The Blains

Fall photos

2011-11-06T21:15:00.002-05:00

Made a wreath for the front door

Went apple picking

Chopped my hair

Andy agreed to carve pumpkins

Spent many afternoons with these two cuties

I attempted a dog face

Andy carved the same face

Can you find the dog?

Reaping the benefits of pumpkin carving

LOTS of apples

A Little Behind...Summer Update

2011-08-19T21:35:00.000-04:00

Let's face the facts. I am not good at keeping a blog. I am GREAT at reading other people's blogs though! Keep blogging, friends!

Summer is often filled with plenty of fun and this year was no exception. We've had several friends take the plunge into marriage this season and it has been so great to celebrate with them. We are actually only halfway through our weddings for the year. We'll be attending one more at the end of the month and two more in October. Congratulations, friends!

We are both ready to get back into our school routines! I was bumped from my full-time special ed position, but took a part-time position in regular ed. I will be working to assist struggling students with literacy and some math. I will miss my special ed position and the kids SO much, but I am thankful to still be at Ridgeview. While part-time is not ideal, it is better than nothing! I am trying to remember that God knows what He is doing and trusting that. I was asked by my principal to nanny for her two girls, who both go to our school. I am really excited since it will work perfectly with my work schedule at school and gives me the chance to make some extra money.

I hope to post some more updates in the next couple of weeks of what we have been doing all summer!

Summer Vacation Has Begun

2011-06-10T22:18:00.000-04:00

Phew. We made it to the end of the school year!

It was "iffy" for a while there, given we both work with very challenging students.

I had my last day of school yesterday and Andy finished today. This completes his fourth year at Ottawa Hills, which is a huge accomplishment! I admire him for the work he does every day. He has to be tough and deal with a lot. I could never do it!

I thoroughly enjoyed my first year working at Ridgeview Elementary in Sparta. I had a fantastic principal and wonderful co-workers who definitely helped get through the more difficult days! For those of you who do not know, I worked in a special education classroom as a teacher assistant. Our classroom is for 6-8 year olds with moderate cognitive impairments. We had 10 students this year all with very different needs.

Those of you who know me know that I have a heart for those with special needs. I was able to fulfill my passion working in this position and hope I get the chance to continue next year!

While I do get a break from working at school, I won't have a free summer. I am going back to my old job at the therapy center until school starts back up again. I'm excited to see my old co-workers and the kiddos at the center. I will also be helping once a week to take care of my girls I used to nanny for. I am so excited to spend time with them!

Andy's summer job is graduate school. He's working toward his M.A. in Education with an emphasis in Coaching through MSU.

We'll be filling in the rest of our summer with weddings. More on that later...

Happy Summer, everyone!

He is Risen!

2011-04-24T21:42:00.000-04:00

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. John 11:25-26

Hope you all had a beautiful Easter with your families. :) We sure did!

Coupon Crazy!

2011-04-18T20:51:00.000-04:00

About a year ago, Andy and I started getting the Sunday paper in order to capitalize on the coupon inserts. At first, we just clipped a few that we thought we might use. More recently, we have stepped it up as we try to slash our grocery budget!

While I am certainly not an extreme couponer, I am proud to announce that our grocery trip last weekend saved us $33 on a final bill of $56. I hope to increase that savings number each time.

Here are some tips I've used and websites that I frequently visit for up-to-date deals!

Subscribe to multiple copies of the Sunday paper...that way when something is on sale, you can maximize by stocking up on it and using a coupon for each item you purchase. It totally pays itself off!
Stack manufacturer's coupons with store coupons.
Look for savings incentives. For example, "Receive $5 gift card when you purchase X amount of product."
Krazy Coupon Lady is a great site for pointing out sales combined with coupons at specific stores. For example, I learned from this site that this week Target has Nivea body wash on sale for $3.04 and the Red Plum insert from Sunday had a $3.00 off coupon. That is a grand total of 4 cents for a bottle of body wash!!!
Coupons.com keeps a database of coupons that you will also find in the Sunday paper and you are able to print them from the site. This comes in handy when buying multiples of something.
Many stores offer electronic coupons that you can electronically "clip" from your computer and they automatically load onto a card. I recently signed up for mPerks, which is Meijer's version of this. My first trip to the grocery store using mPerks saved me an additional $9.55!

Again, I am just an amateur couponer, but I am really excited about saving...it's almost a hobby!

Do any of you coupon? If so, what methods have you found to maximize savings at the grocery store?

Again and Again, Amen

2011-04-18T20:27:00.000-04:00

Each year as Easter approaches, I am reminded of the enormity of the sacrifice of our Savior. This year, I have been receiving daily devotions in my email and each one leaves me in awe. It is easy to say "God is always there for me" or "Jesus died for me," but the Lenten season, more than any other, reminds me that Jesus was a living, breathing human, who experienced emotions and temptations just the same way we do. It gives me the chills to think that a man, the Son of God, did what He did FOR US.

The devotion below refers to Jesus' arrest. This one left me in chills. He was in complete control of his own arrest, trial, and crucifixion.

"Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to Him, came forward and said to them, 'Whom do you seek?'" (John 18:4).

Jesus has led His disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane. Out of the darkness we see lanterns and torches winding their way across the Mount of Olives toward the Garden. Judas leads Roman soldiers and Jewish officers. Jesus knows what is about to happen. But He doesn't cower in the corner; He goes out to them and asks whom they are seeking. They reply, "Jesus of Nazareth."

Jesus answers with three short words, "I am He," and the power of His words knock Judas, the soldiers and the officers backward. Firmly in control of the situation, Jesus orders the guards to let His disciples go. The soldiers obey, and they flee away into the dark.

Not only did Jesus protect His disciples, He also made one last attempt to reach Judas. In the dark hour to come, when Judas would be overwhelmed with guilt, Jesus wanted him to remember this moment. Jesus was not a helpless victim swept away by Judas' kiss. Jesus was in complete control. He permitted Himself to be arrested, tried, condemned and crucified. He could have stopped it at any time. But because of His love for the Father and for each of us, He will not end it but carry it through to its completion-and our ultimate salvation.

Because He loves us so much when those powers of darkness were trying their worst, so He also loves us when those powers of darkness come after you in your life.

Again and again, I am reminded of His deep love for me. Sometimes I am overwhelmed in His grace, mercy, and forgiveness and for that I am thankful!

Inspired

2011-03-27T19:43:00.000-04:00

One of my friends at work had an opportunity to be a part of a photo shoot with a local rehabilitation center, Mary Free Bed. Here is the billboard, which is the finished product. I'm so happy for her! She said it was one of the proudest moments of her life.

Celebrating Kristin

2011-03-19T22:32:00.000-04:00

Linda, Becky, Grace & I had the joy of throwing a bridal shower for my friend/soon-to-be sister, Kristin, today! It was so much fun to celebrate Kristin and made me even more excited for their wedding this July. Their getting married is extra special to me, not only because they are our best friends, but because I introduced them 3 1/2 years ago!

Darlene, me, Kristin, Becky, Linda

Sisters!

Delicious soup buffet

Cupcakes courtesy of Ally

State Diving Finals

2011-03-19T22:16:00.000-04:00

Andy is one proud coach! Both of his divers made it to Regionals this year and one of his divers qualified for State finals! It was an exciting weekend as we watched Dillon compete. He ended up placing 4th in the state for Division 3. What a great end to the season. :)

Meeting Olivia

2011-03-19T22:06:00.000-04:00

Last weekend, we had the privilege of meeting our newborn niece, Olivia Grace! We all traveled down to Illinois for her baptism and some family time. Believe it or not, Olivia is even more beautiful in person! We are so thankful for her. Enjoy some photos from the weekend...

Uncle Andy teaching Olivia about the importance of physical activity

Sleeping beauty

Uncle Aaron takes on the challenge of changing a diaper

I <3 my aunties!

Uncle Andy's turn...his was a little messier!

The uncles use teamwork to get Olivia's pajamas on

Godparents, Parents, Pastors

All of us

Just another sunny snow day

2011-02-22T20:09:00.002-05:00

Mmmm…snow day #6 this season and oatmeal chocolate chip muffins. *recipe below

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins

1 1/4 c. quick oats
1 1/4 c. milk
1 egg
1/2 c. vegetable oil (or applesauce)
3/4 c. packed brown sugar
3/4 c. semisweet chocolate chips
1 c. chopped pecans or walnuts
1 1/4 c. all purpose flour
4 t. baking powder
1 t. salt

Combine oats and milk in a large bowl and allow to stand for 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease each cup of one 12-cup muffin pan.

Stir egg, oil, 1/2 c. brown sugar, chocolate chips, and nuts into the oat and milk mixture.

Combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to oat mixture and stir until just moist. Fill each cup 2/3 full. Sprinkle tops with the remaining brown sugar.

Bake 20-25 minutes.

*Note: it is supposed to only make a dozen, but I actually got 18 muffins out of it. :)

Olivia Grace

2011-02-21T18:42:00.001-05:00

Our niece, Olivia Grace Brandenburg, arrived last week on Valentine's day and we couldn't be happier for Matt & Becky! We are just so excited to meet her next month. Until then, adorable pictures will have to do. :) Isn't she beautiful?

What would you do with a snow day?

2011-01-18T11:46:00.000-05:00

In my opinion, snow days are made for crafting and baking. I don't have to feel like there are things are NEED to get done because I would have been at work today, right?

Therefore, anything I do get done is a bonus. I'm doing laundry today...BONUS. But, the highlights of my day are even better. I'm working on bridal shower invitations for my future sister-in-law, sewing some unfinished projects, and I'm sure there will be something baking in my oven later. Mmm...

Since Andy was disappointed that his school wasn't closed today, I will cheer him up with some cookies. What's better than that? :)

Impressive!

2011-01-08T21:18:00.000-05:00

'Tis the Season to be Knitting...

2011-01-02T18:33:00.000-05:00

I've decided that in 2011 I am going to take my knitting to the next level and try some more challenging projects (ie. beyond the world of blankets, scarves, and other flat things). Watch out world!!! Anybody need something warm and cozy? :) Before I really kick it up a notch I am finishing off 2 scarves for friends at work. :)

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T18:29:00.000-05:00

Our attempt at a family photo

We hosted a low-key night on NYE with good friends and fun games. It was a great way to bring in the New Year!


Our dogs had no problem posing for Joe & Beth...thanks guys!

Christmas Break Part 2: Friends, Family. & Sleepovers!

2011-01-02T18:21:00.000-05:00

I was lucky enough to spend some time with my sweet girls, Taylor & Paige over break. I spent a day playing with Tay at our house, followed by a sleepover with Paige. Tay & I had lots of fun playing out in the snow, but the dogs weren't so sure what to think. They are not used to seeing kids!

Macy is trying to check Tay out by sneaking up on her...

Unfortunately, I didn't get any pictures of Paige while she was here, but I did take a photo of the pizza she made!

On Christmas Eve, my parents arrived and we all went to our church's Candlelight service, followed by appetizers at Jim & Linda's. My brother joined us for Christmas and my parents stayed until Monday. It was so good to spend time with them here in GR.

After they left, I helped Linda throw a baby shower for Becky. It was so wonderful and she got plenty of cute things for their baby girl. She's due on Valentine's Day, so she's heading into the home stretch! Andy & I are so excited about being an aunt & uncle and we can't wait to meet our niece. :)

We also took advantage of our break by catching up with friends. It was so good to recharge, spend quality time with family, relax with each other, and hug our friends we haven't seen in a while!

Christmas Break Part 1: Bathroom Face Lift

2011-01-02T18:06:00.001-05:00

Ahhhh...Christmas break was wonderful! We started our break with a little home improvement. Our upstairs bathroom had some old peeling paint in the shower area, so we took the opportunity to sand it down, seal it off, and warm up the bathroom with a new color. Here's how it turned out...

Before

And AFTER....

Rockford family gets home makeover

2010-12-20T20:30:00.000-05:00

Check out this video clip from WZZM on a kiddo from my class. I am so happy for their family!

R.I.P. Taurus

2010-12-19T22:45:00.000-05:00

I really wish I had a picture of Andy's '91 Ford Taurus for those who have never seen it. Needless to say, he was pretty sad when he had to call it quits with his old car because the wheel snapped off of the axle on 131 north during rush hour traffic on a Friday evening. The old Taurus was towed away to be sold for parts and we surprisingly got $100 for it!

I, however, was not so sad. Last week, we found a replacement.

Meet our '98 Subaru Forester...it's in fantastic condition for its age!

And check out that trunk space!!!

While we are still stuck in the 90s when it comes to cars, we are very thankful that we can avoid debt by paying cash for something a little older. Dave Ramsey would be proud!

Sunday

2010-12-12T13:33:00.000-05:00

Just reading the Sunday paper with my dad!

Check that attitude!

2010-11-19T19:01:00.000-05:00

As many of you have heard, I LOVE my new job. Two months in, I was making some great progress with the kiddos and really developing some good relationships. I was excited to go to work every day, mostly because my position felt very purposeful.

This past Monday, I was told abruptly by my principal that I would be moving to the MoCI (moderately cognitive impaired) classroom full time beginning Wednesday. I was assured that this had nothing to do with my job performance or anything I did, but simply that the person currently in the position was no longer allowed to work with those kids.

I really struggled this week as I learned that because someone else did something wrong, I was part of a ripple effect since she chose to take my job instead. This is all based on seniority and union rules. While I believe this is a very mixed up system and felt very angry most of the week, I realized that I have an opportunity.

The children in this classroom are in deep need of someone understanding. While I may not have chosen this new position (very different from the first one I was in) I have to choose my attitude about it. Do I want my actions and attitude to show bitterness or anger? Despite feeling very frustrated at the handling of the situation, I have chosen to suck it up, put it behind me, and do my best in this new position so that my actions and attitude show love and kindness.

After all, I do get to love on some pretty sweet kids. Another positive is that this class has a fantastic teacher and parapro that I am joining to provide a safe, nurturing, learning environment for 9 kids. I guess this may be a blessing after all!

I'm getting another sister...

2010-10-11T19:57:00.000-04:00

...and the best part is that she's already my friend! Kristin & Aaron are getting married! They got engaged yesterday and we couldn't be happier for them. I could hardly hold it together once I knew he had bought the ring!

I introduced Kristin & Aaron a few years ago (she came along with me to a Christmas party at Aaron's) and it's crazy to think we're all going to be family. I think it is pretty special that Becky, Kristin, & I will all be sisters since none of us have any sisters (but have always wanted one!) So excited!

We love you guys!

We're still here!

2010-10-11T19:42:00.000-04:00

September certainly was a whirlwind! In a nutshell:

Andy broke his pinky, had surgery, and is still in daily hand therapy
I got a new job as a Teacher Assistant for Special Education at an elementary in the school district north of us. I now spend my days with 1st and 2nd graders and I'm loving it!
We started a weekly couples Bible study with some of our best friends. It is definitely a highlight of our week!
Andy kicked off a new school year at Ottawa, which has already been quite the year.
Our puppy dogs turned 1!

We're easing into a new routine but it is turning out quite nicely! Andy & I are now on the same schedule so we get to spend evenings together. I will have a Christmas break & Spring break as well. I obviously won't be working in the summer, but fortunately I am able to return to my old job at the therapy center during that time.

It's crazy to think how much can change in a matter of a few months. It's just another example of how God fulfills our every need. This job is something that I could not have dreamed up myself. It was a struggle when I didn't have a job for a while and I would continually pray that God would put me where He needed me and where my skills and passions would be best used. After 3 weeks at this school, it is very evident that this job was waiting for me. I've spent a lot of time talking with my resource room teacher, who has been very helpful. It is almost scary how alike we are! One of the difficult aspects of working in a school is learning of different family situations. It's heartbreaking to hear of a child not being well taken care of, especially a child with special needs.

Needless to say, there is lots for me to do. I strive to be a positive influence in the lives of the kids I get to assist. I get the opportunity to support the little sensitive ones that remind me too much of myself. On the other side, I also work with those kids who are know as the "trouble makers" of their classrooms. It is interesting to learn that there is a reason for every behavior.

I have surprised myself as I've discovered how much I enjoy the school setting! I have never had a desire to be a teacher because I always thought I'd be uncomfortable in front of a classroom. It feels more natural to me than expected. I am keeping it in mind as I think of what direction I will go in for a "career."

The Boy with Sensitive Pinkies

2010-09-06T20:23:00.000-04:00

If you know Andy, you know how excited he was that the college football season started this past weekend. We all spent Saturday at Joe & Beth's beautiful new home where we watched the game, ate snacks, and the boys played football outside. When we all gathered back inside for pizza, Andy showed me a slightly swollen pinky and said he had caught a hard pass from Kirk and jammed it. So, Beth threw him a bag of frozen peas and we finished off the night with a movie.

Sunday morning, we woke up for church and Andy seemed concerned about the way his pinky was bending sideways (abnormally)...deciding it would be best to head to Urgent Care "just to make sure it wasn't broken." He showed the doctor how far he could bend his finger and how he almost had full mobility of it. Andy explained that they were throwing passes with the football really hard "just like they used to in college" when the doctor reminded him he wasn't in college anymore. Sure enough, an x-ray revealed multiple breaks all the way through his little pinky bone!

Tomorrow, he has to call the orthopaedic surgeon who did the surgery on his OTHER pinky 5 years ago. He was playing basketball at GVSU and broke that one in 5 places, which required surgery in order for the bone to heal properly. We will soon find out whether he will need surgery on this one too!

In the meantime, he has a great sense of humor and an unnecessarily large splint. He laughed and asked "who breaks both of their pinkies on separate occassions?" He's convinced he must have some genetically weak pinkies. His injury comes just in time for school to start tomorrow and should be interesting as he demonstrates physical skills and weightlifting to his students. I am sure they will give him a hard time! :)

Hope you all enjoyed your extra long weekend with family and friends! We were so glad to spend the weekend with my parents and are feeling refreshed for the week. :)

Hitting the Refresh Button

2010-08-30T15:25:00.000-04:00

While some may have that feeling of "starting new" on January 1st, I tend to have that feeling at the beginning of the school year (even though I'm no longer in school!). And this year, I'm feeling it more than ever.

Andy started his week of Professional Development (teacher time) today and students start next week. We are so thankful that he still has a job! While it's difficult and demanding, it is such a blessing that he was lucky enough to find a teaching job right out of college and is now beginning his 4th year at Ottawa Hills.

Currently, I am looking for a job! The search proves to be difficult and time-consuming (as expected). I have applied for 14 jobs in the past month and the tricky part is getting in touch with someone to follow up, etc. While it is frustrating, I am certainly learning lessons in patience. I am hopeful that God will put me where I'm needed. All I can do in the meantime is keep putting my resume out there!

This fall, I am looking forward to (re)starting a bible study for the high school girls at our church. It went very well last year and the girls are looking forward to it again! I've also just recently organized a couples bible study with some of our closest friends and I can't wait for that to start.

I feel like I don't say it enough...God is SO good. We've seen His incredible blessings through what has felt like an unexpectedly difficult summer. He knows our needs before we do and I'm confident that everything through these new beginnings will fall into place...in His perfect timing, of course.

Office Mini-Makeover

2010-07-25T14:27:00.000-04:00

I follow an amazing blog called Young House Love that often inspires me to tackle projects around the house. A few months ago, they had a post on making curtains without sewing! They were so easy and only took a couple of hours. The hardest part is making sure both panels measure up to the same size. I went to the fabric store to find a great print, and it was as simple as measuring and ironing all of the seams with heat 'n bond tape. If you are interested in making your own curtains, you can find the instructions here.

I also painted the office last week in an effort to warm it up. We still need to hang things on the walls, but this is much improved!

It's one year already!

2010-06-27T20:35:00.000-04:00

This weekend, Andy and I celebrated our first anniversary. It's hard to believe a year of marriage has already gone by. We were lucky enough to spend the night at the JW Marriott downtown. What a beautiful hotel! We walked to our dinner reservation and followed it up with drinks on the patio of the BOB. We walked along the river and also relaxed while enjoying our view of the city from the 14th floor. Of course, we also reflected on all of the joys and challenges of the past year and are looking forward to the years to come. :) It was truly a great first anniversary!

Under House Arrest

2010-06-11T12:07:00.000-04:00

When I was little, I remember my grandma always telling me I'd "catch pneumonia" when I went outside without my coat. Well, I never did. Instead, my first experience with pneumonia is at 25-years-old in June. Silly grandma!

I have never felt so exhausted. They stress the importance of lots of rest and I can see why! I slept for 15 hours yesterday and woke up feeling tired. This morning, I didn't get out of bed until 11 and could still use some more sleep! Sadly, I will be missing my college roommate's wedding tonight. :(

On a brighter note, today is Andy's last day of school and he couldn't be happier. It's been quite the year for GRPS teachers. We are just thankful he still has a job for now.

Happy Weekend!

Beauty from the new garden

2010-06-07T19:03:00.000-04:00

Race for a Cause 5K-May 1st

2010-06-04T12:57:00.000-04:00

I realized that I never reported on the big race from last month! Nate & I had planned to take turns pushing Tay in the wheelchair race, but plans changed at the starting line. They had an extra jogger and wondered if any kids would like a "free ride," so I ended up pushing Paige! We had a great time despite the rain and my cold. I just checked out the Ride of their Lives website and they have some photos from the event. View them here.

A much-improved welcoming!

2010-06-04T11:21:00.001-04:00

Our front landscape was terribly overgrown and not maintained, so Andy and I spent the last 4-5 weekends ripping up old bushes, replacing soil, and planting new flowers! We finished this past Sunday night and were so proud of our work.

I found a "before" photo from last Spring, right before we got the house.

And here is the finished product!

Close up...

Unfortunately, we had a big storm on Monday, the day after we had completed all of the hard work! It was sad to watch the rain wash a lot of it away, but we were able to replace a lot of it without too much damage done.

Home from the Beach!

2010-04-12T11:54:00.004-04:00

We made it back from our Florida trip yesterday! Although it was hard to leave, we are happy to be back home. We missed our two pups, but were lucky enough to have great friends who stayed with them at our house. (Thank you, Joe & Beth!)

We stayed in Cape Coral at a house that my parents' friends own. It was beautiful and even had a pool! We spent all of our vacation days at the beach, which was just a short drive from where we were staying. We were able to see Ft. Myers beach, Sanibel & Captiva Islands, Naples, & Siesta Key. All of these places were BEAUTIFUL! My favorite beach was on Captiva Island.

I'm so thankful that we were able to go on vacation. It was refreshing!

Super Slow-Cooking!

2010-03-15T11:25:00.001-04:00

Lots and lots of slow-cooker recipes... YUM!

crockpot365.blogspot.com

SPRING...I can taste it!

2010-03-08T11:29:00.002-05:00

It's getting close to Spring and the sunshine is such a blessing! This weather has made me wonder how we survived the winter locked up indoors. Andy and I were lucky enough to go on FIVE walks this weekend, and I even completed my first (short) run of the season.

I love the feeling of renewal that comes with Spring. Putting away the boots and packing up coats. Ahhh...

To help my motivation to get back into running, I am participating in a 5K race in May. I am so excited about this opportunity because I get to run with my BFF, Taylor. Nate and I will get to run while pushing Tay in her wheelchair. I am so excited because I think she will love it! The race supports a local organization, The Ride of Their Lives, which strives to provide physical activities for children with physical challenges or disabilities.

I am also planning to do the Riverbank Run (5K) which is in May, too. I can't wait to begin the adventure of running again. :)

I'm off to take the doggies for a walk!

Wishing you all blessings as you experience the renewal of Spring, too!

Love, Nicki & Andy

Happy 2010!

2010-01-10T20:16:00.007-05:00

Happy New Year! It's hard to believe that it's already 2010 (as we say with each passing year). Looking back on 2009, we are extremely thankful for the ways God has provided for us. It was an exciting year with the wedding, buying our first house, and getting puppies. Although 2009 had it's share of difficulties, we rejoice in the many blessings!

2010 is sure to be an exciting year with many joys. We look forward to celebrating these upcoming events with our family & friends...

Alex & Matt DeJong (Nicki's friends from growing up) are expecting a baby boy in March...

A Florida vacation in April with Aaron & Kristin!

Matt & Jessie get married in July...

Tyler & Laura also get married in July...

And the most recent engagement...Michelle & Austin are getting married later in the year, too!

We love you all and can't wait to celebrate your special days with you!

Puppies and Toddlers: more alike than different

2010-01-08T16:07:00.005-05:00

Last night, Andy and I realized we hadn't seen Zeke in a little while. I called down the stairs for him and that's when I saw this beautiful display of shredded TP...

So, I went down to check it out...

Zeke was still nowhere to be found. Sure enough, I went into the dogs' room and there he was hiding in his crate.

That is certainly the face of a dog who's been up to something!

When I asked him about it, he came out to tell me about what he did...

The best part is that this is exactly something a toddler would do...well, maybe not shredding it with their teeth. I'm sure he also snuck a quick drink out of the toilet. Oh, doggies...

O Christmas Tree

2009-12-04T14:36:00.002-05:00

It sure is a delightful time of year! Blessings to you all. :)

Snow puppies!

2009-12-04T14:29:00.004-05:00

We had the first snow of the year last night (and still going today!) I was excited to see how the puppies would react to seeing snow for the first time! They LOVE playing in it.

It's hard to believe that it was just grass yesterday!

Feel Good Food

2009-11-29T16:31:00.004-05:00

I was lucky enough to see my best friend this weekend while on the east side of the state for Thanksgiving. Andy and I drove to Kathy's office (just opened in August...check her out here) to visit and have lunch. After some great adjustments courtesy of Dr. Kathy, we headed to an awesome restaurant that serves all organic food and has their own greenhouse attached where they grow lots of the things they use in their cooking. Amazing food! I recommend checking out Mind, Body & Spirits Inspired Dining if you are ever in the Rochester area! It's the way all of our food should be. :)

JOY

2009-11-24T09:50:00.002-05:00

As we all know, some days are tough. Some days are REALLY tough. I've had some of these days lately. I've been tested. I've been pushed to the limit. I've gotten mad and lost all patience.

Despite all of this, there is still one constant that is telling me it's okay. God continues to reassure even when we're really angry. I've been praying in my car a lot lately...on my way to work, on my way home from work, heading to run errands. It has been so amazing to have those quiet moments with God. I don't always make the time for those quiet times with Him, where I can really pour my heart out. The best part is that He is always willing to listen to me AND He knows exactly what I'm going through.

This post isn't to tell you about how tough things can be or how discouraged I've felt... we all know what that feels like. It's about how God uses those things to teach, to build us, and to require us to rely on Him alone.

Just as I've been struggling these past few weeks, I had a moment this weekend where I was overcome with joy. JOY when I realize that I have been chosen.

God chose ME to take care of Taylor.
He chose Tay to teach me.
He chose ME to be Andy's wife.
He chose ME to be right here, right now.
He chose me to be His daughter.

It is in all of that where I can find peace amidst the difficulties. I am so thankful for a loving God who uses my trials to show me joy. What an awesome blessing.

Swap your books!

2009-11-22T20:24:00.003-05:00

My coworkers told me about an awesome website a few weeks ago, and I finally joined! It's called www.paperbackswap.com and it's a great way to get rid of old books, and get new ones for free! Maybe this is old news, but as I'm just discovering it, I felt the need to share it with the world.

The way it works is... when you join, you post books that you want to get rid of. You also create a "wish list." So, everyone on the site has a "Bookshelf" (books to send away) and a "Wish List" (requested books). The site just matches up people's bookshelves with others' wish lists. You get a credit for every book you mail out...with 1 credit being equal to 1 book. The only thing you pay for is postage when you send them out.

You get 2 free credits for posting 10 books, too. So, I already have 2 new books on their way to me in the mail AND just in the few days I have been a member on there, 9 of my books have been on others' wish lists. I sent out a huge load of books yesterday and now have 9 credits waiting. That means I get to order 9 books when I'm ready!!!

What an incredibly awesome way to recycle old books. I had a few in a pile to take to Goodwill, but this is so much better. I highly recommend joining in the swapping fun! (And if you do decide to join, enter my email nmblain@gmail.com and I will receive a credit!)

Gosh, they should hire me to advertise for them. :)

Puppies

2009-10-29T12:11:00.005-04:00

"Nobody goes to visit puppies and comes home without their name on one!" -Lara Kitts

Turns out Lara is right. Not that I didn't have intentions of getting a puppy anyway...Andy just didn't know it! Of course, we couldn't decide between two of them so we decided to get both! I know, I know, we've been called crazy. I am prepared for it to be interesting and frustrating at times, but I am looking forward to being a dog owner again. We always had 2 dogs growing up and I've really missed having a pet since I left for college. Andy, on the other hand, has never had a pet so he is in for a real treat!

Here are some pictures of our little cuties that we get to bring home on Sunday...

Fall is the time for baking!

2009-09-28T12:40:00.005-04:00

We had friends over Friday night for a bonfire and decided to make it as fall themed as possible! There was pumpkin spice beer, red wine, caramel apple-making (courtesy of Michelle!), an autumn scented candle burning, and this lovely cake I decided to bake...

I don't tend to be a fan of pumpkin-flavored things, but this cake was amazing. Now, in the spirit of this rainy fall weather...this week is sure to be filled with soup, chili, and pumpkin bread (I have to use up the pumpkin somehow!)

Hope you're all enjoying the season as much as I am!

Everything that happens is for our good!

2009-09-13T20:46:00.002-04:00

God has such a funny way of doing things. You know, something we would never come up with on our own. Sometimes we are too stubborn to realize that and have to learn again to remember His simple truths.

One of these simple truths is something that has really struck me lately. It has come up in bible class quite a bit and we once again got on that topic this morning at class. It is one aspect of being a Christian that requires a constant reminder throughout our lives. The simple truth I am referring to is that everything that happens to us is for our good. The "bad things" that happen are certainly not bad at all since they are part of God's brilliant plan for us as believers. This knowledge can really change a perspective!

Andy and I had the chance to apply this particular truth tonight. After getting some work done on his car yesterday, Andy started having electrical problems. His car would not start tonight. When looking at the battery, we quickly realized that some wires had come loose and they were even sparking when he was attempting to start the ignition. Needless to say, we took the car to his parents' house so he could borrow their spare car until he can get his car back to the shop tomorrow. Little did we know that we were embarking on a little adventure! It was one of those nights where it just seemed to be one thing after another...forgetting a key, forgetting to bring the movie we went out to return, etc. When I reminded Andy that the Lord is doing all of this for his good, we just had to laugh and find peace in His promises. What a funny God He can be at times, and yet He has things in store that we cannot even imagine.

How thankful we are for our God. The little obstacles in life would certainly put us over the edge if we did not have Him!

Lauren & Tim are married!

2009-09-08T10:34:00.004-04:00

Last weekend, my long time friend Lauren was married to Tim. Their ceremony was at a beautiful park and they had a great reception at a marina on Lake Macatawa in Holland. We had a great time celebrating with them! Congrats Lauren & Tim...we love you!

Newlyweds

Melissa & Michelle

First dance as husband & wife

Cupcake tree

Andy & I were in charge of car decorating :)

A New Helper!

2009-09-08T10:30:00.002-04:00

Last week, Andy mowed the lawn. Later in the day, we looked out our window to see the little girl next door, Emma, sweeping all of our grass clippings off of our sidewalk and driveway! What a cutie. I just had to get a picture of this.

Honeymoon

2009-08-16T20:00:00.009-04:00

Andy and I made last minute arrangements for a trip up north as our little honeymoon. Our first stop was in the UP at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. So beautiful! We had both been there as kids, but didn't appreciate it as much back then. We camped for 3 nights in Munising and loved that little town. My Uncle Roger lives there so we visited him and Aunt Pam (and my cousin Tamie & her daughter Jacqueline). We got to hike a little with them and have lunch so that was really great.

Us with Jacqueline, a two-year-old firecracker!

After our 3 nights in Munising, we headed back down state and spent a day on Mackinac Island (once again, another place I hadn't been since a kid). We rented a tandem bicycle and rode the trail around the island, got some fudge, and headed to a hotel in St. Ignace for the night!

The Mackinac Bridge

I was trying to take a cute picture ("hey, we're on our honeymoon!")

but Andy wasn't cooperating!

Our final stop was on the Northwest coast of Michigan on the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. We set up camp (again) at a great campground right by the beach. We were able to see some beautiful sunsets and even layed on the beach one night to watch the meteor shower...it was really cool! We also did the treacherous "Dune Climb." If you're not sure what this is, let me catch you up. The dune climb is a 3.5 mile trail that goes up and down sand dunes out to Lake Michigan. My memories of the dune climb as a 5th grader were not even close to the actuality. We must have only done the first big hill and ran down. Here are a few shots of the dunes (and me taking breaks).

Andy heading up the first big one...we had no idea what was ahead!

Wow, we have a lot more to go!

There I am running down the last hill to make it to the end. Andy was waiting with water!

Even though it was very difficult, we were so glad we did it. And, once we made it to the water we got to jump in to cool off so that helped to make it worth the hike!

We headed home a day sooner and it was a good thing we did. Some major storms went through there a few hours after we left and we would have been soaked in our tent! It was a wonderful vacation and lots of fun to travel with Andy and spend so much time with him. :)

Paige's First Sleepover!

2009-08-02T21:55:00.005-04:00

My little Paigey came over today for a sleepover. Our day was filled with fun activities...putt-putt golf, cookie baking, making a pizza for dinner, and watching a movie. Oh, and I can't forget getting ice cream from the ice cream truck! What a great job she did for her first sleepover away from home!

Joining the Blog World?

2009-07-31T18:28:00.000-04:00

Well, here I am. I have secretly wanted a blog for a while, but realized that I never really had a reason for one. I didn't even have a clue as to what I wanted to write in my blog.

But now as Andy and I are beginning our marriage together we wanted a better way to keep our family and friends posted (and hopefully entertained!) on the adventures of early marriage and life in general.

I have always felt kind of silly about writing in a blog and that I don't have anything exciting to say...just the day-to-day things. But, I have really learned in recent years to celebrate the everyday because that is where God is! He is in everything we do.

I really love reading our friends' blogs and hearing about their everyday celebrations and struggles (especially those friends far away!) because the distance doesn't allow for us to be a part of each other's everyday lives anymore.

We're just a couple of God's kids who are trying to spread His love each day. Hope you enjoy!