231-04:00

Today I stayed home, but boy did I travel down memory lane!! I wasn't feeling terribly well today so I decided to lay low on the day off. October does not become any less busy as it rolls on, so I'm taking these days where I can get them! After sleeping in and then a lazy afternoon of watching my Sunday night shows online, I decided to tackle that pesky "catch-all" third bedroom which I call

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-28508108166967412992009-10-04T00:31:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.241-04:00

That this year's gonna be a good year. That this year's gonna be a good, good year...I'm speaking of the year in the ministry (but am hoping that it'll be great in other areas as well, of course!). I can't put my finger on why, but it feels different and I think it is going to be a great one. And I'm excited, and humbled to be a part of it all.

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-11577640309657683052009-10-02T23:26:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.251-04:00

Still deciding on the highlights. The decision can wait because I just paid my car taxes and...ouch.Another decision I am trying to make: whether or not to go on a women's conference next weekend. There are two women's conferences/events I am interested in. This first one looks perfect to me but it is $75 to register and then on top of that, a hotel room to stay overnight. The second is in

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-16875437921572807822009-09-30T23:54:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.260-04:00

- Should I highlight my hair? I've only done it once in my life, but I keep thinking it'd be kind of fun to do. I really try to limit the things that I introduce into my life that could become regular expenses, and this would fall under that. I like my hair, but could use a change.- Why is putting away laundry such a chore? I don't mind the folding, but I hate putting it away. - Is the mild

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-56719684130143482912009-09-30T00:03:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.268-04:00

Getting to sleep on time, and shutting things down an hour before that, hasn't happened with great regularity in the past week. I'm working in it, and am maybe at 50% but it's going to take some more time to get rockin. I have, however, been decent at getting posts written once a day. I know you're shocked at their pithy nature...maybe Twitter is helping make me a little less verbose?

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-37606253647216656892009-09-28T22:51:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.277-04:00

My father, for as long as I can remember, will remark that "this is as good as it gets." This phrase is used most often when we are all together but is also spoken on a gorgeous summer night or when a grandchild is nestled up against him quite content (or better yet, sleeping!). It seems that as the years go by, the number of "as good as it gets" moments increase exponentially.A few years ago

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-47161916867726753652009-09-28T00:39:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.286-04:00

Tonight I brought my nephew to church with me. It is a church that I love but is probably not best suited for bringing little ones to. No cry room, and a very, very tiny narthex/lobby area. It went decently but was an evening Mass (he was getting tired and restless), and I hadn't brought anything to keep him occupied. To give you an idea of how it went, later in the evening, he kept saying, in

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-2920315791552821002009-09-26T23:45:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.294-04:00

Something about late 80s, early 90s pop and rap that just never leaves you. Ever. I'm exhausted so I'm not going to expound upon that, but I really think it speaks for itself.

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-88888452981005912872009-09-26T00:36:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.302-04:00

Having friends that I can be laugh with, be honest with, and just basically enjoy life with....what a huge blessing. I feel more and more grateful all the time.

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-55620147056406283392009-09-25T00:28:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.310-04:00

Again tonight not so much rocking the early bedtime. I guess it is a process, eh? I'm headed to bed as soon as I finish this, which means I'll be asleep by 1am which is actually progress for me.I'll make it quick. Today was a good day. It began with making Mickey Mouse pancakes for my niece and nephew and ended with the opportunity to cheer on some of my teens at their games, and hang out

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-77405077994425091202009-09-23T21:58:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.319-04:00

So, my first night of trying to hit the sack early was woefully, woefully unsuccessful. I was a few minutes late in winding down the computer, and before I did was trying to pay for some coupons on ebay. I was using paypal. I'd just used it the day before so I knew my login was correct. When I realized something was wrong, I checked my email and found that someone had logged in, changed my

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-50194161210987040892009-09-22T22:43:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.329-04:00

Tonight I'll just ask you to join me in praying for two intentions that are weighing heavily on my heart right now.First, please pray for my friend Chantel. Three years and three months ago, her beautiful son Curtis Roger was born still at 40 weeks, due to a cord accident. The loss of his life was devastating. She works to educate others and raise money for research, and to make sure her boy is

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-67763549970782715612009-09-22T00:11:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.339-04:00

Oy. Again with the shamefully lacking attempts at regular blogging. I can't use the busy excuse because every blogger I enjoy is ridiculously busy. So, I'll throw myself under the bus and say that it is because I lack the discipline. And, part of the whole Jesus year thing is that I want to get a lot better about discipline in a million different areas of my life. I know I am better, and

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-79300310476105808052009-09-10T23:50:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.347-04:00

A few times recently people have remarked that they like my style. Now, I am not pointing this out to brag...I'm mentioning it because it honestly surprised me! I know that there are days (many!) that I feel I'd legitimately qualify as a candidate for "What Not to Wear." So it surprises me to hear people comment on the way I dress in such a positive way. It also surprises me because right now

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-35800542855671897362009-09-10T00:27:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.355-04:00

When I was in Richmond for training, I blogged about the crazy weather during our time of Eucharstic Adoration. Just writing a few words about that incredible time of prayer didn't seem like enough, so I'd like to revisit it as I write tonight. Our drive down was sluggish and stormy. And when I say stormy, I mean I almost pulled muh darn self over the rain was coming down so stinkin' hard.

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-27252049674669983162009-09-07T23:43:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.362-04:00

My blogging, as of late, has been what the teens I work with would say (and would plead me to saying), an "epic fail." However, if you count the blogging I've done in my head then I am an ace blogger, but since you can't read that I don't think it counts.I never want to use "I've been busy" as an excuse for not blogging because in general my life is fairly busy. I want to blog consistently

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-45594615510112014342009-08-28T23:49:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.369-04:00

Tonight and tomorrow I am at a workshop/training for youth ministers. The bulk of the event is tomorrow but those who did not get here this evening really missed something special. We had the opportunity for an absolutely gorgeous holy hour with Eucharistic Adoration, fantastic music, and a great message from the keynote speaker. As soon as adoration began, the rain that had subsided suddenly

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-40882049683591267922009-08-27T12:00:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.377-04:00

I do love a deal. I also love magazines but recognize that if I make an impulse buy of them the cost adds up pretty quickly. So, finding a one year subscription to Southern Living for $5 is quite up my alley. I also like to share, so I'll point you towards this ridiculously good deal:$5 for one year of Southern LivingI already get Woman's Day for free from some random offer I found a few

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-37758160491104612702009-08-26T21:03:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.386-04:00

It could be said that I enjoy some of the finer things in life...and I would agree that this is true.I do love me some high thread count sheets, Coach bags, and cute shoes. I quite enjoy Ann Taylor clothes. I've been known to salivate over (and subsequently buy) some shiny electronics. Of course, I must note that these things are only ever purchased if there is a mega deal involved. The term

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-87105639925605702552009-08-25T23:14:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.397-04:00

After writing yesterday's post on waiting, this song has been in my head and on my heart. When I first heard it a few months ago, it hit me right where good songs do. In the tear ducts. I shared it with a few friends who are in some serious waiting times right now. Waiting on jobs, on love, on babies...this song is an appropriate soundtrack for each of our lives in different ways. Who knows

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-14382946959982822062009-08-24T23:39:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.405-04:00

You may remember my experience at the middle eastern market last week. Well, there's a part two to this story. Last night, just my dad and sister were putting the finishing touches on the hummus for dinner they realized we were out of pita. So, I grabbed my keys and my niece and off we went to the store. I wasn't even sure they'd be open at close to 8 on a Sunday but Dad was pretty sure with

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-26223333001325870482009-08-24T22:48:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.414-04:00

It is no secret that I feel called to marriage. I truly, deeply, in my heart and soul do believe that is where God is calling me. I believed it ten years ago, I believe it still today. I considered very seriously whether or not God was calling me to the religious life, because I think that is important and a beautiful, beautiful calling. While that time of discernment brought me a deeper love

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-34564419987325622632009-08-24T01:11:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.423-04:00

I had every intention of posting yesterday evening but, well, I didn't! I do want to post every day but at the same time, don't want to just write something for the sake of throwing something up there.But, today I do have something to say. Two short stories/thoughts from my weekend:My younger nephew is in a phase where he is super attached to his mom and makes sure we all know it! Particularly

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-12872451315337445382009-08-21T23:40:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.432-04:00

I'm going to have to sit down and blog somethin' awesome tomorrow. I just haven't had it in me this week, mostly because I've been working hard during the day and spending great time with great folks in the evenings. So, see you then...

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-50979040249854656282009-08-20T23:29:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.441-04:00

Oops. The concert I referred to earlier this week...I messed up the date! I thought that it was tonight (but had not yet bought my tickets) and before I realized I was wrong, I'd already snagged some tickets to the Nationals game. There was a $1 a ticket promotion, which is definitely within my budget! I'll be heading out with my sisters, brother-in-law, one of my friends, and my two nephews.

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-73882900669013811262009-08-19T23:55:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.450-04:00

Checking in, right under the buzzer! Thought I'd report that I've found a new talent. Margarita making. The blackberries picked on Monday became a delish delight today in the form of Blackberry Margaritas. I had the chance to fire up the blender I received as a housewarming gift and use up most of the berries I picked. The result was quite tasty. I'm not one to brag, but I'm thinkin it tasted

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-84579462225455615502009-08-18T23:41:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.460-04:00

I was thinking about movies today. While I was driving, the song "Lean on Me" came on. It made me think about how much I love the movie, which I've actually blogged about before. Then I started thinking about how it is a movie that, without a doubt, I will watch if I come across it on television. No matter how many times I've seen it. The same is true for the following movies: Selena, Where

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-79069551098351526632009-08-17T23:09:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.472-04:00

As I mentioned before, a few friends of mine are on a really incredible journey across the country right now. Before they left, I conjured up a few mixes because they are as necessary to road trips as a map and a cup of coffee. And, since I knew they had their directional needs and their coffee brewin' taken care of I decided that mixes were my offering to their adventure.Tonight, after

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-2046125474071139032009-08-16T23:30:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.482-04:00

As I sit here on Sunday evening and think about the week that just finished and look ahead to the week that is about to begin, I am grateful.I don't want to make it sound like I'm Suzy Sunshine all the time, because I do struggle every day with things that frustrate, annoy, upset, and sadden me. Every day. But I make a choice. I choose to find the grace in those moments and embrace whatever

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-56620052884723649192009-08-15T22:14:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.491-04:00

Moving in to this house, my home, is one of the best things I have ever done for myself. As previously mentioned, my other/former blog chronicles that process and I can tell you it was a difficult one. There were days where I felt like I would never find the right house. I was impatient and frustrated. In the end, as you know, I found the house. The house that would become my home.Putting my

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-24083326108171254242009-08-14T14:11:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.500-04:00

The wireless here in the house was down the past two days so my blogging streak was inadvertently broken. However, I'll write something of substance before bed tonight since we're back in business after several phone calls to the internet company. Ah the pace of North Carolina...a far cry from home!

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-19557542098030636842009-08-11T21:04:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.507-04:00

Made it to my North Carolina mini-vacay safe and sound. Left early this morning with my sister and her kids and we made great time with no traffic to hinder us. Hoping to freshen up the tan a little bit but mostly am glad to spend the time with my sisters, their kids, and my mom.On the way down I had a serious "I Love Being An Aunt" moment. My niece and nephew were getting restless so I had

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-52319095964611793352009-08-10T23:40:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.515-04:00

Today, I felt grateful start to finish. I went to Mass where I heard what we always hear about St. Lawrence on his feast day, which I love. There are just some things you need to hear over and over, and the St. Lawrence goodness definitely falls into that category. After Mass I began the Great Office Move of 09. I had packed up on Friday for the most part, and my crackerjack team of six teens

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-17274038861538081952009-08-09T19:59:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.523-04:00

Today I was in the midst of errands and had an epiphany: I enjoy being around...myself! This is a huge statement coming from someone who, in highschool and early on in college, always had to be around other people or at the very least on the phone with them. Don't get me wrong...I'm a major people person and love to be with the people I am blessed to have as friends and family. But when I have

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-45582214728701667902009-08-08T23:23:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.532-04:00

I can't get this news story out of my head. The band MercyMe was traveling in their tour bus when they were struck by a car as they went through an intersection. When it broke this morning I read that the two passengers in the car had passed away but the driver, pregnant, was in stable condition. Later in the day it was made known that driver, 18, was in critical condition and had lost her

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-37430871237584905162009-08-07T23:22:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.541-04:00

This was a great first week. The only "official" thing I did this week was the self imposed earlier bedtime and it was quite successful. My days were more productive and I just felt better. Good stuff. I head to the beach next week so my sleeping patterns will be dictated a little more by the human alarm clocks that call me Aunt Christine than anything else. I have a feeling I'll be pretty

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-91268047818552596252009-08-06T15:30:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.549-04:00

I have been successful at being in bed by midnight each night this week. As I mentioned on Tuesday, though I have not been at all successful at falling asleep quickly. Which is surprising. Sleep and I, we're good friends. Last night it took me well over an hour to fall asleep. It was as if thoughts piled up in my head all day, just to dance around like they represent the lollipop guild, as

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-54300548194406662792009-08-05T21:36:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.558-04:00

I stand up for myself. I don't know where or when I decided I had to or wanted to, but I learned how to stand up for myself somethin' good.If I'm at a restaurant and there is a foreign object in my food (a strand of hair, a piece of plastic, etc.) or it is ice cold, I will kindly call over the server and let them know. I am most certainly not the person that would just push their plate aside

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-58421818326592364632009-08-04T22:51:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.567-04:00

I made it! It was a battle to power down at 11:00pm last night, but I made it happen. I curled up in the comfy chair in my room and nestled into an hour of journaling and prayer time. I was in bed by midnight. It probably took half an hour for my mind to stop racing; for whatever reason I had home improvement projects on the brain. I fought the urge to yank out the computer and turn it back

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-61991934438246501582009-08-03T13:55:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.576-04:00

As the proud aunt of four beauties, and friends with many mamas of sweet wee ones, I have learned many things. Diapers, breastfeeding, and Little Einsteins, oh my! One thing I have heard about (and seen the need for, first hand) is getting the baby on a decent schedule. For most mothers I know, settling the bébé into a regular routine is key to acquiring a smidge of sanity. Now, the structure

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-26118866592047261232009-08-02T13:27:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.585-04:00

You don't always get what you want.... but sometimes you do.As most folks reading already know, and as you can see if you take a peek at my previous blog, this time last year I was looking for a house. I started looking in early June and had little success. The end of June brought a week of WorkCamp, a few days home, a few days at the beach, and then three weeks in Australia...so I put off the

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-67121084293975100032009-08-01T01:21:00.002-04:002009-08-01T01:23:34.507-04:00

If you happen to still be reading, you get the joy(?) of being the first to know about my new blog. It'll be new, and different, and all sorts of frequently updated. Or, that's the hope.Humor me.Check it out.My Jesus Year: Making Thirty-Three Count. Will I ever write here again? Maybe. But, not for at least a year, most likely. So get thee over to muh other blog!

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-25520578361211698752009-08-01T00:06:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.594-04:00

Questions. I'm sure you have them, so I'll go ahead and answer them before you ask them. Because I'm just that nice. Can you explain why you used "muh" instead of "my" in the address of your blog?Basically, I knew two things as far as this blog is concerned: I wanted the name to be "My Jesus Year" and I wanted to use Blogger because I know how to use it, and I like it. Unfortunately, someone

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-11455543790776500752009-07-31T23:30:00.000-04:002010-07-05T16:29:31.604-04:00

And so it begins. My thirty-third year. My "Jesus year." My new blog.Some, particularly those who know how infrequently my present blog is updated, may ask: "Why start a new blog?" It is a good question and the answer is simple: "Because I want to." Ever since I've had friends that were turning thirty-three, I've looked at this year as important. Jesus was thirty-three when he was crucified

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-82333506278197641092009-05-20T23:58:00.008-04:002009-05-21T00:51:49.814-04:00

This evening as I came home from work I realized we'd had a few days straight with no rain.  I can't tell you how long it has been since that was the case but I do know this: I planted flowers in front of the house on April 5 and they should be watered at least every other day, more or less, and I've only had to water them four or five times.  So yes, April showers (and then some MASSIVE May ones

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-28478460615240946402009-04-25T14:24:00.003-04:002009-04-25T14:43:04.165-04:00

So, I've always loved dogwood trees.  When I was growing up, there was one in front of my grandparents' house.   The tree was cut down many years ago (I'm guessing it either got unruly, or died...I'm not sure what the story is) but I know there is a picture somewhere of me in my brand new Catholic school uniform standing in front of it.  I loved it.  My parents have both a pink and a white

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-43765265488557578042009-04-08T14:44:00.003-04:002009-04-08T17:49:42.061-04:00

The great thing about couponing is that there is no need to re-invent the wheel. There are people that are doing all the hard work out there, you just need to know where to look. Lucky for me, one of my best friends (Frugal Mom) and her wonderful sister (8isgreat) are blogging and I get to benefit from their coupon smarts! I am a major beginner compared to them so am enjoying learning, and

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-10171805194061561182009-03-24T23:54:00.002-04:002009-03-24T23:55:40.161-04:00

My beloved toasted pine nut cous cous is on sale at Giant for $1.49. This is UNPRECIDENTED, people! Never have I seen it this low. Stocking up like mad at this price!

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-23910162054872495982009-03-24T22:31:00.003-04:002009-03-24T23:21:23.670-04:00

What I'm loving right now:The fact that Laundry Mountain is eroding. I've not had much time home in the past few weeks and a sad byproduct of that was a growing pile of laundry that I gave no attention to. Right now I am listening to the sweet sound of a washer and dryer...washing and drying!My plants. I'm amassing a small collection and so far I'm loving it. I think I may have squealed

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-40132513109724769412009-03-15T15:18:00.003-04:002009-03-15T15:32:38.201-04:00

Delving into coupon world and the land of CVS-ing, I'm learning, is going to take some organization and a little extra time. I've spent more money than budgeted for groceries, to get certain things stocked up. My house is still in the getting set up stages, and I'm continually finding I don't have certain things.I plan on keeping a running tally of my CVS-ing here. I am by no means as good as

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-37580850080748811252009-03-12T10:29:00.006-04:002009-03-12T10:46:54.789-04:00

Thoughts I'm thinkingCancer sucks. Got word this week of another young family starting a battle with this nasty disease. Please pray for this wife/mother of 8 and her family (very close knit extended family as well) as they begin this fight.I'm glad I got my house when I did. I still check the listings (habit). Nothing this good really seems to have come up since I bought. God totally had a

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-75312171772144819352009-03-02T12:56:00.002-05:002009-03-02T13:16:34.517-05:00

As March begins, we finally got the snow people had been hoping for. We hadn't had any to speak of, really, since the day I closed on the house (1/28). The prediction of snow yesterday allowed me a more relaxed afternoon since we called off our evening meeting at work. After Mass and errands, I picked up my four year old niece for a few hours of hangout time at my house. We made muffins which

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-86800681714376914752009-02-28T14:43:00.002-05:002009-02-28T14:45:16.526-05:00

Here's another tip for the frugal among you, just because it is too good not to share. I know some people would opt not to eat out at all, whereas I am limiting how often I go out and trying to be thrifty when I do. So, here's a great tip for folks like me: if there is a store or restaurant you like, sign up for whatever club they've got going on. Usually there's something you can sign up for on

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-25164909499947281782009-02-28T13:41:00.003-05:002009-02-28T14:42:47.744-05:00

My blogs as of late have all become so house-y and money-y. It is just a reflection of what is going on in my life right now. Something I know my friends whose blogs consist of mostly stuff related to their kids definitely understand. Part of this is a function of it being what is consuming me right now, another part is that it is easier to write about. I still want to post about the "week of

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-35602113072229351052009-02-24T12:45:00.003-05:002009-02-24T13:59:52.341-05:00

Writing out my first batch of checks had me re-committing to a little bit more of a frugal lifestyle. Some of this involves just going through what I'm already doing and trimming some of the fat. The great thing is that right now, everyone is trying to budget so there are other folks out there sharing tips and ideas. A few things I've done so far:Get rid of this random aol subscription I kept

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-69235590003388387562009-02-13T23:01:00.002-05:002009-02-17T01:11:00.948-05:00

The move is nearly complete! Within two weeks of closing, I've got the house almost completely set up. It will take a little more time before I feel ready to commit to where to hang things on that wall, and what I should hang...but I'm fairly settled. Between the POD and the rental van this weekend, the heavy lifting is all done and my house is coming together wonderfully. Here's some firsts

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-53666082266006695322009-01-29T00:22:00.003-05:002009-01-29T01:45:01.762-05:00

Yes, I still have to write about life-a-palooza but as per usual, I'm trying to formulate the words to explain how powerful my week was and keep getting distracted by shiny objects. Like, oh, I dunno...my new house? That's right. My house. Or, more appropriately, Wells Fargo's new house that I am paying them for. I laugh a little when people refer to me as a homeowner. In reality, I'm

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-59532446914540172922009-01-24T16:01:00.002-05:002009-01-24T16:05:28.604-05:00

Post on my week coming soon. I rallied (x2) and marched for life and boy am I tired. I have so much to write but needed to sleep before I could even begin to process. I plan to nestle in tomorrow to write a little bit before my head is filled with "house" stuff as I close on Wednesday!

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-76506399065307855512009-01-16T00:19:00.005-05:002009-01-16T00:50:22.766-05:00

When I was younger and dreamed about owning my first house, about creating a home, I never envisioned I'd be doing it alone. I imagined I'd be engaged, walking into the house after house, holding hands with my fiance, getting excited over the room that would become the nursery and bickering about closet space. My dreams never, ever had me doing this alone. I never, ever wanted to do this

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-89540539157404934142009-01-05T19:35:00.009-05:002009-01-06T02:05:18.977-05:00

I'm gonna do a little series. And by series, I mean a two part entry. Because I go on and on, and you don't have the stamina to read it all at once.The series will address:1) How I hate when people make assumptions based on what I have or do.2) How I hate when people make comments that sound like they think me buying a house means I've given up on getting married.Let's start with the whole

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-60990027684797592292009-01-04T15:48:00.006-05:002009-01-04T23:00:16.230-05:00

I don't think it hit me how badly I wanted to find a house until the holidays came around. When I packed away my stuff this summer, the Christmas items ended up in the pod because I completely expected to be in my new home by the time I needed them. The two nativity sets that I love, the Holy Family set that I purchased at a post-holiday sale last year, assorted boxes of Christmas cards that

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-13358422346923545852009-01-02T22:05:00.002-05:002009-01-03T01:53:06.246-05:00

I tell you my good great news and then disappear. Nice. It was such an unexpected whirlwind to find the house and have the contract accepted in less than a week. Then, immediately after that it was full force into the holidays! Suddenly we're in the midst of a new year.My dreams for my weeks off were big. Reading the new book I picked up after hearing for the fourth (maybe fifth) time how

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-79606689956821693802008-12-20T13:52:00.003-05:002008-12-20T21:44:46.163-05:00

RATIFIED. CONTRACT.I noticed it was showing as under contract on the listings, so I wrote my realtor to say that at least my worry of someone swooping in were lessened. I figured it might just say under contract even when it wasn't ratified yet. I have no clue with these things!Turns out, my realtor emailed me last night to let me know it was ratified...but the email never made it.So, we're

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-40703813458590112492008-12-19T19:38:00.002-05:002008-12-19T20:35:42.360-05:00

I'd been planning on going on a short trip (about 2 hours away) today to go see my godson in his nativity play. He had a starring role as one of the wisemen. As the day grew closer I just didn't feel good about leaving town until I knew we were set on the house. Glad I listened to my intuition...got a call around 10:00 that required immediate action. I had gotten a cashier's check for my

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-39117749896224181592008-12-18T22:46:00.002-05:002008-12-18T23:06:06.230-05:00

The bank was supposed to send over an addendum (standard stuff in these types of sales) yesterday but they didn't do that until today. We promptly signed and faxed it back and the listing agent was sending on to the bank for signatures. So the hope is that we'll be set tomorrow. I can't tell you how much I am looking forward to the property showing up as "under contract" when I pull up the

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-86101790516314966942008-12-17T22:33:00.005-05:002008-12-18T00:06:00.264-05:00

Progress! This morning I got a call from my realtor letting me know that the bank had countered my offer. It was a good counter that I was strongly advised to take, so I did! I went in this afternoon and signed off on the new offer and dropped off a check (and so it begins...ouch!). Right now we are just waiting for the bank to sign off and then we'll have a ratified contract. I think I'll

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-61063520514972636172008-12-16T14:23:00.002-05:002008-12-16T15:26:16.181-05:00

The house hunt continues. I had put a contract in on a house a few weeks ago but the seller's bank was being difficult about accepting my financing (I am going with an FHA) so it was time to continue the search! I am looking in one particular development so have become very familiar with the floor plan and am mostly interested in the state of the house and what improvements we'd have to make.

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-40501417527326903072008-12-13T00:40:00.000-05:002008-12-13T02:42:02.641-05:00

I was doing so well writing and then I left y'all high and dry for almost a month. However, in exchange for a piece of plastic silverware (seriously...it looks like silver but is plastic...genius!) at a dinner this week (so that I could eat dessert since I'd thrown mine out with the dinner plate), I did promise to update the blog. So here I am. I figure I'll get a little bit of writing done

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-32640050745224916112008-11-15T23:45:00.000-05:002008-11-15T01:15:06.824-05:00

A few slices of the random that was my week:- I never thought it was humanly possible to ingest 3 Chiptole burritos in under 1.5 hours. Getting through even one can pose a challenge. Who, you may ask, proved to me that this is possible? A teenage boy, of course! We had loads of free burritos at last Sunday's meeting (thank you Chipotle!) and had a few extra, so kids could grab seconds if they

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-35387678396598667822008-11-12T10:41:00.002-05:002008-11-12T11:13:23.104-05:00

When I was a kid, the biggest deal in portable electronics was the walkman. When I got a little older, it was the discman. It probably would have made my head spin to think about the electronics explosion that would end up happening in our society. I'm not going to lie, I do love me some gadgets. However, there is one phenomenon that I can't understand and that breaks my heart a little. I

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-40749542397991258252008-11-07T14:50:00.002-05:002008-11-07T16:33:37.752-05:00

Things I know:- Listening to the Wicked soundtrack is a cure-all. It makes me a happy Naj and is an instant mood-lifter. I've been known to let it loop endlessly, particularly at work. Which always made Eric oh-so-happy. - Real estate is difficult. I know the area I want to live in and am having a hard time finding the right place. I had high hopes for the place we checked out today but

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-75574289442918700582008-11-06T13:51:00.002-05:002008-11-06T14:34:58.578-05:00

I could write about the election more but I really just don't feel like it. However, I am so intrigued by the conversations it has brought up. I've had more conversations about politics in the past year than the rest of my life put together, and more in the past week than the rest of the year put together! For better or for worse, this is a fascinating time in our country and I am watching

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-47348092055370537732008-11-04T23:27:00.004-05:002008-11-05T08:54:09.063-05:00

Right now, Facebook is on fire with people updating their statuses to reflect either their incredible joy or horrible sadness at the outcome of the election. I'm holding back on writing anything because I simply don't know how to say anything about this election that can fit in just a few lines. I also don't have the mental energy to get flamed for raining on the Obama lovefest that is going on

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-82173017596494551642008-11-03T21:57:00.004-05:002008-11-04T00:44:46.104-05:00

Conventions are one of the best places to pick up youth ministry resources. There are usually great discounts and you have tons of time to look around and see what you really need. Sometimes you even are able to attend seminars with the authors. Most of the books or resources I purchase in any given year are picked up at a convention or conference.I've picked up some of my favorite tools of

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-77417664173620580342008-11-02T16:37:00.004-05:002008-11-03T10:57:16.810-05:00

The past 24 hours of the conference have been both wonderful and difficult. As you can probable tell from looking at my last entry, I have pretty difficult time not looking at the conference through my Catholic lens. Which makes sense since, you know, I'm Catholic and all. I think YS has done so much to be inclusive of all denominations and I wholeheartedly appreciate it. And generally, as

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-54061600218539607982008-11-01T16:15:00.002-04:002008-11-01T16:41:59.729-04:00

Greetings from Pittsburgh. I'm at the National Youth Workers Convention for the next few days. This year things worked out so that I can attend both this (a convention run by a protestant publishing company) and a Catholic conference in a few weeks. I'd attended each conference twice in my time as a youth minister but this is the first time I'll have gone to both in one year. I'm a self

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-9494510965209743222008-10-28T12:53:00.002-04:002008-10-28T13:12:35.686-04:00

This time of year I find myself caught between two loves: flip flops and fall. The "fireworks of fall," as EFO so poetically refers to the gorgeousness of the season here in Virginia, bring me such joy. However, if the leaves are changing that means the temperatures are diving. Which, in turn means that it is time to tuck away shorts, swimsuits, short-sleeved shirts, and the beloved footwear:

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-75567495565682311452008-10-14T14:40:00.002-04:002008-10-14T14:45:31.373-04:00

I've got my car back. And it looks wonderful. The body shop did a great job on it.It is worth noting that for the past two years I lived in a house that had trees all around it that seemed to peg the house and surrounding vehicles with acorns. The fall months were humorous as you'd sit in the living room and hear about a dozen slam onto the roof of the house, or on the back deck you'd

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-80557996019090296102008-10-12T17:36:00.002-04:002008-10-12T17:52:44.480-04:00

While it is still difficult for me to not get upset about the retreat being canceled, I know I was exactly where I was supposed to be yesterday. I can't imagine having missed Laura's wedding and it was such a blessing to be there and witness such a beautiful celebration, such an intense joy. The reception took place about a mile from the campus where I first met her and several other wonderful

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-50123231228787029042008-10-11T01:13:00.002-04:002008-10-11T01:25:06.754-04:00

I get my car back on Monday which brings great joy in the form of no longer driving a rental car. I'm tired of remembering small things I left in my car in haste as I tried to gather what I needed before it was towed. Besides that, the rental car ac smells like pee when I turn it on, it squeals when I turn corners, and it attacks me (see my unfortunate events post). My Civic might not be a

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-40194299538592580792008-10-08T17:10:00.003-04:002008-10-08T21:50:17.418-04:00

I guess it is not best practice to blog about how many unfortunate predicaments you have found yourself in, and then not blog for several days. Rest assured, my series of unfortunate events seemed to end, for the meantime at least! I do somewhat feel as though I should have a plaque handing on my wall saying " ____ days since last unfortunate event."One fairly unfortunate occurrence, however, is

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-78801468405452036022008-09-30T00:31:00.003-04:002008-09-30T01:13:49.119-04:00

Sometimes life gives you enough craziness that you find yourself saying, "if I don't laugh I'm going to cry" on a daily basis. The past ten days have been this for me.Saturday, September 20 - Car accident. Enough said.Thursday, September 26 - Stomach bug. Wasn't feeling well during the day, got hit full force with a bug that night. Got sick, had the chills, was miserable. Kind of thought it

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-45980145539456244562008-09-27T23:35:00.004-04:002008-09-27T23:44:38.941-04:00

A few weeks ago, I found out the house I had an offer on was not going to happen. This week started the week with a car accident, ended it with a stomach bug. And yet I've still got a smile on my face. A friend made the comment last week that he was surprised I was not in a tizzy about it all (the accident), and that God must be doing some work in my life. I do believe he's right. Last year

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-87807787744833144872008-09-24T16:55:00.003-04:002008-09-24T17:23:49.655-04:00

1. I was in an accident this weekend.2. I'm okay.3. Perspective is everything.I'm alright, my car is on the way to being okay again, and it could have been (MUCH) worse. I have been in accidents before but never with this much damage and never when I was the one doing the hitting. I still maintain that it wasn't completely my fault because the car (taxi, no passengers) in front of me stopped so

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-66468018809832183822008-09-14T16:20:00.002-04:002008-09-14T16:33:00.400-04:00

I'd forgotten how much I love the movie Lean On Me until I caught the end of it on tv last night. I fell in love with it in high school and am pretty sure I owned it at one point (and now have decided, I shall own it again!). However, it'd been years since I'd last seen it. I know that I definitely have not seen it since I became involved in youth ministry. Guess how I know that? Because

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6154991900542376145.post-91021038442025367992008-09-03T01:11:00.003-04:002008-09-03T01:37:34.854-04:00

Labor Day was spent well. Friends, family, a picnic, a bbq, and the pool. All great things. It felt good to soak up the sun, hold babies, chase toddlers, celebrate, cook, eat, drink, and generally be merry. One of those days where at the end you smile and recognize that you are ridiculously blessed. I'm ready for a great year. We've had some awesome events sponsored by the diocesan youth

Christine Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055368829678571235noreply@blogger.com0