TEAM SHELBS

Our times are in HIS hands-Psalm 31:15

2011-08-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

It is so hard to believe that our Sawyer is already TWO months old! We love this boy so much.

One Month Old!

Sawyer and his cousin John Reynolds!

The Robertson Cousins-Drew Dillman, Sawyer, John Reynolds Hare and Ben Dillman

Cousin Graham and Sawyer rocking "staches"!

Sweet Boy!

Two Months Old!

SAWYER MATTHEW SHELBY

2011-07-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

Sawyer Matthew Shelby made his entrance into the world on June 7, 2011 at 7:35 a.m.! Being new to the labor game, little did I know that when I woke up at around 2:30, thinking I just couldn't sleep I was in labor and having contractions. I felt them in the front and the back and they were so erratic I just did not think they were true contractions. We decided to head to the hospital just to see if labor was a possibility. I warned Matt that they would probably send us home. On the way there I begin experiencing pain every few minutes. We started to wonder if these pains were indeed contractions. :) We checked in at the emergency room, where my dear friend Kristin was actually working one of her last shifts as a Labor and Delivery Nurse, and I was soon told that yes, I was dilated and in labor! Everything seemed to shift into high gear after that. My water broke (sorry for too much information) and I begin to have contractions every minute and a half. My blood pressure was also high. They transferred me from Triage into a Delivery Room and soon (not soon enough :)) I received the epidural. Side note-I know that because of what happened in the garden that women are to experience pain in childbirth but I also know that God gives us all talents and gifts and someone out there used their talents to invent the epidural and for that I am thankful! Sawyer's heart rate was dropping a bit and so they had me shift from one side, then to another and back to see if it would regulate. It would not. It continued to drop. Although calm, I could sense the urgency in Kristin's voice as she determined the next course of action. It was soon decided that a C-Section was necessary. It all happened so fast! Soon, little Sawyer made his debut! Matt headed over with the nurses to check him out. Our little one was not doing so well. After working on him for a little while in the OR, they transported him upstairs to the NICU. The Doctor brought him over to me on the way out. That was a moment I will never forget, seeing my baby's face for the first time. We soon found out that we had a sick little boy on our hands and that he would need to stay in the NICU. It was later determined that Sawyer had aspirated a good amount of meconium and had an infection in his lungs. He stayed in the NICU for 11 days. Those days were both the hardest and the sweetest of my life (I would venture to say they were for Matt as well). It was so hard to see our sweet boy connected to all these wires and tubes. I had always dreamed of holding my baby in the delivery room, people we love coming to see him. In the NICU only parents and grandparents were allowed (of which we were very thankful). However, it was all the more sweet when we were able to hold him on the third day. Definitely, one of the sweetest moments of my life. It was also such an incredible time with Lord. We HAD to lean on HIM for our strength and it was a lesson I will not soon forget. Today, he is seven weeks old! He is truly a great baby and we are just loving life as a family of three.

Goodbye to Green Bay

2011-03-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

This is it! Today begins our last week in Green Bay! We are thrilled to be headed back to Arkansas and our dear family and friends. We absolutely cannot wait to begin this next chapter in our lives. But...we are so sad to leave. Green Bay has meant so many things to us. It was where we began our lives together as a married couple, where we made our first friends together as a family, where we found our own church, where we discovered our love for all things local-the farmer's market, coffee, chocolate, beer, wine, brats, cheese (WISCONSIN sure knows how to make their own stuff). Our cup runneth over. Thank you, Lord for bringing us to this place. You REALLY do know what you are doing (why oh why do we ever doubt your love and faithfulness?)!

A pic of me around 22 weeks! THIS week will make 30 weeks! We can't believe it!

The BEAUTIFUL cupcakes that Michelle made for the Green Bay Shower last weekend.

Me with Brooke and Michelle, the sweet hosts of the shower.

Annie, Baby Rowyn, Me and Nicole. Our dear friends from Life Group and Church.

Just a few of the cute girls of Haven at the shower!

Me and my sweet mom at the shower!

Matt and DA YOOPER (Upper Michigan) boys at the Axford's on Friday night.

Jenny and DA YOOPER (Upper Michigan) girls at the Axford's on Friday night.

Brian, Matt, Andy and Cayden at our Fondue Lunch today at the Selner's!

The last few (months and months) in review....

2011-01-27T17:47:00.000-08:00

So much has happened in the last few (months and months)! Below are just a few pictures of what has been going on with us!

Our first ultrasound picture of Baby Shelby!

My sister had a baby! Sweet John Reynolds was born in November! This is his recent two month picture. Love.

My sister-in-law had a baby too! Precious Graham was born in November as well! He is so sweet!

The Boys! This is a picture of my nephews, Drew and Ben when we were home for Christmas! Drew said, " I haven't seen you in so long," when he hugged me and I cried! Love these two boys with all my heart.

A pic of me and my dear friend Brooke at a Bachelorette Party in October!

Erin, Matthew John and Matthew Bradford. Erin and Matt came to visit us in October for the Packers vs. Lions Game!

Matt and I at the tailgate before the game! It was so fun!

A picture of our sweet, FIRST friends in Green Bay, Rob and Michelle, after a hike at Lake Superior in Upper Michigan. We love them!

So much to say...

2010-11-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

Wow. June. That was my last post. I do not even feel worthy to blog today but I decided to give it a try. So much has happened. We took a trip to Upper Michigan with dear friends. Matt's parents came to visit. My parents came to visit. Erin and Matt came to visit. We went to our first Packer Game! We found out we are moving back to Arkansas! And...we found out we are expecting! All these things sure would have made for some great blog posts but I digress.... :) And so today begins my journey into the blogosphere once again. Won't you join me?

Prayers for Betsy....

2010-06-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

Will you join me in praying for my old Bible Study Leader and friend? Please go to this link and read about precious Betsy Parkinson and pray to our Father for healing in her sweet body. What an extraordinary woman who has had an impact on so many lives...
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/betsyparkinson

Bathing Beauty

2010-06-27T19:54:00.000-07:00

In honor of our upcoming vacation , I thought it only fitting to change our blog background to pretty much the ONLY thing that is on our minds this week...THE BEACH! The title of the background is called Bathing Beauty. Though Bathing Beauty I am not these days (too many brats here in Wisconsin I guess), I am still looking forward (though my body feels otherwise) to spending a week in the sand and sun! Seriously, Matt and I are just looking soooo forward to spending time with the Shelby Family (with a side trip to Auburn to see my sister Julie and Brother In Law Jason) and relaxing for the week! We are so excited!

Beautiful Moments

2010-06-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, our Pastor at Community talked about what he called beautiful moments. His sweet Mother-In-Law was gravely ill and so he and his family had been spending their final moments with her. Beautiful moments. Recalling moments past. Savoring the present. This made me think on my life and all of the beautiful moments that I have experienced. God is good. He is ALWAYS faithful. In the good and the bad, in the easy and the hard. Below are just a FEW beautiful moments that I have experienced recently.

Julie, Kristen and Matt-Sweet Camp Ozark friends that visited us in "the bay."

Make new friends but keep the old...sweet, sweet college friends.

My sister, Julie and my Brother-In-Law Jason with our sweet nephews Ben and Drew (Julie and Jason are pregnant with their first! A BOY!)

"I could never love anyone as I love my sisters."-Little Women

The awesome nephews at the Zoo!

Sweet Jenny Beth, who met us at the zoo (she brought 5 kids with her-what a woman!)

Feet to your Faith

2010-04-25T12:08:00.000-07:00

Feet to your Faith-A Serve Day at Green Bay Community Church on Saturday, April 24, 2010. Description: Let's put our feet to our faith and walk ourselves out into the community to serve the way Jesus did. FtyF is a catalyst for families, individuals, and life groups to be inspired to continue serving in the community throughout the year. This big event allows you to build relationships, serve, and love our community the way that Jesus does.

Yesterday, Matt and I participated in Feet to your Faith at the Kingdom Come Food Pantry in Oconto Falls, Wisconsin. We spent time raking, re-organizing and re-stocking. We shared a meal with volunteers, heard incredible stories of the work the Lord is doing there and built relationships with one another. It was a great day! Our friends, Annie and Brian and Nicole and Andy were also there, which made it that much greater! Afterwards, we spent the evening with them, attending the potluck and celebration at Church for Feet to Your Faith and then onto the Bay Port High School production of Disco Inferno. All in all, a wonderful day encountering an incredible ministry, being able to serve and spending time with sweet friends. Our cup runneth over.

Little Matt Riding Hood

Matt, Me, Brian, Annie, Nicole and Andy

The Shelves that we re-organized and re-stocked.

Quotes from Corrie

2010-04-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

Just a few inspirational quotes from Corrie Ten Boom, Holocaust Survivor, Missionary and a personal hero of mine. If you have not done so already, put The Hiding Place on your list of MUST READ BOOKS. This book and the book Same Kind Of Different As Me are truly my favorite books of all time, fact or fiction.

To read more about Corrie Ten Boom, go to www.corrietenboom.com

"Hold everything in your hands lightly, otherwise it hurts when God pries your fingers open."
— Corrie Ten Boom

"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. If you look at God you'll be at rest."
— Corrie Ten Boom

"This is what the past is for! Every experience God gives us, every person He puts in our lives is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see."
— Corrie Ten Boom (The Hiding Place)

"There are no 'if's' in God's world. And no placess that are safer than other places. The center of His will is our only safety - let us pray that we may always know it!"
— Corrie Ten Boom (The Hiding Place)

"Dear Jesus...how foolish of me to have called for human help when You are here."
— Corrie Ten Boom (The Hiding Place)

"If God has shown us bad times ahead, it's enough for me that He knows about them. That's why He sometimes shows us things, you know - to tell us that this too is in His hands."
— Corrie Ten Boom (The Hiding Place)

"You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have."
— Corrie Ten Boom

Good HAIR Day!

2010-04-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I headed to Chicago with the girls from Haven Salon and Spa (where I work) to the Midwest Hair/Face/Body Show. My friend Michelle and I headed down early to hit the outlet mall in Kenosha, not too far outside of Chicago. Afterwards, we headed on to Chi-town and checked in at the W Hotel (thank you to Liza for making reservations at such a neat hotel) and then out to dinner at Quartino. Sunday was the the BIG SHOW downtown and it was incredible. So many people, vendors and product. It was an experience! We had a great time and I am so glad I went. Chalk one up to another great experience of our life in Green Bay!

2nd Year Resolutions

2010-03-02T18:47:00.000-08:00

And thus starts our second year in "the bay." I have a list swirling around in my head of all the things I would like to accomplish this year and I just had to write it down. The following are in random order.

1. Snowshoe

2. Cross Country Ski

3. Go to Canada

4. Visit the Twin Cities (Mall of America specifically)

5. Go to Summerfest (Huge Music Festival in Milwaukee)

6. Ice Fish (I may regret I said that)

7. Take a trip to Upper Michigan

8. Plug into our Church (Green Bay Community Church) on a deeper level (ie-Women's Ministries, Feet To Your Faith)

9. Go to a Packer Game

10. Spend time in Madison

11. Go to a Milwaukee Bucks Game

12. Attend another Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers Game

13. Peruse the area Farmer's Markets on a regular basis (De Pere and Broadway)

14. Cultivate the sweet friendships I have made here so far

15. Serve the poor in Brown County on a regular basis

16. Eat lots more Pie from Sweetie Pies in Door County (while losing weight)

17. To find contentment in living and loving life in "the bay" and missing sweet family and friends at the same time

18. To see more live music

19. Try every kind of Wisconsin Cheese :)

20. Love Matt better

A YEAR in the Bay!

2010-02-28T18:50:00.000-08:00

March 1st marks ONE year in Green Bay for me and Matt! We have experienced more in this past year than I could ever put into proper words. Our first year of marriage, life in a new city with new jobs, new Church, new friends, new everything! A few favorites from this past year are our trip to Chicago (first Cubs game), our numerous visits to Door County, Green Bay Packer tailgates and our most recent trip to Milwaukee to celebrate our first wedding anniversary. We are the best of friends, just enjoying this season of our lives and longing for home at the same time. Here's to a year in the Bay!

Matt and Jenny Shelby-Established February 21, 2009

2010-02-20T07:26:00.000-08:00

Happy ONE Year to us! It is hard to believe that just one year ago, Matt and I were standing before the Lord and our family and friends getting MARRIED! It has been ONE amazing year (blog to follow on that)!

Haven goes RED!

2010-02-06T07:32:00.000-08:00

Below are just a few pictures of Haven going RED yesterday, February 5, 2010! We have been raising money all week for the American Heart Association and Go Red For Women, their cause with the goal to raise awareness that Heart Disease is the #1 threat to women. A fact most women still do not realize. This is a cause dear to me for two reasons....it was just a year ago this month that I left the American Heart Association, to move to Green Bay after almost six years of working there as a Corporate Market Director. I have so many fond memories of my time with the AHA and I am proud to have been a part of a great organization.
Participating in Wear Red Day was like coming full circle. I used to encourage companies to participate, now I am one of those participating companies! The other reason this cause is dear to me is because of sweet Kaela (the last picture is of she and I at Haven's Annual Holiday Ball last weekend). Kaela is this amazing girl I work with at Haven. Kaela suffered a stroke last year and just last fall had surgery to repair a hole in here heart. She is not even 21 years old! She is now a local spokesperson for the AHA, sharing her story and rallying for the cause of Go Red For Women! She is precious. GO RED FOR WOMEN!

Winterfest 2010

2010-01-31T15:22:00.000-08:00

Matt and I headed to Downtown Green Bay on Saturday to check out the scene at Winterfest on Broadway. I mean, it's not everyday that you get to see ice sculpting (in 13 degree weather) in action and take part in a Chili Cook-Off! Tons of fun! Just another day in the life of these two Hogs in Green Bay!

Blizzard....it's not just a dessert at Dairy Queen.

2009-12-14T14:15:00.000-08:00

Thunderstorm Warning. CHECK. Flood Warning. CHECK. Tornado Warning. CHECK. Blizzard Warning. Wait...never been under one of those kind of warnings before! Last week, parts of Wisconsin were hit with one of the worst Winter Storms in 15 years. A Blizzard, in fact. De Pere, the town where Matt and I live, recorded over 14 inches of snow! Matt and I were ready to head to the local Wal-Mart, stock up on Rotel, Velveeta and Brownie mix and hole up in our apartment for a few days. But...that is not how they do it here in "the bay." Matt and I actually worked on the worst day of the Blizzard! Needless to say, last week was an EXPERIENCE for us both. Here are just a few pictures of the biggest snowstorm WE have ever been in (the last one is from the Green Bay Gamblers Hockey game that we went to on Saturday night)! Oh, and it has snowed 3 more inches today! Crazy Life!

The First Thanksgiving...

2009-11-26T18:34:00.000-08:00

Our national holiday really stems from the feast held in the autumn of 1621 by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag to celebrate the colony's first successful harvest...GOTCHA! And you thought you were settling in to hear about the origins of the first Thanksgiving. :) Actually, today was our first Thanksgiving to celebrate as a married couple! We were unable to travel home ( a decision not easily made since THIS girl has never spent a Thanksgiving anywhere else but Arkansas) but we made the absolute BEST of it and even started some Thanksgiving traditions of our own. We started the day at Lambeau Field (home of the Green Bay Packers). Each year, the Ecumenical Ministry of Green Bay serves a HUGE Thanksgiving dinner to the elderly and less fortunate. It was a wonderful sight to see. The guests were ushered upstairs to a worship service beforehand and then brought back downstairs to enjoy lunch. Each table was formally set and had its own attendant to serve the Thanksgiving meal. There were phones set up for people to call their loved ones. It was just really special. Matt and I were greeters. We said, "Hi Ya'll" to everyone who walked in. Afterwards, we headed home to prepare our lunch! Not really knowing how to scale down the recipes to be for two, we had a 13x9 of Sweet Potato Casserole AND Dressing! We were able to find a "cute" three pound turkey at the store and so not much leftover there. Other than that, we have leftovers to last us awhile. For dessert, we enjoyed a yummy homeade Cheesecake! It was a wonderful day, full of phone calls from family and friends and much to be thankful for. What a wonderful holiday...a day solely for giving thanks for our blessings. And there are so many. Praying your day was wonderful as well and that WE are thankful today, for YOU!

Hannah Grace Crumby

2009-11-18T18:59:00.000-08:00

My heart is burdened for a little girl in Arkansas tonight. Please keep little Hannah Grace Crumby in your prayers. To follow her story, see the link below or go to caringbridge.com and type in hannahgracecrumby.

www.hannahandcaleb.blogspot.com

GO PACK GO!

2009-11-17T14:40:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite parts about living in Green Bay is of course, the Green Bay Packers! I never thought I could love a team like I love the Arkansas Razorbacks but I am quickly becoming a bigger Packer fan all the time. Packer fans are similar to Razorback fans in their devotion to their team but the similarities pretty much end there. Matt and I have had the priviledge of attending three Packer tailgates this season. Our sweet friends Michelle and Rob invited us to join them at their tailgates before the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings and the Dallas Cowboys games. While there we saw everything from folks decked out in green and gold overalls, cheeseheads, cheese ties and cheese bras to bagpipers and five man bands mingling through the crowds. And people are not just enjoying burgers and hot dogs. Brats are a STAPLE at any Packer tailgate. We hope to attend a game or two next season, as there is a raffle each year for tickets for residents of Brown County (Green Bay and surrounding areas). Go Pack Go!

SLOPPY MATT'S

2009-10-24T09:58:00.000-07:00

Last night, Matt and I made what I like to call, SLOPPY MATT'S! We had both recently expressed a desire to make some SLOPPY JOE'S and so last night we headed to the store, grabbed some Turkey Meat (in an effort to be a tiny bit healthier), a SLOPPY JOE Packet and Diced Tomatoes (in lieu of Tomato Paste-which we don't particularly like) and last BUT certainly not least, some buns. These are not just your ordinary buns, these are Green and Yellow, Green Bay Packer Buns! On game weekends, the store is full of Green and Yellow---Hamburger Buns, Hot Dog Buns, Cookies, Cakes-you name it! Anyway, I just had to post on our yummy dinner last night and the ever so unique buns on which our SLOPPY MATT"S were consumed. ENJOY!

I HEART FALL!

2009-09-19T18:13:00.000-07:00

To me, Fall is the MOST wonderful time of the year... Football (Go Hogs! Go Packers!), Sweatshirts, Chili, Fayetteville, Thanksgiving (Cherry Cheesecake), the Pumpkin Patch at Vanzant Fruit Farms, preparing for the Christmas season, Caramel Apples, Spiced Tea

I have been looking forward to THIS Fall in particular---our first in Green Bay, our first as a married couple, the cooler weather coming on quicker. I could not wait to decorate our home for the "Harvest." And, to top it off, we just spent the day making Chili in the crockpot, watching the Razorbacks, enjoying a Caramel Apple and now, a fire in the fireplace and a cinnamon/apple candle burning. LIFE IS GOOD.

From the song, Every Season by Nichole Nordeman

And even when the trees have just surrendered
To the harvest time
Forfeiting their leaves in late September
And sending us inside
Still I notice You when change begins
And I am braced for colder winds
I will offer thanks for what has been and was to come
You are autumn

Green Bay Farmers' Market

2009-08-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday from June to October, Broadway Street in Green Bay transforms into an INCREDIBLE Farmers' Market. The streets are lined with vendors selling their wares from cucumbers to kohlrabi, from beef jerky to doggie treats, from honey to freshly baked cake, from earrings to recyclable bags. We had a blast walking up and down Broadway, purchasing cucumbers, jalapeno peppers, sugar snap peas, tomatoes, key lime rum cake and flowers. Before we headed home, we grabbed some food from among the many restaurants represented. It was a wonderful night!
Check out their great website at www.farmersmarketonbroadway.com!

Hear HIS Breath.

2009-07-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

Today's service at Green Bay Community Church was all about the word of God. How the Holy Spirit spoke to the prophets and writers of the books of the Bible. How strong and true the word of the Lord was and is. Near the end of the service, the pastor called on the audience to share scripture. It was a powerful time. After each scripture the congregation responded with Hear HIS Breath. One in particular that stood out to me was Psalm 73: 25-26. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. I want to invite you to post the scripture that is on your heart today. The best encouragement and strength for each day is the word of God. Hear HIS Breath.

Saturday In The Park, I think it was the Fourth of July....

2009-07-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

One of the wonderful things about living where we do is how close we are to SO many places! The Twin Cities, Upper Michigan, Canada, Milwaukee, Chicago... Did I mention CHICAGO? Matt and I spent the Fourth Of July weekend in Chicago! We headed on down to the Windy City on Friday evening and spent the weekend eating at wonderful places and best of all, cheering on the Cubs at Wrigley Field. I mean, can you get more American than spending the Fourth of July watching America's favorite past time and eating a Chicago Style Hot Dog? I DON'T THINK SO! And, Saturday night, we walked down to Navy Pier and watched the fireworks! It was truly a great weekend.

From the Natural State to America's Dairyland

2009-07-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

You know you have officially moved and settled in somewhere when you change you LICENSE PLATE!!!!! In Wisconsin, you get not one but two plates, one for the front and one for the back of your car! We were sad to say goodbye to our Arkansas license plates (especially Matt, as he had an Arkansas Alumni Hog plate), but we will have them again one day and my tags had to be renewed by June 30th! Scratch (the name I affectionately call my car, due to its many scratches) is adjusting well to the change. I have really tried to culture her with her trips to Florida, Colorado, Texas and the like. :) She is enjoying her time in the Dairyland as are we.

Understand Them

2009-06-30T14:17:00.000-07:00

Shed a little sunshine into the heart of one, that one is cheered to pass it on, and so My vitalizing joy giving message goes. Be transmitters these days. Love and Laugh. Cheer All. Love All. Always seek to understand others and you cannot fail to love them. See ME in the dull, the uninteresting, the sinful, the critical, the miserable. See ME in the laughter of children and the sweetness of old age, in the courage of youth and the patience of man and womanhood.

This is just a little excerpt from one of my favorite devotions, God Calling. I was inspired and encouraged by the passage above and wanted to pass the blessing on to all of you.

Milwaukee Brewers vs. Minnesota Twins

2009-06-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Matt and I traveled to Milwaukee with his parents to see the Milwaukee Brewers play the Minnesota Twins. It was truly a BLAST! Miller Park is incredible and it was fun to see the Brewers in action. I am developing an enjoyment for Major League Baseball and loving it! Go Brewers! Go Prince Fielder! Next stop, Wrigley Field! Gotta root on those Cubbies in honor of Matt and my Dad!
To follow, more in depth posts on our wonderful visits from Erin and Matt, my Mom and Dad and Matt's Mom and Dad!

HOME

2009-06-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

What a WONDERFUL Spring it has been! This last month has been a crazy one for us. Matt and Erin (Matt's oldest sister and her husband) came into town over Memorial Day weekend. We had a BLAST! Then, Matt sent me to Northwest Arkansas for a surprise visit with my girlfriends for the weekend. It was good for my soul. My parents came to visit last week! We had a great time exploring Wisconsin with them. Sweet time with the family. And...I got a job! I started working at Haven Salon and Spa last week as a Guest Services Representative. I love it! All of these events and happenings have given me different reasons to continue to appreciate this season in life. Having visitors and hosting them in our home and showing them our surroundings has definitely increased our love for the area in which we live. Going back to Arkansas was so special and made coming back easier after getting to spend some much needed time with friends. But most of all, I have been made aware of just how much more I love Matt everyday. He will probably kill me for posting this on a blog but...... I honestly cannot imagine my life without him. Everyday brings new challenges, new things to learn about each other. We have more fun together than I could describe. We have been in this together these last three months, navigating thru the beginnings of marriage, moving to a new place, missing family and friends. He is strong and sweet and patient and kind and I love him. As most people know, I love music and I love listening to the words of songs and finding those that touch my life. I just love the song "Taking You Home" by Don Henley.
To end this blog on a funny note, pretend I am a DJ (with a voice like Barry White) sending out some love from Jenny to Matt with a song dedication of "Taking You Home" by Don Henley. :)

I had a good life
Before you came
I had my friends and my freedom
I had my name
Still there was sorrow and emptiness
til you made me glad
Oh, in this love I found strength I never knew I had

And this love
Is like nothing I have ever known
Take my hand, love
Im taking you home
Taking you home

There were days, lonely days
When the world, wouldnt throw me a crumb, no no
But I kept on believing
That this day would come

And this love
Is like nothing I have ever known, no no baby
Take my hand love
Im taking you home
Im taking you, home
Where we can be with the ones who really care
Home, where we can grow together
Keep you in, my heart forever

Oh and this love
Is like nothing I have ever known, oh no no baby
Take my hand love
Im taking you home

How could I ask for more?

2009-05-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

How Could I Ask For More by Cindy Morgan

There's nothing like the warmth of a summer afternoon
Waking to the sunlight, and being cradled by the moon
Catching fireflies at night
Building castles in the sand
Kissing Mama's face goodnight
Holding Daddy's hand
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

Running barefoot through the grass
A little hide and go seek
Being so in love, that you can hardly eat
Dancing in the dark, when there's no one else around
Being bundled 'neath the covers, watching snow
Fall to the ground
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

So many things I thought would bring me happiness
Some dreams that are realities today
Such an irony the things that mean the most to me
Are the memories that I've made along the way

So if there's anything I've learned
From this journey I am on
Simple truths will keep you going
Simple love will keep you strong
Cause there are questions without answers
Flames that never die
Heartaches we go through are often blessings in disguise
So thank you Lord, oh thank you Lord
How could I ask for more

This last weekend was one of those "how could i ask for more" kind of weekends. From beginning to end.
I really enjoy looking for healthy, yet TASTY recipes to try and so on Friday night I whipped up some Mexican Lasagna (it really is healthy-let me know if you are interested and I will send to you) and spanish rice for dinner. Matt made Margaritas and we just enjoyed a quiet night of Ace of Cakes episodes and catching up on our favorite shows. Saturday, we headed to Appleton with some movie passes I found and saw the movie, The Soloist. What a wonderful, beautiful movie. So inspiring. And it is a true story which I just love. On Saturday night we headed to the Cup of Joy Coffeehouse in Green Bay. Ginny Owens was playing a concert there for FREE and so we went! She was wonderful. And...I made new friends! Matt and I sat behind Kate and Hilarie, two sweet girls from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (about an hour and a half from Green Bay). Hilarie owns an organic foods store in Iron Mountain and Kate has a day job but her passion is really singing and being in ministry. It was so great to connect with these women and to make new friends! Yesterday afternoon we headed to the Fox River Trail for a walk and then to a park by our apartment where Matt kicked the soccer ball around while I read Shakespeare (JUST KIDDING-I read PEOPLE !). We finished up the weekend by watching The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. A long movie to be sure but good and thought provoking.
It was just a great weekend, coming off a great week in just a sweet season for Matt and I. Don't you love it when the Lord does not just give you one but like a million reminders of His love and care for you and how wonderful this life is?

Lost in YOUNKERS!

2009-05-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Matt and I were LOST in YOUNKERS! You see, the day after Matt and I moved to Green Bay back in March we purchased a new bedroom set at the local department store, Younkers (this would be like Dillard's to folks in the South). We were SO excited. All we had for our bedroom at the time was a box springs and mattress. We were told that the furniture was already in route and would be delivered in the next 3 to 4 weeks. We got used to our floor bed and the convenience of just grabbing the clothing we needed off the floor! Seriously, it was kind of fun! A little over two months later, our furniture arrived! We were thrilled! I thought I would show you the before and after pictures of our bedroom. We really are so thankful!

Home Sweet ARKANSAS!

2009-05-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

Last week, Matt and I were able to travel back to Arkansas for a visit! Matt's job will most likely take him back to Arkansas around once a quarter and fortunately this time I was able to travel with him since I do no yett have a job:) I spent the first half of the week in North Little Rock, where I enjoyed precious time with my family and friends. Time on the deck sipping coffee with my Mom and Dad, playing with my nephews and chatting with my sister and brother-in-law. I was also able to catch up with my friend Pamela and spend the afternoon with my friend Emily and her kiddos.
On Wednesday, my parents brought me to Northwest Arkansas. We met up with Matt and grabbed a quick lunch so they could see their son-in-law! The rest of the week was spent with sweet time with Matt and his family (not only his parents but his oldest sister Erin and her husband Matt AND Grandma and Grandpa Vanzant) eating good food, shopping, playing golf and getting pedicures! We were also able to get much needed time with more friends. Matt saw his good friends Patrick and Christin while I had one on one with my friend Angie, had lunch with my friend Jenn (who moved to OKC this past weekend so it was good to spend that time with her) I spent an afternoon with my friend Kristin, had lunch with my friend Janell, had an afternoon with my friends Lee and Cassie and their kiddos, we had night out at one of our faves, Common Grounds.
Though Matt had to work, we both agreed that it was a great week and so wonderful to be home with family and friends. We have come home feeling rejuvenated and ready to go again! Me, with my job search and Matt in his busy role at work. And...SPRING is here! We arrived home to green grass and sunshine! It is already a great week in "the bay!" We are so thankful for the opportunity we had to go home last week and we both look forward to what the coming weeks have to bring here in Wisconsin! Above are a couple of pictures from our time in Arkansas. As always, I never took enough. I really hope to get better at capturing more of life's moments! Love to all of you!

BAYWATCH

2009-05-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

This is our brother in law, Matt Propst giving his amazing Baywatch "Beach Run" impression at the beach last year. Thought I would post this as a celebration of the warm days ahead this Spring and Summer!

NEW YORK CITY 2008

2009-04-30T06:53:00.000-07:00

At this time last year, I was in NYC with my dear friends Cassie, Milton and Sarah. I thought I would post some pictures in remembrance of that trip! Cass and I at the Today show, Sarah and I eating cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery (well worth the walk and wait), Milt and I chowing down on a "classic" NYC hot dog and then a group picture of me and the girls at a park outside Magnolia Bakery. If you know these girls then you know that the laughs outnumbered just about anything else on this adventure. From getting lost in Hell's Kitchen to good times at Stanford Social it was a trip to remember. I look forward to many more trips with precious friends in the future!

GOLD

2009-04-22T10:55:00.001-07:00

"Make new friends but keep the old,
one is silver and the other is GOLD."
These are the words to a song we used to sing in Girl Scouts and one that my friend Angie and I have joked about over time as we make new friends. We remind each other that we are GOLD and cannot be replaced. SO true. Our GOLD friends, Angie and Matt came to visit us a little over a week ago and we had a great time! They were our first visitors to "The Bay." It was just neat to be able to show them our lives here and spend time together and catch up. Unfortunately, I do not have a picture of all of us for the blog post, as they are all on Facebook and I could not figure out how to get them to load. I was able to get some pictures of Angie and our time together at LUNA (my favorite coffeehouse). We sipped coffee, talked, caught up and spend some time with the Lord. It was good for my soul. Thanks for coming, Angie and Matt! Good times were had by all. We love you!

Matt and Jenny and Matt and Ginny

2009-04-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Matt and I had the ABSOLUTE PLEASURE of getting to see Matt, Ginny and precious Baby Hazel back in March! They were in Milwaukee speaking at a Church there about their experience with grief. Matt and I drove down to see them speak and then afterwards we joined the three of them and the pastor and his wife for lunch before they headed back to Arkansas. We really enjoyed getting to see them!

At The Cross

2009-04-07T10:08:00.001-07:00

"Without the cross, the manger doesn't mean as much. At the manger He was already a King, but at the cross, He showed us that he is our Savior."

This is an excerpt from the weekly e-community newsletter at Green Bay Community Church (a Church that Matt and I have been visiting). The article is about how we spend so much time preparing for Christmas but we do not spend near as much time preparing for Easter. To me, Easter is a continuation of the Christmas story, bringing it to a climax with Jesus fulfilling that which He was born to do. But the story doesn't end there. You see, the story never ends....

To read the article from the e-newsletter in its entirety, go to www.gbcommunitychurch.com and click on e-community. Click on past issues, then on 3-26.

JENGIE-Together again!

2009-04-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

Matt and I are so excited! Our friends, Matt and Angie are coming to see us NEXT weekend! Angie is my everything friend. She is an OLD friend because we have know each other since the 5th grade. She is a COLLEGE friend because not only did we attend the University of Arkansas together, we also lived together and had most of the same sweet friends. She is my POST COLLEGE friend because we lived together after College and have experienced the "Real World" together. We have laughed, cried, traveled, spent time at the lake, worshiped, prayed...you name it and we have probably experienced it in our friendship. We are like sisters. Matt and I are thrilled to welcome she and our other dear friend, Matt to Green Bay! We cannot wait to share it with you Matt and Angie! See you soon!

All The Way My Savior Leads Me

2009-03-31T13:58:00.001-07:00

Wonderful words. Wonderful Savior. May these words comfort YOU today wherever YOU are. Thank you Lord for this sweet life.

Lyrics

One WILD and CRAZY night!

2009-03-28T12:40:00.000-07:00

So last night Matt and I decided to head out and hit the town for dinner. We decided on Village Grille, as we had passed it several times recently and thought it looked good. Upon walking inside, Matt noted that there were quite a few OLDER folks there. I did not think much about it at first but then became aware that Matt and I were quite literally THE youngest people in the joint. Matt then mentioned that there was a retirement facility nearby and that was probably the reason. Needless to say, it was not quite the night out we had envisioned being the hip, cool couple that we are! But, the food WAS good and the company (Matt) was the best! :)

Happy ONE Month to us!!!!

2009-03-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Matt and I celebrated ONE month of marital bliss! It is hard to believe that we met on a blind date two years ago in August. Look at us now! Life is good. God is good!

Come see us!

2009-03-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

Just a little something to tantalize the tastebuds of our ski enthusiast fans! These are just a few of the brochures that showcase the different ski resorts around the Wisconsin and Michigan! We will show you a good time!!!!!

Our times are in HIS hands-Psalm 31:15

2009-03-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

Today I am writing from Luna, a local coffeehouse here in De Pere. Life is good... The sun is shining and a light snow is falling, I am sipping a honey latte, coffee is being ROASTED in the next room (you can actually watch them roast it if you like), the playlist of music so far has been U2 and the Counting Crows---could I be more in my element? This is really my first true time to venture out by myself since arriving in Wisconsin. Besides the usual errands of running to the grocery store or the post office, I have only ventured out with Matt by my side. It feels good to be out today, on my own and out of my comfort zone. Sitting here gives me the chance to process through the last few weeks....The other day, I sat in the apartment in silence, just trying to listen to what the Lord wanted to say and what lessons can be learned from this time in life. Describing this season is difficult, as it is the most joyous (being married to Matt, starting our life, having a complete blast together, making a home) and yet, I am lonely and lost as well. I have struggled to be content in the waiting---for a Church, for friends, for a job. PATIENCE is definitely the lesson I have learned the most about so far. Matt and I tried out a Church on Sunday. And though sweet people and a good Church, we just did not feel like it was going to be our home. I found myself frustrated as we found our seats and waited for the service to begin. I just want a community group and friends and women to connect with, I thought to myself. I felt as if the Lord quickly admonished me and showed me that though this particular Church may not be home to us, it is preaching truth and it is home to others and meets their needs. I was also reminded that last Sunday was only our second Sunday and second Church to try. These things take time. PATIENCE. And so, with that, this week has been much better. I know I must wait and just ENJOY. And so I am. I am enjoying the rest that has been given to me in this time of not working. I am enjoying being a wife to Matt and learning how to cook! I am enjoying just waiting for him to walk in the door from work each day (my favorite part of the day). I am enjoying this coffeehouse. ENJOY.

Chateau Shelby

2009-03-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

Thought you might like to see a few pictures of our home (and a picture of Matt on our box springs and mattress) here in De Pere, Wisconsin! No pictures of the master bedroom and guest bedroom yet. We are waiting on our bedroom furniture to come in and there are some improvements in the guest bedroom that I would like to make before either make their debut on the blog.

I got the BREWS...

2009-03-13T15:09:00.000-07:00

I got the BREWS...and I LOVE IT! I just have to give a quick shout out to our Cuisinart Grind and Brew Coffeemaker! You make my morning (and day) better! Owning you is better than I could have ever imagined. You Grind, You Brew, You keep the coffee warm in your carafe! I cannot imagine life without you. Love, Jenny

My Cup Runneth Over...

2009-03-10T09:57:00.000-07:00

Let the purpose of all marriages and friendships alike be the deepening of the spirit and the enrichment of the soul...Unknown

I am just toooo excited right now....this is my very first post (Jenny)! I am now a blogger. I think I may have a bit of blogger's block right now though. I hope to write inspiring and thought provoking blogs in the future like my friend Milton :) but for today I just wanted to back up from our first week in Green Bay and share a little bit about these last few weeks! Well, really the last few months!

Since the day we were engaged in October, life has truly been a whirlwind. Planning the wedding in a short amount of time (which I still would not have any other way) and then Matt accepting the job in Green Bay in December...WHEW! The last few weeks before the wedding were the most crazy, with Matt gone for nine days, our whirlwind trip to Green Bay to take our stuff the weekend before we were married and the last minute details of the wedding...but as the Lord promised, He will never give us anything we cannot handle and we did it!

The wedding weekend was incredible. Better than either of us could have ever dreamed of or imagined. From the Bachelorette Party for me given by my sisters, to the Bridesmaid's Brunch to the Rehearsal Dinner to the Wedding and Reception---it was wonderful! One thing I have always loved about weddings is the excuse that they give for those you love most to be gathered together. It was so special. Matt and I have been overwhelmed by the whole experience---from the showers to the wedding. People are so giving and gracious and we have just been so humbled and thankful.

After the wedding, Matt and I headed to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico for our Honeymoon (see pictures above)! It was great. We stayed at Secrets Resort and Spa. We had BIG plans to leave the resort and get involved at different events at the Resort but we did not do any of them! Well, we did attend a mexican dance and dinner and got our picture taken with a monkey but other than that we just relaxed and ate (the food was wonderful-you should have seen me at the buffet)! We were glad we DID relax though, with the month before the wedding being so crazy and then moving after the Honeymoon...we would not change a thing.

And now to today... getting married and moving over 12 hours away have been the biggest steps I (Jenny) have ever taken in my entire life. Leaving family and friends so dear has been difficult and I know it will probably never be easy for me to be this far away. But....I would not change it! Matt and I are excited to be here in Wisconsin and we look forward to all that he has in store for us these next two to three years. I absolutely love being with my best friend everyday. I love unpacking and settling into our apartment and making it home for us. I love that we are now a new family! And that is why my cup runneth over today....this sweet life, my wonderful family ( and new family in the Shelby's), the best friends a girl could ever have and the most wonderful man in the world for a husband.

Green Bay Slowly Becoming Home

2009-03-08T16:55:00.000-07:00

Slowly but surely, we are starting to become "settled" in the "Frozen Tundra." We are trying to adjust to many, many things. First off we have this thing called "marriage." It is fun to be able to spend every minute with each other. As you can see by the picture below, we are definitely learning each other's boundaries. (You can decide on who is Jenny and who is Matt.)

In all seriousness, things have been enjoyable this past week. As Matt would wake up in the morning to get ready for work, Jenny was getting up too; making coffee, dragging Matt out of bed, and figuring out what all she needed to do that day. I think the unpacking process has been a little slower than what we both expected, but it has been interesting. Jenny has been trying to figure out where to put everything in our apartment. Our place started out big, but as boxes started to be unpacked and things placed where they needed to be, we are realizing that we might need to find a bigger place. But that is for a different time and a different blog.

The weather hasn't been too bad this past week. When we rolled into town at 1:30am on Monday morning, the temperature was showing -2. It really didn't get much warmer as the day grew older. I think it topped out in the high teens to low twenties. However, each day got warmer and warmer. We finished the week off on Saturday in the 40's. We aren't sure yet if that is "short's weather" up here but we were definitely enjoying the warmth and the sunshine. However, things can change suddenly here in Green Bay as much as it can change back home in Arkansas. Sunday morning started out overcast and brisk. I believe that the temperature was in the mid to upper 20's (which is somewhat typical for this time here in the GB.) We went to church and then stopped at a local coffee shop to see what kind new things we could find. The girl behind-the-counter was very helpful in helping us find a nice flavored coffee to try in our wonderful new coffee maker. Even without us trying, she pegged us as "not being from around here." Even though thoughts were racing through Matt's head of what "new thing" can we tell her that ISN'T the truth, Jenny stepped in and told her we were from God's Country (that's my wording, not Jenny's.) As Jenny started to trot around the shop to see what cool knick-knacks she could find, I was chatting with this girl about the area and the horrible winter that has faced this area over the last 3 months. She calmly told me that after noon it is suppose to start snowing 4-6 inches through the rest of the day. She didn't even bat an eye. This, to her, is what they may call "a dusting." I think to myself that most people in Arkansas would treat this as the end-of-the-world type weather. Fortunately, they are more well equipped to keep the roads somewhat clear and not much would be said about "this dusting." As we proceeded home, just like the girl said, snow starting falling. It started pretty gentle at first, but the wind decide to pick up. Right now it has been snowing for about 6+ hours now with the wind blowing 20-30 mph. We thought we were "Yankee enough" to transport some of our trash to the dumpsters on our property, but after two car loads of trash (and many more still needing to happen to clear out place of trash) we decide to retreat inside and finish turning this place into "our home" with a few breaks to eat lunch and to play some Wii Mario Kart.

This will definitely be the first of many posts to inform everyone of our doings, our outings, and our antics up here in the "Frozen Tundra."

With that we will leave you with some pics that were taken this afternoon from our balcony and from the door that leads into our apartment. This is the view we have out our back door. There is a pond right out side and it is frozen. We already have it in our plans this week to go by a sporting store, buy some ice skates, and work on our mad ice skating skills. Maybe before it thaws, we both would have mastered the triple toe loop.