The Propes Family

September Recap

2009-09-24T23:41:00.006-05:00

Summer's gone and Fall has arrived! Instead of outlining this past month, I thought I would breifly describe our month through pictures (thanks to Abby for the idea).

Loving college football and the GEORGIA BULLDOGS, we were able to go here.....

With.....

On the 16th, we celebrated the birth of.....

With a trip to.....
And after a 2 hr rain delay and the game, we celebrated a win here.....

Also during September, I began working.....

It's part-time and I'm really enjoying it!

Looking forward to a wonderful (and busy) October!

End of Summer Wrap-up

2009-08-31T22:53:00.007-05:00

Unfortunately, Summer is coming to an end! I've really enjoyed this summer, even though it's been a mild one (weather-wise). We've been busy with regional events, traveling, youth camp, seeing friends and family and girls jamboree. Also, our church began meeting on Sundays at a nearby hotel banquet room. Many exciting things are going on around here!

{where our church meets} {Shopping and Lunch in St. Charles}

In August, Matthew and I were able to get away for a few days to see some friends in St. Louis, MO. During the first part of the trip we stayed with Brittany and Jeff and were able to hang out, go to Brittany's baby shower for Macy, go to Twin Rivers and spend some time with their family. We had such a wonderful time!
During that same trip, Autumn and J.R. had to come to town for business, so we met up with them downtown STL and stayed at the Hyatt. It was incredible - we stayed right across from the Arch. We enjoyed some fine cuisine...Charlie Gitto's on The Hill, Ruth's Chris, and Chick-Fil-A!! Autumn and I had a lot of fun catching up and shopping. It was a trip to remember!

{Dinner at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse}

Since we've lived in Omaha, Matthew and I have had the opportunity to travel quite a bit and through those trips we are able to make the most of our time and even extend our trips by a few days to see friends along the way. Our perspective on "a long trip" has changed! Now, a 6 hour trip in the car is a breeze! I'm so thankful for our friends!

{Me and Autumn}

Just a week ago (last weekend), we had a regional girls jamboree - "The Princess in You" was the theme and the girls had a blast! They dressed up, made shirts, got their hair and nails done at the salon and we also had a few sessions with a guest speaker, Kari. I'm so glad she was able to come and we were able to get to know her - she did a great job!

As August comes to a close, I'm so thankful for the wonderful Summer we've had and I'm looking forward to fabulous fall!

Sweet Summertime!

2009-07-15T22:56:00.005-05:00

Summer is certainly flying by! It seems like we just celebrated Memorial Day and now we're in the middle of JULY!

YUM!

Matthew and I have been fairly busy with summer events for our denomination. At the beginning of June, we had our regional camp meeting (actually two - English and Spanish) and were able to worship and fellowship with ministers, pastors, and members in IA/NE. It was wonderful to see eveyone and those who travelled to Nebraska to be our guests. On June 9, Matthew and I celebrated our second anniversary with a trip to Melting Pot (YUM!) and a movie. We had a wonderful anniversary. We were also able to go to a College World Series game - Game 2 (LSU/UVA). It was truly an experience!

As the month continued, we were preparing for summer camp (July) and for our trip to South Carolina. While there, we spent time with Matthew's family, as well as my family. We had a wonderful time and were able to celebrate Matthew passing his test for Ordained Bishop, the Church of God's highest rank of credentialed ministers. I am so proud of my husband! Our trip was truly refreshing and wonderful. It was great to see friends that we haven't seen in a while, too.

Me and Summer in SC

Once we got home, it was Youth Camp prep time! Our region had youth camp July 6-10 at a 4-H Camp in Iowa. We had a blast and I know the kids' lives were changed. Two of our friends. Scottie (senior camp) and Derrick (junior camp) from South Carolina, came to speak to the two camps we were holding and both did an incredible job connecting with our youth and bring the Word of God to them.

Midands Youth Camp 2009

Now, Matthew and I are recovering from youth camp (haha!) and enjoying the summer. We have a few more events for the summer that we're looking forward to! The weather in Nebraska during this season can vary - storms, tornadoes, hot, humid and even cool. I love the weather right now - it's been in the low to mid 80's with little to no humidity! I don't want SUMMER to end!

Our Second Anniversary

Handle With Care

2009-06-07T22:39:00.003-05:00

About a month ago I noticed that my engagement ring had a rough place on one of its prongs. My ring has a setting with several prongs grouped together, which was part of its appeal to me. I felt that my diamond would always be safe and protected. I was more careful with my ring, and even talked to Matthew about taking it to a jewelry store. I took it to a goldsmith about a week later. He was trying to fix the prong that had been bent. During this process, the entire “head” (prongs and diamond) popped off. He was shocked, I was shocked and Matthew was definitely shocked. After I made a few calls, I found that there was a store in Omaha that was owned by the store where Matthew bought my ring. Thankful for this new information (I had called the store in TN to ask if they had a store near us, they said, “no”) I took the ring to the store – right away! They were very helpful and were quick to action. Although I didn’t want to leave my ring there, I knew that it needed to be fixed and because of this, I could be without it for a few days. Until it was fixed, I continually looked down at my hand and even though I was wearing my wedding band, it just didn’t feel right.

As our second wedding anniversary approaches (June 9), I am reminded of that sacred covenant we made with one another. Through this process with my ring, I have become more aware of the symbolism it holds. I want to protect my marriage so it will be strong and stand the test of time. I am so thankful for the gift that God brought into my life when he allowed my path to cross Matthew’s.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, MATTHEW! I LOVE YOU!

Bloom Where You're Planted

2009-05-29T19:16:00.002-05:00

It seems like everywhere I turn, I see flowers blooming. Wal-Mart, Lowe’s and local nurseries seem to be selling flowers and potting soil and having sales to promote them. It’s spring and along with the season comes new growth. The first time I heard the phrase, “Bloom where you’re planted” was from my stepmother, Susan. This was the theme for her Ladies Brunch on Mother’s Day. Since then, I’ve heard it again – at our regional women’s conference and retreat, which was a couple weekends ago. It stirred me the first time I heard it, but it’s been on my mind again since hearing it again.

More than ever, I want to bloom where I’m planted. I want to thrive and grow because I know there is a place for each of us to do what The Lord has called us to do. Are you blooming where He’s planted you?

Hats off to MOM

2009-05-09T22:53:00.003-05:00

Growing up, my mom was "Mrs. Church Event Organizer Extraordinaire" and I recall one mother/daughter banquet in particular where everyone wore hats and the theme was "Hats Off To Mom". She was always thinking up catchy themes with exciting decorations. Everyone in attendance was to sport a hat. She always told me, "You can decorate any room (cheap) with balloons." I used that tidbit in some of my shower decorating and they do brighten a room.

I guess I'm posting this to honor all the women in my life who have impacted me; whether they realized it or not. I have so many incredible women in my life who continue to teach me about life, marriage, love and happiness. I am thankful for a wonderful mother who left a wonderful legacy for me. She also loved me even when I was being a brat and taught me how to be a lady and preacher's wife without even knowing that I was learning those things. Susan, my stepmother, has become such a wonderful confidant in my life and someone I love dearly. The Lord brought an incredible Mother-in-law (love) into my life and she has treated me as one of her own. My aunts, cousins, grandmothers, and my sister-in-law also set the right example for me, while loving and supporting me. I can't even begin to name the additional women (one by one) who have impacted me, but I strive to never let an opportunity to thank them and tell them what they mean to me pass by.

Happy Mother's Day!

The past few months.....

2009-05-09T22:46:00.003-05:00

So, I’ve been asked to update my blog because it’s been a while since I’ve written anything. This is for you, Em!

I think (fingers crossed) that Spring has sprung in Omaha! We’ve waited for it to arrive and are so glad it’s finally here. It’s exciting to experience seasons for the first time in a new place. I’m even thinking of planting some flowers this weekend. I’ve already asked my dad which plants would be considered low-maintenance and easy to grow in pots or hanging plants (I didn’t inherit his green thumb).

Matthew and I have been doing more of the same since my last post. He’s been preaching and we’ve been traveling. He had been studying for his Ordained Bishop’s test and I can proudly report that he PASSED!

Here’s a brief summary of the past few months:

Winterfest in Knoxville, TN

This was our third Winterfest event of the season. We stayed with my aunt and uncle and see several family members (including dad, Susan, Josh and Shannon, aunts, uncles and grandparents). Autumn and JR were even able to come to Knoxville for a short visit.

Staying with Friends along the way (to TN and home)

We have wonderful friends who let us crash at their house when we're driving through! We stayed in IL with Jenn and Chad on the way to TN. On the way back to NE, we got to be the first houseguests of Brittany and Jeff!

Easter in Nebraska

We had a wonderful day with great friends!

Several Trips with our Student Leadership Group, Driven

Driven is a great group of teens/young adults that we are honored to ministered with at churches in our region.

75th Anniversary of Celebration COG (my Dad’s church)

We were so happy to be able to celebrate with the church family. The church started in a borrowed cabin and is still thriving today. Matthew and I were able to spend a few extra days with Dad and Susan. We had a blast eating Homestead Creamery, going to the lake, grilling out and eating on the porch for all of our meals (thank you, 90 degree weather in APRIL!). Matthew was even put to work – he and Dad helped a family move!

There were probably more events that I'm forgetting!

Currently, we’re gearing up for a number of state/regional events. It’s going to be a busy summer! We are looking forward to our first youth camp in the Midlands Region.

He's Hooked!

2009-03-02T15:38:00.003-06:00

While we were in Branson, Matthew tried sushi for the first time. One of our friends, Shea, is a huge fan of sushi and had Matthew try what he ordered. After we got home from Winterfest, he began to research sushi and places in Omaha that had sushi. We found a place (Hiro)on the west side of the city (where we live) that looked pretty good. We tried it out on Saturday and it was WONDERFUL! I'm not as brave as my husband, but I enjoyed myself. Now he wants it all the time~Thanks, Shea!

On the road again...

2009-02-24T20:32:00.006-06:00

Although January was a pretty quiet month, February seemed to be just the opposite - and there are few more days left in the month! I haven't really blogged much because there wasn't too much going on in January and the past few weeks have been busy and filled with time on the road. Time on the road leads to catching up (laundry, cleaning, office work, etc.) and I haven't been in the mood to blog.

We have been able to see some parts of the U.S. that we hadn't seen before. We took a short trip to Branson, MO in December (it was soooo cold!), but we hadn't ventured to Rapid City, South Dakota until February 12. We made a few stops along the way and enjoyed seeing The Corn Palace and Wall Drug. The reason for our trip to SD was Wild West Winterfest. Unfortunately, Matthew got sick on Thursday night and wasn't able to leave the room until Saturday. Because of this, we weren't able to see Mount Rushmore (only 25 minutes away from Rapid City). Hopefully, we'll be able to make the trip again next year and see more sights in and around the city.

Winterfest was a great event and we really enjoyed being with Daneen and David. We also got to meet a lot of new faces and catch up with some people (Lorinda and Landon) I knew during my time in Cleveland. One of our highlights was eating at Chick-fil-a in Sioux City, IA! We were proud of one of the youth groups from our region. They were asked to present one human video in each service and they represented us well!

This past weekend, we went to Branson, MO for Ozark Winterfest. We had a great weekend and were able to see some of our friends. On the way down, we stopped in Kansas City, MO for another Chick-fil-a stop and it was free standing. According to one of my friends, the free standing stores are the 'real ones', so I guess we had the 'real thing!' Although Branson's busy season isn't this time of year, there was plenty do in our free time. Between the outlets, Branson Landing, and Lambert's, we truly enjoyed ourselves. Also, Matthew tried sushi and I think he's hooked! On Saturday, we went to Lambert's (Home of the Throwed rolls) with Jenn, Chad and Darren. It's truly an experience! I am glad that we had a few groups from the region that were able to attend Ozark Winterfest. They seemed to have a great time!

Both of the Winterfests we were involved in were great events and I hope that what the kids experienced through the event will just be the beginning of what the Lord has in store for their lives.

American Idol

2009-01-21T11:42:00.002-06:00

Although I haven't been following American Idol very much the past two seasons, I found a great reason for me to start following it a little more closely. One of my childhood friends is a contestant on the show and will audition on tonight's audition in Louisville (1/21/09).

Her name is Felicia (Hocker) Barton. I was doing a little research online and she and her husband are so incredibly talented! I can remember the days of youth camp and camp meeting in Virginia when she'd sing or lead praise and worship. God has definetly blessed her with a wonderful gift.

Here's her website, which contains a video of a performance from last year: http://www.feliciabarton.org/. Check it out!!

3180

2009-01-06T22:56:00.006-06:00

Three thousand, one hundred eighty – that’s the mileage of our latest trip! We started prior to Christmas and got home January 4. We left from Omaha (trying our best to beat an ice storm) and drove to MO. Thankfully, we had a wonderful place to stay with family friends! The next day, we drove to Lenior City, TN where my mom’s extended family gets together prior to Christmas. This is the only time when I’m usually able to be with all of the family. We had a wonderful time, but we missed a few family members who couldn't be there.

The next day, we drove to Virginia to be with my dad and stepmom for our “Christmas Celebration.” My brother, Josh and his wife, Shannon were also there. We had a wonderful time! We played games, went to church, crammed in Susan’s car to look at Christmas lights, ate, stayed up late, went to the movies and just had fun together! Shannon and I also worked as Susan’s “elves” – we shopped, wrapped and boxed. We opened gifts on Christmas Eve (AM), ate breakfast at Famous Anthony’s (a family favorite) and then we all left in different directions headed to our next destinations.

We spent the next few days with Matthew’s family in South Carolina. We spent Christmas Eve (PM) opening gifts and eating some incredible home-cooking! The mac-n-cheese truly hit the spot. My in-laws always make the best meals and we just enjoyed being with family and not having much on the agenda. I really enjoyed all the “snacking” (sweets, coffee, etc.) we did while we were there. Matthew was glued to the History Channel (Band of Brothers) and Fox News. We were able to see friends and get our ChickFilA fix since we don’t have it in Omaha. We truly loved living in SC and miss living so close to our family!

After leaving SC, we went to spend a few days in Tennessee with Autumn and JR. They are just like family and always open their home and are wonderful hosts. We had a blast! We were also able to visit more with Josh and Shannon in Cleveland. We ate more ChickFilA and even got some Jenkins! New Year’s Eve/Day was spent with friends and family. Matthew was especially glad the Georgia Bulldogs won.

On the way back to NE, we stopped (again) in MO and then drove the next day to Iowa where Matthew was scheduled to preach. The weather was bad (foggy and ice) and church was cancelled, so we drove home. We were so glad to be home!

I can honestly say that this year takes the award for the Best Holidays! We don’t take time with family for granted and we were so excited to be able to see the majority of our family. As Matthew and I drove (well, actually he drove the entire time – I’m so blessed!!) back to Nebraska, we reminisced on the wonderful Christmas Celebrations we had. We are so blessed to have wonderful families that love and support us.

We are thankful for all of the Lord’s blessings in 2008 and are excited about 2009! Happy New Year!

Highlights of Christmas 2009

Family – TN, VA, SC
Friends – TN, MO, VA, SC
Georgia Bulldogs victory
Neti Pot – somewhere between VA and SC I got sick and it was a life saver!
JR’s Ribs – amazing New Year’s Day meal; they should open a family restaurant
Wonderful Memories!!!!!!

It's been a while....

2008-12-11T12:58:00.008-06:00

...Since my last blog. My blog was locked for more than a week and I still don't understand how that happened! In the past couple weeks, we have been getting ready for the holidays and also, we've been on the road (big surprise!).

Last Thursday we left for Branson, MO. Matthew had a steering committee meeting for Winterfest. While he was in his meeting, Jenn (whose husband was also in the meeting) and I went to the outlets to shop and catch up -FUN! Later on we met the guys for dinner and walked around Branson Landing (more shopping). Then we got in one car and went to see a Christmas light display (2.5 miles on the mountain). We had a great time!

The next morning, Matthew and I drove to the Chicago area. We stayed with a friend in the suburbs over the weekend. This trip was for my birthday. Although my family traveled quite a bit growing up (my mom was a travel agent), one city we never visited was Chicago. Friday night we were invited to a Christmas banquet and the next day they took us to the Radio City Rockettes Show. It was fabulous! We couldn't take pictures during the show, but the costumes and choreography were so elaborate.

Later on Saturday, Matthew and I drove into the city. He and his family lived in Chicago Metro over ten years ago, so he had visited and even remembered how to drive to certain places (I was impressed). We found deep dish pizza at Giordano's and walked around and shopped on Saturday night. Although we walked past the Sears Tower, we didn't go to the Observation deck. On Sunday, we started at Navy Pier and from there we walked to Michigan Avenue (Magnificent Mile). We visited Millennium Park and shopped. I took a lot of pictures because the city was decorated for Christmas and it was snowing some, too. It was beautiful!

We drove home on my birthday and stopped in Des Moines for my birthday lunch at PF Changs. We had such a wonderful weekend and I'm so thankful to have a wonderful husband who is always full of surprises!

YUM!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T10:18:00.002-06:00

This year was our first Thanksgiving away from our family. Matthew and I both saw our families a few weeks ago, so we decided we'd wait until December to take another trip to the East Coast. We went to the home of a couple who attends the church plant. They graciously invited us to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner at their home with their kids (who are around our age). We had a wonderful day. I'm so thankful for our family and can't wait until Christmas - to see them all! I didn't take any pictures, but we had two turkeys and a table full of food. Also, we saw our first Omaha snow this weekend. It snowed Saturday night and some on Sunday - very pretty!

Our Latest Trip

2008-11-18T12:13:00.016-06:00

Over the past week, Matthew and I have been all around. Like I mentioned in my last post, he had a conference in Myrtle Beach and while he was there, I spent a few days in Virginia with my dad and step mom. I had such a great trip! I enjoyed relaxing at their house, celebrating my birthday (a month early) and eating at restaurants that I miss frequenting. I also enjoyed the shopping (more like browsing) I did while I was in Roanoke. With the luggage restrictions (and additional cost) on airlines, we always have to be careful about the items we pick up during our trips. I was able to see several friends during my visit.

I had lunch with Melissa, Logan and Lea. I can’t believe how much those kids have grown up. L and L are so well behaved! Happy belated birthday to Lea - she turned 1 on Sunday.

I also met up with my friend Dawn (her husband was my youth pastor) and her kids (Madison and Harrison) and we had dinner together. Mark was at the same conference Matthew attended. It was so nice to see them – it’s been a while! Dawn and I had fun catching up and I enjoyed hearing what her kids are doing in school – impressive.

After leaving Roanoke, I drove through NC and got to see my cousin Emily. Her house is beautiful! We did some catching up and then went to eat lunch at a wonderful restaurant – one of her favorites. She and her husband just announced that they are going to be parents, so I was able to congratulate her in person. They are going to be wonderful parents!

My road trip ended in South Carolina and it was great to see Matthew – this was the longest we’d been apart. We got to visit with his parents and celebrate an early Thanksgiving. The meal was wonderful! Props to the turkey chef! It was the best. We had a wonderful time with his parents and sister. Unfortunately, we didn’t take any pictures. They also celebrated my birthday (YAY!) since we won’t see them again until Christmas. We have a wonderful family.

The night before we left, we got to catch up with some friends at Starbucks. This year each couple (excluding us!) has added a member to the family. I hadn’t met little Addison yet, so I got to hold her – she’s so cute! Chase is growing up and he’s as handsome as ever. We really enjoyed meeting up with Josh and Brooke and Ryan and Jessica.

Our trip was busy, but I’m so glad we could see some friends and family. Anyone who lives several states away from friends and family knows how special a short visit or meal together can be. I appreciate our family for making our trip so special! Since our flight was delayed out of SC, we were routed through Detroit instead of Memphis (shorter flying time). While we were waiting for our flight in Detroit, we saw some snow flurries and it made me excited about seeing snow (hopefully soon) in Omaha. Who knows, maybe we’ll have a Thanksgiving Snow!

It's November?!?

2008-11-01T15:47:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that today's the first day of NOVEMBER! It seems like it was just July and we were moving in. Today I got an email from my stepmom asking for our Christmas lists - and we've already started our Christmas shopping (gotta plan ahead)!

As Matthew and I are watching the Georgia/Florida game, I'm realizing that the holidays will be here before we know it and football will be ending soon, too (Matthew's always sad about that). Living here and having to travel as much as we do, planning ahead is imperative. We're already looking ahead to next year and the weekends we will be traveling. Since we moved, we've been fortunate to be able to see our family pretty often. I have a feeling after the holidays, this might change a little.

I'm looking forward to our next trip. While Matthew is at a conference in Myrtle Beach, I will be able to visit my family in Virginia for a few days. I'm so glad that I am able to travel with him. It will be great to spend some time with Dad and Susan and have a few laidback days in Roanoke. Usually when we visit there, things are super busy or it's a holiday. After my VA trip and his conference, we're going to celebrate an early Thanksgiving with Matthew's parents since we won't be traveling for Thanksgiving.

My Dad - my hero

2008-10-30T21:23:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my dad's 54th birthday (he's the youngest 54 year old I know!) and all day I was wishing I could be with him. I've always been a "Daddy's girl" and although I was very close to my mother, there's a special bond between a father and his daughter. My dad is certainly a hero in my eyes. My Dad has shown me that no matter what situations in life may come our way, we are to be faithful to the Lord because He has certainly been faithful to us. Through everything he has faced, he hasn't ever waivered in his faith. Instead, he has always been such an encouragement to me and those around him. I am so thankful for my family and my heritage.

Sam Belisle - a true, Godly man of his word and I am so glad he's my Dad!

Home

2008-10-19T19:05:00.000-05:00

These were taken around our city. Omaha is located on the Missouri River, which borders Iowa and Nebraska. We have some beautiful sights and here are a few....

Nebraska Cornhusker Pride!

Hellooooo Fall!

2008-10-18T22:15:00.000-05:00

Wow - It's finally Fall...definitely my favorite season. Matthew and I were in Kentucky and Tennessee (not to mention all the states we had to drive through to get there) almost two weeks ago today. We attended a Church Planting Lab for 4 days and then we were able to go to a wedding in TN - both were friends of our's. I loved driving through the different states (IA, MO, NE, KY, TN, IL, IN, KS) to see where the leaves were changing. It was great to see friends and some family while we were in Tennessee. We've been fortunate since we moved (July) to be able to travel and see family and friends.

Back to the season, I just saw on the news that the high temp next Wednesday will be in the 40's! How crazy is that?!? I made chili tonight and I guess that's one thing I'll be getting better at since there's nothing better to eat on a snowy, cold day than hot soup or chili.

On a side note, Matthew and I went to see the movie Fireproof last night. It has great principles and I would recommend it to any couple!

A Little Bit About Me

2008-10-04T20:59:00.000-05:00

My friend Sara did this survey and I got tagged!

Attached or Single? Attached - happily married

Best Friend? Besides my husband, Autumn and Melody

Cake or Pie? Cake - cheesecake or yellow cake with chocolate frosting

Day of Choice? Friday

Essential Item? Starbucks Coffee - Freshly ground and brewed each morning

Flavor of Ice Cream? Rocky Road

Gummy Bears or Worms? Bears

Indulgences? Clothes from Ann Taylor

January or July? July -I just moved to Nebraska! I hear winter will be starting any day now and by January, I might be sick of winter and snow!

Last Movie I saw in a Theater? Nights In Rodanthe - not my fav

Middle Name? Nichole

Number of Siblings? 1 brother

Oranges or Apples? Apples

Phobia or Fear? Falling down the steps or falling in general

Quote? "Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but by how we react to what happens, not by what life brings to us, but by the attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst, a spark that creates extraordinary results."

Reason to Smile? I'm alive! I'm loved! I've been Saved!

Season? Fall - I love the breezy weather, colors of the season and pulling out the sweaters and jackets

Unknown Fact About Me? I like Brussel Sprouts

Worst Habit? Picking at my nails - thank goodness I've stopped biting them!

Xrays or Ultrasounds? Ultrasounds

Your favorite Food? ChicFilA and Mexican

Weekend in Review

2008-09-29T16:46:00.000-05:00

We had a great weekend! It started with company on Thursday evening. We hosted Jenn and Chad in our home. We went to eat wings and then took them downtown to see Omaha. We really have a neat city. There are so many beautiful buildings downtown, as well as interesting things to see. After sightseeing, we returned home to eat dessert and talk.

On Friday at lunchtime, after eating at Cheesecake Factory, we left for Des Moines, IA. The regional lock-in was at one of our churches there. On the drive from Omaha to Des Moines, we stopped off the DeSoto exit and found out the birthplace of John Wayne. We drove into Winterset and realized it was also the set for Bridges of Madison County (Madison County, IA). We visited the birthplace and its little museum. The guys really enjoyed it.

After our detour, we drove into West Des Moines (home of Olympic Gymnast Shawn Johnson) and had dinner at one of our new favs - On the Border. It was great! Then we headed to the church for the lock-in. Chad preached for us at the lock-in and we had a wonderful worship service and a great turnout! Chad did a great job challenging the teens to FLEE, FOLLOW, and FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!

I stayed up until 6:45 Am and then I had to take a nap. Once all the teens were picked up and on their way home, we went to IHOP for breakfast. After an afternoon nap, we had dinner and dessert and returned to the hotel. The UGA game was on and by halftime, Jenn and I headed to Target. Matthew was not too happy with the score!

We left on Sunday after lunch. We had so much fun with our friends and enjoyed having them at the lock-in, our first Youth event in the Region. Matthew did a great job putting it together!

Since the move....

2008-09-22T12:33:00.000-05:00

I was trying to think back and recall all the things we’ve done since moving to Omaha. I don’t want to bore anyone with all the details, so I thought I’d recap in a few bulleted points (I love lists, by the way).

- Traveled to several regional (IA/NE) churches where Matthew preached
- Conference in St. Louis – got to see friends (yay!)
- Went to San Antonio, Texas for the General Assembly of our denomination
* Saw friends and family – great week!
- Gotten settled into our apartment (most boxes have been unpacked)
- Began meeting with the church plant (8.26.08) at our apartment complex’s clubhouse
- Helped Matthew with the planning of our Regional Fall Lock-in for teens (9.26.08)
- Found Ulta (a hair, beauty, and salon superstore – the salon I used in SC)!
- Discovering lots of neat places around Omaha to shop, eat and spend time
* Buffalo Wild Wings – Matthew’s a happy man
* Village Pointe
* Cheesecake Factory, Charlestons, Jason’s Deli (2), Hector’s
- Meeting new people!
- Went to TN
* For meetings
* Celebrated Matthew’s birthday (9/16)
* Saw family and friends

So, to sum it up….we’ve been pretty busy getting settled and beginning our ministry in Omaha.

The Intro

2008-09-22T12:29:00.000-05:00

I know that I'm backtracking a bit, but I thought some might wonder why we moved to Nebraska.

Well......We lived in South Carolina until the beginning of July. We were sad to leave the camp ground, our jobs, family (Matthew's parents and sister) and friends, but felt that it was a necessary move. Matthew was offered a position in the Regional COG office and we’ll also be planting a new church on the west side of the city.

So, to begin our new adventure, Autumn, my best friend came the weekend before the trailer was to arrive to help get us loaded up. I’m SO GRATEFUL! Packing is not the most fun thing to do, but after it was all over I thought, “that wasn’t too bad!) After leaving from SC, we traveled to Virginia where we picked up my dad and step-mom. Since we had already loaded up an ABF trailer with all of our things (you pack, they transport - good deal), we only had our cars to drive to Omaha, NE. My dad and Susan so graciously offered to help us drive, unpack and get settled into our new home. Without their help, I'd still be unpacking and driving Matthew crazy! It was a two-day trip from Virginia to Nebraska and we got to stop in St. Louis on the way and eat dinner with Jeff and Brittany. The drive wasn't as bad as I thought it would be and I guess it helped that I didn't have to drive that much. I think my time totaled 4 hours (at most).
We arrived on Tuesday at 2 PM, but we weren't able to receive the ABF trailer until after 4:30 PM. We had already found a place to live during our June visit (Camp Meeting, etc.) so we already had utilities and the keys to our new place. Our apartment is on the west side of the city (where we'll be planting a church) of Omaha. It's right off a main thoroughfare (Dodge) and we live on the 3rd floor. As you can imagine, once we were able to unload the truck we were thankful it wasn't earlier in the day. It was so hot! The trailer was empty within 2 1/2 hours (thanks to some hired help) and we were exhausted.

My family stayed from Tuesday - Saturday and worked so hard to get us settled. We did manage some relaxation while they were here (sightseeing, fine dining, movies, relaxing at the pool and shopping), but mostly we were hard at work. Seeing them off at the airport was sad, but I knew we’d see them again in about a month so that made it easier!
We’re happy to be here and excited to see what God has in store!

Finally!

2008-09-18T15:38:00.000-05:00

I have finally set up a blog! Lisa encouraged me to do this - especially living so far from family and friends. Although I don't think our life is extremely entertaining and exciting, others might want to know how we're doing and how the church plant is progressing. So here it is!