The Memories of 2013

It is crazy to come to realization that 2013 is coming to a close.  I keep asking myself, "Where did September go?" 2013 has been filled with ups, and downs, but it has been a wonderful journey of a year.  With the New Year almost here I thought that it was time to reflect upon this past year.

1. Changing my Last Name

I have already blogged about my wedding back in July, and I can't believe that it is already almost 6 months!  But that was definitely a highlight of the year.  It started with a wonderful day and it has been a wonderful journey that is never ending

How can you not smile?

There are always ups and downs when it comes to bringing two lives together, but that is all part of the vocation.  Bring the other closer to God and their faith.  My goal in life it to get Travis to heaven, and I think that in itself is a journey that I am excited to take!

2. Baby H on Board

Last year at New Years I was looking forward to a July wedding and this year I am looking forward to a April Baby!  We got to take first pictures of the baby back around Thanksgiving and that was exciting.  I loved watching Travis' face when he would look at the ultrasound pictures, he smiled like any proud father would. :-)

Baby H with his/her hand by his/her mouth

It has been fun watching Travis talk to the baby (usually at night telling it to kick so he can feel it, thus waking him/her up for awhile, while I am trying to fall asleep...).  I had to pack away all of the regular clothing that I usually wear and trade it in for pants with a high elastic waist (actually comfortable!).  I have finally experienced heartburn (not so fun). But, I have also been able to feel the baby move and kick a bit (exciting).  It has been a new adventure, and I am so excited that I get to take this next journey with Travis by my side!

3. Saying Goodbye

2013 has been the year that I have had to say goodbye to many close people in my life.  I am fortunate enough that this is the first year that anyone close to me has passed away.  First in December and January (2012/2013) we said goodbye to the Overby's (I blogged about it once before - #3).  They were the best neighbors that anyone could ever ask for.

Then in October we had to say goodbye to my Grandmother.  That I think, was one of the hardest things in 2013.  As a Catholic I know that she is in a better place, where there is no more pain and suffering for her.  But, the first Thanksgiving without her there was had.  Celebrating Christmas with the Pohlman side without her there was a challenge.  Getting a card that just had Grandpa's signature was different.

One of the last pictures that I have with Grandma from my wedding in July

This Christmas we got two little books in our stockings that Grandma and Grandpa each filled out awhile ago about them growing up and it was questions and they would answer.  I went home from Christmas celebration and I turned on White Christmas and I started going through the books.  Seeing how they life was growing up, their favorite foods, etc.  But then I came upon the holiday section and they both said that White Christmas was their favorite Christmas movie.  Right then I felt like Grandma was sitting there with me watching her favorite Christmas movie.

Eternal Rest grant unto them O Lord, 

and let the Perpetual Light shine upon them.  

May they rest in peace. 

Amen. 

4. Last Family trip

I started 2013 off by flying to Florida on January 1st.  Early morning with Mom, Dad, and Angela we drove to Dayton and then flew to warmer weather.  My Aunt and Uncle have a condo in Venice, FL and we spent almost a week down there.

Me, Dad, Mom and Ang

I always laugh when I think of Dad on the evening of January 1st and we are standing on the beach of the Gulf and Dad was amazed that it was January first and I am in shorts on the beach!  It only got better when we were at Siesta Key and Dad would say: "It's January third and I am on the beach in 80 degree weather!"  Take that outline and every day Dad was amazed at one thing or another!

Ang and I in Florida

It was really the last trip that I took with just Mom, Dad and Ang.  Family vacations were always a wonderful part of growing up and it was like an end of an era for me with family trips that week.  Granted Ang might say that she was happy that it was over because I move around too much at night when we shared the air mattress...

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2013 has been filled with its ups and downs, but it has been a wonderful year of memories.  I am blessed to have such a wonderful family and now a extended family!  Travis and I are excited to start our new family in 2014 along with many other exciting adventures!  I am thankful for my health, and for my ability to have a job.  I am blessed for the friends that I have, and all of the memories that we have made!

2013 was great!  Hears to a even better 2014!

It is in a Moment

Yesterday Travis and I was blessed to have our first glimpse of our little one during our first ultrasound.  It is one wonderful thing to hear the baby's heartbeat at each of the appointments, but to finally see our baby's face for the first time...

It is a moment to see our baby yawn a few times, 

to stretch his/her little feet & legs, 

to see the little nose and little chin...

Baby's Profile

Holding Travis' hand as we see the technician measure the head, show us the heart and the heartbeat, measuring the legs and arms.  It is a moment that I will cherish.

It is in a moment where your husband comments that it is a blessing that the baby had two arms, two legs, one head, and 4 chambers beating in the heart.  Seeing Travis' smile, and seeing the look of pride he already has for his little one.

Taking joy in the simple blessings.  

Having a picture of the baby opening his/her mouth and eye and having a arm raised.  Almost looking like he/she was saying hello.

"For you formed my inward parts;

    you knitted me together in my mother's womb.

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Wonderful are your works;

    my soul knows it very well."

~ Psalm 139:13-14 ~

It is in a moment when Travis points out that it looks like the baby has my chin.  Moments when the technician hands you a row of photos from your appointment and tells you congratulations.   Walking out of the office holding Travis' hand, knowing that we are a family.

From Left: Baby's Leg, Baby 'Smiling' (aka. yawn), and Baby's chin

Those moments that we hold dear.  It is in those simple moments that you see the wonder of God working through your life, forming this precious gift of a child, with us.

Growing Bump

Last week I finally broke down and pulled out the maternity pants.  My first thought that I thought was "Why was I holding out so long?" I thought that I wanted to get the most use out of my 'regular' work pants before I moved over to the maternity ones.  Then came our work Thank You dinner for our volunteers and I was so uncomfortable sitting down in those chairs for so long.  That night I told Travis that I was moving on.

The hardest part of the first morning was that I had to think about what I was going to wear.  I have had the same go-to outfits for work for some time and I knew what went together and what worked.  But now I have new clothes and I have to start thinking more about what goes together.  Just used more brain power than what I was used to for a early morning.

While my baby bump could be mistaken for more of a pudge then a baby bump, it is still much more comfortable to wear these maternity pants. While it took me much longer to get ready in the morning, I was happy how my first maternity outfit fit and looked.  I remind you that I am not a fashion savvy person.

I got my pants from Old Navy Maternity, Shirt from Old Navy Maternity, Sweater from Amazon (not maternity), and the scarf from Amazon.  I wanted to get some things that I could pair with maternity clothes that I would still be able to wear in a year and such.

While the mornings are harder currently because I don't always know what to wear, each day is getting a little easier.  I just realize though that I got many black shirts, doesn't give me much to work with when I wear black pants.

Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb

Growing up I never knew what I wanted to be when I 'grew up'.  While being Catholic I contemplated a religious life, but it never felt right.  I knew that I wanted to be married and have a family.  I knew that if I was called to that vocation God would guide me to the paths that I should take.  The path that got me to this point is one of blessings, and trust in God, like St. Elizabeth did when she found out that she was pregnant with John the baptist, and whose feast day is today.

Graduating from Bishop Dwenger - Spring 2008

When putting my utmost trust in God, I was lead down paths that I never expected to take if it was up to me.  In the winter and spring of my senior year at Bishop Dwenger I was planning on going to Marian University in Indianapolis.  They offered me a great scholarship that was tied to service and I thought that it was a perfect fit. It wasn't until about a month before graduation that I decided to stay in town and go to Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.  

I stayed because they had the major that sounded good at the time.  I was still not totally sure what I wanted to be when I 'grew up' but staying in town sounded like a good fit.  Some of my friends from high school thought I was staying in town because my boyfriend at the time was going to IPFW as well.  While that is what it might have looked like, I never put that relationship into the equation when deciding my school.  I started at IPFW in Speech and Hearing therapy, a major that no other school that I had looked at offered.  

Anne and I reuniting at the March for Life - winter 2012

That fall I was approached by my now dear friend Anne, that was working with Students for Life of America and was trying to help colleges start up pro-life groups.  She had come to a Newman Catholic Fellowship Mass on campus to find people to start this group.  I volunteered to meet up with Anne outside of school and see what I could do to help.  I was planning on helping hanging posters and attending a few meetings, I never thought that I would be the one to write a constitution and start Students for Life of IPFW.  But God had a purpose for me and I was putting my life into his hands.

While most of the classes for Speech and Hearing were interesting, it didn't seem to 'fit' and it never felt right.  Something was missing.  I was finding a new major, business, and it was a major that all of the colleges that I had looked at in the fall of my senior year of college offered.  God led me to IPFW, not for my major, but for bigger plans.  But, if it wasn't for the major I would have gone away for college most likely, it is really hard to tell.

One of the first 'events' Students for Life held' - Fall 2009
(also the first picture I have of Travis and me in the same picture)

By going to IPFW I was blessed to meet great people that I now call friends and my life has forever been changed.  I met my husband at IPFW through Newman Catholic Fellowship and Students for Life of IPFW.  It depends who you ask, I say we met at Newman Group, but Travis insists that we met at Students for Life.  Either way, if it wasn't for mine (and his) involvement in both groups, we wouldn't have become great friends.

IPFW Graduation - Spring 2012

After I graduated from IPFW Travis and I became engaged, and I started a position as a Marketing Coordinator at Redeemer Radio. After Travis graduated the next year we got married.  Somehow I had started living my life of "when-I-grow-up" and I didn't realize it. 

But, today on St. Elizabeth's feast day there is another event that Travis and I celebrate.  It is quite suiting that St. Elizabeth is the patron saint of Expectant Mothers, and now I have a good reason to find a close kinship with this saint today.  Travis and I are excited to tell you that we are expecting our first little blessing in mid April.  It is during these wonderful exciting new times that I remember to be thankful and grateful for the many blessing.

Elizabeth said to Mary "Blessed are you who Believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled."  Luke 1:45

Now is time to know that God has a plan and a purpose for our lives.

We Wore Black

The past few days have been a roller coaster of emotions. One moment you are crying and the next you are laughing with wonderful memories. My grandma was a wonderful women who lived her life as a house maker,  who was married to grandpa for 65 years(!!!),  raised her children and was a wonderful grandmother and great-grandma.

Grandma Hold me as a newborn

While I didn't know her the best or the longest, I knew her as a grandmother.  Having that for 24 years have been a blessing and now I have wonderful memories to hold onto.

1. Food

No matter what time of day you would visit grandma and grandpa's house,  you would always leave with a full stomach.

Small boxes of cereal - whenever we would spend the night at the grandparent's house we would wake up to picking out one of the small cereal boxes grandma would have sitting out. It wouldn't be spending the night we would get a delicious sugary cereal in the morning.

Popcorn puffs & sun chips - when playing any game you would only be able to go one round and grandma would be pulling out the plastic pink bowls to be filled with popcorn puffs or some original flavored sun chips. While at first people would say that they weren't hungry (usually because it was right after dinner) but it wouldn't take too long for those bowls to be passed around and quickly would be empty.

Ice cream and brownies - after cards and before you leave,  it was always a good time to pull the brownies or cookies out of the freezer (usually pulled out earlier to warm up) the big container of vanilla ice cream,  and sometimes other flavors, and the chocolate syrup. If you finished your bowl,  you would be asked to

take another brownie or cookie (couldn't dare put them back in the freezer)

2. A&W

Usually when visiting Grandma and Grandpa's one of the places we would usually go to,  especially when we were growing up,  dinner would likely be at A&W where Grandpa would always get root beer float and Grandma would always get a bite or two near the top of glass. Growing up the younger kids would play in the corner with the toys while we waited for the food (when they moved the play area from one corner to the other,  we were a bit jarred). We were always excited to get the small toy in our bags once we finished our food.

3. 5 Crowns & tri-ominos

Playing games around the dinner table at Grandpa and Grandma's were always a norm when visiting.  We would play tri-ominos and Grandma & Grandpa would always find the bridges or the last piece to the circle. It was hard to beat either of them.  When we started to play a new game Nickle Nickle (later 5 crowns - but we would still say "nickle nickle").  Winning was still difficult because Grandma would have 7 points after six rounds and the rest of us would have scores in the 60's (or higher).  Over the years you knew Grandma was doing well still when she could beat your butt at 5 Crowns.

Grandpa, me and Grandma after 8th Grade Graduation

4. Birthday cards

In the past years, it wasn't a gift I was looking forward to, it was a card that you would get in the mail a day or so before your birthday.  It would be a card that inside you would see Grandma's handwriting saying: "Love, Grandma and Grandpa"

Grandma and Grandpa with me at First Communion

Those simple words that I know were getting hard for her to write (writing "Mom and Dad" were much easier on her), but every birthday you would get a card that would be from Grandma and Grandpa.  When I got home from work the day Grandma died, I still had my birthday cards sitting out.  Having that simple piece of card stock meant the world to me at that moment, more than ever before.  The other cards have been packed away, but that one is still sitting out.  And I think I will keep it there for awhile.

5. Being there for grandchildren

Grandma and Grandpa were there for wonderful moments for their grandchildren.  Baptisms, Birthdays, First Communions, Confirmations, Graduations, weddings, and parties.  They were there spreading their smile and support for all of their grandchildren.

6. The outpouring of love seen

Having gone to two of the three showings, you just saw how much Grandma affected the community.  There always seemed to be a line of well wishers, and relatives that I didn't even know before that day were there to pay their respects.  It was just amazing to see how many people were there!

The Grandchildren with Grandma and Grandpa - Christmas 2007

7. Funeral mass

While that was the hardest points of the few days, it was also beautiful!  St. John's Church is majestic and can by itself take your breath away, but add a church filled with with community members, and friends of the family, it was an amazing experience!

The music by their men's choir was wonderful!  It was almost like if you closed your eyes it was like a slice of heaven!  I have had that moment twice before (in Spain a Church next to St. Francis of Loyola's home where we had Mass, and then at me wedding).  You could just imagine if heaven was even more wonderful, then you just knew that it was going to be absolutely amazing! The homily was wonderful, pointing out the
simplicity of Grandma and how being a housewife was enough for her.  There were tear and smiles as we said our goodbyes.

Grandpa, me, and Grandma before the wedding

8. Wedding

I was so blessed to have Grandma and Grandpa come to my wedding at the beginning of July!  Even the day before I wasn't sure if they would be coming.  But,  as I was heading to the back of church to 'hide' there come Grandma and Grandpa through the back door!  I was so thrilled that they came!  It was the cherry on the top for that day.  I just got my wedding pictures back, and now I treasure those photos even that much more!

9. Her voice

This is something that I still hear, especially when thinking and reflecting over Grandma.  I can hear her voice when I called her to tell them that Travis and I were engaged.  I remember her saying: "Bounce" so many times and in so many different ways.  It is something that I hope that I never forget because it was so grandma. nobody else could replicate it.

The First time that Grandma held me in the hospital

While Grandma is gone, her spirit still lives on in her children, her grandchildren, and in her great-grandchildren.  Through the years she taught us so much that we could never really totally forget Grandma.  Just remember that when you have guests over, always have a snack, and ice cream (and brownies) are always good to have on hand.

Rest in peace Grandma.  Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand!


R.I.P. Margaret Pohlman (1925 - 2013)
Obituary

My 24th Year Retrospective

Here we are, September 18th and I am turning another year older.  My 24th year on earth was one with highs and low but I think that it is one that I will remember for a long time.  So here is 10 of the things that were a part of my life this past year:

1. ARISE Together in Christ Group

In the Fort Wayne-South Bend Diocese our Bishop started this small faith sharing community group initiative that brings people together in your church and talk about the Faith through scripture, life and challenges.  Travis was the leader for the young adults at St. Aloysius and I joined him.  By the end of the first season we had made this wonderful group of young adults (mostly our friends from IPFW, but not all).

I am so grateful for this small group because after college and leaving the Newman group at IPFW, I missed having that Catholic fellowship.  Sometimes we don't always stay on topic, but it is a wonderful time to grow in friendship and be there for others when needed. Learn more about Arise from an article in Today's Catholic that features yours truly!

2. Engagement / Wedding Planning

Looking on this past year, this was a huge part of it.  While we got engaged in August, the real planning took place this past year.  What a roller coaster of things to do.  Some were great like meeting with Fr. Tom for Marriage prep at St. Jude. But, some of the other things were just crazy (I am not a hugely social person that plans huge parties focused on me and Travis)

While I am glad that the season of engagement is over in my life, I truly took back on that time fondly.  It was a wonderful time where you are preparing yourself for a wonderful and beautiful vocation.

3. Saying goodbye to the Overby's

I think that growing up we had the world's best neighbors!  It is hard for anyone to get close to Marge and Dave.  Marge and I were birthday buddies and growing up we (my sisters and I) would receive a hand drawn birthday card with a Disney character on it.  Marge would 'happen' to make an extra cake and bring it over, or she wanted to try a recipe and Dave couldn't eat it because of his diabetes so she would bring it over.  They were wonderful neighbors that were called away from this earth.

Marge passed away on Christmas Eve and Dave passed away 10 days latter.  That was a bit hard because they were like grandparents to me, but I hold on to the good memories.  I could reflect on these wonderful neighbors for hours, but on a day like today I just say, rest in peace Birthday Buddy!

4. Florida Trip

Mom, Dad, Angela and I took a trip to visit our Aunt and Uncle in Florida on January 1st.  It was crazy to be driving to Dayton in snow and arriving in Tampa in 80 degree weather.  Dad kept on saying: " It is January 1st and I am in shorts!" "It is January Second and I and sitting on the beach!"

Me, Dad, Mom, and Ang

While we were there I believe that it got to about zero Fahrenheit... So it was nice to be warm!  It was a perfect last family trip with us four!  This was a wonderful time to celebrate family!

5.  Two New Nephews

Luke was just making the same face as me!

I was lucky to have Two nephews born this past year! Luke James was born March 29th and Thatcher Dennis was born September 9th.  How can you not be excited about babies in the family!?!

6. Being Brooklynn's Sponsor

Travis' niece (now my niece as well!) asked me to be her sponsor for confirmation.  I was really excited that she asked me and I love being a part of sacraments.  While we were already engaged, I felt even more part of the family after being asked.

Brooklynn, Bishop Rhoades and Me

She really tested me and my memory skills though because she picked a saint that I has never heard of before: St. Marcella patron saint of Nobel women.  But it was wonderful to be a part of this with her!

7. The year of two Popes

It was a crazy beginning of the year with Pope Benedict retiring and Pope Francis becoming Pope.  But is has been exciting to see all of the spirit that seems to have been brought into the church. A renewed sense of Love.

I saw a post ones that Pope John Paul II was all about Hope and what we went through with World War II and the cold war, he showed the church and world love.  Benedict was the scholar that educated us about the faith.  Now, Pope Francis is showing the love the the faith can offer.  It is a trifecta of Popes in my lifetime!

8. Renting House

Travis and I become renters.  He moved into the house in April and I am still working at unpacking boxes...  I will eventually be all moved it... eventually... But it has been a wonderful experience.  We live right across the street from St. Jude so we never have to worry about parking for Mass, we just have to walk!

While we aren't going to be there forever, it is a great first place to make a home!

9.  Changing my last name

Marrying my best friend has been a highlight of this past year.  Changing last name a bit harder and a tedious process.  You don't realize how many places have your information until you see how many places you need to change your address and name (still an ongoing process).  But I love the Day I become a Mrs.  it is crazy to think that it has been 2 months already!

But Becoming Mrs. has been wonderful and sometimes I still look around and ask if it is real, because it just seems so natural now.  I love coming home to Travis (well, I usually beat him home...)  but it has all been a blessing!

10.  Starting a new Life 

While this past year has been filled with its ups and downs it is always wonderful to look back ans see how blessed I truly am.  I have a wonderful husband, family, and friends! I couldn't ask for more!  Thank you all for what you have done to my life and I am forever grateful!  Please continue to keep Travis and I in your prayers as we begin this new journey of life together.

Now onto being 24!!

Why I love September

1. Football is Back!

Growing up in a houseful of girls football really wasn't a big thing to watch on Sunday's.  But then as I got older I watched it because my Dad was watching it.  It was something that we could do together (if you call me asking many questions and dad being patient enough to answer... when the play was over)

Was able to attend the opening game this year!

So ever since I started watching football the Colts were my team that I watched and you knew the fall was coming when you had football to watch on Sunday afternoons!

2. The weather is unpredictable

This September has already been really crazy!  How can we have the hottest day of the summer two days in a row (in the 90's!) and then the next day the high can only be in the mid 60's?  That is Indiana for you!  While that means that you have to pay attention to the weather in the morning before you know what would be reasonable to wear for the day.  While I love fall weather I am a bit crazy, because I am always cold...

3. Birthday Month!

In our house growing up we would always have birthday cake and ice cream for everyones birthday and in September that meant 3 cakes!  My sister Angela's on the 14th, mine on the 18th and then my mom's on the 27th.  

Was able to be home to celebrate Ang's Birthday on Saturday

While I am not living at the house anymore September has always been special with those birthday's.  Granted now April is taking over being the popular birthday month in our immediate family (at least 5, but I might be missing one...)

4. One more Nephew!

Us girls in the Sherburne family are really outnumbered!  I never really thought that it could happen, but now with brothers-in-law and nephews there are only 8 girls (Mom, 6 sisters, 1 niece) and 10 boys (Dad, Travis, 4 brothers-in-law, 4 nephews). 

can't get much cuter than that!

Somehow each time that I have seen little Thatcher I have forgotten to take a picture :-(  But that just tells you how cute he is!

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While I love September I think that I am still in denial that it is already September!  I keep asking myself what happened to May?

The Day I Became a Mrs.

I have been married to Travis for 19 days already and it has been crazy getting used to this new normal that I am in now.  Between unpacking, rearranging, working on Thank Yous and work I have had a bit of a chance to really reflect upon our wedding day.

So I have a Top Ten from our Wedding Day:

10. Bridesmaids Dresses

I was so excited to have sisters and friends stand up with me.  I just wish that I had one of their dresses!  I know that nobody ever thinks of saying that. But they were navy blue and they carried sunflowers.  So the blue on yellow was so exciting to see.  I was excited to have that point come together because I was initially having trouble finding a dress color and picking out flowers.

9. The Shiloh

Life was so crazy leading up to the wedding that I don't know how I could have done it any other way.  The Shiloh Reception Hall was my one stop shop for some many parts of the reception.  In one meeting we took care of the Hall, food, decorations, and cake.  I was able to be efficient with my time and didn't have an over abundance of meetings that I had to go to.  They even when above and beyond because I wanted mason jars for the centerpiece and Dana brought the mason jars from her home at no extra cost! I was excited to get the centerpieces that I liked and I didn't have to set up the hall in the morning.

I was really happy with they service before the wedding when it came to planning, and during the reception with their wonderful service.

8. My Little Ring Bearer

I have one Godson and he is my sister's oldest.  At 3 years old he could have either done extremely well and people would have thought that he we cute, or he could have done something wrong and people still would have thought that he was really cute.

I don't think that he could have been any more adorable!

7. Music

I love music, especially good Church Music.  So this was one thing that I was looking forward to planning, our Wedding Mass Music.  I honestly don't remember any music when I was walking down the aisle.  But when I got up to Travis and he was holding my hand we sang an opening song.

The beauty of it was hearing all of the people behind us sing along!  It was a little heaven on earth moment, because you could just feel the love of everyone surround you.  Ahh it was so wonderful and just from that moment, you could hear people singing and that moment was wonderful!

6. Photographers

I have only seen three pictures from our Photographers that they had on Facebook, but even if those were the only three pictures that came out I would be happy.  Our photographers were Jacobson Photography Inc. a husband, wife duo that are actually parishioners at the church that Travis will be teaching at in the fall. They did my sister's wedding last summer and my friends wedding two months back. What I really like about them is that they are two so you always have the great angles and they work so well with you and your wedding party.  They listen to what you want and don't push anything on you.

I mean how can you hate a photo that turns out like this?  

Just last year I went to 8 weddings and you notice that most photographers leave once all of the reception things are done (bouquet toss, cake cutting, first dance, etc.)  but the Jacobson's stayed up to the last song.  They take pictures of people dancing and they get the pictures that you would have wanted.  And before they leave they ask if there is anything else you wanted.  They were easy to work with and I can't wait to see the rest of the pictures!

5. Spending Time with Family

Now I am not what you would call a social butterfly (That would be my new husband!)  But having his family , aunts, uncles, cousins and friends there, along with my family, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends there - nothing can ever really replace that.

4. Mass

Travis and I met at Newman group at IPFW where we went to school.  So our Catholic Faith has always been a central part of our friendship and relationship.  So there was no question that we were going to have a Mass for our wedding.  It was so beautiful to come together in the Sacrifice of the Mass and have that be the frosting on the cake (pardon my pun!) to the whole wedding ceremony.

It was wonderful to have Fr. Tom (My parish Priest), Msgr. Galic (Travis' Parish Priest), and Deacon Jerry Kohrman (Travis hung out with that family now and growing up) all come together and celebrate the Mass together.  With knowing so many priest through IPFW's Newman group and my job, it was almost like we could have had more, but I think that 3 was enough to celebrate the Mass together.

3. Grandparents

I was so excited that my grandparents were able to come to the wedding.  The weeks and even months leading up to the wedding I was told not to have high expectations.  But Travis and I went to go visit them two weeks before the wedding and Grandma showed me the two outfits that she was thinking about.  She said that she was glad to get the bride's approval!

When I was headed to the back of church to 'hide' while people were showing up they walked through the door!  It was a wonderful thing to see them before the ceremony.  I think that having Grandma and Grandpa there will always be a special part of the day!

2. Family

It is always great to get the family together!  It is crazy to see how much we have grown as a family.  My first sister was married just 7 years ago.  Now we have 5 more guys (4 brothers-in-laws + Travis) , 3 nephews, one niece.  We went from a family of majority girls to now the girls are outnumbered (by one, but who ever thought that would happen?) But nothing can replace a family.

The Entire Family

Travis and I had a goal to get all of our siblings involved in the wedding.  Between the both of us we have 10 siblings. So between wedding party, ushers, readers,  and singer we were able to have all of the siblings be a part of the wedding.


and the Number one point from the wedding day....


1. Getting to Marry my Best Friend!

I mean how could this not be the best part?  I get to see my best friend every day.  I don't have to call him every night to pray together.  I might have to deal with his cheerful mood in the mornings.  But despite all of the changes that we are going to go through together in the future. I wouldn't ever change who would stand by my side through it all!

:-D

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Now it is the new challenge and adventure of getting used to this new normal!  and I can't wait!

Two Years Ago and Just a Blink

How has these past two years just flown by?  Two years ago I was blessed to start dating the man that became my best friend, and in 18 days I will be blessed and honored to call him my husband.

Travis and I even before we started dating

Two years ago Travis and I went on our first date :-)  We went bowling with Angela, and she was the one that had to convince me that it was actually a date.  I think that I was either in shock that it happened or that I was in denial and I never thought that it would happen.  I didn't realize then that I went on my last first date.  On that Saturday in 2011, I thought that I just went bowling with one of my friends from Newman Group and Students for Life. I was trying to make decisions, and decided to make the leap of faith.

Travis Proposing at Notre Dame 

 In two years we have gone from Friendship to Love, to Engagement, and now to (almost) married. Never did I think that I would be in this position two year ago.  But as always God has a better life story for us than what we could ever dream for.

Travis and I at a friends wedding

Our Journey has had its ups and downs, but I am a better person having Travis by my side.  Please keep us in your prayers as we get closer to our wedding date.  Because together with God we are going to start our life together and begin a new chapter of our lives :-)

The Next Great Adventure

Now you might be thinking how have I gone this far in life and never moved.  Well if you stay at home for college and get married a year after college, I never really saw the point to move out. I thought of it more as an expense that I couldn't afford.

Now I am good at moving rooms.  Having 4 older sisters and roughly 4 bedrooms (three actual bedrooms and the large old 'play room/classroom' converted into a bedroom)  I think that every time a sister went away to college we all rearranged rooms and moved.  I think that some time or another I have occupied 3 of the four rooms, some rooms at different times in my life.

But this move is different... Much different...

This time I am not moving down the hallway.  I am not staying in the same home.  I am moving five miles into town.  Yes I know that it could be much further, but right now it seems really far away.  But it is just the next adventure that is on my life path.

It is like going up the Millennium Force's first hill.  you keep going and  going up and your stomach and brain start deceiving you and con't decide if this is going to be wonderful or terrifyingly hard.  It is like I am at the crest of that hill that I have been climbing for awhile now.  and it is time to enjoy the ride down the exciting and thrilling coaster.

The great thing that I have to always remember is that I'll have Travis right beside me.  And remembering that is just half of the great adventure!

My new Favorite Thing

Summertime in Indiana brings about one thing, a VERY hot car by the end of the work day.  It doesn't help that I also have leather seats, so it makes it feel even warmer.  Recently I have been making the mistake in leaving my water bottle in the car, so by the end of the day, I have water that is about to boil.

my water bottle in the morning before work

So I have finally decided to use that to my advantage.  One morning last week I decided to put a tea bag and some sugar (not a fan of unsweetened tea) and leave it in my car all day.  So by the end of the day, I have a nice bottle of sweet tea for my drive home.  If I am thinking about it I also try to grab some ice cubes from the work freezer before I leave for work.  

Sweet tea by the time I leave for work!

Even if I forget the ice cubes, warm sweet tea is always better than warm water in my opinion.  Try it out if you have a warm car this summer, you will never regret leaving your water bottle in the sun again!

What Memorial Day Means To Me

For some people Memorial Day is all about the lake and sleeping.  Growing up for me it was about sleeping and a day off from school - the kick off to summer.  But, every Memorial Day my dad would wake up 'early' usually with one of my older sisters and head up north. No, they weren't headed for the lake. 

They were driving toward memories.

Before I was even a twinkle in my parents eyes, my dad's parents passed away. I was never lucky enough to meet them. But every Memorial Day weekend some of the family jumps into our big blue 8 passenger van and head north - towards memories - towards my dad's history.  We visit, clean, and put flowers next to my grandparent's grave.

We relive my dad's memories.

When I was in high school I started traveling north with my dad.  Maybe at first it was for our yearly ice cream stop in Fremont. Over the years though it became much more. It was a trip down memory lane. It was tradition. We would visit my grandparents grave, along with my dad's Grandparents, place flowers and clean it all up.

It became Tradition.  Something that I would never change.

I was never blessed to know my grandparents, but I am lucky enough to have this day where we visit their grave and we talk about memories. And that in itself are memories to hold onto.

7 weeks!

How is it possible that in 7 weeks that my last name will be Heckber?  (maybe not on all of my legal things, but I think that you know what I mean).  How has that date gotten so close?

Our home that needs me to organize it :-)

Travis and I had our final meeting with Fr. Tom last Friday and have things falling into place, items are being crossed off my list (slowly it feels, but little by little). People keep asking me how wedding planning is coming along, I say that plans are coming.  But really it is only one day...



That is what I keep telling myself when planning doesn't go according to plan.  Because I know that it is just going to be the beginning, Right now I think more about getting the house organized, and thinking ahead.

Yes, I am excited about the wedding, how can you not when I get to stand up  with my best friend and greatest blessing in front of my family and friends.  How could you not?  It is just staying sane until then, because this one day requires almost too much planning.

So the countdown begins: 47 Days to go!

Abortion Recovery Month

Last night I attended IPFW Students for Life's Abortion recovery Month's speaker Star Parker.  They are dedicating April to abortion recovery after a different group celebrated Roe v Wade all in the month of March.

A packed room at IPFW with speaker Star Parker

Star had a wonderful story to share and she was able to share that story with a full room!  I was so excited for the group.  It is awesome to realize that they are only in their 5th year as a group on campus.  But they are growing and expanding and showing the campus that they are there not just to save babies, but to be there for the mothers.

Allen County Right to Life was there and I think recording the talk.  I hope that they have a link to it soon on their YouTube page.  Please continue to keep Students for Life in your prayers, because they are doing some amazing things!

Taking me Back

I have decided that it is due time to start writing again.  Not like my life is really interesting, or that anyone would read this.  But I think that it helps also to provide clarity of mind.  Sometimes I think too much and all of my thoughts get jumbles and this helps a bit.

There has been too much going on since I last wrote, that I am not going to to a catch up piece, because that would almost take up toooo much time.  So we are going to start fresh.

Today at work we had Mass in our small chapel and I was transported back to Spain for World Youth Day almost two years ago.  This was my first big trip without my family, and it was across the ocean and I really didn't have contact with them other than the three times I blogged while on my trip and they had commented on the blog. And even though I was traveling with the Diocese, none of my close friends went, so it wasn't like any normal trip I had taken before.

The church we went to and what it looked on the outside - would you guess it was a church?

To say the least, I felt like I was a bit cut off from everyone. We traveled to Lourdes (which was amazing) and by the time that we got into Madrid a bit of home-sickness come on.  It was one of the first days there and I was having a bit of an off morning, not feeling like talking and interacting.  We had gone to this church in Madrid for English speakers and had a talk and then Mass.

One it was hot, two no air conditioning, and three we were in the loft area.... I was just trying to stay in my own little bubble.

Second level can be seen on the right

I was stuck....

But then came the point in the Mass that we said (one of the points that was changed in the new translation...) "Lord, I am not worthy to receive you but only say the word and i shall be healed." I was taken home and I felt like I was getting a big hug and that even though I was far away from everyone, I wasn't alone and they were right there with me.  I was across the ocean and we were able to hear the same Mass.

Even when we say the new part: "Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed."  I am taken back to that moment, when I remembered that I wasn't alone then, and I can never really ever be alone.  

There is comfort in that :-)