The Bennison Family

Christmas in Missouri

2011-12-28T21:11:00.001-06:00

We flew to Missouri on Wednesday, December 21st and had a wonderful time! It was fabulous to spend time with family and friends, and to enjoy Christmas Eve service at The Crossing. We pray that you had a wonderful Christmas as well and are, as we continue to be, humbled and blessed that the Savior of the world chose to come to this earth as a meek little baby so that we could all be saved from eternal separation from our Lord. Merry Christmas!!

Playing with Daddy at Grandma and Grandpa's.

Liz (bestie since 7th Grade) and one of her little girls, Charlotte.

Andrew's Great-Grandma Meyer. (My Dad Rick's mom)

Benny with our new nephew, Tucker. (My half-sister Crystal's second little boy)

Andrew openining presents from his Grandma and Grandpa and uncle David.

Andrew's Great Grandma and Grandpa Mueller (My biological Dad's parents)

With my Uncle Don (My biological Dad's brother)

With Aunt Pam

Playing with Reid. (My cousin Andrea's little boy)

Brayden (Andrea's oldest) LOVED the "roller coster" that his aunt Cara and uncle Cody got for him!

My cousins Cara and Andrea with Reid.

My Dad, Mom, Benny, Andrew and David.

Christmas in Bridgewater

2011-12-28T20:50:00.003-06:00

We celebrated our family Christmas in Bridgewater on December 20th because we were going to be flying to Missouri on December 21st.

Before opening presents, Benny reads the story of Jesus' birth from Andrew's Bible.

Enjoying Kanakuk Coffee Cake!

Andrew really enjoyed taking all of the bows off of the gifts.

Andrew loved all of his gifts!!

Overnight Date Night!

2011-12-28T20:43:00.003-06:00

On December 15th, Benny and I were blessed to take an overnight trip to Staunton, VA (about 25 min away). Our wonderful babysitter Laura stayed with Andrew, and we had a wonderful time together--just the two of us! We did a little shopping in Harrisonburg, ate dinner in Staunton, hung out at a cute little coffee shop and enjoyed our free nights stay at the Stonewall Jackson Inn. Saturday morning we did a little more shopping in Charlottesville before heading home.

Harrisonburg Discovery Museum

2011-12-28T20:39:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago Benny and I took Andrew to the Discovery Museum in Harrisonburg. We had a blast, and will definitely be returning!

The TV Station room.

Playing with the green screen.

Train table!

Driving the Thomas train!

Puppet show by Daddy.

Andrew the farmer.

How we discovered Andrew's love for slides!

Christmas Tree Lighting

2011-12-04T21:17:00.001-06:00

The Town of Bridgewater had a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony tonight. I've never been to Rockefellar Center, but I'm sure it was exactly the same as their tree lighting ceremony.

Thanksgiving Pink Eye

2011-12-04T21:07:00.001-06:00

We stayed in Bridgewater for Thanksgiving because I had to work Friday-Saturday. On the Tuesday evening before Thanksgiving, we ventured out to Chick-Fil-A to explore the play place. Andrew had a blast in the play place, and we enjoyed one of their milk shakes on the drive home.

Well, Andrew woke up on Wednesday morning with a little green boogie in the corner of his eye, and then after his morning nap Benny notices that his left eye was swollen, and there was a lot of green goo seeping out of it. Not good. We called our pediatrician and took the last appointment of the day. He told us that he had pretty bad pink eye, so not only were we perscribed the eye drops, but also 10 days of oral antibiotics. After he infected his other eye with the pink eye, he looked pretty pathetic. Thankfully though, you would have never known from his countenance. He was just as happy and joyful as he always is!!

Pathetic looking...

But here's how he really was...all smiles!

Helping Daddy

2011-12-04T20:59:00.001-06:00

Andrew is super helpful these days. Any time we open the dishwasher, he's always right there to "help" us load or unload. I have no idea how we ever got this chore done without him! :)

Laura

2011-12-04T20:54:00.001-06:00

The Lord has blessed us with some AMAZING babysitters for Andrew--SUCH an answer to prayer. One of the girls who watches him a lot is Laura. She's a sophomore at JMU (James Madison University), she is SO sweet, really great with Andrew, and she loves the Lord- she even interviewed to be a counselor at Kanakuk! We are so thankful for these wonderful young ladies who display Christ to Andrew when we can't be with him!

A Visit from Larry and Leta!

2011-12-04T20:48:00.001-06:00

Benny's Dad (Larry) and Larry's wife, Leta came for a visit the last weekend of October to see Bridgewater play in the first round of the ODAC conference playoffs. (The Eagles hadn't been in the postseason since 2006! They must have a really great coach :)
But, while Larry and Leta were driving to Virginia from Indiana, a crazy snow storm came through and the game was postponed until Sunday. They had to leave to get back to Indiana on Sunday morning, but we still enjoyed some wonderful time with them!
-(Bridgewater did not win the game that had been postponed, but they finished the season 7-11-1...SUCH an amazing improvement for the team who had only won 3 games in the previous two years combined. I am SO proud of the incredible job Benny did with these guys!)

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-27T21:28:00.002-05:00

Tonight we took Andrew the Zebra Trick-or-Treating at the Bridgewater College Dorms!

Fall Fun!

2011-10-21T22:02:00.001-05:00

Some fun activities from the past few weeks!

Benny and Andrew before a home soccer game.

Andrew (aka Benny's Assistant Coach) watching from the sidelines. He always offers such helpful encouragement to the guys at halftime. Not really....although he does clap for the team at the appropriate times!

Dayton, the small town just down the road from Bridgewater, hosts an annual Autumn Celebration the first weekend of October. We were amazed at how many vendors were there (apparently over 300 from like 13 different states!)

You can't go to an Autumn Celebration without getting some kettle corn!!

This place is so precious! They have a corn maze, petting zoo, a caurosel, a pumpkin patch where you can pick your own pumpkins, and tons of activities for kids. The three of us went one day after Benny was done with practice.

Benny dominating the sligshot.

Andrew and Benny in the cow train.

Riding the caurosel.

Andrew and his pumpkin!

So Andrew absolutely loves being with his daddy. It is very rare for him to sit still for very long, but he often will in Benny's lap. Precious.

Kathy came in town for a week to help out with Andrew while I had orientation at the hospital. We are SO thankful she was able to come--Andrew loved his time with his Grammy, and we greatly appreciated the countless ways she helped us around the house. We love you, Kathy!!

Andrew's Birthday Party

2011-10-21T21:43:00.002-05:00

We had Andrew's birthday party on October 9th (the weekend after his birthday).

We had a monkey theme, which seemed fitting for our silly little boy's personality!

Benny's mom was in town for the week and she made and iced ALL of the cupcakes

Photo timeline!

The awesome birthday banner that our friend Jacole sent us!

Andrew with Nick (one of the Bridgewater soccer players) and Karla (a Bridgewater student who is one of Andrew's two awesome babysitters.)

Andrew hanging out with the college students. (His other awesome babysitter, Laura, is in the backround.)

Andrew with Ryan, Kevin and Nick (soccer guys).

Trying to figure out what he thinks about the cupcake. He ate some of it, but didn't particularly love it!

Cupcake face!!

Andrew's First Birthday!!

2011-10-21T21:20:00.000-05:00

October 4th was Andrew's First Birthday!!!

Since his birthday fell on a Tuesday, we celebrated together as a family and did lots of little things all day to make him feel extra special: We offered him his favorite foods (mashed potatotes, yogurt and fruit), went on walks and opened presents!

Benny and I found this fun little car at Once Upon a Child. We let Andrew try it out in the store and he did NOT want to get out of it! We decided it would make a great birthday present! (He rode the car out of the store!)

Opening his gifts from Mommy and Daddy, Grandma (my mom), and Uncle David (my brother).

Tuckered out after a big day!

We love you SO SO much Andrew Caden, and are so blessed to have you in our lives!!

Crawling, soccer games, parks and beautiful views!

2011-09-13T21:09:00.001-05:00

Andrew had been doing the "army crawl" thing for about a month and a half, but just a week or two ago decided to get up on his hands and knees and go for the "real thing!"

Andrew and I really enjoy going to watch soccer games!! The team is now 3-2!! (They had only won 3 games in the last two years combined before Benny took over!)

We found a really neat park in Harrisonburg (the town that's about 8 minutes up the road.) called "A Dream Come True." A girl scout troop wanted to create a park where kids with special needs could easily and safely play in the same place as kids without special needs. Andrew already loves it!

120 College View Drive! You are welcome to visit any time!! :)

The view from our walk tonight...

Sixth Anniversary!

2011-09-13T20:53:00.001-05:00

I have the most amazing husband in the world. Benny was going to be out of town all day on September 3rd (our 6th anniversary) so he had some BEAUTIFUL flowers sent to the house!

Andrew is 11 months old!

2011-09-13T20:51:00.000-05:00

Andrew turned 11 months old on September 4th!! I can't believe that in less than a month, he'll be ONE!!!

Since the little man is getting much more mobile, these plate pics are getting tricky!

Life in Bridgewater...

2011-09-04T21:54:00.001-05:00

We were SOOOO thankful that my parents were able to come out here to help us move and get settled!! It usually doesn't take us long to get boxes unpacked, but it's always a process to meet people, get used to the area, etc. We're getting there...in all areas :) I have to say...God, you did a fantastic job creating this part of the country. Wow. Here's what we see just driving down one of the roads in town. I love mountains!!!

Benny got RIGHT into coaching after we were in town. Here he is addressing his team at the end of a training session.

Huddle!

One thing that I love about my husband is that no matter how much he has to do with work he will ALWAYS make time for me and Andrew. We're walking around in one of Bridgewater's MANY beautiful parks!

Andrew and his Daddy. It's SO fun to watch him light up and clap and swing his arms when Benny gets home in the evening...evidence of the special relationship they have!

Andrew loves to swing!


Bridgewater's first game!! The field is beautiful (and the coach is SO handsome! :)

Andrew, intently watching the game....

just like his Daddy!

Benny and Andrew working on math problems after dinner. :)


Talking about guy stuff while watching a Bridgewater girl's soccer game.	I love these two so much!!

Saying goodbye to friends in Anderson

2011-09-04T21:44:00.002-05:00

After Benny was hired on August 3rd, he drove back to Anderson and we quickly began packing up all of our belongings! (They wanted him to START his new job by August 15th, so we needed to leave Anderson by the 11th!) We were really glad that I had already given my two weeks notice at work (BEFORE he went to campus for the interview...crazy, I know). We were thankful to get some time with people before we had to go. One of my dear friends from St. Johns- Jacole- who had her little boy Jett about 10 days after Andrew was born and her sister stopped by one afternoon. They brought this AWESOME t-shirt that says "Dad's assistant coach" and is the right color for Bridgewater College!

Andrew and Jett... deep in conversation, I'm sure.


One last get together with our small group (we missed you, Canfields!). We can't tell you all how much we love you and will miss the your sweet fellowship and sharing yummy meals together. Andrew loving on his Sara M.

Andrew and Jonah.

Andrew with the Hornings.

Andrew and Matty. Matty is the soccer player who lived across the street from us. He spent LOTS of time with us over the past two years, and has such a sweet, special relationship with Andrew. We really feel like he's part of our family. We love you so much Matty.

It worked out that the Hanlons were in town from Florida the week we were moving, so they came by with the Daughertys and Canfields to hang out for a bit while we were loading up the UHaul! How precious are these kids?! Ian Canfield, Owen Daugherty, Andrew, Briley and Mabry Hanlon, and Aden Daugherty.

Such sweet friends!!


We're so thankful the Galemas drove up to see us as well. Such a godly, precious and FUNNY family!!

A New Job for Benny!!!

2011-09-04T21:27:00.001-05:00

The last month + a week or so have been CRAZY for the Bennison family! Towards the end of July, Benny sent his resume to Bridgwater College in Virginiafor a head coaching position. To make a long story short, he was phoned a few days later to set up a phone interview, had the interview, went to campus on August 3rd and was offered the position! This journey the Lord has taken us on through waiting for Him to provide a job has been something...sometimes very difficult, sometimes overwhelmed by the peace he provided during such an uncertain time. But, I was most definitely ALWAYS humbled by the incredible leadership that my husband provided during this time. Never once did I see him depressed, discouraged or passive. He expectantly and hopefully awaited for the Lord to provide, never doubting for a moment that He could and WOULD provide for us. I am so thankful to be led by such a wonderful man of God. I love you, Benny!

Here's the press release they wrote about Benny on the college's website!
Ryan Bennison begins his first season as head coach of the Bridgewater College men's soccer program
Bennison takes over the Eagles program after serving three years as the top assistant coach at Anderson University, a member of the Division III Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference. While at Anderson, he helped lead the team into the upper half of the conference standings. The Ravens finished the 2009 season with a third-place finish in the conference standings. A year later, the team turned in one of the best seasons in Anderson history with a second-place finish in both the regular season and conference tournament. Bennison recruited the conference freshman of the year in 2009 and 2010.
Bennison adds head coaching experience at both the club and high school levels. He coached three years at Ruston (La.) High School winning a district title in 2008 and finishing with a three-year record of 30-9-2. He was named the District 2-5A Louisiana Coach of the Year in 2008. He also served as head coach of the Hoosier FC Club U-16 Boys Premier Team for two seasons. He is a member of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America and has earned the national diploma, goalkeeping certificate and professional development certificate.
Bennison also served three years as director of student ministries at Crossroads Church. While there he started a youth program at the church and CrossOver, an inner city outreach program.
As a player, Bennison played four years of collegiate soccer at Anderson University where he was a starter each season. He was named the Heartland Conference Player of the Year in 2000 and was a two-time all-conference first-team selection. He was team captain twice, helping lead the Ravens to their two best seasons in school history.
Bennison graduated from Anderson with a bachelor of science in family science. He graduated summa cum laude from John Brown University with a master's degree in ministry with an emphasis in leadership and higher education.

July 2011

2011-09-04T21:20:00.001-05:00

Fun things from the month of July!

Me and Andrew hanging out!

Our silly boy!

Bath Time!!

. Benny, Andrew, Travis Daugherty and Eric Huer at Kirsten Collete's wedding in the middle of July. This was a really fun wedding because we were able to see lots of Benny's friends from college!

Andrew with his handsome daddy.

Benny, Andrew, Jess Daugherty, Angie Danner, Grayson Gossett and Sheila Gossett.

Benny and Andrew with the beautiful bride (Kirsten) and groom (Michael).

We were so blessed to spend lots of time in Lafayette this summer with Benny's family. They are such wonderful, kind people!! Here is Andrew with Grammy (Benny's mom), and Uncle John.

Out to eat at one of our favorite places in Lafayette, Potbelly's. Andrew was obviously enjoying himself!

Hanging out with Daddy before bed.

Swimming in Benny's dad's pool!

The water was a little cool, but Andrew definitely LOVES the water!!

With Grandma and Grandpa Bennison!

More fun at Potbelly's!

Family photo! Kathy came in town for an evening so that Benny and I could go out to dinner with the Reiffs (I mentored Betsy Reiff while she was at AU).

Andrew loves his Grammy!

We are SO blessed that this sweet little man is a fantastic sleeper. Praise the Lord!! (The little green blanket is his "Rusche", named after one of Benny's AU players whose mom made those for him!)

One of our last get togethers with our small group. Andrew and Bailey Horning are just hanging out...

All of the kiddos! Eyla, Ian, Bailey and Andrew.

Andrew playing with Petey, the Canfield's dog.

Andrew loves to sit on our shoulders!

The guys (plus Eyla): Jason, Jonah, Benny, Andrew, Ian and Troy.

The Ladies (minus Eyla) Katrina, Bailey, Cherilyn, and Sara.

Our awesome little dude.

Andrew is 10 months old!

2011-09-04T20:13:00.004-05:00

(August 4th, 2011)

Fourth of July Weekend, 2011

2011-07-25T21:44:00.011-05:00

The week prior to the Fourth, Anderson University hosted the annual Church of God Convention. Each evening, there was live entertainment and booths with yummy foods. We decided to partake of the funnel cakes and ice cream one evening on a walk with Eric Spencer and Matt Young (soccer fellas).

Because Andrew hasn't really used a paci for several months, when we reintroduced it to him a couple of weeks ago, this is how he uses it!

We headed to Lafayette for a little getaway on the weekend of the Fourth.

Andrew with G-Pa Bennison.

After visiting Grammy (Benny's Mom) at work at Kohls, we let Andrew play on the little riding cars in the mall. He loved them!

Kathy watched Andrew one evening so that Benny and I could go out on a little date! We went to an AWESOME sushi place in downtown Lafayette, got some ice cream, and played a game outside of Starbucks. I love my hubby so so much!

On Saturday afternoon, we went to the Columbian Park Zoo in Lafayette. As we were walking through the petting zoo, another guest said, "Ummm, you have a chicken in your stroller." Immediately, Benny and I looked down at Andrew, figuring the chicken had jumped into his lap. Thankfully, it hadn't...it was under the stroller in the compartment where I was holding my purse! The little guy didn't want to get out, so one of the zookeepers had to help him!

Watching the monkeys:

There was a nice little park outside of the zoo where Andrew played for a few minutes. (Not for very long though...it was SOOO hot outside!)

We grilled out on the Fourth, and then took a walk around campus with some students:
Whitney, Matt, Kingsley and Helen. (notice how engaged Andrew was during the walk).

Andrew was in bed by 8pm and it doesn't get dark in Indiana til close to 10pm, so we enjoyed a nice evening at home together! Maybe next year Andrew will be up late enough to watch some fireworks!

Benny's Graduation Party!

2011-07-25T21:39:00.003-05:00

To celebrate Benny finishing Grad School at the end of June, we had a little get together for him! He graduated with a 4.0 from John Brown University with a Masters of Arts in Ministry and an emphasis in Higher Education and Leadership. We are SOOOO proud of you, Benny!!

Andrew and Sara McDonough:

Benny and Asher Ayers:

Our wonderful friends!!

God has blessed us with some really, really wonderful friends here in Anderson. We are so thankful for each one of you!

A Weekend with Grandma and Grandpa!

2011-07-25T21:24:00.012-05:00

My parents came to visit us in Anderson on Father's Day weekend!! We had a wonderful time with them, and are so thankful that they were able to make the trip!

Andrew playing with Grandpa Meyer!

Bath time!

In honor of his first Father's Day, Benny gave Andrew his first taste of Mac and Cheese! Of course, Andrew loved it (it's in his blood)!

Swinging at Shadyside park on Sunday afternoon. It was pretty rainy/dreary most of the weekend, so we were very thankful for a nice afternoon!

Just before leaving, with Grandma Meyer!

We'll miss you, Grandma and Grandpa!

While in town, my Mom bought Andrew an adorable little pool, but because the weather didn't cooperate, we didn't get to use it until after they had left. Here are pics from the first time we got it out:
Andrew all ready in his swimsuit and beach hat:

And here it is! It's supposed to be a little fish...so cute, right?!

Thanks again for coming, Mom and Dad! We love you so much, and can't wait to see you again soon!!

Summer is Here!!

2011-06-07T15:59:00.014-05:00

Andrew turned 8 months old on June 4th!

(The plate is behind him because if you'll notice, he actually took a BITE out of the plate when it was in front of him!)

Andrew's eight month birthday party! (Or maybe just a random Snow Castle visit to celebrate Kyle and Matty being in town.) Whitney, Matt, Kingsley, Andrew, Kyle and Benny (notice Benny fighting off a cold headache!)

Uncle Kyle and Andrew.

Playing on the floor with Daddy!

BENNY WILL BE FINISHED WITH HIS MASTERS DEGREE IN 17 DAYS!!! WHO-HOO!!! I'm SOOOO proud of the incredibly hard work he has done over the past 2 years. (And he even has a 4.0!!)

May 2011

2011-06-07T15:26:00.014-05:00

One Big update for May!!

Andrew turned 7 months old on May 4th!

Yummy...styrofoam plates...

My fellas did such an amazing job honoring me for my first Mother's Day!! Andrew and Benny had placed cards all over the house in strategic locations, sharing the reasons why Andrew is thankful for me. Inside each card were several pictures of Andrew, or me and Andrew. Also, Benny framed some super cute pics of Andrew, me and Andrew, and our family for me. That afternoon, Andrew and I met Kathy (Benny's mom) at one of Benny's soccer games and then went out to dinner. It was wonderful!!

Shortly after his 7mo birthday, we had our friend Jose take some pictures of our family. He always does such a fabulous job, and we are so thankful for his talent!

During a cookout with our small group...three of the kiddos "playing" together...Eyla Horning, Andrew and Ian Canfield.

Up until a couple of weeks ago, we would feed Andrew dinner at around 6pm-ish, put him to bed at 8pm-ish and then wake him up at 11:30pm to feed him (then put him to bed and he slept til 8am). This is from one of those 11:30 feedings, which I treasured because he's not so quiet and cuddly during the day anymore! (Now, we feed him before he goes to bed at 8ish and he sleeps til 8am still. We are SOOOOO thankful and praise God for such a good sleeper!!)

The two girls that I have mentored for the last 3 years graduated in May. I'm so proud of them, and excited for what the Lord has next for them, but am sad that I won't be seeing them on a regular basis. This was duing a graduation party for Alison. (She also babysit Andrew quite a bit for us this spring.)

Waiting for Alison's pinning ceremony (for Nursing) to start.

The day Andrew came home from the hospital, AU had a home game (which, of course we went to.) After scoring a goal, Paul Hill (pictured below) ran past Benny, lifted up his jersey and showed him the shirt he's wearing in the picture. So sweet! Paul also graduated in May.

In other news...Benny was rear-ended in an accident on I-69 in the middle of the month. Everyone was okay (thankfully and most importantly), but his Lancer was totaled. We hadn't had a car payment in almost 2 years, and weren't planning on buying another vehicle for awhile, but we needed a replacement vehicle. We purchased a 2007 Rav 4 last week. I definitely never pictured myself owning an SUV (I always thought we'd go from cars to a minivan), but we decided we didn't really need a van yet (and didn't really want to have the lower gas mileage until we had to), the Rav gets great gas mileage, and we are excited about having the extra space.

Starting Solids!

2011-04-16T21:11:00.004-05:00

On Andrew's 6 month birthday, we gave rice cereal a try! He wasn't sure what to think at first, but then really started to enjoy it!

After the cereal, we tried avocado and then sweet potatoes (both homemade). He definitely hasn't been as excited about the other foods as he was with the rice cereal, but hopefully he'll eventually get the hang of it. It's tough to know if he doesn't like the taste of the food, or if it's a consistency/texture issue. I guess we'll just keep trying!

6 Months Old!

2011-04-16T21:08:00.006-05:00

April 4, 2011!!

March 2011

2011-04-16T20:39:00.015-05:00

Andrew loves bath time!! We think he looks super cute in his hooded towels after he gets out of the bath...

The beginning of March was finally warm enough to get outside for a walk!! (Andrew still had to be pretty bundled up, but we were outside!)

Every Sunday evening, Benny meets with several guys from the AU soccer team for small group, called "Raven FC." It has been really awesome to see where the Lord has taken this group through Benny's incredible leadership. (Andrew doesn't usually stick around for the meetings...he doesn't have much meaningful insight yet :)

Hanging out on the porch with Daddy!

Leta and Larry came in town one Friday night at the end of March and went out to dinner with us. Andrew loves grandparent time!

The fam...

I think this was after a bath one evening...

A few with Andrew's best friend...his Daddy.

5 Months Old!

2011-03-15T16:27:00.005-05:00

March 4, 2011!

February 2011

2011-03-15T16:02:00.008-05:00

Here are a few Bennison family happenings for the month of February!

Saturday the 12th we spent some time with the Daughertys! Jess made a yummy sausage-tortellini soup, we played with the boys, put all of the boys down for bed, and then played a game. We LOVE you guys, and secretly wish you'd move back to Anderson! :)

Andrew and Jess

Aden and Andrew. (Aden was about Andrew's age in this picture the first time we met him- in July 2007 in Hilton Head, NC. Oh, how time flies!)

Snuggling with Daddy. So sweet.

These two college students are super special to us! Betsy is one of the girls I've mentored for the past two years, and Matt is our neighbor (and an AU soccer player). Sometimes they/we joke that they are our other two kids, so here are our "three children."

One day after Andrew's afternoon nap, he was especially happy! (He is for the most part a very happy baby, for which we are extremely thankful!)

Andrew is 4 months old!

2011-02-07T21:50:00.006-06:00

February 4th, 2011!

Andrew's Dedication

2011-02-07T21:36:00.009-06:00

Sunday, January 30 we took part in our church's Parent-Baby Dedication service. We were able to commit before the church, our friends and family our intent to raise Andrew in a Christ-centered home.

We had friends and family over to our house after the service for lunch.

Leta, Larry and Andrew.

Leta, Larry, Chris Russel, Alison Bachtel, Matt Young, Eyla Horning, Jason Horning, Cherilyn Horning.

Alison Bachtel and Chris Russell with Bailey Horning.

Kathy and Andrew.

Mommy and Daddy playing with Andrew after everyone had gone home.

Andrew, we love you so much and pray every day that you would come to know the Lord as your personal savior at an early age, and that He would help us to lead you in His ways.

January 2011

2011-02-07T21:07:00.018-06:00

On December 27th, my maternity leave was over and I started back at work. It was a VERY hard adjustment (hard to not be with Andrew all of the time, hard to be working night shifts again--Andrew has been sleeping very well at night so I wasn't used to being up during the night!), but I'm doing better now. Benny is able to work from home and stay with him during the day while I sleep, so we're very thankful to not have to pay for childcare at the present time. We are continuing to pray for Benny's job search (for a head coaching position at a university...please pray with us!) which would allow me to work a little bit less. We are completely trusting in the Lord's timing!

Here are some pics from January!

Andrew and Matty (our neighbor/one of the AU soccer players) right after Andrew's nap.

January 4th: Andrew is 3 months old!

He loves being on his tummy!

A fun little Mizzou outfit Andrew got from my Mom.

Kathy came in town for a night so that Benny and I could have a date night!

After waking up one afternoon, I found my men here:

(PRECIOUS!)

Smiling and laughing with Daddy before dinner.

Relaxing with Daddy

Reading with Mommy

We are LOVING having Andrew in our lives!!!

Christmas 2010

2011-02-07T21:04:00.001-06:00

(Yes...I realize that it is almost Valentine's Day and I am just now posting Christmas pics... :)

In mid-December, we went to see Santa at the Castleton Mall. Notice Owen's (in Jess's arms) excitement for the event. Meanwhile, Aden is calmly telling Santa his wishes for Christmas. Priceless.

Aden giving Andrew silly faces.

Benny, Andrew and I celebrated our Christmas together on Wednesday the 22nd before driving over to Lafayette to be with Benny's family. We started some of our own little traditions with Andrew this year. We made Kanakuk Coffee Cake, read Andrew the Christmas Story from his little children's Bible, talked about why we give gifts to eachother in the first place, and then opened presents. I know he understood and soaked up every word and each detail of the morning. :)

In Lafayette, Benny with his Dad and Andrew. Such a proud Grandpa! (Andrew is the first grandchild on BOTH sides of the family!)

We opened presents with Benny's dad (Larry), his wife Leta and Benny's brothers (Shaun and Kyle) on Christmas Eve morning.
Shaun, Kyle and Benny.

The boys had ordered a hat rack for Larry and Leta but it was going to be on back order until late February, so they created a little make-shift one (kinda makes ya think of the Garfield Christmas movie, doesn't it?)

Uncle Kyle with Andrew

Uncle Shaun with Andrew

The Bennison Boys.

We opened presents with Bennys Mom (Kathy) on Christmas morning. Andrew was really excited...

We headed over to Benny's cousin's house in the late afternoon on Christmas Day to have dinner with his mom's side of the family.

Kyle, Shaun, Kathy, Andrew, Me and Benny.

Merry Christmas!! :)

Thanksgiving (and a little beyond)

2010-12-03T20:31:00.010-06:00

For Thanksgiving, Benny, Andrew and I traveled to Columbia, MO to spend the holiday with my side of the family. Shortly after arriving in town, we got to spend some precious time with some of our favorite people...the Horn family! (I'm a slacker and didn't get any pictures.)

On Thanksgiving day, lots of family came over to my parents house to hang out and eat.
This is Brayden, my cousin Andrea's son with Andrew. He was SO excited to hold Andrew!

Benny, Andrew, Brayden and Andrea. (Brayden is going to be a big brother in February!!)

Ian (my step-sister Crystal's son) and Andrew. He was also very excited about holding Andrew! :)

Ian and Brayden waiting to eat.

After dinner we encountered a slightly dramatic situation. Brenda (my mom's sister) was taking the blades off of the electric knife and accidentally made a pretty good slice in two of her fingers. Brayden noticed that Brenda was getting quite a bit of attention while I was applying pressure and fixing her wounds...

So he decided that he had gotten hurt too!! Here he is with a paper towel, applying pressure to his "wound." (And no injury would be complete without a sad, pouty face! :)

On our way back to Anderson, we got to stop in Greenville to spend time with the Ambuehl family. (Again...total slacker and no pics.)

Back in Anderson, Benny's younger brother Kyle came in town on Saturday to hang out and to meet his nephew for the first time!

This past week, our friend Andrew Rode (who coached football at AU last year and is now coaching at Greenville College in Illinois) was in town recruiting. We were thankful to get a couple of hours with him!

Hanging out with Daddy. We loved how content he was to sit on Benny's chest like this!

"Tummy Time." Look how strong that neck is!

We are so thankful for our wonderful family and friends and are especially thankful this year for the sweet blessing of having little Andrew in our lives.

Fall Fun!

2010-12-03T16:24:00.005-06:00

Two weeks before Thanksgiving the weather was BEAUTIFUL in Indiana! For three days in a row, Benny and I took Andrew on a walk around AU's campus. The first day, the two soccer guys from across the street joined us, we picked up a couple of the girls I mentor on campus and we all had lunch together. The next day, we had a few more. The last day, this was the group:

It became one of those "little things turned into a big thing." We loved it!

Our smiley little boy!

Watching TV with Daddy:

Benny, Andrew and Benny's mom Kathy after the AU soccer banquet. Benny was honored for his three years of service as an assistant coach. (We're just starting to look for coaching jobs for next year for Benny. Please be praying that the Lord would lead us exactly where he wants us to serve!)

He is SO precious! :)

Paintings for Andrew's Room

2010-12-03T16:11:00.005-06:00

When we picked Andrew's name, we decided to give him a name with a strong meaning. His name means "tender warrior." (Andrew= warrior/man and Caden means gentle/tender). Our prayer is that his character would one day reflect his name: a strong, bold leader with a gentle, tender spirit. We asked our good friend Jill Scovell to do a painting for his room that would reflect the meaning of his name, and this is what she came up with!!

She picked the Lamb/Lion combo because it reflects the perfect example of a tender warrior...Jesus Christ... the sacrificial lamb and the mighty lion. Thank you, Jill for blessing us with such a meaningful gift! (See link to the right for more of her incredible artwork!)

ANDREW CADEN BENNISON!

2010-11-01T20:23:00.014-05:00

So most of you have probably seen some pictures of Andrew via Facebook, so there won't be an abundance of pics in this post. But, I did want to tell our "labor story" for those who are interesed:
I woke up on Sunday morning (October 3rd) at around 6 or 7 am having contractions about every 10 minutes. Because I was only 1-2cm earlier that week in the office, I knew I was going to have to contract for a while in order to make any change. So, we decided to go to church (30 minute drive). I continued to contract at church, on the way home, while eating lunch, and while trying to take a nap. I started doing some things around the house and decided I wanted to take a walk, and if the contractions got closer together after the walk, we'd run into the hospital to have one of my coworkers check me. During the walk they were around 6 minutes apart, so we got in the car and headed to the hospital. (I had called my friend Courtney to tell her I was just going to stop by to see if I was doing anything...such a perk of working in Labor and Delivery!) Courtney checked me, and I was 3-4 cm! (it was 5:30pm-ish). Our friend Cherilyn came up to the hosptial to hang out with me so that Benny could run home and grab our bags (thankfully we live really close!). I got my epidural at around 10:30pm and my doctor came and broke my water at 11:15pm- I was 5cm. At 3:45 she came back to check me, said I was 10cm and had me start pushing. Andrew was born at 4:24am!! (I was really nervous that I wouldn't be a good pusher...after 5 years of telling other women how to do it I felt like this was a performance review. I was going to be so ashamed if they had to tell me over and over, "You're doing this all wrong!" I guess I did allright...)

RIGHT after delivery!

First family photo :)

I am so thankful that my parents were able to stay with us for a few days! They were beyond helpful and SUCH a blessing!

I absolutely love this one of Benny and Andrew. They are going to be such great buddies! I am so blessed to have a husband who will intentionally love, mentor, guide, and instruct our children, and who will most importantly model and teach God's love!

One of our favorite pictures of little Andrew...

Our friend Jose came by and took some AMAZING pictures for us. Here are just a few: (Andrew is 4 weeks old in these pics)

Today, (November 18th) Andrew is 6 1/2 weeks old. He has started smiling and making fun little noises. He has most definitely changed our lives, but we can't imagine not having him around. We prayed and prayed for him, and are soooo thankful that the Lord has given us the opportunity to be his parents!!!! We pray that we are faithful to allow Him to guide as we do our best to lead, direct and guide him to be the man that God desires him to be!

September 2010

2010-10-28T19:49:00.026-05:00

Hello friends!
So the last couple of months have been a little busy :) and I have neglected our blog. Here's what our September looked like:

AU soccer season started at the beginning of the month! Now (November 1st) the regular season is over, and the team plays in the conference semi-finals on Wednesday. They had a GREAT season! (see link to AU men's team at right)
Benny on the sidelines during one of the first games:

At a high school football game with the Daughertys. Benny and me with Aden and Owen. We LOVE these precious boys! (and their parents :)

Benny and Owen:

Benny and I are super blessed to be able to live life alongside a great group of couples in a small group. They surprised us with a baby shower!

Jonah and Sarah

Our awesome small group!! Sarah and Jonah McDonough, Troy, Katrina and Ian Canfield, and Cherilyn, Jason and Eyla Horning!

One of Benny's favorite things to watch: Ian eating!! We love the way he opens his mouth SO wide for every bite!

Troy reading to Eyla and Ian.

The AU men's team, watching the women's game.

My incredible husband, helping the guys get warmed up:

The starting lineup:

Benny and I with Matt Young, our fun neighbor!

Some of the girls at work hosted a shower for the THREE nurses who were pregnant at the same time! Jacole (due October 3rd...the day before me!) and Courtney (due at the beginning/middle of November.)

39 week belly shots!

Andrew's Room!! The awesome painting above his crib and changer dresser was made by our good friend Lainie Deerman.

(The wall space above the organizer is being saved for two drawings that my dear friend Jill Tanana is working on!)

(There's actually a shelf on the wall to the left of the rocking chair with some picture frames...just can't see it in this picture!)

Baby Shower in Noblesville, IN

2010-09-13T22:52:00.010-05:00

Sunday, August 27th Leslie Galema and Jess Daugerty hosted a PRECIOUS baby shower for me!

Here's the creatively decorated food table:

Opening gifts:

Leslie and Cassity Galema (Leslie's hubby Adam and Benny have been friends since 2nd grade and were college roomates.)

Jessica and Brenda Daugherty (Brenda is Jess's mother-in-law. Brenda's son Travis was one of Benny's college roomates.)

Wendy Fridley (AU head soccer coach's wife) and Sue and Katie Rocholl (Katie plays on the AU women's soccer team and Sue is her mom!)

Elizabeth, Laura and Abigail Tully (Laura and Benny are cousins)

Alison Bachtel and Betsy Reiff (two of the AU students I mentor.)

Megan Uselton (she's dating Benny's cousin Eric), Allison Jonas (married to Benny's cousin John), and Pat Jonas (Benny's aunt).

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU Leslie and Jess for hosting such a great shower and to everyone who was able to come and for the gifts. We are so humbled by your friendship and love!

Rachel's 28th Birthday

2010-09-13T22:33:00.004-05:00

So for the record, I have the most amazing husband in the world. He did such a great job honoring me for my 28th birthday (which was August 23rd).

Sunday night (the 22nd) he made me stay in another room for a few minutes while he set up the kitchen table. What I came out to was this!

Next, he had me open the flowered box on the left side of the table. Inside was a scrapbook that he had actually started last year, and just finished last week. (He's so cute!)

The next morning (my birthday), he made me breakfast before leaving for preseason soccer training.

After training, we had lunch together and he had me open two of the gift bags. Inside were t-shirts from two really great local restaurants: Geene's Rootbeer and The Lemon Drop. I have a thing for t-shirts from local places where we live, so this was perfect!! Then he had me open one of the cards. Inside was a gift card to Target. He didn't actually load the card, but he used it to explain that he was taking me on a shopping spree there! Target is one of my most FAVORITE places...even if I am just walking around and looking, I just love BEING there. So, a shopping spree was SUCH a fun idea. (He did give me a couple of rules...I wasn't allowed to buy anything for Andrew, him, or for the house...they could only be things for ME...this was tough!)

So we left, went on our shopping spree, and then had dinner at the Olive Garden.
I dropped Benny off at soccer training, went back home and awaited the final portion of my gift.

When he returned, I was able to open a really sweet card from Alison, one of the girls I mentor. Then I opened the final bag on the table. Inside were lotions and bubble bath from Bath and Body Works. He drew me a bubble bath and then gave me a massage. How heavenly!! It was the perfect end to a really fabulous day.
Here's the table at the end of the day!

(ALSO, lovingly sprinkled throughout the day were phone calls, text messages and facebook posts from my wonderful friends and family...you guys are the best!)

Anniversary Trip to Phoenix, AZ

2010-08-24T16:47:00.010-05:00

Benny and I went out to Phoenix August 13th-17th. September 3rd is our 5th anniversary, but we thought that'd be a little late to travel (and Benny has already started preseason for soccer).

Our first night in town, we stayed with Benny's older brother Shaun at his new house. We loved getting to see his beautiful home, and we always love time with him!
We keep trying to convince him to move back to the midwest, so buying a house out there was a step in the wrong direction. :)

The classic pose Benny and his brothers strike when I say "okay, time for a picture." Silly boys...

Then I always make them try again...

Me and Shaun.

Me and my awesome hubby!

Saturday night Shaun dropped us off at our resort. We found out about this resort from Chris and Sarah Boddy's blog, and we loved it!!! It was called the Point Hilton Squaw Peak Resort. It's a great place for couples, and would also be a fun place for the whole family.
We had dinner each night at one of the resort restaurants. This one was our favorite!

The resort was beautiful! Here, we're standing on the other side of one of the pools, and next to one of the restaurants.

This was the quiet, peaceful pool we relaxed at Sunday and Monday. It was right behind the fitness center, so both mornings we worked out, spent a couple of hours at the pool, went in to eat lunch and then went back to the pool. You'll notice in the bottom right hand corner a blue raft in the pool, on which I spent a lot of time. (It's hard to lay out on your belly when you're eight months pregnant!)

Benny working on his tan.

Reading and getting a tan...fabulous.

The resort also had an awesome lazy river!

Our last night in town, before dinner.

Shaun came out to the resort and joined us for dinner!

For a couple of years, Shaun has been telling us about this mexican drink called "horchata," which is best described as cinnamon-y milk. He was really excited for us to try it, so we drove around after dinner Monday night and finally found a place that served it. Here's Benny taking his first sip:

It actually was pretty good!! Thanks for culturing us, Shaun!

We most definitely had an AWESOME time on our vacation. While we were gone, I asked Benny, "when do you think the next time will be that we'll take a vacation like this without kids?" We both agreed it would probably be a while.

Getting Ready for Andrew

2010-08-24T16:42:00.009-05:00

That's right...we decided on a name for our little boy!! His name is Andrew Caden Bennison!

Some pics from 30 weeks (taken 7/27/10)

Benny putting together Andrew's crib. (He was amazing, and also put together his dresser and changer dresser.)

Saturday, August 7th we attended a prenatal class at the hospital where I work. Benny looked fabulous in the empathy belly! :)

We're so excited for Andrew to be here, but are definitely still enjoying our time with just the two of us!

Baby Shower In Columbia, MO

2010-08-24T16:34:00.009-05:00

Saturday, July 31st my awesome friend Liz Horn hosted an awesome baby shower for me in Columbia! I was totally blessed with amazing gifts, and loved getting to see family and friends.

The beautiful table and yummy cake!

Opening presents!

Liz's beautiful little girls, Charlotte and Riley. They are precious and SO much fun!!

Tiffany and Joey. SUCH a blessing to see these awesome ladies!!

Me and Liz.

Liz, thanks so much for blessing us with this shower, and thanks to everyone who attended/sent gifts!! We REALLY appreciate you!!

Fourth of July Weekend

2010-07-11T20:05:00.008-05:00

Last Friday night (July 2nd) we had dinner with Adam and Leslie Galema, then went back to their house and hung out with them, their kiddos, Matt and Jen Gaylor.
Benny with Ryleigh Galema:

On Saturday (July 3rd), we spent the day at Mounds State Park with some friends. First we walked around the park on the trails, then we went swimming at the Park's public pool. We ended the evening with some grilling out, baggo and washers.
Andrew and Joy:

Troy and Ian:

The fellas grilling:

Andrew and Benny:

Me and Joy:

Me and the best husband in the world (Benny :)

Somehow we didn't get any pics from the Fourth (we watched fireworks with the Fridley Family)! We had an absolutely wonderful weekend!!

26 Weeks!!

2010-07-05T23:23:00.006-05:00

Only 14 weeks to go!

So once again these are posted a little late :) I had my 27 week doctor's appointment today, and thankfully everything is going well (Blood pressure is good, no swelling, his heartrate sounded great, and he's moving a ton!) Praise the Lord!

Road Trip To Ruston, LA

2010-07-05T22:46:00.030-05:00

Last weekend, Benny and I made the trek down to Ruston for the weekend. As always, we were blessed and encouraged by the incredible people there, and were sad we couldn't stay longer!

Our first stop in Ruston was with the Skinners. Benny and James: (James is one of the pastors Benny worked with at Crossroads Church)

Me and Kelli. Kelli mentored me while we were in Ruston (and still does now). She is an INCREDIBLE woman of the Lord!

We were blessed to stay with the Burnett family while we were in town. Friday night they hosted a get-together/pool party.
Benny with the Burnett's youngest boy, Jake:

Saturday morning was amazing. A group of women (led by Ellie Blackburn) hosted a Baby "Open House" for us at Susie Leonard's house (We didn't call it a Baby "Shower" because it was open to women and men to attend! Such a fun idea!)

The beautiful table of yummy snacks:

Ellie put together an adorable board of pictures from our childhood along with the character qualities we're praying for this little boy.

Wade Burnett and Jeff Peshoff

Jeremy and Emory Pendergrass, Karen Hanchey and Erica Kordsmeier.

Drew Blackburn with Nelson and Allison:

Amy and Taylor Burnett, Alicia Boudreaux

A few of the girls from the student ministry: Katelyn, Sarah, Emily and Mary. (Katelyn, Sarah and Emily were in my small group.)

Benny and me opening presents!

Polly Smith and Susie Leonard:

We loved the fun Louisiana attire we received for our little boy! This is an LSU onsie, and we also got a New Orleans Saints polo! We can't wait for him to support these Louisiana teams!

Me and Carol Ann (One of my coworkers from the hospital)

Ellie, Natosha, Alicia and me.

Me and Katelyn.

Saturday evening I met up with a group of girls for dinner at a fun local restaurant named "Dawg House" and dessert at Maggie Moos. Amy, Alicia, Natosha and Addie (Not pictured: Erica and Amy Burnett)

We loved being at Crossroads on Sunday morning to worship alongside our friends and to see more fabulous faces! Benny with some of the student ministry fellas: Jacob, Eli, Nathan, Will and Nick.

After church we had lunch at a new Ruston restaurant with the Peshoff Family. Benny with Jeff and John Clark.

Me with Mary, Sarah and Hannah.

Benny and Wade (back at their house).

Me and Amy

Before we left Ruston, we got to stop by the Kordsmeier's new, beautiful house! Below are Benny, James, Alicia, Amy, me, Natosha and Erica.

On our way back to Anderson, we stopped in Memphis and had dessert with Benny's younger brother, Kyle.

We are SO blessed by these AMAZING people, and can't wait to see them again soon!!

22 Weeks

2010-06-09T16:08:00.006-05:00

Some 22 Week belly shots (taken last week :)

And this is our little yard friend, Matty. This cute little bunny is always in our yard, and we decided to name him after one of the AU soccer players who lives across the street because he's out of town for the summer.

Date Day in Noblesville

2010-05-24T10:30:00.008-05:00

Last Friday, Benny and I had a really fun "Date Day." We biked to the gym to workout, then biked to the Anderson Public Library for a book sale. We bought several children's book for little baby boy Bennison for 25-50 cents each! After showering, we drove to downtown Noblesville (just north of Indianapolis). If you've ever watched the Gilmore Girls, downtown Noblesville reminds me of Stars Hollow!!

We got coffee and hung out at the Noble Coffee and Tea Company:

Then we had a yummy dinner at the Asian Grill: (This picture is from their website...there were definitely other people eating there with us!)

We got to do some recruiting for soccer, then went to Alexander's- an old time ice cream shop- for ice cream and to play cards.

We are definitely taking advantage of days like these before the baby comes!

Finals Week Cookout and Euchre Tournament

2010-05-24T10:07:00.010-05:00

During AU's finals week (yes...it was several weeks a go :) we invited the team over for a cookout/Euchre tournament. (Euchre is a card game, for those of us who have never played-before living in Indiana.)

Benny, Paul, Jake and Matt playing while Patrick, Eric, Adam and Charlie watch.

Stephen, Jake, Eric and Benny.

Stephen and Eric (in their "Euchre costumes"?) This fun duo won the tournament.

Katie and Patrick playing Mario Kart.

A few of the gals from the women's team came over to hang out also...me with Maddie, Katie and Megan.

We love these students and are so sad they're gone for the summer! We can't wait for August when they'll be back around!

IT'S A BOY!!

2010-05-17T12:39:00.006-05:00

We had an ultrasound on May 6th and found out that we're having a BOY!! We haven't picked out at name yet, but we'll let you know when we do!

His little profile:

His little man part:

And a little foot!

This pregnancy and little baby are such a blessing from our amazing heavenly Father!!

February/March 2010

2010-03-15T17:36:00.010-05:00

Here's an update of the last month and a half!

At the very end of January/beginning of February, I peed on a little stick and this is what happened:

:) We're pregnant!! :) We had an ultrasound on February 16th were we got to see the tiny embryo and hear the little heartbeat. Since I was only about 7 weeks along, there wasn't really much to see, but obviously it was very exciting and made me cry (can you believe that?). Right now (March 15th) I'm at 11 weeks and we're due October 4th. I'm feeling good---some days are better than others...the thought of lots of foods make me nauseated, and I've gagged/dry heaved countless times but only thrown up once. Some days I'm extremely exhausted, and other days I feel pretty normal. All of these things though are signs of a healthy pregnancy, so I definitely try to have a great attitude as I'm kneeling over the toilet or resting in bed! We had another doctor's appointment on March 9th, and everything was great!

On to other news...
Has anyone ever tried ear candling?? Somehow the idea of it came up when I was hanging out with Betsy and Alison one day, and we decided we needed to do it! It felt kind of weird, but our favorite part was looking at all of the nasty earwax at the bottom of the candle when we were finished!

Betsy getting her ear "candled."

And me doing Alison's ear.

Ahhh, memories! :)

The weekend of March 26th Benny and I were in Louisville, KY for an "Adopting for Life" conference. We've been talking about adopting for a while, and know it's something we have a heart for. We didn't know if we'd have our own kids first or adopt first, but we had heard about this conference from the Ambuehl's and decided to go. It was definitely an amazing conference...we received lots of great info about the adoption process, and were also spiritually and emotionally enriched. Jon and Liz Horn were there too, and it was such a blessing to share this experience with them.

Benny is coaching an Under-15 club team for Hoosier FC. They had their first tournament March 6-7, and they definitely showed improvement from the first day to the second. I got to sit with all of the parents during the games, and they were fabulous!! The absolutely ADORE Benny, and kept telling me how much their sons think of him. One of the dad's told him, "You really have found your calling." I couldn't agree more!!

Saturday night, we introduced our friend Andrew to a night of "firsts" in Anderson. (He just moved to Anderson this fall and is the wide receiver coach for the AU football team. He's worked the past two summers at K-Kountry, which is how we got connected with him.) We took him to a yummy rootbeer/hotdog drive-in restaurant named Gene's (he hadn't eaten there yet), went bowling (it was his first time to bowl in Anderson), and then came back to our house and played "Pass the Pigs" (he'd never played this fantastic game before).

Benny and Andrew acting tough after some intense bowling:

And not so tough:

And posing with this fun bowling pin!

Yeah for mega-long catch-up posts!! :)

Indiana Ice

2010-01-31T16:53:00.011-06:00

Last weekend, we took a group of students to an Indiana Ice hockey game (they're a minor league team in Indianapolis).

Nothing like fearing for your life during the game...

Sarah with the Ice mascot...Big Foot.

The girls...Sarah, Kelsey, Maddie, Katie and me.

Some of the fellas...Brian, Jake, Benny and Matt. (The theme for the evening was "Island Attire Night." Matt was the lone member of our group who decided to dress up, and he went all out! He even brought sunscreen so he'd "smell" the part!)

Katie and Patrick.

Raleigh and Jordan (Jordan was just hired to work at K-Kountry this summer!! We know he's gonna love it!!)

The girls outside after the game with a big ice skate: Sarah, me, Katie, Maddie and Kelsey.

After the game, we treated the students to appetizers at Cheesburger in Paradise.

Katie, Sarah and Maddie:

We had such a fun evening with this great group of students!

Christmas '09

2010-01-15T18:39:00.014-06:00

Okay, I'm FINALLY updating with Christmas pics!! :)

The weekend before Christmas, our neighbor Matt (soccer guy) spent the day with us. The guys were troopers and made Christmas cookies with me!

Benny and Matt making the dough:

Matt got a little messy decorating the cookies...

The masters at work:

Benny got to drive up to Lafayette on December 21st. I had to stay in Anderson to work, but got to join them on the 23rd.

Benny, Kathy and Shaun:

A silly one...

Shaun, Benny and Kyle on "Christmas Morning" (we opened presents on the 24th because I had to work again on the 24th at 7pm).

After I got off of work on Christmas Day, we drove to Columbia to spend a few days with my family!!

We got to spend a couple of hours with my (step) sister and brother, Chris and Crystal. Crystal is married and they have a precious little boy named Ian (1 1/2 year old) who I hadn't met yet!! It was so great to catch up with them, and to meet Ian!!
Me and Crystal:

My older brother David is a pilot/flight instructor. He wanted to take Benny flying while we were in town! But, Benny didn't just go for a little ride...he flew the plane!! He drove the plane while it was on the ground, did the takeoff, and flew around Columbia! (David landed the plane.)

Benny and David in the plane:

Doing their checkoffs:

And afterwards! Can you believe how small that plane looks??!!

I also got some precious time with my dear (and one of my longest) friends Liz and her family. (I mean Rory...that's for you, Leslie and Jess!) I am so thankful for her, and that no matter how much time passes between visits, we could spend hours talking!

Me and Liz with her beautiful girls, Charlotte and Riley:

Benny and Jon (Liz's husband):

The last night we were there, we played an intense game of Sequence with my Mom and David.
My Mom and I with our bowl of popcorn, ready to play!

Merry Christmas!! :)

Bacon Or Eggs

2010-01-06T07:13:00.011-06:00

Last semester Benny and I took over leading the soccer team small group, "Bacon or Eggs." The guys and girls meet together every other week, and we have really enjoyed investing in these awesome students. After our small group time during finals week, Benny and I made breakfast for dinner for the students.

Matt (one of the soccer guys who lives across the street), learning how to make french toast.

Jordan, Adam and Jake.

After dinner, some of the students stayed after for a little boys vs. girls game of Catch Phrase. It was pretty hilarious.

Sarah, Abbey, and Katie.

Patrick, Matt and Benny. (Matt was really dizzy after spinning and spinning in our desk chair. We all found this rather funny.)

The next two pictures aren't actually from Bacon or Eggs...we had these three fellas over for dinner one night, and afterwards, Mitch and Jake decided to armwrestle. Adam was the referee.

We are so blessed by our relationships with these students, and we can't wait to see how the Lord will continue to work in their hearts!

Birthing Center Christmas Party

2010-01-06T07:07:00.008-06:00

December 4th was my Christmas Party at work. Our cute managers made it a tropical Chrismas theme!

The weekday night nurses: Jacole, me and April. I love working with them!!

Rachel (evening shift unit secretary) and Amy (day shift nurse).

This is me DOMINATING one of the games we played. :) For those of you who don't know, I LOVE wrapping presents. One of my favorite things about working at the Buckle in high school was that we had free gift wrapping, so that meant I got to do a lot of it at Christmas time. For the game, we had to put oven mitts on and race against the clock to wrap a gift. I had the fastest time! (I know, I know....this is a very practical skill)

Me and Courtney (weekend option day shift nurse).

Our management staff: Kara, Lori, Stacey and Sarah.

Jacole chillin in the hammock with Santa.

It was really fun to hang out with these girls in a relaxed envoirnment outside of work!

Thanksgiving 2009

2010-01-06T07:01:00.007-06:00

We were blessed to get to spend some time in Lafayette for Thanksgiving. Wednesday afternoon we drove over, had dinner with Benny's Dad and Leta, and then got some time with the Galemas. Thursday we had a delicious meal with Benny's mom and her side of the family and then had to head back to Anderson so that I could work at 11pm. We love our family!

Me and Benny:

Benny and Larry:

Me and Leta:

Me, Kathy and Benny

Fort Night and Beef and Boards

2009-11-15T19:54:00.011-06:00

A couple of weeks ago, some of the fellas from the AU soccer team decided they wanted to come over to our house to build a fort. Yes...the kind you used to build in your parent's living room with all of the blankets in the house when you were eight years old. So on a Wednesday night, they came over, hung out for a little while, and then got to work on their masterpiece. It was rather hilarious to watch...they took apart our sectional couch, turned the pieces on their sides, and said things like, "this will be the living room...this will be the foyer....this will be the game room...this will be the bedroom..." They draped the blankets everywhere, and even stapled a few sheets to the wall! Here the boys are...super proud of their finished product:

Don't they look like little boys? So cute...

Eating their Taco Bell in the game area/kitchen:

All playing around on Facebook in the "bedroom":

The finished product:

They definitely ALL slept in the fort (including Benny) and probably got a whopping 4 hours of sleep. I think they're all excited about doing another "Fort Night" sometime soon!

Friday night, we went with Benny's Dad and his wife to watch Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at a fun dinner theatre place in Indianapolis called "Beef and Boards." We had a yummy dinner, and then got to watch the show!

The dining room/where we sat for the show. They took away the buffet tables and the stage slid out to where the buffets are now.

We'd never been to a dinner theatre before, so it was a great new experience!

"Pickle in a Pouch" and A Day of Soccer

2009-10-28T20:50:00.017-05:00

(First a picture of our house with the pretty fall trees:)

Last Friday night we took two girls out to dinner: Betsy (who you've heard about before) and Abbey (one of the women's soccer players). This was no ordinary dinner...this was Abbey's "new life in Christ celebration dinner!" (Betsy led Abbey to Christ Thursday night at the donut shop!) After dinner, we were sitting around talking, and somehow a conversation started about "pickles in a pouch." You know, the ones you can buy in the candy section of Blockbuster. Well, we all decided that even though they sounded disgusting, we needed to try them, so we did! Before eating our pickle in a pouch: (Benny, Abbey and Betsy)

And after: (They were AWFUL! The saltiest thing that I've ever tasted, but a funny memory, none the less!)

Saturday was our "day of soccer." We left the house at around 9am and drove down to Indianapolis. There were two games going on at one of the high schools for semi-states that Benny watched for recruiting. Game #1:

Game #2:

Then, we drove to Cincinnati for some AU games. First, the girls had a game:

#12 is Abbey!

The guys warming up:

And the men's game:

On our way to the fifth game of the day, we drove past an Ikea! And because I have the greatest husband in the world, after simply pointing at the sign, he pulled off of the highway and into the parking lot. We didn't have a lot of time to shop, but were able to find a few great buys, and it was worth every minute!

Benny recruiting at the lat game of the day:

We got home at around 10:30pm and it was definitely a long day, but totally worth the time I got to spend with my hubby!

AU Homecoming 2009

2009-10-21T16:19:00.013-05:00

So I had to start out this post with a couple of pictures of the beautiful fall leaves.
(I'm a big nerd...I know :)

This tree is in our neighbor's front yard:

In downtown Anderson:

God's creation is SO amazing!!

Anyway...onto AU Homecoming!

The weekend of October 9-10 was Anderson's homecoming. This year marks the 20th anniversary for the AU soccer program, so Friday night we went to an anniversary banquet. Here's where I brag about my husband for a minute: :) The head coach (who has been around since 1989 when the program began) honored two all-decade teams--one with players from 1989-1998 and the second from 1999-2008. There were 12 or so men on each team representing the best players from that decade...Benny is on the all-decade team for 1999-2008!! Benny's really humble about this sort of thing, and didn't even tell his parents he'd won the award, so I've decided it's my job to let people know about it! Here's Benny accepting his award:

Here's the current team, watching the ceremony from upstairs on the jogging track:

The whole group of alumni players that returned for the banquet. It was great for Benny to catch up with these guys, and fun for me to meet them!

Saturday was the homecoming game against Transylvania University. I got to watch Jared climb up and slide off of this rock several times during the first half. The first couple of times he climbed up the rock, he kept saying, "I know I can do it...I know I can do it...I'm almost there." Precious, absolutely precious.

Alison (one of the college students I mentor) and me during the game.

Benny and Jared after the game:

Adam and Jared Galema, Benny and Travis Taflinger. Travis was at AU with Adam and Benny, and lives in Kokomo, IN. He works for a ministry called "Bridges" that comes alongside urban kids in Kokomo. He just happened to be at KAA with a group of kids in 2008 when we brought kids from Ruston. It was great to reconnect with him, and I can't wait to meet his wife and kiddos some day!

Benny and Matt Mason. Matt was a freshman on the soccer team Benny's senior year.

Yeah for Homecoming!

Autumn

2009-10-04T22:40:00.013-05:00

I love the fall...the cool, crisp air, the leaves changing colors, drinking hot apple cider, buying pumpkins... I think I appreciated the changing seasons a little bit when I was growing up, but I think that spending three years in Lousiana where there were only two seasons: "really hot" and "not quite as hot" has made me appreciate the four distinct seasons offered in the midwest even more.

Here's an update of the last month or so:

A trip out to eat with the Galemas: Benny with Cassity and Jared in the back of the van.

We had dinner last weekend with our new, wonderful friends, the Canfields. Afterwards, we played Scattegories, Dance Dance Revolution, and Rock Band. Here's our awesome band (Troy, Katrina, me and Benny):

Betsy (one of the girls I mentor) is in Anderson University's production of the musical "Into the Woods." We went to see her on Friday night, and she did an amazing job!

Fall for the Bennisons definitely means lots of soccer! Benny has been super busy with games, practice, and recruiting (and his classes for grad school), but he always does an unbelievable job being intentional to find time for us to spend time together. It's been really great to be so close to campus and the game field...he can zip over after practice to see me before I leave for work, and I've been able to walk to all of the games! Also, we've been blessed to be able to open our home to lots of the students for dinner, and three of the soccer players live across the street! The next group of pics are from the first half of the soccer season:

Our new friends from church, the Holzworths came with their kiddos to a game a few weeks back. Me and Christy:

Todd and Benny:

Betsy and me during halftime of one of the women's games:

One of our good friends from Ruston had a week of meetings in Muncie, IN (which is only 20 or so minutes up the road) so he came to a game with me, and we got some great hang out time with him when he was finished with work stuff. We were so thankful we got to see him. And he probably has one of the greatest laughs we've ever heard! We miss you, James!

The men's soccer team heckling the opposing team during a women's game last week:

Benny addressing the team before their game on Saturday in Hanover, IN.

Benny and Coach Fridley watching the game. I love that whenever I catch a picture of them standing by eachother, they're always posed the same!

Wendy (coach Fridley's wife) and I rode with the team on the bus to the game against Hanover this weekend. We left at 8:30am and got back at around 9pm. It was a long day, but we enjoyed the time with our hubbies, and we always enjoy our time together! I am SO thankful for her!

I hope you are enjoying and appreciating your fall...and thanking God for His awesome creativity!

Higgings Lake, Michigan

2009-08-29T16:01:00.022-05:00

So I've noticed a trend with my blogging...for some reason I wait about two weeks to post the pictures I've taken. I'll try to get better, but for now... TWO WEEKENDS ago, Adam, Leslie, and Ryleigh Galema went up to Higgins Lake in Michigan with us. Benny's Dad and wife, Leta have a house on the lake that we were blessed to enjoy.

Here's a couple of pics from the shore at sunset:

The view from the back porch:

Adam and Leslie relaxing on the beach Saturday morning:

Busting out my Kanakuk counselor skills on the kayak. (I felt like I was breaking a rule by not wearing my "C.O" hat...all you Kanakukers know what I'm talkin' about!)

Benny coming in from a fun ride on the jet ski:

Saturday night, Larry and Leta took us out to dinner at "Fred's Fine Dining and Bowling." That's right... fine dining AND bowling! One half of the building had a restaurant with yummy food, then the other half was a bowling alley! We definitely took advantage of both! Leslie and I forgot to bring socks with us to the lake, so we purchased the most beautiful ones we could find across the street at the Dollar General:

A little close up: (Leslie definitely tight rolled her pants)

After dinner and bowling, we made a campfire down by the lake for s'mores!
Leslie and Adam, by the campfire:

Benny and me:

Adam and Benny roasting our 'mallows for our s'mores:

Leslie being all "out-doorsey" with her citronella candle:

Playful Benny with his silly Dad:

Larry, Benny and Adam.

Larry and Benny, acting a little more normal:

Me and Les:

And of course, our precious baby Ryleigh. She was SO good on the trip!

We were so sad we had to leave Sunday afternoon, but can't wait to go back again! It was so relaxing and such a great time with Adam, Leslie, Larry and Leta!

Kennedy Family Vacation 2009

2009-08-11T14:12:00.021-05:00

July 24-30 we were in Seagrove Beach, Florida with the Kennedy Family. (Tim and Random Kennedy have 4 kids who were in our youth group in Ruston. This is the third beach vacation that we've been blessed to go on with them, and they're so fun and easy to be around.) Another couple from Ruston(Shaundra and Quarvay) stayed in the house with us as well, one of the boy's friends and his mom were staying in another condo down the road, and their daughter had brought a friend.

We left on Thursday, July 23rd and got into Florida on Friday afternoon. Since the Kennedys weren't arriving until Saturday, we stayed the night in Panama City. We had dinner at a yummy seafood place with outdoor seating on the beach and relaxed all morning on Saturday in the hotel.

On the beach at sunset in Panama City:

Saturday afternoon, we drove over to Seagrove Beach and found the house the Kennedys had rented for the week. It was adorable!

Sunday morning: our first full day on the beach. Benny and I love laying out for several hours every day, relaxing, reading, talking and getting in the water every now and then. This was our perfect little set up for the week with the family:

A pic of the whole group after dinner one evening:
Vonceil Cooper, Micah, Josiah, Caleb, Clark Cooper, Bailey Wright, Charis, Shaundra, Quarvay, Random, me and Benny.

Shaundra, Quarvay, Random, me and Benny:

Just a mile down the road from our house is the ADORABLE community of Seaside. When we weren't on the beach or relaxing in the house, we were in Seaside. They have adorable coffee shops, Gelato stands, a bookstore, and beautiful art galleries.

The movie "The Truman Show" was filmed in Seaside. This is a pic from the filming of the Truman Show. If you've seen the movie, you can picture this perfect, quiet little town.

The little coffee shop we spent some time at a few evenings while Benny was studing for the MAT (an entrance exam for GRAD SCHOOL. He took the test the Monday we got back. He got a high enough score to get in, and he only studied a week for it... that little smartie pants! He's going to be getting a Masters of Arts in Ministry from John Brown University. We got 1/3 of it done from our classes at the Kanakuk Institute, and most of the rest of it will be completed online. We decided that this will be a great next step for pursuing a career as a head college soccer coach.)

Outside the coffee shop after an evening of studying.

Each night, a different person/couple took a turn cooking dinner for everyone. Here's Benny and I in the kitchen on our night:

Out on the beach in the evening, getting some great pictures.
Tim and Benny:

Random and me:

Charis, Bailey and me:

The Kennedy Family: Micah, Caleb, Josiah, Random, Tim and Charis. We LOVE THEM and miss seeing them so much!

Caleb and Benny:

Benny and me out at the beach on our last day there:

We had an unbelievable time soaking up the rays and relaxing, but we always enjoy our precious time with this incredible family most of all!

926 BBQ

2009-07-21T22:14:00.026-05:00

Last Monday night, we had a 926 BBQ! (If you recall, 926 College Dr. was the address of the house Benny lived at in college with 7 awesome guys.) The Hanlons were in town from Florida, so the Galemas and the Daughertys all came over to our house for a fun little reunion (although we were really sad that the Farmers, Whyes, Schulers and Lustig couldn't be there!)

Benny with Mabry Hanlon

Aden Daugherty and Mabry Hanlon playing in the AMAZING t-shirt quilt my aunt Brenda just finished for Benny and me.

Mabry holding Ryleigh Galema.

We took advantage of our new close location to AU's campus by walking over to "the Valley." Benny, with Aden on his shoulders and Jared tugging on his shorts walking through the soccer fields. (Benny is in his second of two weeks of soccer camps right now, and I was so thankful he was able to sneak away from camp for a few hours to hang out with us!)

The Valley is in the middle of the campus, has beautiful trees and a winding walkway. It also has this really fun fountain that the kids loved! Below are Cassity Galema, Mabry Hanlon, Benny, Aden Daugherty and Jared Galema.

Briley Hanlon, Mabry's precious new baby sister!

Owen Daugherty...what a great smile! He was smiling at his daddy!

Here are the kids "hiding" from Benny during a game of hide-and-seek.

Jared being silly for the camera.

Aden and Mabry trying to stick their feet in the fountain.

The 926 Kids (minus Avery Schuler and Ella Joy Farmer): Owen, Cassity, Ryleigh, Jared, Aden, Mabry and Briley! What a fun group!

The Ladies: LA, Ryleigh, Jess, Cassity, me and Leslie.

Back at the house, Benny and Travis manning the grill.

Aden and Cassity enjoying their yummy food.

The fellas decided to squeeze around the small table in the living room to eat their dinner. (Adam, Benny, Andy and Travis)

After dinner Jared, Mabry and Aden were playing a really cute game with Travis: Trav would peek through the blinds at them while they were out on the sun porch, they would laugh, run inside and look at him in the living room, laugh, and then come back out to the porch and do it again. The kids could have played this game for hours!

Briley and Benny.

The fellas, right before everyone headed out.

And the ladies...

We sure do love our 926 reunions...but they're even better when everyone is there!! Next summer?!?!

Texas/Louisiana Roadtrip

2009-07-13T22:14:00.027-05:00

For the 4th of July weekend, Benny and I headed south for a little roadtrip! We left Anderson on Thursday (July 2nd) and rolled into Ft. Worth in the afternoon of the 3rd. Benny was in a friend from Ruston's wedding that weekend, so I dropped him off at "Stockyard Stations, " for the rehearsal. When we drove into the Stockyards, this was the first thing we saw:

So steriotypical Texas!! It was awesome!

Taking advantage of the photo opps in the Stockyards while we waited for everyone to show up for the rehearsal:

While Benny was doing wedding/bachelor night stuff in Ft. Worth on Friday night, I drove over to Dallas to hang out with some friends. I got to stay with Cari Cassell (a good friend from the Institute), Jenni Berryhill (she was a counselor in my small group at K-West), and Susan (her boyfriend Andrew Hudson was in my Institue class). I so appreciated the great conversations with these friends! Saturday morning, we went to a Highland Park neighborhood parade. It was darling, and there were so many people lining the streets for this annual event!

My FAVORITE part of the parade: This giant shopping cart from a grocery store in town!

Andrew and Susan, enjoying the parade:

After the parade, we walked down the street to a park where there were tons of booths and jumping houses set up. Here I am with Cari and Jenni at the park:

At around noonish, I headed back to Ft. Worth for the wedding at Stockyard Station. Christian and Mary (bride and groom) are both very creative/artistic individuals, and their wedding displayed just that! We loved getting to catch up with lots of our Ruston friends, as well as support the bride and groom, of course!

Benny and Chris Hanchey (Chris was on staff at Crossroads Church with Benny)

Benny and Matt Williams (Matt was one of our awesome volunteers with the kiddos our first two years in Ruston)

Benny and Jake Dugard (Jake was also one of our awesome volunteers)

Benny and Christian (the groom. Christian helped out with the kids also, and was Benny's assistant coach for the Ruston High Soccer Team.)

Me and Benny!

Me and Theresa Claunch (she got married this past weekend, so she is now Theresa KING!! Yeah Theresa!)

After the reception, we drove about 20-30 min north of Ft. Worth to Keller to hang out with the Ambuehl family. Benny met Ben at the Institute, and also lived with him for a year in Branson. Ben and Christi are amazing people, and they have such adorable children! We went out to eat with them, and then watched the fireworks in Ft. Worth.
Sunday morning, we walked to a little donut shop in the Ambuehls neighborhood before getting on the road to Ruston (and making a stop at the Ikea in Frisco!).

Benny playing with Liza Jane:

Christi and me (with my "its- sunny-out -here- squinty eyes")

Ben, Chaz, Benny and Liza Jane.

When we got into Ruston, we headed over to a Student Life swim party to see a bunch of our kids. It's crazy how much teenagers change in just one year, especially the boys...they get taller, look older and their voices get deeper. They were great, and we loved the opportunity to see so many of them.
Me with Alexis and Aaliyah Jones. (and no, they aren't muslim...they had wet hair from swimming.)

After the pool party, we spent some great quality time with the Peshoff Family.
Hanna, Sarah and Mary Peshoff:

Benny with Will and Jeff Peshoff

Monday night, the Burnetts hosted a get-together with some of our great friends in Ruston. We sure do miss you guys A BUNCH!!

The Ladies: Wendy, Alicia, me, Natosha, Erica, Ellie, and Amy

The boys played an intense game of water polo during the get together. Here's Wade, probably talking some smack to Benny:

Relaxing after the game: Wade, Brian, James and Benny.

Jake Burnett and Benny, on Tuesday morning before we left. I think Jake was pretending to drive Benny around "in the car" before this pic was taken (the remote was the steering wheel). I tell you what, every time I watch my husband interacting with kids, it makes me more and more excited to watch him invest in and bring up our own kids! He's amazing!!

We rolled back into town on Wednesday, July 8th, just in time for me to be back at work at 7pm. We are so thankful for the great quality time we had with so many people on our trip!

Baby Shower and Ryleigh Reid

2009-06-14T22:13:00.009-05:00

Last Saturday, Jess Daugherty and I hosted a baby shower for Leslie Galema. Here are some pics of the fun event!

Jess, Leslie and I.

Leslie displaying a fabulous gift.

Bella and Amber Ritchey. (I love Bella's face in this picture!)

And on Wednesday, June 10th, little Ryleigh Reid Galema entered the world! She's absolutely adorable and such a sweet little baby. Benny and I can't wait to watch her grow up!
Me with the Galema girls:

Benny and Ryleigh.

Benny and his buddy Jared.

Also...my parents visited last weekend! They came in on Friday evening and headed back Monday afternoon. It was a great visit, but somehow I didn't get any pictures! We had lots of great conversations, and my Dad and Benny made several Lowe's runs (a staple for every visit!). Thanks Mom and Dad, for making the trek to Indiana to see us. We love you!

Catching Up, April and May

2009-06-02T16:51:00.007-05:00

Hello blogging friends! Sorry for the lag between posts! For some reason I haven't had my camera handy over the past few weeks and haven't had a chance to update. So I'll just give a quick synopsis of the last few weeks!

At the end of April, Benny and I were super pumped about the warm weather and I had a super big itch to ride bikes. But, since our bikes from childhood were at our respective parents houses and hadn't been ridden in probably 15 years, we bought new ones! We took them to this awesome bike trail that starts north of Indianapolis and runs through all of the cute suburbs. We had an awesome time, and are excited to do it again soon!

Sometime during the first couple of weeks of May, we were hanging out with the Galemas and Daughertys, and I walked into Cassity's room and saw this:

Benny was reading "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" to all of the kiddos on Cassity's loft. They were ALL intently listening to the story. It was PRECIOUS. My husband is going to make the most incredible daddy some day!

On Memorial Day, we went to Jared Galema's third birthday party. Here's the birthday boy, enjoying his yummy food.

Cassity, the big sis:

Benny and Aden Daugherty, eating a birthday cupcake:

And finally, this past Saturday, we moved into our new house! We had a little blip with the UHaul (long story) and ended up getting everything over to the house with two pickups and cars--and lots of help from friends.(We had a 27-foot Uhaul for our two previous moves!) By Monday afternoon, there were only 2-3 boxes left to be unpacked! Moving is definitely a very exhausting process, but I'm so glad to be settled into our new home!

Our New Home in Anderson

2009-04-18T19:47:00.004-05:00

That's right...Benny and I have decided to stay in Anderson, IN for one more year. (who knows what the Lord will do with us after that!!) This year we've been living in an apartment on the south side of Anderson. While it's a nice apartment, we were up for trying to find a larger space (just in case we have an addition to the family... :), with a lower monthly rent that was closer to Anderson University's campus. Well, after a couple months of looking at lots of houses without much luck, we found a winner this week... 729 Nursery Rd. It's literally 1 block from the soccer field, and even a bit closer to the hospital I work at. Here are some pics of the outside...

We'll start moving some stuff over mid-May, and then be in completely by June 1st. Yeah...we're getting pretty good at moving...this is house #4 for our 3 1/2 year marriage. Let's just say we'll be ready to stay in a house for more than 2 years, whenever the Lord decides that should be!!

Allison's Baby Shower

2009-04-18T19:29:00.006-05:00

Today I went to a baby shower for Allison Jonas. (Her husband John is one of Benny's cousins). It was precious shower in a beautiful home, and great time with Benny's family!

The cute little mom-to-be opening gifts.

Kathy (Benny's mom) and me.

Me and Megan. (Megan is dating Eric, another cousin.)

These precious little girls are Abigail and Elizabeth. Their mom is Laura (you guessed it...another cousin)

(FYI...the three cousins that have been mentioned thus far are John, Eric and Laura...they're brothers and sisters.)

Laura and me.

Megan, me, Aunt Jo, Aunt Pat, Kathy, Laura, Abigail, Allison, and Elizabeth.

The Last Few Weeks

2009-03-29T20:31:00.011-05:00

To recap March...

On March 2nd, Owen Daugherty was born! He's absolutely precious, and makes a fabulous addition to the Daugherty Family.

Benny, me, Owen, Jess and Travis on Owen's birthday.

Several days later, at the Daugherty's with Aden and Owen. Aden is such a great big brother!

Jared Galema really loves guitar hero. One evening when we were hanging out with the Galemas, Jared kept asking to "play." The way that he "plays" is that Adam has the real guitar hero guitar and Jared uses Cassity's Hannah Montana guitar. Benny also wanted in on the fun...so he used a yellow wiffle ball bat. Of course. (At the bottom of this post you will find a fabulous video of this event.)

Last weekend, we were in St. Louis for Polly Bennett's wedding. Polly was on staff with K-Life while I was in college, and is an amazing woman. Not only was it great to see Polly again, and to share in her celebration, but I got to see lots of other great college friends, as well. The wedding was at a glass factory, so there was lots of beautiful hand-blown glass everywhere.

Benny and I, in front of some of the pieces.

With Liz and Jon Horn. Liz and I have been friends since 7th grade when we had lockers next to eachother. It's been so neat to watch our friendship evolve over last 15 years...through junior high, high school, college, marriage, and for her...kids! Even though we haven't lived in the same place for 5 years, she still remains one of my closest, most reliable and faithful friends.

Love you, Liz!

This couple...Chris and Sarah Boddy... are really fun. I first met them when they were on staff with K-Life in St. Louis, and Benny and Chris worked at K-2/attended the Institue together. They are now on staff with Pine Cove Camps, and just had a little baby boy 7 weeks ago.

Kelsey Kindernecht...she was in my Sunday School class when I was in college...she was in 4th grade when I left, and now she's a SOPHOMORE in high school. She's absolutely beautiful, and definitely made me feel a little old :)

This is an amazing group of women. Katie Fabbiano, Bailey Mohr, Polly Baker, Genese Marshall, and Liz Horn. I did K-Life with these women, and each of them had a specific way of showing me how to have a genuine, real relationship with the Lord that could be lived out in a meaningful way on a daily basis. Thanks ladies, for the impact you've had on my life!

My Baptism!

2009-03-01T20:23:00.012-06:00

Today after church, I was baptized! (I was baptized as an infant, but I believe that baptism is an important step of obedience for every believer AFTER you have repented and accepted Jesus as your savior...see Acts 2:38. I became a Christian in junior high, but hadn't been baptized since.) It was such an incredible experience, because baptism symbolically unites us with the death, burial and resurrection of Christ (Romans 6:4-6). Several friends were there to celebrate the day with me, and Benny actually got to baptize me! He did such a great job facilitating the time, and he just helped to make it extra-special.

We both came into the baptistery, he introduced me (and brought a few tears to my eyes--of course-- because of the sweet things he said about me), and then I said a few things. He read some scripture, and then proceeded with the confession and baptism.

(My BIG, cheesy, I've-just-been-baptized-grin.)

Sweet little Jared Galema, afterwards.

Aden and Travis Daugherty.

Leslie Galema, Jess Daugherty and me.

These are two precious students from Anderson University who I'm blessed to be mentoring this year...Alison Bachtel and Betsy Reiff. (They both worked at Kanakuk last summer! Fun connection!)

I feel so blessed to have such wonderful friends and such an amazing husband...but even more, I am astounded at the loving and grace-centered relationship I get to pursue with Christ each and every day because of His death on the cross for each one of us!! God is so good!