Disclaimer: There is a lot of talk about God in this post. We believe we can ONLY give the credit to Him! Once you read this, you will see why. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to speak to us privately about them. Otherwise, enjoy the story, and if you feel inspired, praise with us! :)
H: Wednesday we found out that moving into the house was no longer an option, without any real concrete explanation. Disappointed and frustrated didn't even begin to scratch the surface as to how we felt. I wrote in my journal for a long time, pouring out my frustrations and anger to God. Yes, I was angry. I don't like being angry, and I even apologized. There was no holding anything back. At one point I wrote, "I've learned in the journey of becoming a follower of Jesus is that we still have an obligation to show Your love, even if we don't feel like it." Quite frankly, I didn't feel like it. We had spent the last two months praying, putting our faith in people following through, only to be left empty-handed and disappointed. I went to bed unhappy that night, utterly defeated and spent. I'm surprised I got any sleep at all.
Kelly was due to come home from Ohio Thursday, so I shared with our house church members that we would not be there, so we could spend the evening catching up, relaxing, and discussing our next steps. But what I didn't mention was that Thursday morning, I heard that still small voice, something, in my gut say, "You shouldn't go to church tonight." I couldn't explain it. (That was the first God moment, although I didn't know it at the time)
We went out for Chinese and we'd barely been home five minutes when Kelly got a Facebook message from a co-worker of hers, saying she had spoken to somebody about a duplex available in Richmond (God moment #2). On the phone, she said that a couple was going to look at it the next day, and asked if we could look at it that evening. We dropped everything and drove up there. Yes, it was that split-second of a decision! We had no trouble finding the apartment and were immediately taken to the location and the quietness of the neighborhood, despite it being right off the interstate. Kelly's co-worker arrived a few minutes later and we asked how she knew the landlord. This was her response (another God moment):
"Oh, I just talked to her on the phone just now. I've never met her before. I was just driving through here and I saw the sign out front, and I thought 'This is for Kelly. I want her to be in a safe neighborhood.'"
We were like ARE. YOU. KIDDING. ME.
Jennifer, the landlord, arrived a few minutes later. In addition to her infectious personality, she mentioned that a police officer lives down the street and that her niece works at the preschool nearby (Remember the talk about a safe neighborhood?) We helped ourselves to looking around, and, admittedly, it is a downgrade in terms of size and space, but we've learned over the last year that we've had too much space. The rent is more than $100 LESS than what we're paying now, and the place was near immaculate, there was new carpet, a small patio outside, plenty of parking, a washer and dryer hooked up (!!!), and, most importantly, Yoda and Wiley are welcome! :) Needless to say, it was not a difficult decision. By the end of the night, a key was given to us and we had signed the lease!
The drive home was a combination of a daze and utter exuberance. God had shown up! Big time. If we had gone to church, we would have missed the Facebook message and, ultimately, the phone call, the apartment would have been shown tonight and probably taken, and we would still be stuck waiting until the end of next month. But now, there is no more waiting, and we have a cute new duplex in Richmond waiting for us. All thanks to God!
K: While reading this, I thought of Holly. Gave up a UK, full-time benefited job for what she does now for the sake of being happier and less stressed out. I also think about getting my first job; that moment and time when I was just ready to give up was when I got the magic phone call. That's what happened here last night; God gave us what we needed, not what we wanted. I remember so many times praying "God just get us this house. Just get us this house." I'm not going to say it was as if my prayers were falling on deaf ears, because I don't believe that. Rather I just felt that this house we were seeking so hard for was just not going to happen. I always had this small notion in the back of my head that it was just going to not work out. Perhaps that was God's way of saying that He had something better for us. Because let's face it, the last thing we actually needed was MORE space and more money to be given for rent.
I truly believe that God talks and shows us what we need in a lot of mysterious yet awesome ways. I remember walking into that duplex and was like "this is it." That "aha!" moment. I don't believe in coincidence. I think coincidence is just one of the many ways God speaks to us. Though I can't hold claim to actually hearing His voice, I can hold to the fact that His fingerprints were ALL OVER THIS. There's really nothing more I need to add to this. It's all been said. We are excited to begin this new adventure and see where else He will take us. My ending is this; if you're waiting for something and feel like throwing in the towel, that's usually when a corner will turn. Sometimes it's not a good corner, but in our experience it usually is. Keep the faith, and remember that God is good.
Showing posts with label awesomeness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label awesomeness. Show all posts
Friday, July 24, 2015
Thursday, February 26, 2015
It's a God thing!
Holly: So we're pretty happy this evening.
And apparently I am part contortionist. Anyway...yeah, it's been a good day today! :)
Last night I wrote a post on my VISTA blog about VISTA turning 50 and what, essentially, being a VISTA means to me. I shared it on my Twitter page as part of a social media campaign raising awareness for this celebration. This evening I got this:
Yes, that is the AmeriCorps VISTA twitter page linking up MY blog for all the world to see! They mentioned my blog! Say freaking WHAT? :D
I don't mean to sound preachy, but I can't take any of the credit for this. It's all God. He knew EXACTLY what He was doing when He sent me here, and I am so thankful and beyond blessed (and undeserving!!). I don't know who runs VISTA's social media platforms, but it's humbling to realize that out of all the thousand some-odd VISTAs out there, they chose to showcase what God is doing for me and through me in wee little Berea Kentucky. It's humbling to realize that people in Washington DC could read this, my own personal blog I started just so I could remember this year. Yep...chalking this up to yet another pinch-me moment!
Kelly: For me, my "God thing" most of you already know about, as my Facebook continues to blow up with likes and comments from today's status. Ever since I did clinicals where I work (which was like almost 4 years ago) and ended up on the substance abuse unit, I was like yes. This is the kind of nursing I can do and want to do and would be very happy there. So I'm where I am now and am thoroughly enjoying it while winding through the occasional bumps and valleys and all of a sudden another opportunity for an opening on such unit comes up. Except it's during the day and not on my shift (3-11). On a whim, I apply internally for it, which I did on Tuesday. And this didn't just come out of nowhere; I've been ready for a change in job for a bit now; not leaving where I work, rather just doing something else. Anywho, I come into work yesterday and the scheduler tells me the job is mine once my current position gets filled. I was like....really? I honestly didn't think I'd even get the job. You see, there was an opening on my shift on the same unit back in the fall. I applied for it but didn't get it, which I was pretty bummed about. My state of mind on Tuesday after handing in my application was well if it's meant to be then it'll happen. And it did. And it IS!!! I was talking to a co worker last night (whom I have appointed as my "work mom") and we were like if you work hard and do well it'll pay off. I then said that never in my life did I have anything handed to me; I always had to work for it.
I was reminded of a song from mine and Holly's BME days and some of the simplest words were "with God I can." And for me it's been with God I can....and I just fill in the blank. At our house, we have a God is Good because...board. Last night when I got home from work I wrote because He knows our desires and provides. With God I, we, you, can do what you dream to do. And if you're reading this and are discouraged with whatever is going on in your life, I encourage you to please hang in there. Keep the faith; the darkness and shadows eventually have to go away. You can do it! As for me, I can't wait to see what God has in store for me and this new position.
Joy unspeakable. Faith unsinkable. Love unstoppable. Anything is possible
Last night I wrote a post on my VISTA blog about VISTA turning 50 and what, essentially, being a VISTA means to me. I shared it on my Twitter page as part of a social media campaign raising awareness for this celebration. This evening I got this:
I don't mean to sound preachy, but I can't take any of the credit for this. It's all God. He knew EXACTLY what He was doing when He sent me here, and I am so thankful and beyond blessed (and undeserving!!). I don't know who runs VISTA's social media platforms, but it's humbling to realize that out of all the thousand some-odd VISTAs out there, they chose to showcase what God is doing for me and through me in wee little Berea Kentucky. It's humbling to realize that people in Washington DC could read this, my own personal blog I started just so I could remember this year. Yep...chalking this up to yet another pinch-me moment!
Kelly: For me, my "God thing" most of you already know about, as my Facebook continues to blow up with likes and comments from today's status. Ever since I did clinicals where I work (which was like almost 4 years ago) and ended up on the substance abuse unit, I was like yes. This is the kind of nursing I can do and want to do and would be very happy there. So I'm where I am now and am thoroughly enjoying it while winding through the occasional bumps and valleys and all of a sudden another opportunity for an opening on such unit comes up. Except it's during the day and not on my shift (3-11). On a whim, I apply internally for it, which I did on Tuesday. And this didn't just come out of nowhere; I've been ready for a change in job for a bit now; not leaving where I work, rather just doing something else. Anywho, I come into work yesterday and the scheduler tells me the job is mine once my current position gets filled. I was like....really? I honestly didn't think I'd even get the job. You see, there was an opening on my shift on the same unit back in the fall. I applied for it but didn't get it, which I was pretty bummed about. My state of mind on Tuesday after handing in my application was well if it's meant to be then it'll happen. And it did. And it IS!!! I was talking to a co worker last night (whom I have appointed as my "work mom") and we were like if you work hard and do well it'll pay off. I then said that never in my life did I have anything handed to me; I always had to work for it.
I was reminded of a song from mine and Holly's BME days and some of the simplest words were "with God I can." And for me it's been with God I can....and I just fill in the blank. At our house, we have a God is Good because...board. Last night when I got home from work I wrote because He knows our desires and provides. With God I, we, you, can do what you dream to do. And if you're reading this and are discouraged with whatever is going on in your life, I encourage you to please hang in there. Keep the faith; the darkness and shadows eventually have to go away. You can do it! As for me, I can't wait to see what God has in store for me and this new position.
Joy unspeakable. Faith unsinkable. Love unstoppable. Anything is possible
Sunday, December 21, 2014
One Last Time
Holly and Kelly: Dear readers, we apologize for not updating in a while. It has been a very crazy month of going here there and everywhere. But we are fine, all is well and now we are back. Thanks for hanging tough and bearing with us.
Yesterday was the final hurrah. The big finale. The movie to end all movies. The Battle of the Five Armies. And it was glorious. It was also a time of gathering. As you all know, in September we attended ALEP (see our post on ALEP weekend here!) and met some pretty awesome people during that time. It was discussed at that time that there was a group who usually met up in December to see the current Hobbit movie in Nicholasville (about an hour from Berea). This group met up at Shaker Village the night before for a merry gathering, since it's almost Christmas. So needless to say we jumped all over that! We stayed at the village Friday night and got to meet up with some of the folks we met in September for snacks, conversation, laughing, a long slideshow and a little bit of tasty wine. Come Saturday we rolled out to Brannon's Crossing in Nickyville and gathered at the theater for pictures and a bit of singing, such as Misty Mountains and I See Fire- which was pretty incredible. Before we knew it there were other people taking pictures and videos of all of us, as the majority of the group were in costumes. It was awesome. Truly awesome. We kept saying "I love us." This group, these movies, as Kelly said, it was a celebration of the Christmas season, the love of Tolkien and Peter Jackson's work, how the books/movies have impacted us and our lives, and celebrating each other.
Now for our movie opinion; we LOVED it!!! We don't want to give too much away, because that's just not nice and we went into this movie having read no reviews, not viewed any clips, or seen anything else other than just the trailer. We expected a few things, naturally, just because we're fairly familiar with the book, but it far surpassed our expectations! There were quite a few moments that really surprised us, and of course, there were things that we weren't too thrilled with (but that's the case with the previous 2 Hobbit movies, and even LOTR too). But what really made this movie special, aside from it being the last Middle Earth hurrah, was the company that was able to witness this cinematic adventure with us. Many we met from AL3P, but we didn't get to have as many in-depth conversations and fellowship as we had wished (though there was still plenty!!), so it was really memorable to share life with these people. We all come from such different walks of life, such different parts of the world, and when we all come together united by this love for Tolkien, wonderful things happen. Now every time we see Five Armies, we'll think of this group, this family that we've been so fortunate to be welcomed into. Plus...Billy Boyd's closing song is complete perfection to the end of an incredible movie series...and to our parting. We will see each other soon, though. There is no such thing as goodbye!
So ends this day
The road is now calling
And I must away
Over hill and under tree
Through lands where light has never shone
By silver streams that run down to the Sea
Under cloud, beneath the stars
Over snow one winter's morn
I turn at last to paths that lead home
And though where the road then takes me, I cannot tell
We came all this way
But now comes the day to bid you farewell
Yesterday was the final hurrah. The big finale. The movie to end all movies. The Battle of the Five Armies. And it was glorious. It was also a time of gathering. As you all know, in September we attended ALEP (see our post on ALEP weekend here!) and met some pretty awesome people during that time. It was discussed at that time that there was a group who usually met up in December to see the current Hobbit movie in Nicholasville (about an hour from Berea). This group met up at Shaker Village the night before for a merry gathering, since it's almost Christmas. So needless to say we jumped all over that! We stayed at the village Friday night and got to meet up with some of the folks we met in September for snacks, conversation, laughing, a long slideshow and a little bit of tasty wine. Come Saturday we rolled out to Brannon's Crossing in Nickyville and gathered at the theater for pictures and a bit of singing, such as Misty Mountains and I See Fire- which was pretty incredible. Before we knew it there were other people taking pictures and videos of all of us, as the majority of the group were in costumes. It was awesome. Truly awesome. We kept saying "I love us." This group, these movies, as Kelly said, it was a celebration of the Christmas season, the love of Tolkien and Peter Jackson's work, how the books/movies have impacted us and our lives, and celebrating each other.
Now for our movie opinion; we LOVED it!!! We don't want to give too much away, because that's just not nice and we went into this movie having read no reviews, not viewed any clips, or seen anything else other than just the trailer. We expected a few things, naturally, just because we're fairly familiar with the book, but it far surpassed our expectations! There were quite a few moments that really surprised us, and of course, there were things that we weren't too thrilled with (but that's the case with the previous 2 Hobbit movies, and even LOTR too). But what really made this movie special, aside from it being the last Middle Earth hurrah, was the company that was able to witness this cinematic adventure with us. Many we met from AL3P, but we didn't get to have as many in-depth conversations and fellowship as we had wished (though there was still plenty!!), so it was really memorable to share life with these people. We all come from such different walks of life, such different parts of the world, and when we all come together united by this love for Tolkien, wonderful things happen. Now every time we see Five Armies, we'll think of this group, this family that we've been so fortunate to be welcomed into. Plus...Billy Boyd's closing song is complete perfection to the end of an incredible movie series...and to our parting. We will see each other soon, though. There is no such thing as goodbye!
So ends this day
The road is now calling
And I must away
Over hill and under tree
Through lands where light has never shone
By silver streams that run down to the Sea
Under cloud, beneath the stars
Over snow one winter's morn
I turn at last to paths that lead home
And though where the road then takes me, I cannot tell
We came all this way
But now comes the day to bid you farewell
 |
| One Last Time! (Photo c/o Kelly Gable) |
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Stories: A night of tobyMac (and others!)
Holly and Kelly: Keeping up with the spirit of concerts, our second concert in one week (Yes, you read that correctly. We are blessed!) was on this past Friday night. We bundled up, as it was quite, quite cold and after a pit stop at Five Guys for some food, we made our way over to a church in Lexington to see tobyMac and company. It. Was. Packed! We ended up having to park over at Mejier, which in relation to the church is a few blocks away. But all of that is completely irrelevant. The show was awesome!
The icing on this cake was that we got to share this experience with some folks from our church, which sweetened the deal, so to speak. I (Holly) see a lot of folks who attend my church as family, so it was just one big happy familial gathering to us, and I know without a doubt Kelly and many others feel the same way. Anyway, you don't want to hear me ramble on and on anymore. The show opened with Ryan Stevenson, a fairly new artist in the CCM industry. We are familiar with a couple of his songs via the radio, but it was really special to see just him, his guitar, and his voice. His testimony is pretty incredible as well: One of his songs "Holding Nothing Back" was penned at a really difficult time in his life, including his mom passing away and he and his wife losing their twins. It's amazing what God can do though. It is. He played four or five songs and he got a standing ovation when he was finished. It made him cry!!! What a powerful moment. It's like something for KING & COUNTRY says "When you merge the power of music with the ultimate power of the Gospel, it not only has the power to change your day, but to transform your life as well." A pristine example of that is what we saw at the opening.
After that was Matt Maher, whom we haven't seen since ICHTHUS of 2008, before he was really popular. I loved his show then and I loved him this evening as well. He played a new song "Because He Lives" and I think it's his best song yet. Such simple words, but such a strong reminder of who God is and who we are in Him. One of our favorite songs by him is "Lord I Need You", which is about a kajillion times better live. Take my word for it! We've been fans of his for a while so seeing him was an added treat to the already great evening we were having!
Finally, tobyMac came on!!! He has been around the block for quite a while now; he started out in a group called dcTalk back in the late 80's/early 90's with the current lead singer of the Newsboys (Michael Tait) and the former lead of Audio Adrenaline (Kevin Max). Went solo not long after that and the rest is pretty much history. We first saw him at ICHTHUS of 2006; we broke our curfew to wait in line and talk to him. He's a super cool guy, y'all. We saw him again at Winter Jam of 2010 (I think....), and it was a great high-energy show. The show this past Friday was no exception whatsoever! And it was loud. Oh man, was it loud! But it was such a great time. I had completely forgotten just how big his heart is for God. It was beyond inspiring! He had a good mix of some of his older stuff, and some of his stuff that I know really well, as well as some new stuff, which I can't WAIT for his new album! What was especially cool about the show is that he brought the previous "acts" back on from time to time to do some stuff with him. One of my favorite songs by tobyMac, "Speak Life" was written by Ryan Stevenson!!! I didn't know that! Something that he said, though, and it's still with me: Someone walks up to you on the street and asks who are you. There are a million different answers to that: a sister, a Christian, a friend, a twin, a doctor, a mom, and the list goes on and on. The only "label" that matters, though, is that we, YOU, are a disciple that Jesus loves. In the Bible, John referred to himself as "the disciple that Jesus loved". Guess what? We are the same! How cool is that? :)
Definitely a memorable evening, beyond all reaches of the imagination. An added bonus: We got to hang out with Ryan Stevenson after the show for a few minutes. He is unbelievably sweet! I posted a couple songs below. I hope that you are encouraged, both by the stories on this page and the stories in your own life.
Ryan Stevenson- Not Forgotten
tobyMac- Speak Life
Matt Maher- Because He Lives
The icing on this cake was that we got to share this experience with some folks from our church, which sweetened the deal, so to speak. I (Holly) see a lot of folks who attend my church as family, so it was just one big happy familial gathering to us, and I know without a doubt Kelly and many others feel the same way. Anyway, you don't want to hear me ramble on and on anymore. The show opened with Ryan Stevenson, a fairly new artist in the CCM industry. We are familiar with a couple of his songs via the radio, but it was really special to see just him, his guitar, and his voice. His testimony is pretty incredible as well: One of his songs "Holding Nothing Back" was penned at a really difficult time in his life, including his mom passing away and he and his wife losing their twins. It's amazing what God can do though. It is. He played four or five songs and he got a standing ovation when he was finished. It made him cry!!! What a powerful moment. It's like something for KING & COUNTRY says "When you merge the power of music with the ultimate power of the Gospel, it not only has the power to change your day, but to transform your life as well." A pristine example of that is what we saw at the opening.
After that was Matt Maher, whom we haven't seen since ICHTHUS of 2008, before he was really popular. I loved his show then and I loved him this evening as well. He played a new song "Because He Lives" and I think it's his best song yet. Such simple words, but such a strong reminder of who God is and who we are in Him. One of our favorite songs by him is "Lord I Need You", which is about a kajillion times better live. Take my word for it! We've been fans of his for a while so seeing him was an added treat to the already great evening we were having!
Finally, tobyMac came on!!! He has been around the block for quite a while now; he started out in a group called dcTalk back in the late 80's/early 90's with the current lead singer of the Newsboys (Michael Tait) and the former lead of Audio Adrenaline (Kevin Max). Went solo not long after that and the rest is pretty much history. We first saw him at ICHTHUS of 2006; we broke our curfew to wait in line and talk to him. He's a super cool guy, y'all. We saw him again at Winter Jam of 2010 (I think....), and it was a great high-energy show. The show this past Friday was no exception whatsoever! And it was loud. Oh man, was it loud! But it was such a great time. I had completely forgotten just how big his heart is for God. It was beyond inspiring! He had a good mix of some of his older stuff, and some of his stuff that I know really well, as well as some new stuff, which I can't WAIT for his new album! What was especially cool about the show is that he brought the previous "acts" back on from time to time to do some stuff with him. One of my favorite songs by tobyMac, "Speak Life" was written by Ryan Stevenson!!! I didn't know that! Something that he said, though, and it's still with me: Someone walks up to you on the street and asks who are you. There are a million different answers to that: a sister, a Christian, a friend, a twin, a doctor, a mom, and the list goes on and on. The only "label" that matters, though, is that we, YOU, are a disciple that Jesus loves. In the Bible, John referred to himself as "the disciple that Jesus loved". Guess what? We are the same! How cool is that? :)
 |
| My favorite picture! |
Definitely a memorable evening, beyond all reaches of the imagination. An added bonus: We got to hang out with Ryan Stevenson after the show for a few minutes. He is unbelievably sweet! I posted a couple songs below. I hope that you are encouraged, both by the stories on this page and the stories in your own life.
Ryan Stevenson- Not Forgotten
tobyMac- Speak Life
Matt Maher- Because He Lives
 |
| Here we are with Ryan Stevenson afterwards! :) Thank you to the nice lady in line behind us for taking the picture |
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
30 Days of Doctor Who: Favorite season
Kelly: 3. Still 3. I don't know if that's ever going to change. Season 3 has some of my favorite episodes and story lines, including my favorite favorite (Human Nature/Family of Blood). Season 6 was a VERY close second, but 3 is still my favorite. It also has my second favorite villain, which I will go more in-depth in a couple of days. The writing is the best, and the progression from start to finish is amazing. Watching Martha go from mere sidekick to actual companion is a treat to watch. Although I do wish she would have gotten a somewhat happier ending...not that it was bad by any means. But she loved the Doctor, and he was still grief stricken over losing Rose...SPOILERS. Plus I really liked Martha's character...don't know why a lot of the Who fandom didn't.
If you're not a fan of the show already, this season will make you love it, in my opinion....baaah. Had to get up and readjust the washing machine. I also like that in this season you learn a bit about the Doctor's home planet and what his people were like. Previously, all we knew was that he was a Time Lord and his home planet was called Gallifrey, and that was about it. Granted we only learn about one other Time Lord, who turns out to not be like the Doctor at all...gaah. Sorry. More spoilers. Just promise me that those who aren't fans of the show will watch it eventually. Pretty please.
Holly: So, since Kelly discussed Season 3, which is pretty stinkin' hard to beat, I'll chat briefly about season 6. 3 and 6 come in a very close tie for me. 6 was such a great season. It was the second season featuring Eleven, and we were totally disappointed in the 5th season...a lot of the episodes were, just quite frankly, stupid, with no climaxes, no real plot development. No real plot. No real anything except a bunch of sub-par episodes...ANYWAY, I digress. 6. I think what I love the most about this season is that we see more of Amy and Eleven's relationship; it grows so much stronger. In fact, Eleven and Amy just shine in this season; they both have some great moments, great lines, great conversations, etc. Plus, we see more of Rory, whom I love to pieces and then some. I love the story arc with River/Melody (SPOILERS). "The Doctor's Wife" and "A Good Man Goes to War" are probably some of the best episodes of the revived series, in my opinion. With the exception of one episode (and even the ending is awesome, at that), every episode I really, really enjoyed.
If you're new to Eleven's run, give it time. It gets better, SO much better!
If you're not a fan of the show already, this season will make you love it, in my opinion....baaah. Had to get up and readjust the washing machine. I also like that in this season you learn a bit about the Doctor's home planet and what his people were like. Previously, all we knew was that he was a Time Lord and his home planet was called Gallifrey, and that was about it. Granted we only learn about one other Time Lord, who turns out to not be like the Doctor at all...gaah. Sorry. More spoilers. Just promise me that those who aren't fans of the show will watch it eventually. Pretty please.
Holly: So, since Kelly discussed Season 3, which is pretty stinkin' hard to beat, I'll chat briefly about season 6. 3 and 6 come in a very close tie for me. 6 was such a great season. It was the second season featuring Eleven, and we were totally disappointed in the 5th season...a lot of the episodes were, just quite frankly, stupid, with no climaxes, no real plot development. No real plot. No real anything except a bunch of sub-par episodes...ANYWAY, I digress. 6. I think what I love the most about this season is that we see more of Amy and Eleven's relationship; it grows so much stronger. In fact, Eleven and Amy just shine in this season; they both have some great moments, great lines, great conversations, etc. Plus, we see more of Rory, whom I love to pieces and then some. I love the story arc with River/Melody (SPOILERS). "The Doctor's Wife" and "A Good Man Goes to War" are probably some of the best episodes of the revived series, in my opinion. With the exception of one episode (and even the ending is awesome, at that), every episode I really, really enjoyed.
If you're new to Eleven's run, give it time. It gets better, SO much better!
Monday, May 6, 2013
30 Days of Writing: Something you're proud of
Kelly: In light of recent events, today's topic is highly appropriate. There are a lot of things that I am proud of, but what I'm going to talk about today is simple; my college degree.
To obtain a college degree is an excellent achievement, of course. However, obtaining a Berea College degree in my opinion is much more...different, for lack of a better word. I was blessed to have worked with wonderful educators who helped me get this degree. Some I knew for quite a while, some I only had one semester. Yeah...about that. One of the most influential professors I had I had my second to last semester, for just one class (you know who you are...). Others I had for the majority of my time here and were just THERE. If I needed them, they were in their office; I didn't have to channel jump through a plethora of graduate students just to find them! That's why Berea is what it is! Thank you God and for everyone He put in my life to get me through! ^_^
Holly: I'm proud of two things, really: first, and obvious, is my degree from Berea. I know, I know, that's what EVERYONE says. But seriously, I don't think many people realize just how big of a deal it is graduating from college, much less Berea College. I put a lot of work into it, I have a lot of fond memories attached to Berea, I've formed some lifelong relationships as a result of my education there, I've become a more educated and well-rounded individual and young woman, and my faith in God strengthened and was pushed and challenged as well (which, trust me, is NOT a bad thing).
The second thing I'm proud of is that, for the most part, I have succeeded in living on my own and holding my own. Yeah, there's been some scary moments, there's been some moments in which we weren't sure how we were going to pay next month's rent, there's been a lot of phone calls to Mom and Dad, there's been A LOT of penny-pinching (there still is), but when I look back I am proud of where we were and how far we've come. I've also learned, in these days of apartment-dwelling and semi-tight budgeting to become dependent on God. Completely dependent!!! He's brought us through and I know He will continue to do so! :)
Monday, March 4, 2013
An Unexpected Adventure (18 months in the making...)
Holly: We have committed the date September 27, 2014 to our memory. No, we'll both be graduated by then. No, it's not our prospective wedding dates. It's not another failed-predicted apocalypse, the inauguration of a new president, the starting date of a new job, or even our 24th birthday.
It's this!
Yes, you are reading this correctly: an entire weekend full of Lord of the Rings enthusiasts, exhibits, frivolity, fun, food, laughter, relationship-building, autumn goodness...all literally a stone's throw away from our very home. Since we are a bit financially strapped to partake in the entire weekend party, we have simply opted for a day pass; regardless, it certainly isn't hampering our enthusiasm any less!
Our registration has already gone through and been received, planning is already under way, we have until the 1st of September (of 2014) to make our payments (at just $30, I mean helloooooooooo??!?! Are you kidding me??!), and we are beyond excited! BEYOND. Excited! We are on the cusp of something we can't even imagine. We are going to meet so many incredible, amazing, inspiring people, all from vastly different walks of life, heck, all from different parts of the country! All sharing in this one thing, this one magical, beautiful thing.
I think even Tolkien himself would be proud! :)
ikgfvuyh (Yoda agrees)
Kelly: It's funny that this happened. We were thinking of going to New York or another American city that is doing a premiere of the last movie. Not that we've completely ruled that out, but now we have something that is set in stone and definitely going to happen! I was so worried (and still am) that I was going to forget that this was happening. I'm thinking oh my gosh that's over a year away! I don't even know what kind of work I'm going to be doing, where I'll be living, whatever! So many unknowns. I did save my registration email though...just in case my big cracked brain lets it slip through.
I don't really know what to expect out of this. A jolly good time for sure. I hope that I meet a lot of awesome people who geek out on this too! My hope is though that even though this is very VERY exciting that I would not let it drive me. That I wouldn't be so obsessed and fixated on the fact that this is really happening that I lose focus. That I can concentrate on the now and what I need to do now, like GRADUATE...ahem. 2 months tomorrow!!!!!!! But once I get over that hump I can start to focus on those things. Taking it one day at a time...but I am really excited about this! And it'll be in the fall, the colors will be changing and the weather hopefully won't be too crazy. But yeah. It's coming! Super super excited!!!!
It's this!
Yes, you are reading this correctly: an entire weekend full of Lord of the Rings enthusiasts, exhibits, frivolity, fun, food, laughter, relationship-building, autumn goodness...all literally a stone's throw away from our very home. Since we are a bit financially strapped to partake in the entire weekend party, we have simply opted for a day pass; regardless, it certainly isn't hampering our enthusiasm any less!
Our registration has already gone through and been received, planning is already under way, we have until the 1st of September (of 2014) to make our payments (at just $30, I mean helloooooooooo??!?! Are you kidding me??!), and we are beyond excited! BEYOND. Excited! We are on the cusp of something we can't even imagine. We are going to meet so many incredible, amazing, inspiring people, all from vastly different walks of life, heck, all from different parts of the country! All sharing in this one thing, this one magical, beautiful thing.
I think even Tolkien himself would be proud! :)
ikgfvuyh (Yoda agrees)
Kelly: It's funny that this happened. We were thinking of going to New York or another American city that is doing a premiere of the last movie. Not that we've completely ruled that out, but now we have something that is set in stone and definitely going to happen! I was so worried (and still am) that I was going to forget that this was happening. I'm thinking oh my gosh that's over a year away! I don't even know what kind of work I'm going to be doing, where I'll be living, whatever! So many unknowns. I did save my registration email though...just in case my big cracked brain lets it slip through.
I don't really know what to expect out of this. A jolly good time for sure. I hope that I meet a lot of awesome people who geek out on this too! My hope is though that even though this is very VERY exciting that I would not let it drive me. That I wouldn't be so obsessed and fixated on the fact that this is really happening that I lose focus. That I can concentrate on the now and what I need to do now, like GRADUATE...ahem. 2 months tomorrow!!!!!!! But once I get over that hump I can start to focus on those things. Taking it one day at a time...but I am really excited about this! And it'll be in the fall, the colors will be changing and the weather hopefully won't be too crazy. But yeah. It's coming! Super super excited!!!!
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Funny Animals Talking
Holly and Kelly: Yet again, we aim to tickle your funny bone with this video that first appeared on Facebook this morning. We've watched it numerous times and it's still making us laugh. Enjoy.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
"Dwarf" Invasion
Holly and Kelly: We are still deep in the trenches of the Hobbit fandemonium, so imagine our utter giddiness when we stumbled across this gem of musical happiness. If it doesn't make you laugh (which it does for us, on many occasions) then we hope it will, at the very least, bring a smile to your face.
The band is from Wellington, NZ, by the way.
The band is from Wellington, NZ, by the way.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
The Band Years
Kelly: Maybe it's because it's Christmas. Or maybe it's the fact that I'm graduating college in almost four months. I'm not entirely sure why, but Holly and I have been thinking a lot about our marching band years. We strapped on ridiculously hideous and hot uniforms, piled onto a small school bus and traveled all across the state to football games and/or competitions. And we did this willingly. Every Friday and/or Saturday from the end of August until the beginning of November for 6 years. And we LOVED it.
I remember when I was a little girl, getting dragged to high school football games. I would only go to see the band play. "Mom, I want to be in the band!" I remember seeing the local college at their homecoming parade. "Mom, I want to be in the 110 someday." In 7th grade, Holly and I both had a choice to make. Prior to 7th grade, we had both done gymnastics for a few years. The choice was ours; either continue with gymnastics or quit and pursue marching band. When I look back on it now, I realize that the choice was obvious...since I didn't think I was that good at gymnastics. I was not meant to be a gymnast; I was meant to be a band geek! So many fond and wonderful memories of high school were usually associated with the time I did marching band. The places we traveled to, the conversations we had, the sometimes drama that occurred, the friends I made and the experiences I gathered. Nothing can even hold a candle to what I experienced for those number of years. It's sad to say though, now that I'm in college I don't think about band as often as I used to; I haven't picked up my clarinet in almost four years. I'm not even sure I'd remember how to play it. As I look it's still sitting in its case behind my bed. It's not that I've forgotten about band, but I'm sad to say that that part of my life is over and has been for quite some time now. But I have not nor will not forget all that I did and the wonderful fun times I had. When I graduate in May, I'm writing something very special on my hat that I have carried with me.
"DO IT!"
Holly: We managed to summarize six years of insanity into a navy blue three-inch binder, packed with programs from competitions, our show music, pictures, random fliers, etc. We call it our band book. It's in our pile of stuff that's going back with us to Berea.
We endured horrendously hot uniforms, unflattering polos that were at least two sizes too large, uncomfortable shoes that were at least a size too small; shoes that felt every crack, crevice, stone, and grass. We waited on "the band guy" whenever there was a ding, scratch, or missing key in our instruments (I particularly relied on him after I literally fell on my flute.....THAT'S another story! lol). We heard the Mountain Dew story about 15 times. The crazy weeks at band camp, staying up way too late and doing stuff that need not leave the walls of the dorms. Blistering sun, pouring rain, snow, hail, freezing cold...sometimes all in the same day (Riverview, anybody???). A concession was deemed good if it had something other than hot dogs and burgers (Cowtails, large dill pickles, and Sour Skittles were our favorites). If your throat wasn't sore and raw by the end of a competition night, be it from screaming or laughing, you weren't doing it right. We bagged on Waterford all the time. Our leadership meeting senior year wasn't much of a meeting...it was comprehending how in the world we were going to carry on our Fed Hock band legacy without our "Big Papa" and his tent. It was at a football game in Belpre my junior year when I found out that one of my best guy friends liked me back. We met our best friend through band; almost 10 years later, we're still friends. The small door of the RCA Dome in Indianapolis opened for the first time as we stepped onto the field for our pre-show at Bands of America Grand Nationals, and all of us wondered how we ended up there. That dang dog whistle will forever be the bane of my existence.
I don't really know how to close all of this, other than the fact that the stories we could tell would go on for years on end, and the memories will last even longer.
I remember when I was a little girl, getting dragged to high school football games. I would only go to see the band play. "Mom, I want to be in the band!" I remember seeing the local college at their homecoming parade. "Mom, I want to be in the 110 someday." In 7th grade, Holly and I both had a choice to make. Prior to 7th grade, we had both done gymnastics for a few years. The choice was ours; either continue with gymnastics or quit and pursue marching band. When I look back on it now, I realize that the choice was obvious...since I didn't think I was that good at gymnastics. I was not meant to be a gymnast; I was meant to be a band geek! So many fond and wonderful memories of high school were usually associated with the time I did marching band. The places we traveled to, the conversations we had, the sometimes drama that occurred, the friends I made and the experiences I gathered. Nothing can even hold a candle to what I experienced for those number of years. It's sad to say though, now that I'm in college I don't think about band as often as I used to; I haven't picked up my clarinet in almost four years. I'm not even sure I'd remember how to play it. As I look it's still sitting in its case behind my bed. It's not that I've forgotten about band, but I'm sad to say that that part of my life is over and has been for quite some time now. But I have not nor will not forget all that I did and the wonderful fun times I had. When I graduate in May, I'm writing something very special on my hat that I have carried with me.
"DO IT!"
Holly: We managed to summarize six years of insanity into a navy blue three-inch binder, packed with programs from competitions, our show music, pictures, random fliers, etc. We call it our band book. It's in our pile of stuff that's going back with us to Berea.
We endured horrendously hot uniforms, unflattering polos that were at least two sizes too large, uncomfortable shoes that were at least a size too small; shoes that felt every crack, crevice, stone, and grass. We waited on "the band guy" whenever there was a ding, scratch, or missing key in our instruments (I particularly relied on him after I literally fell on my flute.....THAT'S another story! lol). We heard the Mountain Dew story about 15 times. The crazy weeks at band camp, staying up way too late and doing stuff that need not leave the walls of the dorms. Blistering sun, pouring rain, snow, hail, freezing cold...sometimes all in the same day (Riverview, anybody???). A concession was deemed good if it had something other than hot dogs and burgers (Cowtails, large dill pickles, and Sour Skittles were our favorites). If your throat wasn't sore and raw by the end of a competition night, be it from screaming or laughing, you weren't doing it right. We bagged on Waterford all the time. Our leadership meeting senior year wasn't much of a meeting...it was comprehending how in the world we were going to carry on our Fed Hock band legacy without our "Big Papa" and his tent. It was at a football game in Belpre my junior year when I found out that one of my best guy friends liked me back. We met our best friend through band; almost 10 years later, we're still friends. The small door of the RCA Dome in Indianapolis opened for the first time as we stepped onto the field for our pre-show at Bands of America Grand Nationals, and all of us wondered how we ended up there. That dang dog whistle will forever be the bane of my existence.
I don't really know how to close all of this, other than the fact that the stories we could tell would go on for years on end, and the memories will last even longer.
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Newly beloved Ringers review The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Holly: DISCLAIMER: IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN THE MOVIE YET, PLEASE DO NOT READ THIS. WE DO NOT WANT TO RUIN THE MOVIE FOR YOU! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
Sorry...typing this in between segments and commercials of Return of the King. Bear with me.
Like Kelly mentioned, we viewed The Hobbit for the second time today. The old cliche really is true: stuff is better the second time around. In its second week I was still surprised to see a decent amount of people in the theater. Then again, perhaps not. In an earlier post of ours we mentioned that we completely missed the LoTR theater fandemonium, so we didn't really know what to expect. I will say that I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would, moreso the second time. So...
WHAT I LIKED/LOVED:
*The pace/overall feel. Yes, it is long (almost 3 hours), but for me it goes quickly but doesn't feel rushed. It's much lighter than LoTR; I laughed so much in this movie! I'm still exhilarated and excited, thrilled, given chills, the entire time. It's absolutely beautiful. The scenery/imagery is breathtaking as well; literally there are moments where I hold my breath. It's just beautifully shot. I don't know how they do it.
*The "Princess Bride"-esque bookend of older Bilbo and Frodo telling the story in the beginning. I LOVE that. LOVE it. I think I loved it more than the average person. When I read that Elijah Wood and Ian Holm were reprising their roles for the movie I was hoping they would be woven in like that.
*The casting of Martin Freeman as Bilbo. OH MY GOD. OH. MY. GOD. Seriously!!!! You know how everyone fell in love with Elijah Wood as Frodo?! Yeah...I foresee these movies going a lot like that. Now, perhaps I am a bit biased because I have seen the majority of his works and find him a really good actor, but I think that he makes the PERFECT Bilbo! I mean, Peter Jackson halted production for HIM just so he could have him as Bilbo; that's how bad he wanted him. I honestly think it's one of the best decisions Peter Jackson made for this movie. Martin's performance is spectacular; it delights me to no end. It's wonderful...truly wonderful. I hope to meet him someday and tell him myself.
*The individuality of the dwarves. MAJOR, MAJOR kudos to the production team. I've seen a lot of behind-the-scenes footage and they did not have an easy task: creating 13 individual, unique dwarves. But each one is portrayed perfectly. Bofur and Balin are my favorites. :)
MEH/DIDN'T FLY WITH ME TOO WELL (but still not enough to ruin the movie for me):
*The introduction is a bit long-winded. But I do love the story.
*The storyline of Azog the pale orc versus Thorin thing. I don't think Azog needs to be in the film; I think he's in it just so there's a "bad guy". But oh well. Bilbo does kick some serious tail in the end there.
*There was mention of Beorn/the barrel scene in the trailers but not in the movie. That kind of frustrated me! Guess we'll just have to wait until Smaug, I reckon.
Bottom line: If you are a die-hard Tolkiener that takes the books as gospel, proceed with caution. Otherwise, it really does live up to the hype. I simply cannot recommend it enough. Fans of the LoTR movies and Peter Jackson will not be disappointed. Go see it. As soon as possible! :)
Kelly: Hey, Return of the King is on! Pippin is about to sing his beloved song.
This afternoon, Holly and I watched the first installment of The Hobbit movies for a second time. We first laid our eyes on it last week in Lexington for the midnight premiere. We were seated in front of our theater for over an hour waiting for it to open, but not before enjoying some Denny's and feasting on some milkshakes from The Hobbit menu. The theater was PACKED!!! Such a wonderful experience though and one I will surely not forget anytime soon. Today's experience was much different. We were in a smaller theater and it was just the two of us who went and saw it; post-coffee and chatting came afterwards as we met up with a good friend we have known since high school. Twas a lovely afternoon. I will now get onto the good and the bad, in my opinion:
THE GOOD:
* Martin Freeman's breakthrough role. Seriously. I have seen a lot of his work and his role as Bilbo Baggins is on the top of my list! These performances in the next three installments are going to make his career HUGE!!!!
* The Christian themes that are intertwined into the film. Love, grace, discipleship and compassion are a few that I observed many times. Especially loving your enemies; Bilbo spares Gollum's life as he is over run with compassion for the pitiful creature. It is a lovely reminder of how we should treat those who wrong us, and again, Martin Freeman and Andy Serkis both perform so well!
* Unlikely friends joining together for a common theme. A rag-tag of 13 dwarves, a wizard and a hobbit, all on a quest to seek the lost kingdom of Erebor. Not a likely company by any means, but it works well. Quite well actually; though there is doubt and uncertainty in the beginning, it disappears as many of the characters deem themselves worthy companions for the company.
* The humor. Though it is a very action-filled movie for the most part, the humor that is involved really lightens the rather gruesome fights that are involved in different parts of the movie. In the Lord of the Rings franchise, the humor comes from Merry and Pippin. In The Hobbit, it's a bit of everyone.
*There are many more good qualities that I enjoy and I overall enjoyed the movie quite well. I cannot wait to see it again!
THE BAD:
* The beginning sequence seemed a bit dragged on to me. Part of me enjoyed it, but part of me was wondering "ok....just get on with it." Ian Holm's soliloquy explaining it though was good, just a bit long in my opinion.
* I hate to play annoying Tolkien lover, but man I really wish the elements in the movie were somewhat linear with the book. Riddles in the Dark is the 5th chapter in the book but doesn't appear till near the end of the movie. Hey, I'm not a director by any means but it works out. I just wonder what it would have been like if it was like that. More linear with the book. Ok I'm done now. There you have it; my novice review of the movie. My opinion now? Go see it!!!
Sorry...typing this in between segments and commercials of Return of the King. Bear with me.
Like Kelly mentioned, we viewed The Hobbit for the second time today. The old cliche really is true: stuff is better the second time around. In its second week I was still surprised to see a decent amount of people in the theater. Then again, perhaps not. In an earlier post of ours we mentioned that we completely missed the LoTR theater fandemonium, so we didn't really know what to expect. I will say that I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would, moreso the second time. So...
WHAT I LIKED/LOVED:
*The pace/overall feel. Yes, it is long (almost 3 hours), but for me it goes quickly but doesn't feel rushed. It's much lighter than LoTR; I laughed so much in this movie! I'm still exhilarated and excited, thrilled, given chills, the entire time. It's absolutely beautiful. The scenery/imagery is breathtaking as well; literally there are moments where I hold my breath. It's just beautifully shot. I don't know how they do it.
*The "Princess Bride"-esque bookend of older Bilbo and Frodo telling the story in the beginning. I LOVE that. LOVE it. I think I loved it more than the average person. When I read that Elijah Wood and Ian Holm were reprising their roles for the movie I was hoping they would be woven in like that.
*The casting of Martin Freeman as Bilbo. OH MY GOD. OH. MY. GOD. Seriously!!!! You know how everyone fell in love with Elijah Wood as Frodo?! Yeah...I foresee these movies going a lot like that. Now, perhaps I am a bit biased because I have seen the majority of his works and find him a really good actor, but I think that he makes the PERFECT Bilbo! I mean, Peter Jackson halted production for HIM just so he could have him as Bilbo; that's how bad he wanted him. I honestly think it's one of the best decisions Peter Jackson made for this movie. Martin's performance is spectacular; it delights me to no end. It's wonderful...truly wonderful. I hope to meet him someday and tell him myself.
*The individuality of the dwarves. MAJOR, MAJOR kudos to the production team. I've seen a lot of behind-the-scenes footage and they did not have an easy task: creating 13 individual, unique dwarves. But each one is portrayed perfectly. Bofur and Balin are my favorites. :)
MEH/DIDN'T FLY WITH ME TOO WELL (but still not enough to ruin the movie for me):
*The introduction is a bit long-winded. But I do love the story.
*The storyline of Azog the pale orc versus Thorin thing. I don't think Azog needs to be in the film; I think he's in it just so there's a "bad guy". But oh well. Bilbo does kick some serious tail in the end there.
*There was mention of Beorn/the barrel scene in the trailers but not in the movie. That kind of frustrated me! Guess we'll just have to wait until Smaug, I reckon.
Bottom line: If you are a die-hard Tolkiener that takes the books as gospel, proceed with caution. Otherwise, it really does live up to the hype. I simply cannot recommend it enough. Fans of the LoTR movies and Peter Jackson will not be disappointed. Go see it. As soon as possible! :)
Kelly: Hey, Return of the King is on! Pippin is about to sing his beloved song.
This afternoon, Holly and I watched the first installment of The Hobbit movies for a second time. We first laid our eyes on it last week in Lexington for the midnight premiere. We were seated in front of our theater for over an hour waiting for it to open, but not before enjoying some Denny's and feasting on some milkshakes from The Hobbit menu. The theater was PACKED!!! Such a wonderful experience though and one I will surely not forget anytime soon. Today's experience was much different. We were in a smaller theater and it was just the two of us who went and saw it; post-coffee and chatting came afterwards as we met up with a good friend we have known since high school. Twas a lovely afternoon. I will now get onto the good and the bad, in my opinion:
THE GOOD:
* Martin Freeman's breakthrough role. Seriously. I have seen a lot of his work and his role as Bilbo Baggins is on the top of my list! These performances in the next three installments are going to make his career HUGE!!!!
* The Christian themes that are intertwined into the film. Love, grace, discipleship and compassion are a few that I observed many times. Especially loving your enemies; Bilbo spares Gollum's life as he is over run with compassion for the pitiful creature. It is a lovely reminder of how we should treat those who wrong us, and again, Martin Freeman and Andy Serkis both perform so well!
* Unlikely friends joining together for a common theme. A rag-tag of 13 dwarves, a wizard and a hobbit, all on a quest to seek the lost kingdom of Erebor. Not a likely company by any means, but it works well. Quite well actually; though there is doubt and uncertainty in the beginning, it disappears as many of the characters deem themselves worthy companions for the company.
* The humor. Though it is a very action-filled movie for the most part, the humor that is involved really lightens the rather gruesome fights that are involved in different parts of the movie. In the Lord of the Rings franchise, the humor comes from Merry and Pippin. In The Hobbit, it's a bit of everyone.
*There are many more good qualities that I enjoy and I overall enjoyed the movie quite well. I cannot wait to see it again!
THE BAD:
* The beginning sequence seemed a bit dragged on to me. Part of me enjoyed it, but part of me was wondering "ok....just get on with it." Ian Holm's soliloquy explaining it though was good, just a bit long in my opinion.
* I hate to play annoying Tolkien lover, but man I really wish the elements in the movie were somewhat linear with the book. Riddles in the Dark is the 5th chapter in the book but doesn't appear till near the end of the movie. Hey, I'm not a director by any means but it works out. I just wonder what it would have been like if it was like that. More linear with the book. Ok I'm done now. There you have it; my novice review of the movie. My opinion now? Go see it!!!
Monday, December 10, 2012
AND...in the spirit of all things Christmas, our favorite Christmas flick is...............
Holly: This one!
So the IMDB is a little weak in terms of a plot, description, what have you, but the basic gist of it is a Scroogy failed-actor-turned-primary-school-teacher, Mr. Maddens, who gets suckered in to directing the school's nativity play. In the midst of all of that he gets bombarded by his childish, highly immature (but hilarious) teaching assistant, Mr. Poppy. It's basically doomed to fail on all accounts, especially when Mr. Maddens begins this intricate web of lies (in order to impress his fellow teacher rival, Gordon Shakespeare, who's absurdly full of himself) circling around his ex-girlfriend Hollywood producer flying herself and her crew out to watch their nativity play. The blowing up of the lies begetting lies and lies growing and growing and Mr. Maddens getting himself into deeper and deeper hot water is what makes most of the humor.
So you're reading this and probably thinking, Gee, Holly, well that sounds all fine and dandy, but why is it your FAVORITE Christmas movie? I mean, there's so many other good ones out there!!!!
Yes. That is true. But I....well, we....have a couple reasons. The main one for me is because in the beginning of the movie, Mr. Maddens has absolutely no hope: in Christmas, in his students, in himself for doing a good job of directing, in Mr. Poppy. As the movie progresses we learn he's still in love with his ex-girlfriend, even traveling great lengths to put his heart and the hearts of his students on the line. As the movie progresses the students go from not believing in themselves, not thinking they can do anything, to "sparkling and shining" and redeeming the lost cause that their school once was. And wishing the absolute BEST for their teacher that they love so dearly and admire. My recommendation is this: watch the movie. It will make you cry. And it will definitely make you laugh and warm your heart.
Kelly: On top of what was already said, I have nothing really to add. What I get from this movie is quite simple. There's one part where Mr. Maddens has just spoken to an unsure student about wanting to participate in the play because she didn't want to wear "a stupid costume." After he sends her off to lunch, he stumbles upon "Christmas post" in which the students write letters to Santa asking what they want for Christmas. A few of them are traditional things like this and that. As he continues to read them, more and more of them say along the lines of "I just want Mr. Maddens to be happy." He gets quite emotional by the end and once he walks back into the auditorium the passion just lights up. These same students that he called "useless" in the beginning of the movie still want nothing but the absolute best for him. And that's just awesome. I feel we should always feel that same way towards all people, even those who have wronged us any way or have said we're useless. Even if that person is ourselves.
Then there's Mr. Poppy. Despite receiving constant criticism for his over-the-top behavior and enthusiasm, he continues to do that and then some. I consider myself to be like Mr. Poppy at times. Here's what I mean; today I received a comment from one of my clinical instructors that said "I wish that everyone was as cheerful and enthusiastic as you are." It just goes to show you that when you carry that sort of attitude, like me, like Mr. Poppy, though it doesn't seem like it at times people do notice. And they appreciate it. Lastly, what else I get from this movie is of course the fact that Martin Freeman is in it! He has easily become one of my favorite actors and to me is more than just Tim from the Office or soon-to-be none other than Bilbo Baggins himself. I think we so often forget that actors, despite their various roles, are regular people too and live regular lives just like you and I. Since Martin has become one of my faves, I've brought it upon myself to see him in more of his work. I really do appreciate him more as an actor and as a person! So yes, I will close by saying, definitely watch this movie. It really is gold as far as Christmas movies go!
***Holly adds her actor/actress worship pet peeve/rant: Because I've read interviews, etc, and they don't like that. For example, Kelly and I like Martin Freeman, and we've seen a lot of his work, and I've read interviews with him and he said at one point he got really tired of hearing "Tim!!" being shouted in the streets. While I love the character Tim from The Office, that's not who they are. Actors and actresses aren't defined by their characters; they're defined by THEIR character. They're ordinary people, just like you and me, who just happen to be spectacularly good at their jobs and also...they love what they do. I challenge you: if you have a favorite actor/actress, watch their other works (besides the one work that made you fall in love with him/her). Your opinion will change. //end rant***
So the IMDB is a little weak in terms of a plot, description, what have you, but the basic gist of it is a Scroogy failed-actor-turned-primary-school-teacher, Mr. Maddens, who gets suckered in to directing the school's nativity play. In the midst of all of that he gets bombarded by his childish, highly immature (but hilarious) teaching assistant, Mr. Poppy. It's basically doomed to fail on all accounts, especially when Mr. Maddens begins this intricate web of lies (in order to impress his fellow teacher rival, Gordon Shakespeare, who's absurdly full of himself) circling around his ex-girlfriend Hollywood producer flying herself and her crew out to watch their nativity play. The blowing up of the lies begetting lies and lies growing and growing and Mr. Maddens getting himself into deeper and deeper hot water is what makes most of the humor.
So you're reading this and probably thinking, Gee, Holly, well that sounds all fine and dandy, but why is it your FAVORITE Christmas movie? I mean, there's so many other good ones out there!!!!
Yes. That is true. But I....well, we....have a couple reasons. The main one for me is because in the beginning of the movie, Mr. Maddens has absolutely no hope: in Christmas, in his students, in himself for doing a good job of directing, in Mr. Poppy. As the movie progresses we learn he's still in love with his ex-girlfriend, even traveling great lengths to put his heart and the hearts of his students on the line. As the movie progresses the students go from not believing in themselves, not thinking they can do anything, to "sparkling and shining" and redeeming the lost cause that their school once was. And wishing the absolute BEST for their teacher that they love so dearly and admire. My recommendation is this: watch the movie. It will make you cry. And it will definitely make you laugh and warm your heart.
Kelly: On top of what was already said, I have nothing really to add. What I get from this movie is quite simple. There's one part where Mr. Maddens has just spoken to an unsure student about wanting to participate in the play because she didn't want to wear "a stupid costume." After he sends her off to lunch, he stumbles upon "Christmas post" in which the students write letters to Santa asking what they want for Christmas. A few of them are traditional things like this and that. As he continues to read them, more and more of them say along the lines of "I just want Mr. Maddens to be happy." He gets quite emotional by the end and once he walks back into the auditorium the passion just lights up. These same students that he called "useless" in the beginning of the movie still want nothing but the absolute best for him. And that's just awesome. I feel we should always feel that same way towards all people, even those who have wronged us any way or have said we're useless. Even if that person is ourselves.
Then there's Mr. Poppy. Despite receiving constant criticism for his over-the-top behavior and enthusiasm, he continues to do that and then some. I consider myself to be like Mr. Poppy at times. Here's what I mean; today I received a comment from one of my clinical instructors that said "I wish that everyone was as cheerful and enthusiastic as you are." It just goes to show you that when you carry that sort of attitude, like me, like Mr. Poppy, though it doesn't seem like it at times people do notice. And they appreciate it. Lastly, what else I get from this movie is of course the fact that Martin Freeman is in it! He has easily become one of my favorite actors and to me is more than just Tim from the Office or soon-to-be none other than Bilbo Baggins himself. I think we so often forget that actors, despite their various roles, are regular people too and live regular lives just like you and I. Since Martin has become one of my faves, I've brought it upon myself to see him in more of his work. I really do appreciate him more as an actor and as a person! So yes, I will close by saying, definitely watch this movie. It really is gold as far as Christmas movies go!
***Holly adds her actor/actress worship pet peeve/rant: Because I've read interviews, etc, and they don't like that. For example, Kelly and I like Martin Freeman, and we've seen a lot of his work, and I've read interviews with him and he said at one point he got really tired of hearing "Tim!!" being shouted in the streets. While I love the character Tim from The Office, that's not who they are. Actors and actresses aren't defined by their characters; they're defined by THEIR character. They're ordinary people, just like you and me, who just happen to be spectacularly good at their jobs and also...they love what they do. I challenge you: if you have a favorite actor/actress, watch their other works (besides the one work that made you fall in love with him/her). Your opinion will change. //end rant***
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
One Hundred
Kelly: Readers, avid readers, and strangers; I present to you with good news. This blog has reached its 100th POST!!!!! *cue wild cheering, confetti, party horns* We are so excited and honestly never thought that it would get this far. Hey, it's hard to keep up with something like this when our lives are taking such busy and definitely interesting turns. Oh...public service announcement: THE LOUD MUSTANG IS GONE!!!!! Turns out it wasn't a mustang that was across the street from us, it was a Pontiac something. Goes to show you how much I know about cars. Whatever. What I'm thinking about is how much new stuff we have gotten into in 100 posts. WOOT. Go us and our crazy fandoms! But what I'm most happy about is how I have felt my relationship with God grow and flourish! I am different. SO much different than what I used to be; even more different than the start of the summer. Gosh. What has happened in 100 posts?
We: met Colin and Brad, Holly graduated, moved into a new place, became mommies to two fuzzy children, got hooked on Lord of the Rings, Sherlock and the Hobbit, made new friends, lived, laughed and grew in our joy of the Lord. WOW! It blows me away how much as people we have grown! It's awesome and we couldn't have done it without God and your all's warm and wonderful comments! Thank you all! 100 down...100 more to go!
Holly: I have a purring Yoda on my lap. We just ate an amazing dinner (Seriously). We're wearing our new hobbit feet slippers (you can't make this stuff up). We're about to go spend time with our amazing church choir family. :) I am so different of a person now than I am from a year ago, life isn't AT ALL what I imagined it would be, and yet I couldn't be happier. We're Skyping with one of our best friends this evening. All is just unbelievably well! :D
If you have been riding on this roller coaster with us from the start, then I must thank you. Knowing that there are those out there that take interest in what is going on in our random, hectic lives makes it the very reason that we've reached 100 posts. Here's to 100 more, hopefully!
And now, some random awesome pictures:
We: met Colin and Brad, Holly graduated, moved into a new place, became mommies to two fuzzy children, got hooked on Lord of the Rings, Sherlock and the Hobbit, made new friends, lived, laughed and grew in our joy of the Lord. WOW! It blows me away how much as people we have grown! It's awesome and we couldn't have done it without God and your all's warm and wonderful comments! Thank you all! 100 down...100 more to go!
Holly: I have a purring Yoda on my lap. We just ate an amazing dinner (Seriously). We're wearing our new hobbit feet slippers (you can't make this stuff up). We're about to go spend time with our amazing church choir family. :) I am so different of a person now than I am from a year ago, life isn't AT ALL what I imagined it would be, and yet I couldn't be happier. We're Skyping with one of our best friends this evening. All is just unbelievably well! :D
If you have been riding on this roller coaster with us from the start, then I must thank you. Knowing that there are those out there that take interest in what is going on in our random, hectic lives makes it the very reason that we've reached 100 posts. Here's to 100 more, hopefully!
And now, some random awesome pictures:
Friday, September 28, 2012
Change thinking to change feelings
Kelly: The last few weeks I have noticed a change in myself. And no, it's not just the 8 pound weight loss. This again is another change for the better. I have been happier. Much happier than I was this time last year. I remember thinking about this time last year; I was so on edge. About everything! The littlest things set me off and it was because I was just so...burned out, stressed out, worn out, worn down, and exhausted. Getting up at 4AM on Tuesdays was extremely draining and it was just go, go, go 24/7. No rest for the weary. And now? I'm not stressed (as much), I'm not tired, and I can't even remember the last time I had a genuinely bad day. What does that even mean anyway, to have a bad day? It's all relative. Anyway, but everyone keeps asking me what my secret is? How did I lose 8 pounds? Why am I so happy and cheerful?
It's GOD.
It was, it has been and it will be. Every morning when I wake up I consciously think in my mind "God, I'm here now. I want you to shine so brightly through me that people notice. I want to have a smile on my face and pass it on." Those thoughts vary daily, but for the most part I start my days with God just changing and transforming my mind. And let me tell you it is AMAZING how good I feel!!!! I smile more, I laugh more and I think positively more. This is also benefiting me because I have more time to PRAISE instead of PLEAD. Not that pleading to God is bad, but I can think of more times when I've said "Dear God, thank you for now" instead of "Dear God just get me through this!" There have been times when some troubles have come my way but I've learned (and am still learning) to just deal with them as they come. And I pray ALL the time "God have Your way in this situation." I don't ask to take it away because we might miss something if we just lock up all our stresses and worries in boxes and pray that they just disappear. I've EMBRACED those challenges and saddled up the courage to face them. Finally. Now bear in mind, these changes I've made have taken many many months of pre-meditating, thinking and praying. But also these changes have come from inside me as well. I've had to pluck up courage from my strength (which comes from God) to just GO. To just go and live, because it is not God's will for me to live in bondage of all that holds me down. And here's something else; words are just words. Make a plan, pray about it, think about it, and follow through.
Holly: But God...
I am speaking from experience, as well as in concordance with Kelly, but every single word she says is true. This way of thinking has completely revolutionized my day-to-day ways of looking at things, situations, bad drivers, work issues, scary bills, crappy attitudes, cats that won't chill out, etc etc etc...But ever since I've taken the focus off of me and MY schedule, and MY current feelings, and all that I have to do for the day, and turning it into "Hey, God, um, thanks for EVERYTHING, I'm not sure what's going to happen today, but I totally trust You," things have just gotten better. By all rights I should be having a conniption fit. I don't have a job in two months, I have student loans to pay off, we're getting zero help from the college in terms of living expenses next semester...there's just a lot stacked against us. I have hardly zero anxiety. Seriously. Because I rest and stand firm in the simple fact of all that God has brought us through, and I strongly believe He will not have brought us to Berea, to here right now, only to just be like, "Well, just kidding." No. That's not the God I serve and love.
The thing about faith, though, is that even though God has more than enough faith for you and me, sometimes we have to have faith in ourselves. I've had lots of conversations with people about how stressed they are, how they're not sure they're going to make it, and they trust God, I can see that....but maybe it's themselves that they don't trust. Let me tell you: there were plenty of times in my last semester of school where I wasn't sure if I was going to pass this one class. I decided to shift my focus on GOODDD, saying, God, you've brought me through four years of school. I'm giving this class to You! I did that, but I also just kept telling myself, Holly, you're going to make it. You are. You have to! You have so many people rooting for you!!
If you haven't been reading a word of this, please read this: YOU. ARE. NOT. ALONE. Someone out there is rooting for you. Someone has faith in you. Please know this. :)
My challenge is this: just try to shift your perspective, the way you think. It takes time, believe me. But it's worth it, I promise. Let us know if you need encouragement, prayer, etc.
"You have to change the way you THINK in order to change the way you FEEL." -Robin Roberts
It's GOD.
It was, it has been and it will be. Every morning when I wake up I consciously think in my mind "God, I'm here now. I want you to shine so brightly through me that people notice. I want to have a smile on my face and pass it on." Those thoughts vary daily, but for the most part I start my days with God just changing and transforming my mind. And let me tell you it is AMAZING how good I feel!!!! I smile more, I laugh more and I think positively more. This is also benefiting me because I have more time to PRAISE instead of PLEAD. Not that pleading to God is bad, but I can think of more times when I've said "Dear God, thank you for now" instead of "Dear God just get me through this!" There have been times when some troubles have come my way but I've learned (and am still learning) to just deal with them as they come. And I pray ALL the time "God have Your way in this situation." I don't ask to take it away because we might miss something if we just lock up all our stresses and worries in boxes and pray that they just disappear. I've EMBRACED those challenges and saddled up the courage to face them. Finally. Now bear in mind, these changes I've made have taken many many months of pre-meditating, thinking and praying. But also these changes have come from inside me as well. I've had to pluck up courage from my strength (which comes from God) to just GO. To just go and live, because it is not God's will for me to live in bondage of all that holds me down. And here's something else; words are just words. Make a plan, pray about it, think about it, and follow through.
Holly: But God...
I am speaking from experience, as well as in concordance with Kelly, but every single word she says is true. This way of thinking has completely revolutionized my day-to-day ways of looking at things, situations, bad drivers, work issues, scary bills, crappy attitudes, cats that won't chill out, etc etc etc...But ever since I've taken the focus off of me and MY schedule, and MY current feelings, and all that I have to do for the day, and turning it into "Hey, God, um, thanks for EVERYTHING, I'm not sure what's going to happen today, but I totally trust You," things have just gotten better. By all rights I should be having a conniption fit. I don't have a job in two months, I have student loans to pay off, we're getting zero help from the college in terms of living expenses next semester...there's just a lot stacked against us. I have hardly zero anxiety. Seriously. Because I rest and stand firm in the simple fact of all that God has brought us through, and I strongly believe He will not have brought us to Berea, to here right now, only to just be like, "Well, just kidding." No. That's not the God I serve and love.
The thing about faith, though, is that even though God has more than enough faith for you and me, sometimes we have to have faith in ourselves. I've had lots of conversations with people about how stressed they are, how they're not sure they're going to make it, and they trust God, I can see that....but maybe it's themselves that they don't trust. Let me tell you: there were plenty of times in my last semester of school where I wasn't sure if I was going to pass this one class. I decided to shift my focus on GOODDD, saying, God, you've brought me through four years of school. I'm giving this class to You! I did that, but I also just kept telling myself, Holly, you're going to make it. You are. You have to! You have so many people rooting for you!!
If you haven't been reading a word of this, please read this: YOU. ARE. NOT. ALONE. Someone out there is rooting for you. Someone has faith in you. Please know this. :)
My challenge is this: just try to shift your perspective, the way you think. It takes time, believe me. But it's worth it, I promise. Let us know if you need encouragement, prayer, etc.
"You have to change the way you THINK in order to change the way you FEEL." -Robin Roberts
Friday, September 7, 2012
A Love Letter to College Freshmen
Holly and Kelly: This started circulating on Facebook earlier this afternoon....wow. Hits it right on the money. So poignant, funny, true, lovely...please take the time to read it. You will be inspired. :)
http://www.moreloveletters.com/2012/08/25/a-love-letter-to-college-freshmen/
http://www.moreloveletters.com/2012/08/25/a-love-letter-to-college-freshmen/
Monday, July 30, 2012
Two will become three....and some crazy dives!
Holly: Well...it's the end of July, going into August, and it's an even numbered 4 year period, and you know what that means??
SUMMER LYMPICS!
Yep...from London this year (tears!!!!!! considering I was there this time last year...). Anyway. Enough of that. The three of us (and two very uninterested felines) from humble Apartment #1 are pouring over the diving men's finals right now. Wow! Such poise. And they're SO together! It's practically perfection, flawless. How do they do that? And two guys from Mexico just did a 4 1/2 inverted somersault...so much spinning...perfect spinning! Crazy! Perfect! But we always cringe when they jump off because they're so close to the board and I don't want to see lovely toned divers go splat! We watched the Opening Ceremony when it came on, but I'm sad to report that we missed James Bond/the Queen parachute in. But we did catch the bajillion-foot Voldemort and the crazy era music dancing montage. And the doctors and nurses. A bit odd, but still well done if I do say so myself. Hopefully this evening on the beach volleyball front, Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh will pull another win....man, that stuff is just as exciting as Sherlock!
Now, onto the second big piece of news that's sweeping the nation...literally! I'm sure many of you are familiar with the Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit series. If you're not, I suggest you claw yourself out of that rock you're hiding under and remedy that as soon as possible. Seriously, I have just recently seen the light and I have no clue why I waited so long.
ANYWAY....
As of today, the illustrious Peter Jackson (if you don't know who that is....oh geez, just look it up) announced today that the originally slated two part movie series of "The Hobbit" will now become a THREE part movie series! Of course, I have some.....concerns.....with this: First off, the book is only 271 pages. Now, there is plenty of material for two movies, but even with some series drawing out, editing, tweaking, etc...it will be interesting to see such short of a book into 3 parts. I mean, the LoTR series itself is WAY over 1000 pages, and each of those movies is well over 3 hours. So that makes sense.
My second concern is that of the actors. Kelly and I are now hopelessly "Sherlocked", and, of course, the illustrious actor playing the hobbit protagonist Bilbo Baggins is also the charming Dr. Watson in Sherlock. I'm just wondering how that will work in terms of filming and production. See, Sherlock's seasons are only 3 episodes, but they're 90 minutes. Season 2 finished in January of this year, and Season 3 starts in January 2013. The Hobbit (part 1) is being released at the end of this year, December 2013 next year, and now with part 3, theoretically summer 2014. How will this work??????????????????
Until then, I shall wait anxiously for The Hobbit. And Smaug. Who is being voiced by the smooth-as-silk Benedict Cumberbatch (who is also Sherlock). Can you say SPAAAZZ??? &^%@(*&P_)_)(#$(*&^@#^%$^&
Kelly: As I posted on my Twitter earlier, I stated that I was going to be cautiously optimistic about the fact that a 2-part movie is now going to be turned into 3. Though my concerns have nothing to do about characters, plot holes or material. The way I see it is simple; MONEY. Think for a sec; the LOTR trilogy pulled in over $2 BILLION. No...not million. OVER 2 BILLION DOLLARS. So really it seems like a no-brainer; die-hards will watch and wait for a 3rd movie. They'll wait and pay to see the three movies. Shoot, I'll wait and pay my dues to see the three movies as a recent Ringer. Like Holly, I too am concerned about the overlapping in Sherlock and this third Hobbit film. Again...cautiously optimistic.
And US just won a bronze in diving! TEAM USA!!! For what it's worth though the Chinese team were really good (they won the gold). Mexico completed the most difficult dive and they walked away with the silver. Let's see what is coming up next...YES. Beach volleyball! May-Treanor and Walsh are coming up next and taking on Czech Republic. We've been waiting patiently since Friday, so we are getting very excited. I really have nothing else to add so I am going to post this humorous picture that a fellow Sherlock fan of ours linked to me and Holly via Facebook. Enjoy the Olympics and don't shoot walls if you're bored.
SUMMER LYMPICS!
Yep...from London this year (tears!!!!!! considering I was there this time last year...). Anyway. Enough of that. The three of us (and two very uninterested felines) from humble Apartment #1 are pouring over the diving men's finals right now. Wow! Such poise. And they're SO together! It's practically perfection, flawless. How do they do that? And two guys from Mexico just did a 4 1/2 inverted somersault...so much spinning...perfect spinning! Crazy! Perfect! But we always cringe when they jump off because they're so close to the board and I don't want to see lovely toned divers go splat! We watched the Opening Ceremony when it came on, but I'm sad to report that we missed James Bond/the Queen parachute in. But we did catch the bajillion-foot Voldemort and the crazy era music dancing montage. And the doctors and nurses. A bit odd, but still well done if I do say so myself. Hopefully this evening on the beach volleyball front, Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh will pull another win....man, that stuff is just as exciting as Sherlock!
Now, onto the second big piece of news that's sweeping the nation...literally! I'm sure many of you are familiar with the Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit series. If you're not, I suggest you claw yourself out of that rock you're hiding under and remedy that as soon as possible. Seriously, I have just recently seen the light and I have no clue why I waited so long.
ANYWAY....
As of today, the illustrious Peter Jackson (if you don't know who that is....oh geez, just look it up) announced today that the originally slated two part movie series of "The Hobbit" will now become a THREE part movie series! Of course, I have some.....concerns.....with this: First off, the book is only 271 pages. Now, there is plenty of material for two movies, but even with some series drawing out, editing, tweaking, etc...it will be interesting to see such short of a book into 3 parts. I mean, the LoTR series itself is WAY over 1000 pages, and each of those movies is well over 3 hours. So that makes sense.
My second concern is that of the actors. Kelly and I are now hopelessly "Sherlocked", and, of course, the illustrious actor playing the hobbit protagonist Bilbo Baggins is also the charming Dr. Watson in Sherlock. I'm just wondering how that will work in terms of filming and production. See, Sherlock's seasons are only 3 episodes, but they're 90 minutes. Season 2 finished in January of this year, and Season 3 starts in January 2013. The Hobbit (part 1) is being released at the end of this year, December 2013 next year, and now with part 3, theoretically summer 2014. How will this work??????????????????
Until then, I shall wait anxiously for The Hobbit. And Smaug. Who is being voiced by the smooth-as-silk Benedict Cumberbatch (who is also Sherlock). Can you say SPAAAZZ??? &^%@(*&P_)_)(#$(*&^@#^%$^&
Kelly: As I posted on my Twitter earlier, I stated that I was going to be cautiously optimistic about the fact that a 2-part movie is now going to be turned into 3. Though my concerns have nothing to do about characters, plot holes or material. The way I see it is simple; MONEY. Think for a sec; the LOTR trilogy pulled in over $2 BILLION. No...not million. OVER 2 BILLION DOLLARS. So really it seems like a no-brainer; die-hards will watch and wait for a 3rd movie. They'll wait and pay to see the three movies. Shoot, I'll wait and pay my dues to see the three movies as a recent Ringer. Like Holly, I too am concerned about the overlapping in Sherlock and this third Hobbit film. Again...cautiously optimistic.
And US just won a bronze in diving! TEAM USA!!! For what it's worth though the Chinese team were really good (they won the gold). Mexico completed the most difficult dive and they walked away with the silver. Let's see what is coming up next...YES. Beach volleyball! May-Treanor and Walsh are coming up next and taking on Czech Republic. We've been waiting patiently since Friday, so we are getting very excited. I really have nothing else to add so I am going to post this humorous picture that a fellow Sherlock fan of ours linked to me and Holly via Facebook. Enjoy the Olympics and don't shoot walls if you're bored.
 |
| Holly and I have friends. Sherlock doesn't. Except Watson. |
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
In case you didn't get the memo!
http://richmondregister.com/viewpoints/x229372120/-Whose-Line-guys-improv-geniuses
NUFF SAID! :D
Read it. Drop whatever you are doing and read it. Read it RIGHT. NOW. You know you want to. It'll make you feel like you were there. Do it. Doooo ittttt! :]
NUFF SAID! :D
Read it. Drop whatever you are doing and read it. Read it RIGHT. NOW. You know you want to. It'll make you feel like you were there. Do it. Doooo ittttt! :]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)