You're the Inspiration!

Holly: No, we're not about to break out into song here...although who doesn't love Chicago? Anyway, a little off topic here. Happy October, everyone! Is it just me or is 2015 flying right by? It seems like just yesterday we were all digging ourselves out of substantial amounts of white stuff, and now it seems like a distant memory, one I'm sure many of us wouldn't mind forgetting.

Life is pretty swell for us lately. It definitely hasn't come without its share of bumps, but that's another set of stories for another day :) Part of the swellness of life for us is our work, and that's where my story begins...

Today I attended a workshop that catered to, admittedly, mostly Berea faculty, but there were Development staff present, as well as myself and one of my bosses. The topic, along with many other sub-topics, was philanthropic fundraising: identifying donors, relating to donors on a personal level, some strategies, etc etc etc. I won't bore y'all, but one of the "kickers" was sharing stories that inspire. I was seated next to a current Berea professor and we both marveled at the fact that Berea draws in a crowd that has some pretty incredible stories. This professor was telling about a current student of his: how she'd come from a poor family in Alabama, how she'd had numerous travel and internship opportunities, how she was doing "exceptional work" (his words), and that she was working multiple jobs even as a student. And, he concluded, "she's still not done yet." I was immediately struck by something, and I verbalized it almost immediately, "I love this story," I said, "I mean, I could be here all day going on about the professors that inspired me, but it's so cool- the professors are inspired by the students too." He agreed, but then commented that he didn't think that he made an impact on his students- it was the joy of seeing his students thrive and realize their potential that made the difference.

But that's where I [mentally] disagree. If you don't think you've made an impact, or been at least some degree of inspiration, that is not true. For me, anyway. Even with the classes that I absolutely HATED (and there were a few), I still learned something. I was still challenged in some way, be it through an assignment, or even a way of thinking. And with those professors that immediately stick out in my mind having been the most influential to me, both personally and professionally...I could fill volumes. There is something to be said about attending a college in which the opportunity to build a relationship with a professor, both in and out of class, is not only more than just an idea; it's a living, tangible, meaningful reality. From way too many after-class conversations about EVERYTHING, to just learning how to deal with people when they weren't at their best, I graduated from Berea College with more than just a Bachelor's degree.

Kelly: I was sitting in the chair of my department's office, crying. Graduation was 3 months away, and I was dead set in my head that I was going to fail the program in my last semester. I was pouring my heart out, verbalizing feelings of "feeling picked on," like a failure and feeling like I was miles behind my 12 classmates. After I got it all out, she first said that I was past the point of failing. The second thing she said to me I still remember to this day.

"You can do this, and you're going to do this."

So I did. I made it through, graduated, and passed the boards the first time around. I feel like I owe part of my career and the nurse that I am to Berea College. They pushed me and all of us not because they didn't care, but because they did care. I feel like at any other college they would just be like "well too bad" while still taking my money. Now that I'm a working nurse, I find myself hoping that I say or do something to inspire my patients. But 9 times out of 10, it's them who are inspiring me. I have learned so much from these people, because that's who they are before patients, they are people. Just recently, I was thinking about my time at Berea, which is something that I still do from time to time. One professor came to mind, and ironically it wasn't one I had for one of my nursing classes. I took this class with this specific professor on the recommendation of Holly and also, quite frankly, I just needed the filler so the college wouldn't get mad at me and drop me to only part-time status. It turned out to be one of the most challenging, yet fulfilling courses in my time. Completely disregard the fact the professor had bipolar disorder and....yeah.....part of my career goes there too. That class and the teaching and the all of it also spear-headed me to being where I am.

The point I'm trying to make through all of this is that you never know whose lives you are changing, and whose changing your lives. Think of those in your life that have inspired you. Is there a possibility that you've inspired them as well? My answer is probably.

The Tim Hawkins VIP Experience

Holly: Kind of sounds like it could be a title for an episode of Big Bang Theory...

Well...we are 2 days into the #2015bereasnowpocalypse and, since we are a bit what you'd call snowed in, I'll get things rolling by beginning our tale of when we saw Tim Hawkins live for the second time! 

The date was Friday the 13th (how creepy!!) and we waited outside for about fifteen minutes in the RIDICULOUS cold for the VIP doors to open.  Yes, this time we had VIP tix, a transaction that took place in May of last year! So no messing around with us this time.  We were herded to the gym of the church and were promptly fed Chick-Fil-A.  Yes, actual food! Which, at this time, I shall bring up, upon receiving these tickets, it was told that "hors d'oeuvres" were being served, so we ate beforehand.  Definitely not expecting boxes of original chicken sandwiches and waffle chips, so we shared a sandwich and hated ourselves a little bit more.  After we ate we were taken into the sanctuary where we ended up THREE ROWS behind the stage!  

I know there's a lot of you out there who are Tim Hawkins fans, and if you haven't seen him live yet, you really need to!  You WILL laugh, for the entire 2 hours, practically nonstop.  Bonus: He laughs at his own stuff too!  But what I really love about this guy is that he makes it all about Jesus!  So I guess it's what I would call a win-win situation :)

Here he's doing his song called "Third Wheel."  Look it up on Youtube! :)

 Kelly: I kept telling Holly throughout the night "we should be VIP's more often." It was a lot of fun. I felt like we were right there in the action, being 3 rows from the stage. There's really nothing else to add; it was really funny. A few times I sincerely thought I was going to be sick I was laughing so hard. At the end of the show we got to meet him. He was like "have I met you all somewhere before?" We were like....nooooooo. I then asked if he knew any twin jokes. He said he didn't but knew a blonde joke. It goes like this: 2 blondes were on either side of a lake. One blonde yelled to the other "how do you get to the other side?" Yeah...it took me a while to figure that one out; it was a long day. Finally got it when we were driving home. Ahh well. It was still funny. They wouldn't let us take any pictures, but the church did post some on their website (that sis is perusing right now).

I wrote in my journal the night we got home and was like this is why I go to things like this. Tim said that this world is so...messed up, and we're all just a bunch of terds. Laughter is perhaps one of the saving graces for this messed up world. It gives me hope, seriously. And it's a good and healthy escape. Plus we just like funny things (if you go on our Pinterest we posted a couple of his stuff on our funnies board). And his humor isn't crude; it's laughable! You laugh at it because a, it's really funny and b because it's so true! He mentioned that when women laugh they let out this long sigh at the end of it. I laughed at this then sighed. I was like "oh my gosh, Holly, I just did what he said!" and I laughed even harder. Perfect example of "it's only funny because it's true." So yeah. It was a really great night. I am still thinking about it from time to time. And who better to share this night with than sis? I will close with a comment he said near the end of the show; his purpose for why he does what he does is all for Jesus. It's to glorify Him.

Jesus didn't come into the world to make bad people good. He came to make dead people alive. 

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? :)

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

Things change/remembering Brian

Kelly: The ever so cliche saying of God making good out of something bad really is true. We were 15 when Brian passed away; still young and clueless. Heck, I'm still young and clueless, but that's beside the point. But after the funeral, I remember feeling a sense of closure, but that sense of closure soon turning into anger. I was angry at God; angry and wondering how He could take someone I had barely known away from me. From the rest of his friends. From his family. It didn't seem fair. A few weeks prior to his death, he went to some camp....sadly I can't remember which one, and he accepted Christ. Again, I don't remember where I heard that from. He was about to start his senior year of high school and was supposed to graduate with our brother.

Then coming to college and things changed. I thought about Brian a lot. But that night I accepted Christ into my life (again) I realized and was comforted at the fact that he was in Heaven with Jesus, and it felt...right. And now, fast forward to 9 years later. I'm working where I love and loving what I do. So often I get patients who are depressed and want to end their own lives, usually because of a loss in their lives. Lost their jobs, going through a divorce/separation, and most often loss of a loved one. I always try to tell them that times are hard, but somehow we find the strength to make it through. My strength came from (and still does) come from God, but way back then I didn't realize that. Or if I did, I was just too busy being pissed off. And now, our lives are going on, and the world is still spinning. I still do think of Brian, but not as often as I used to. But when I do think of him, I think of my other friends, who for whatever reason or rhyme are still in my life but live far away. I don't know when I'll ever see them again, but I pray for their happiness and safety often. I am at peace, because I know Brian is in a better place, and I do hope one day when my time comes I will see him again.

Holly: It's amazing, and a bit staggering, to be honest, at how sometimes things can change so quickly.  Like this week, for example.  Monday, I woke up to another normal work day; Tuesday, I had my Grow Appalachia interview; Wednesday, another work day; Thursday, I received the offer; and yesterday, I submitted my resignation to my supervisor.  That's that.  It's done, just like that.  On paper, my last day at UK is August 15th, just shy of three weeks from now.  My days at UK are numbered, I have some time in between, and then on August 25th I hop on a plane to either Philadelphia, DC, Columbus, or Atlanta, and start a new chapter in my life.  Things change.

And then, yesterday, I thought a lot of Brian.  I still remember that day very fondly; just another day of marching band practice.  We were all in the auditorium and then my friend was running to Kelly and I saying "it's Brian, he's gone."  Things change.

Yesterday, July 25th, was 9 years since we lost our friend Brian, killed in a car accident.  Brian was a friend whom we had just barely gotten to know, and yet...I don't know if I can speak for everyone, but I felt as if I'd known him my whole life.  He could make anybody laugh.  When we all parted ways for the summer I almost couldn't wait for the new school year to start, just to see what sort of shenanigans our group could get into.  Our group all saw each other again that summer, but it was at his funeral.  Not long after that, school started again.  That was 9 years ago.  I was 15 years old, still a kid, still had so much of high school left, hadn't even heard of Berea College, thought that friendships lasted forever, thought band was my world, and you know...the list goes on.  I've done a lot of growing up since then, but I still think of Brian often.  Things change, yes they do.  But never forget where you were and what has happened.

We all change, when you think about it.  We are all different people, all through our lives, and that's ok! That's good!  You've got to keep moving, so long as you remember all the people you used to be.

10 Reflections

Holly: Flying solo tonight, for a couple of reasons: 1. Because Kelly is currently writing her own post for her nursing blog, and 2. Because she told me to post this.

I didn't want to, but like I said, Kelly told me to.  Earlier this week we finished our viewings of all the 10th Doctor episodes of Doctor Who (minus The Day of the Doctor...).  Probably some of the most breathtaking (literally!), beautiful, heartwrenching, poignant, and emotional 2 hours of TV we've ever watched.  Talk about an emotional rollercoaster.  ANYWAY...last night I put a pen to paper, and this is what happened.  Hope you like it.  

10 Reflections
written 2/28/2014

Barcelona

first impressions: cute, crazy, a bit manic

and alone

so alone

But there was someone else
Her name was Rose

she made you better

the only one to say those three words directly to you

You and Rose

tumbling headfirst into strange worlds and creatures

Together

Then the parallel- cruel separation

Am I ever going to see you again?

No! was the resounding cry

but fate would have it otherwise

You understood

You became human
You knew what it was like to love and be loved

The love you gave and showed made us all fall in love with you

we followed you once more, with Martha, then Donna

I think you need someone

So alone
Saving the world with your family at your side
Donna: the metacrisis
she must never remember any of it

Utter heartbreak

Rose, then Donna
No more

resigning to travelling alone
trying to make everything right

So much power in the face of loss

the bonds of time are too easily broken

I've gone too far

And with time comes an end

He will knock four times

The end

The all-too-bittersweet end

The final hurrah to a journey of adventure, wit, and love

Your greatest asset and enemy

Every life is sacred

The love you gave and showed made us all fall in love with you

and so

We will sing to you, Doctor.  The universe will sing you to your sleep.  This song is ending, but the story never ends.

In a world of despair, you gave hope

In a world of darkness, you were light

never afraid to wander, to marvel, to grieve

Regeneration begins again

one last round of silent farewells, final glances and moments, rueful acknowledgments

Back to the TARDIS, the blue wooden sanctuary

I don't want to go

But go you did

much like the inside, our hearts shattered, almost beyond repair

the face physically changes, but yours will be imprinted on our hearts until the end of time

We wish to thank you, but the words seem so small

please believe we will never forget

our 10th Doctor

our Mr. Smith

our lonely angel

our soul

Vale Decem

God Moments: Part 2

Kelly: The Faith Conversation 

At my job, as I'm sure many will understand, it is very difficult for me to talk about my faith and beliefs in God at work. I knew this upon taking this job, but that doesn't mean that these sorts of conversations have never happened. A few days ago, one of these conversations took place. I had a patient approach me and asked if we could speak; for confidentiality reasons I cannot and will not disclose any information. For reasons that I can only chalk up to God, this patient chose me to speak to. Perhaps it's because they knew I was a Christian, I don't know. But anyway, they looked at me and was concerned about going back to school and about the direction God was taking them. This person then told me they felt abandoned by God and a little bit angry about feeling that way. It had been years since I had had this type of conversation with anyone, and it had been with my best friend at the time. Unfortunately the three of us have since parted ways, but that's a whole other story and God moment. Anyway, but I didn't know what to say; my mind processes were racing. I'm a nurse, I'm supposed to know what to say at the right time. But I was honest. My response was simply...wow. I'm not really sure how I can help but I will do my best. I shared that God has a plan for everyone, and drawing from my own experiences, but sometimes it's ok to feel in the dark about what that plan is. But it's there, and the fact that they were there getting help spoke volume about the fact that they were trying to regain control of their situation. I suggested they ask God for direction and not necessarily the answers right away, but the courage to persevere. We then talked about school for a bit and that was it. I was thanked at the end of the conversation. That was it.

Words are simple, in my opinion. I was never taught in nursing school how to have conversations with people; you can't get a degree for that. You put yourself out there with your words; you may say the "wrong" thing. Or what you say may exactly what someone might need to hear.

Holly: A Brief (hopefully!) Reflection on England

It all started in March of 2011.  Kelly, myself and a good friend of mine were browsing a study abroad catalog before convo one afternoon.  Brandi passed that catalog to me....and the rest, as they say, is history.  Found a program at Kingston University, a "suburb" 20 miles outside of London.  And then, 6 grand in debt, a blog, 6 flights, four weeks, many friends and memories (and pubs), and almost three years later, and I have a plethora of lessons, stories, experiences that will last for years to come.

When I first got to Berea I had no intention of studying abroad.  It didn't dawn on me until later that Berea is a blessing because they make it so affordable and so easy.  And God knew what He was doing that afternoon in March- setting in motion this experience that literally changed my life.  He kept me safe while I was there; I never once felt I was in danger.  He kept me safe on the way back home, when one of my flights got cancelled and I ended up having to spend the night in the airport.  He put roommates and friends in my path, and the relationships we built made me feel as if I had known these complete strangers my whole life.  He showed me just how beautiful and big the world is.  Seriously, for one of the largest cities in the world, London is stunningly beautiful, with old and new architecture and sites alike.  I think I left a piece of my soul there.  While I was there I was able to talk to my family, thanks to the uni and a cell phone program the summer school had set up.  What a blessing!  I watch my British telly shows and I see places I visited or saw, I hear words and phrases I heard, and it automatically takes me back to those days: getting lost in the streets with my friends, soaking up EVERYTHING in my classes, riding the double-decker buses and tube, freezing my butt off in the middle of July, the rain, Big Ben, the Eye, Stonehenge, Bath, Oxford, Westminster Abbey, museums, coffee shops, pigeons, doing British accents on the public transport so we'd try to blend in, thanking God every day and sometimes asking myself "Am I really here? Am I really in England?"...

I will go back someday.

Happy (belated) birthday blog!!!!

Holly: Ladies and germs, we are totally stoked to announce that yesterday (August 20th...we're a day late, ya know.  Jobs and stuff) was the 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE LAUNCH OF THIS BLOG!!!!!!!! :D *insert cheesy applause*

It still amazes me that it's still going strong.  We recently launched it on Facebook and, personally, I love sharing our posts there.  Facebook is a great platform.  But once again, we're not concerned about how many followers we have, how many comments we get- we just love writing and sharing life with people.  So if you like what you read, great.  If you want to leave a comment, great.  If not, we're going to keep writing, even if we just keep writing into nothingness.  

Life has changed for me so much in just the past month alone that I simply am beyond eager to see where this time next year will bring me.  I thank God every day for what I have.  I dearly appreciate all of you who do follow along with us on this crazy journey called life.  So keep having your coffee dates, keep seeking the joy in your life, keep praying, keep having faith, keep laughing, smiling, breathing, living! :)

Kelly: In 2 year's time, we both have graduated from college, moved twice, met Colin and Brad, got into Lord of the Rings and Sherlock, went through 3 roommates, adopted two cats, lost a friend (not by death but by other choices), lost our Grandpa, had a slew of jobs and downfalls and now have landed full-time (well...sort of for me) jobs and a lot of goodies in between.

WOW!!!!

It's surreal and amazing at how fast the time goes. Really. It's incredible! Like Holly said, we've done this for the last two years not to get "fans" or likes, to gain readers as fast as we can or ask for a slew of comments and shares. No. We do this for us and all of you! It has been our goal for us to discuss a topic so that someone out there can read it and say "yes! I've been there" or "well, not exactly, but this is what I think about it." The comments, views, shares and likes don't matter to us at all! I must say, it has been a blast looking back what has gone on in our lives the past 2 years. The growths, challenges and developments we have gained has been nothing other. We are humbled and blessed that there are many of you going on this journey with us! Thank you all so much for ANOTHER year! Here's to two more and many to come!

August 2011: Taken shortly after publishing our very first post.

August 2012: Taken one year exactly after the publication of our very first post.

August 2013: Taken 2 years and one day exactly after publication of first post.  We look sleepy :]

30 Days of Sherlock: Favorite Sherlock actor

Note: Today, we would like to dedicate this post to our dear friend Brian.  Eight years ago today he was killed in a car accident.  He was supposed to graduate high school with our brother.  He was a truly remarkable and wonderful friend who gave the best hugs and knew how to make anyone laugh.  We miss you, Brian.

Kelly: All I can say is thank God that I am not the same person that I was when I was that unsure, angry and upset 15 year old. Anyway, thanks to the website Sherlockstuff, I've been able to track my favorite Sherlock actor (and one of my favorite favorite actors anyway) and see some of his other work. He's been involved in a variety of other roles, in rom coms, historical flicks and of course, Bilbo Baggins in the upcoming Hobbit film trilogy.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I am tipping my hat off this morning to Martin Freeman. I've only known the name for about a year, but did recognize him in Shaun of The Dead, Hot Fuzz and Love Actually before I knew who he was. It was right around this time last year that we got into Sherlock as well; if I'm not mistaken we viewed Reichenbach on this day last year. When I saw Martin's performance in that episode, and seeing the real hurt and numbness that comes upon finding out your worst fear, that's when I fell in love with him not only as an actor but as John Watson. If you have never experienced loss before, you don't know what that feels like. I don't know if Martin has, but I have. And I remember watching the episode and thinking "that is EXACTLY how I felt when I heard about Brian." And just like that, I was 15 years old again.

So if you haven't seen some of Martin's other work, I would highly recommend it. I would recommend The Hitchhiker's Guide to The Galaxy, The Good Night, and Nativity! (those are my favorites that he's in). 

Holly: I too also love Martin Freeman.  And not just because he's John Watson (Seriously, you crazy Sherlock fans.....seriously.  Watch his other stuff.  He's so much more than that.  I seriously doubt he went through the training and schooling he did just to be known by "Jawn"...he's Martin Freeman! Ok, ending rant now).  I love him for his versatility.  I've seen the majority of his work, and every performance of his is completely seamless.  I especially love him in Nativity; he portrays the crochety Scroogy primary school teacher so well.  He's so believable! Like Kelly, I also recommend her recommendations, but I also recommend a comedy show called Bruiser.  He's quite funny!

Another good scene of his is from "Swinging with the Finkels."  Unfortunately, I gave the movie a half hour before I quit watching it, so I skipped to the end and ohhhhh....it's so sweet.  That last scene!!!! I'm not even going to post it here; you can find it on YouTube.

My recommendation for any actor you really like: watch their other works.  Branch out of your box a little.  I guarantee that your respect for him/her will increase exponentially.  And then you can daydream about meeting them and having an intellectual conversation with them, instead of something like "OHMYGLOB I'M YOUR BIGGEST FAN AND I LOVE SHERLOCK AND YOU'RE SO GOOD AS DR WATSON AND akljdgflkajdsgbkand.bkn.adjf...gkajewoituaoweut."  Catch my drift?

Bruiser: Touchy

Bruiser: Overanalyzing  (do apologize, there is a bit of language)

30 Days of Writing: Some things you'd like to say to an ex

Holly: Well...this is kind of interesting.  Not because of any ill-will or hard feelings, but because that part of my life was practically ancient history. We haven't talked in a while.  I'm such a different person now, and I'm willing to bet that you are too.

It's silly, actually, because when I talk to other people about you I still refer to you as "my ex", only for the simple fact that even though that part of my life was so long ago, you're still the only boyfriend I've ever had. Do I still think about those days? Of course I do.  Even though the relationship was short, I was happy, and I really did care about you.  I mean, it's not like I was expecting marriage or anything.  Honestly, I don't know what I was expecting.  I was 16.  I was an immature, star-eyed junior in high school who changed her dreams about every five minutes.  I found my MySpace blog a while ago...I couldn't shut up about you.      Seriously.  It was kind of ridiculous, actually.  But it definitely made me smile.  I'll be honest, after we broke up, I was really hurt and really confused for a really long time.  I blamed myself.  I look back on it now and it's just silly...high school romances rarely last and it was such a short run for us.  But when I fall for something, I fall for it hard and it takes a long time for me to let go.  Eventually though, I did.  I built my own life here in Berea.  I'm so happy now, and I sincerely hope you are too.

I will say this: you were a really good friend to me, after it was all said and done. I feel dumb saying this, but I hope that there's no hard feelings, even after all these years.  I hope I was good to you back then.  You're going to be an amazing music teacher someday.  Like I said earlier, we haven't talked in a while...drop me a message sometime, I'd love to catch up.

Kelly: I'm not where I want to be, but I'm not who I used to be. This is hard, because I've...never really been in a serious relationship. I was a freshman in high school and two of my friends wanted me to go out with a friend of mine and a friend of theirs...who was 2 years younger than me. We knew each other through band but that was about it. Yeah we did the silly "maybe this will be something more" taunts, flirts and other things young kids do when they're in "love." Classic school boy and school girl crush; nothing really more to me.

I don't want to say too much for the fear of hurting people's feelings, but I will say this; I wasn't ready. I wasn't a good "girlfriend" at the time and I don't know if I ever would have been a good one. I was young; I didn't have much say in the relationship, and I didn't feel like I was in control. Maybe if I had more time things may have been different. Maybe if I knew what I was doing....I don't know. And now; we both have grown up. It's been a while...a long while since we've last had a conversation, and I still remember what the conversation was about. I didn't know what to say, but I do now. Please...don't wait for me, because I'm not coming home. I've made Berea my new home, and I have a life here that I love. You deserve someone who will give you everything that you need, and as hard as this is for me to admit I'm not that person. Perhaps you don't feel the same way now, and maybe you've even forgotten about me. Whatever the case may be, I sincerely hope that you are happy and doing the work that God has blessed you with. I don't regret the time in which we were together and the times we were friends in high school, not at all. In fact it's completely the opposite. If you want to get back in touch with me great, and I've tried as well. If not, that's ok too; I'm not mad or angry, and I hope you're not angry with me. If you do want to talk though you know where to find me.

23 years of memories

Holly and Kelly: We turned 23 today! :)

Hi! :)

For Kelly, just another day of classes and stuff...it's funny how birthdays become a lot less exciting when you get older.  We started off the day with the newly inaugurated president of Berea College, his lovely wife, and a few students at the walk/run club that's been going on all year.  Figured we'd start off our new year of life on the right foot.  Holly was inspired by a conversation with Ms. Laurie (the First Lady) about giving back to your alma mater, and in a very hobbit-like spirit of giving to others, made her very first...and not last...23rd birthday donation to Berea College.  Not a large one, mind you, but sincere.

We met up with a very dear friend for lunch.  This dear friend has become like a little sister to us; she will be graduating with Kelly and will be on to bigger and better things in her life.  :)

The spirit of the day, however, was the receipt of news that we've been expecting for a few days now: our 91 year old Grandpa went to be with Jesus early this morning.  We are all at peace with the situation, and although we are sad of his passing, we rejoice that he is now free of suffering,  with the Lord, and reunited with our grandmother (she passed when we were five years old) and his siblings and parents.  We remember him teaching us how to ride bikes...with much protesting on our part.  He was probably one of the first people to tell us about Jesus and how much He loved us.  He was the epitome of a servant leader: worked hard for what he had, loved his family, loved the Lord.  There will come a day when we will see him again and we long for it.  The outpouring of love, prayers, and support has been absolutely overwhelming and awesome, and we thank you all for it, from the bottom of our hearts.  It's people like you and the good times we do remember that will make this loss easier to deal with.

We turned 23 today.  23 is just a number.  God is good and He is faithful.  He has a plan for us and our lives are changing.  Of course we couldn't do it without Him, but as we said earlier, it's the support of our Berea family and friends that keep us strong.  We are blessed to be a part of your lives and hope for 23 more years of friendships, love, and growing ever stronger in Christ.

Thanks for putting up with us!

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.

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:

An Open-Ended Letter to BC and MF....ok, and to the rest of Team Sherlock. And the fans too. Wow, this is a long title.

Dear BC and MF,

nah, scratch that:

Dear BC, MF, and Team Sherlock,
.................

one more time:

Dear All who love Sherlock (but mostly to BC and MF because that's why we watched the Emmys last night),

Hi.  Guess we gave it away now.  So we watched the Emmys last night.  We hates them.  I mean, don't get us wrong, of course we weren't born under rocks.  We're familiar with the big shows that were on: Mad Men, The Big Bang Theory, Modern Family, Homeland, etc etc etc....BUT.

What happened last night is the very reason why we typically don't watch shows like that.  Because ONE show usually sweeps all the wins.  It's nothing more than a popularity contest.  We're not trying to bash television...obviously, because the American people deem the aforementioned shows worthy of such an honor.  But SERIOUSLY...

Mad Men had 81 nominations.  EIGHTY. ONE?!?!? What the crap?  That's insane. Wasn't even aware that you could be nominated for an Emmy in 81 different categories.  Jeebus.  Despite all of this, despite all of this big-name shows, stars, etc, that's not why we stayed up to watch the Emmys.  We had one reason and one reason only:

Team Sherlock.

We waded through TWO HOURS of awards before they finally came to the "Miniseries/Movie" category.  Oh, you would not believe the tension and excitement we had.  Literally on the edge of our seats.  But...no.  Nothing. 

Should we be surprised?  No, I guess not.  Because, like I mentioned, it's a glorified popularity contest and not much else.  In the grand scheme of things, we're not really sure if you all were bummed, surprised, nonplussed, whatever, that you left empty handed.  But then we got to thinking: at least you all were THERE.  In LA.  Next to big time stars, shows, etc etc.  And for a show that has a predominantly British audience that only started a couple of years ago, that is pretty awesome. 

But we know that there's more to Sherlock than just Emmy nominations.  For us, it's taken us to entertainment in a level that we never knew existed.  It's taken us to new places emotionally, physically, we've never related so closely to characters as this.  It's more than that.  You helped us to believe in true friendship, loyalty, the power of the human mind, the fragility of the human spirit, that even the most stoic and complex of individuals can be shaken to their very core and reach out to their one and only friend in their hour of need.  We've laughed, we've cried, we've run down the streets of London and Baker Street right beside y'all.  And we, the fans, will wait, eagerly, perhaps even a little frustrated, anxious, angry, and tense, for having to wait a year to see what will happen next.  We are waiting.  We are Sherlocked. 

BC and MF, if there was an Emmy for passion and versatility, then you would win it, hands down, no argument.  The obvious passion and versatility for your job and your utter brillance and talent you bring to Sherlock is nothing to be matched to the Emmy speeches we saw last night.  If there was an Emmy for Sherlock fans, we would win it, hands down, no argument.  The fan base that we see on a regular basis can't top some of the big-time shows and stars we saw last night.  Because the two of you are REAL.  You're RELATABLE, you're BRILLIANT, you're so GENUINE, it's refreshing to us, us that are so sick and tired of fake, plastic, superficial.  So please, please know that we, and so many others, were rooting for the two of you so hard at the Emmys last night.  Even though you ultimately didn't win, we are still SO PROUD to continue to root for you, to be your fans, to wait and see whether Sherlock survived the fateful hospital plunge. 

Thank you, both of you, for reminding us what true talent and TV is.  Oh, and just a warning to the entertainment world:

You's about to get your FACE rocked off.  Bilbo Baggins.  Bilbo.  Baggins.  That's all we have to say about that. 

Very truly Sherlocked,

Holly and Kelly

The beginning of the end (aka Holly graduates from college)...IN PICTURES!

A truly perfect, amazing, wonderful day full of happiness, laughter, hugs, and memories.  :)

I found my sign! lol

Me and my lovely friend Grace :)

sisters <3

4 years of stress, sweat, prayers, tears, and memories= totally worth it for this!

Roommates!

We did it!!!! :D

My hat!

My awesome friend Tim!!! We met freshman year at Berea.  He drove six hours to see me graduate!

My parents and two of my wonderful Biology professors

My lovely friend Ashley, a 2011 Berea grad

My crazy friend Priscilla, another 2011 Berea grad

The BEST academic adviser, Biology professor, labor supervisor, and go-to person anyone could have ever asked for!

YAY!

My unofficial cheering squad.  Friend Ray caught all of them in a candid moment.  I crack up every time! :D

22 years young and hoping for 22 more!

Kelly: Each day is a gift from God. That's why it's called the present. Anyway, sis and I celebrated our 22nd birthday today. I don't...feel any older, but I reached a sobering thought while at work this morning. Each year we get older we are hurdling towards our own death. Sure is sad, but it is ever so true. When I woke up this morning, I was just anticipating another typical day of classes, work and the occasional "oh it's your birthday today? Well have a good one."

No, I didn't get any flashy new presents. Or a car (there's always next year for that *wink wink*). I didn't have a birthday cake where I was surrounded by a zillion of my friends singing "Happy Birthday" to me. It was just...another day to be grateful for life! However, I did get sung to by two friends in my morning class and my ENTIRE Med/Surg class. That was awkward. What do you really do or say when you're standing in front of your peers and professor/academic adviser, not to MENTION the division chair who happened to be sitting in during the first part of our class? I just stood there praying "Dear God, just make them stop." Hahaha. I tease. It was quite amusing; let's just say there's a reason we are nursing majors. Last night, I made rice krispy treats to share with my class; they were good. I'm still here!

Yes, there is actually a point to all of this. I just want to close with this. I am just very thankful and happy that I have lived to 22 years. Looking back on all God has brought me through is just astounding. I am happy and praying for 22 more blessed years and many many more!

Holly: 22 is kind of an odd number.  No longer a "legal" adult, way past the teenage hump, close to 30 and even closer to 25 (our brother is turning 25 this year).  Shew. 

Like Kelly, today was just another day for me: class from 8 in the morning until 4:30 in the afternoon.  I guess that's what happens when you grow up.  Adult obligations don't stop for days like today.  haha.  But today I was reminded just how many people I have that support me and love me.  Between the countless Facebook posts, texts, and passing-by "Happy birthdays", I was...overwhelmed, at best.  This year, my 22nd year, I'm going to try to let those I care about let them know that I care about them too! 

The fact that I'm also graduating from college in 27 days is pretty snazzy too!  And during our field adventure today we almost talked our professor into stopping for ice cream! ^__^

Looking back on where I was this time last year, it's almost sobering to think: my life was about to change...I was preparing to study abroad in another country!!! Now I'm preparing to start my LIFE! Life I've known for the past four years is almost over....anyway...

Whoever is reading this, thank you.  That's all we can really say for now.  :)

Hasn't changed a bit

Holly: I know we just blogged yesterday, but too much good has happened not to share! ^___^

Kelly and I spent the day having our spring break scheduled "sister date".  Yes, we had so much planned this week that we scheduled a sister date.  Sue us.  We visited our high school alma mater today. 

Yup, good ol' Federal Hocking.  Seems like ages ago that Kelly and I graduated (2008...so it wasn't THAT long ago).  Anyway, we hadn't visited since just starting out at Berea and after Mom ran into some of our ex-teachers, we figured we'd pay everyone a little visit.  It was so wonderful to reconnect with some of our favorite high school teachers!!! They were so excited that we were almost finished with school, trying to figure out what to do with our lives, and I graduating very, very soon!  As Kelly and I wandered the halls hunting people down, something that kept coming to us is "Wow, this place hasn't changed a bit."  Suddenly we were transformed back into wide-eyed 15-year-old freshmen! 

Yeah, high school wasn't a picnic for us (being in marching band, science olympiad, and mock trial puts you at the very bottom of the social totem pole), but seeing everyone today reminded me that we had some pretty great times in high school.  I miss having the teachers I ran into today.  I miss the innocence of high school; you didn't have to have all the answers!  Kelly and I were welcomed with open arms as we opened the doors of the seemingly-forgotten halls of Fed Hock.  I will never forget that.  I hope to visit again before we make our big move.

P.S. An unrelated bit of good news: JOB INTERVIEW NEXT WEEK! Sometime.  Not sure yet! BUT IT'S A JOB INTERVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D

Kelly: I admit, I was a little skeptical walking into the doors, just because it has been so long. How in the world were people going to react to us two geek burgers walking in through the double doors on a Thursday afternoon? But it was just like old times; picked up right where we left off. We filled everyone in with our potential move, apartment finding, college hustle and bustle, and of course, me and the fact that I still have one more long and painful year of nursing school left to endure. But it will be here before I know it!


After our high-school rendezvous, we hit town and did some mini shopping. What I distinctly remember about today (other than sis getting a high-five from our former Spanish teacher) was listening to a song on the radio and thinking about good times from long ago. When we were still in youth group in high school we would go to this big weekend outdoor concert thing that was SUPER AWESOME. There was one band that was playing their well-known song called "Washed by the Water." As soon as the chorus started, it began POURING.


Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
Even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water 


On the way home today, it had been sprinkling on and off. When that song came on the radio I said to Holly "wouldn't it be funny if it started raining?" Turned out I had been thinking the same thing too. I realize that my contribution has nothing to do with Holly's, but it just made me think. We have worked very hard to get where we are today, and the roads we have taken have not been easy. But we were both reminded we've got a large cheering squad here at home that are rooting for us! Yes, we have been hit with personal rain storms and floods, but they wash away and good times come forth. Ok, enough of my platform today. Yay for good times!

Friends

Kelly: Short and sweet post tonight, folks. I've been awake for a very long time, BUT my 4am rising times are over!!!! Ok, enough with the commercial break. Anyway, I've reminisced on the fact that I, well, we have just super awesome friends! A few times this week I have really seen this awesomeness blossom and put into practice. It started on Sunday when sis and I were in Sunday School (I'll have her explain it to you because she tells it better). Then came yesterday.

I was at work and I received a text message. I work at 9:00 in the morning and normally don't receive calls/texts until later in the day. Surprised, I clocked out and checked my phone. It was from a very very dear friend of mine and Holly's who happened to graduate this year. I haven't seen him since then and probably won't see him till next month for Homecoming. Anyway, it was in his typical mannerisms, it said this: Hello my love, just wanted to tell you that I love you and miss you! Please share this with your sister because I love her toooooooooooooo! 

Holly, James and me (this is from OUR freshman year. THROWBACK!)

Literally COULD NOT stop smiling for about 10 minutes, because if you knew our friend, he is very....southern. But oh my goodness he is the sweetest guy I've ever met in my entire life and I love him to bits!  Anyway, enough about that. We love our James! :] The most recent acts of love from our friends came yesterday. I received a Facebook message from my aunt saying my 90-year-old grandpa was in the hospital. No details were really known, but I was very worried, because well...my grandpa is 90 years old! I always worry. We later found out that his sodium levels were low, but he's doing better as of today (THANK YOU LORD). Within posting on my facebook about this sudden crisis, I had several comments from friends and family....it was so quick! And I was like, gosh, what in the world did I do to deserve such awesome people in my life? The answer....nothing. But I serve a great God who has blessed me with these individuals, and I thank Him every day for them. YOU ALL KNOW WHO YOU ARE!!!! <3

Holly:  Nom nom nom Tootsie Rolls!  Oh, sorry...hi there! *gives readers a mini Tootsie Roll*

I have really nothing concrete to add to this, except the church phone call: I checked my cell phone after Sunday school and I had a missed call from our delightful married friends.  P.S. They never call us (mostly b/c we talk on Facebook a lot and you know, they're busy, we're busy, blah blah blah), so I was thinking something had happened.  So I got a hold of my friend and she proceeded to tell me that she and her husband were at church and during the sermon, the pastor told everyone to take out their phones and call someone that they loved and tell them how much they meant to them.  I AM NOT MAKING THIS UP!  :)  Yes, we were the receiving end of this random act of kindness, and it completely and wholeheartedly made my day. 

Anyway, that's it, really.  We literally have some of the greatest friends in the world!  You all know who you are! :)

21st birthday! too much fun! :)

Graduation! :)

Our beautiful friends in their grad garb.  Yes, THIS MANY of our friends graduated that day!

From our 20th birthday.  we're a pretty rad bunch!

Best friends since middle school...well, freshman year for us, eighth grade for her! But still! EIGHT YEARS! :)