December brings in feasant hunters from all over. Anywhere you go, there are men dressed in their camo pants and jackets. They hide out in the wheat fields waiting for a feasant to cross their path and when it does, they hopefully win a dinner prize. It is cold, sometimes wet, definitely windy, and I assume, boring.
I have discovered a better and more efficient way to hunt wild game. Lets see, so far my hunting record is as follows:
1. barely a hawk
2. almost a coyote
3. definitely a few birds
4. hardly a jack rabbit
5. and a scoot away from a burrowing owl
I would say that my list of animals almost caught in my hunt are way more exciting than a feasant...and all I used was my vehicle. In my opinion, car hunting should be the next big "hit" for hunters all around.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Saturday, December 6, 2008
The Great Veggie Debate
So I've come to find another difference between city folk and small town folk - vegetables! Small town folk are what I would call "snobs" when it comes to vegetables.
Trent has said things like, "Are these green beans from a can? I can tell. You can taste the can." How do you taste the can?
I've also heard things like, "Wow, this frozen corn is pretty good." What do you mean it is pretty good? It's corn! If you like corn, of course it is good! Corn is corn.
Apparently Trent's family is not the only people who feel this way about vegetables. All the women at school agree that there is a huge difference between fresh vegetables grown from a local garden, and vegetables that come from a can or the freezer. To which I reply, "Normal people eat veggies from a can all the time and never think any different!" Perhaps it was just my family that ate vegetables from a can, but I still can not taste the difference.
In other news, I think we have mice. I discovered some suspicious droppings in our bathroom the other day. Trent told me that this was a good possibility, but I usually try not to believe the bad things he tells me. I have yet to actually see the creature, but now I have to turn the light on when I use the bathroom in the middle of the night because I'm afraid I might step on one. My team teacher told me a story about her husband using the bathroom in the middle of the night and hearing hissing noises. When he turned on the light, there was a RAT in the toilet. I am forever scarred from that story.
Trent has said things like, "Are these green beans from a can? I can tell. You can taste the can." How do you taste the can?
I've also heard things like, "Wow, this frozen corn is pretty good." What do you mean it is pretty good? It's corn! If you like corn, of course it is good! Corn is corn.
Apparently Trent's family is not the only people who feel this way about vegetables. All the women at school agree that there is a huge difference between fresh vegetables grown from a local garden, and vegetables that come from a can or the freezer. To which I reply, "Normal people eat veggies from a can all the time and never think any different!" Perhaps it was just my family that ate vegetables from a can, but I still can not taste the difference.
In other news, I think we have mice. I discovered some suspicious droppings in our bathroom the other day. Trent told me that this was a good possibility, but I usually try not to believe the bad things he tells me. I have yet to actually see the creature, but now I have to turn the light on when I use the bathroom in the middle of the night because I'm afraid I might step on one. My team teacher told me a story about her husband using the bathroom in the middle of the night and hearing hissing noises. When he turned on the light, there was a RAT in the toilet. I am forever scarred from that story.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Road Kill
So I've seen a poor cat been hit in the road. I've seen a poor puppy been hit in the road. In San Antonio, we see poor Bambi's been hit in the road. But only in Earth do you see a poor cow been hit in the road. Yes, yes - it seems that someone's poor cow got out and was hit by a vehicle. I know what it did to the cow; I can only imagine what it did to the vehicle!
Cotton stripping is almost over. Yay! That means I can have Trent in the evenings again. Although, his late hours means that I get to watch what I want to watch on T.V. Thanks goodness for DVR!
So I told you about the Olton Sorority, right? Well, I have decided that I don't really want to be friends with old ladies that wear sorority pins on their blouses, wear buns in their hair, and recite the sorority pledge with a secret handshake - not really my cup of tea.
Well, it turns out that there are a few other young ladies from right here in Earth that were seeking the same friendship I was searching for. One called me up a couple of weeks ago about possibly starting our own social gathering of young women from Earth. Myself and three other young girls met tonight for the first time to construct a list of other young Earthite gals that might be interested in the same.
You might be astonished to find out that there were four young girls from Earth that met tonight, but just wait - together we came up with a list of about 14 girls we would want to invite. Can you believe that? I didn't know Earth even had 14 people living in it! Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but still...14! We will invite all of them to get together for food and fellowship on December 4 at my house.
Wish me luck as I continue my quest for a friend!
Cotton stripping is almost over. Yay! That means I can have Trent in the evenings again. Although, his late hours means that I get to watch what I want to watch on T.V. Thanks goodness for DVR!
So I told you about the Olton Sorority, right? Well, I have decided that I don't really want to be friends with old ladies that wear sorority pins on their blouses, wear buns in their hair, and recite the sorority pledge with a secret handshake - not really my cup of tea.
Well, it turns out that there are a few other young ladies from right here in Earth that were seeking the same friendship I was searching for. One called me up a couple of weeks ago about possibly starting our own social gathering of young women from Earth. Myself and three other young girls met tonight for the first time to construct a list of other young Earthite gals that might be interested in the same.
You might be astonished to find out that there were four young girls from Earth that met tonight, but just wait - together we came up with a list of about 14 girls we would want to invite. Can you believe that? I didn't know Earth even had 14 people living in it! Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but still...14! We will invite all of them to get together for food and fellowship on December 4 at my house.
Wish me luck as I continue my quest for a friend!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Trent and His Stripper
So Trent has been coming home really late at night. It was beginning to concern me, so I decided to play detective and fight out where he has been spending his evenings...you will never believe what I discovered.
Trent has been spending all of his time with a stripper!
Ok, so I'm talking about a cotton stripper. It is cotton harvest and Trent spends all day and night riding back and forth in the cotton fields collecting new fluff. Trent actually does not drive the stripper. He's actually in charge of driving the truck that the stripper dumps all the cotton into (there is a name for this truck, but its something weird and I don't remember it at the moment.) Then the cotton gets dumped into another truck that compresses the cotton in to massive cotton bricks along the highway to be picked up.
The wind picked up a few days, so along with cotton balls flying along the highway, I also played frogger with tumbleweeds yesterday. Welcome to West Texas!
Trent has been spending all of his time with a stripper!
Ok, so I'm talking about a cotton stripper. It is cotton harvest and Trent spends all day and night riding back and forth in the cotton fields collecting new fluff. Trent actually does not drive the stripper. He's actually in charge of driving the truck that the stripper dumps all the cotton into (there is a name for this truck, but its something weird and I don't remember it at the moment.) Then the cotton gets dumped into another truck that compresses the cotton in to massive cotton bricks along the highway to be picked up.
The wind picked up a few days, so along with cotton balls flying along the highway, I also played frogger with tumbleweeds yesterday. Welcome to West Texas!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Small Town Trick-Or-Treatin'
Here are a couple major differences between Halloween in the big city and in a small town:
1. In San Antonio we began Trick-Or-Treating when the sun was going down. In Earth and Olton they finish Trick-Or-Treating before the sun goes down. As soon as the school bell rang, parents picked up their children and began the door knocking spree.
2. In San Antonio we strolled up and down the neighborhood streets knocking on the doors of people's homes. In Earth and Olton the businesses open their doors to Trick-Or-Treaters. The children walk up and down Main Street gathering candy from the banks, the post office, the gift shops, the clinic, the grocery store, and the care center.
So I experienced my first Halloween in a small town. It was a charming scene driving through the small town watching the children dressed in costumes walking down Main Street. It was almost right out of a movie. However, we live right off of the highway, so needless to say, we did not have any Trick-Or-Treaters come to our door, except our adorable neice and nephew.
One major holiday passed, two to go. I guess I will begin shopping for my Christmas decorations now!
1. In San Antonio we began Trick-Or-Treating when the sun was going down. In Earth and Olton they finish Trick-Or-Treating before the sun goes down. As soon as the school bell rang, parents picked up their children and began the door knocking spree.
2. In San Antonio we strolled up and down the neighborhood streets knocking on the doors of people's homes. In Earth and Olton the businesses open their doors to Trick-Or-Treaters. The children walk up and down Main Street gathering candy from the banks, the post office, the gift shops, the clinic, the grocery store, and the care center.
So I experienced my first Halloween in a small town. It was a charming scene driving through the small town watching the children dressed in costumes walking down Main Street. It was almost right out of a movie. However, we live right off of the highway, so needless to say, we did not have any Trick-Or-Treaters come to our door, except our adorable neice and nephew.
One major holiday passed, two to go. I guess I will begin shopping for my Christmas decorations now!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
The Joys of Buying a New House...Make That an Old House
It all started when my parents came to help me move into my new...old house. My dear mother accidentally dropped an earring down the drain in the guest bathroom. In the process of retrieving her earring, the pipe was apparently so old, that it just broke in half. It took several weeks to finally replace the pipe in the guest bathroom. But that's just the beginning...
Since then, we have:
1. replaced a leaking sky light (and we still lack the second sky light)
2. repair the sprinkler system
3. fix the broken heater
4. buy several parts for a disfunctional dryer
5. repair a shower that leaks into the kitchen
6. unclog bath and shower drains after the power went off
7. replace leaking faucet on the water heater after discovering a large puddle in the hallway
Ah, I'm sure there will be more added to the list before the end of the year...especially when winter comes, but we have thoroughly enjoyed our new old house, despite the speed bumps. Our master bathroom is finished and gorgeous, and we are almost finished painting everything we wanted to paint. In the spring we will probably begin reshaping the outside parts of our new old home. I will try to upload some pictures of the facelift we have given our home as soon as I find my camera charger which was somehow lost in the move. But for now, I think I hear a paintbrush calling my name.
Since then, we have:
1. replaced a leaking sky light (and we still lack the second sky light)
2. repair the sprinkler system
3. fix the broken heater
4. buy several parts for a disfunctional dryer
5. repair a shower that leaks into the kitchen
6. unclog bath and shower drains after the power went off
7. replace leaking faucet on the water heater after discovering a large puddle in the hallway
Ah, I'm sure there will be more added to the list before the end of the year...especially when winter comes, but we have thoroughly enjoyed our new old house, despite the speed bumps. Our master bathroom is finished and gorgeous, and we are almost finished painting everything we wanted to paint. In the spring we will probably begin reshaping the outside parts of our new old home. I will try to upload some pictures of the facelift we have given our home as soon as I find my camera charger which was somehow lost in the move. But for now, I think I hear a paintbrush calling my name.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Roosters and Such
Welp, it has been a while since I have updated. I just wanted to let you know that we are still alive!
The fruit flies are also still alive. I'm going to buy some vinegar to drown those suckers today. Trent and I have turned it into a game competition to see who can kill the most. We think we have found the source: there is a sky light on our back porch that attracts those flies like a magnet.
I also found a car wash in Olton. I thought I was going to have to wash my own car, gasp! However, I can get the outside and the inside of my car cleaned in Olton...by appointment only, and for a high price. But totally worth it!
Also, I have been meaning to let you know that roosters really do crow in the morning. Every morning when I get to school, I can hear several roosters crowing from somewhere in town. It's how I know that I'm awake!
And now I shall go buy my vinegar.
The fruit flies are also still alive. I'm going to buy some vinegar to drown those suckers today. Trent and I have turned it into a game competition to see who can kill the most. We think we have found the source: there is a sky light on our back porch that attracts those flies like a magnet.
I also found a car wash in Olton. I thought I was going to have to wash my own car, gasp! However, I can get the outside and the inside of my car cleaned in Olton...by appointment only, and for a high price. But totally worth it!
Also, I have been meaning to let you know that roosters really do crow in the morning. Every morning when I get to school, I can hear several roosters crowing from somewhere in town. It's how I know that I'm awake!
And now I shall go buy my vinegar.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Invasion of the Fruit Flies
Mosquitoes, Flies and Fruit flies...OH MY! So it turns out that fruit flies LOVE small west Texas towns. And they particularly love my house - specifically my kitchen sink. I think I have mostly taken care of the problem now with my good friend Clorox Bleach, but there were a couple of days last week when you could catch me hovering over my kitchen sink actually talking to my now home invaders:
"You better watch out you stinkin' fruit fly! I'm gonna get you!" and after I clapped my hands together a few times and finally caught one of these nasty creatures, I would say, "HA! You other flies take note of what just happened to your friend!"
Trent told me of a method they use for keeping wildlife out of their crops - kill the animal and hang its carcas on a fence around the crops to warn others of the same species of what might happen to them if they dare to enter. Well, I was killing fruitflies left and right and leaving their squished bodies on the wall as a sign to all of their buddies: DON'T MESS WITH ME!
Like I said, I think I have mostly taken care of the problem now, but I will continue to slap the snot out of those little monsters until they are all out of my house!
"You better watch out you stinkin' fruit fly! I'm gonna get you!" and after I clapped my hands together a few times and finally caught one of these nasty creatures, I would say, "HA! You other flies take note of what just happened to your friend!"
Trent told me of a method they use for keeping wildlife out of their crops - kill the animal and hang its carcas on a fence around the crops to warn others of the same species of what might happen to them if they dare to enter. Well, I was killing fruitflies left and right and leaving their squished bodies on the wall as a sign to all of their buddies: DON'T MESS WITH ME!
Like I said, I think I have mostly taken care of the problem now, but I will continue to slap the snot out of those little monsters until they are all out of my house!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Good, Good People
So yesterday I received a phone call that no one ever wants to receive...Trent was in an accident. He's ok, but it turned out to be a pretty bad accident. Praise God he walked away with only a few cuts, bruises, and a bump or two. But, this blog is not about Trent...
This blog is another tale of life in a small, small town. After I received the call, I ran down the hall to tell the secretary that I would be needing a sub for the day because I was leaving to go to the doctor with Trent to get him checked out. As I walked back down the hall to my classroom, three other teachers stopped to tell me that they were praying for Trent. How did they already know?
It wasn't five minutes later that the youth minister at the church we've been attending called me to check on Trent and let me know that he was on his way to the hospital to see him. How did he know?
Trent's mom and dad received phone calls all day checking up on Trent. I guess what they say is true: word gets around in a small, small town (as I heard it from a line in a country song).
That night we had several visitors at our house to check up on Trent. These people do not call to let us know they are stopping by, they just stop by (which I'm not quite used to yet since I like to hang out in my pajamas most of the time.) The local preacher stopped by to say a word of prayer, as well as the local youth director, Trent's old secretary, our neighbors, and of course, Trent's family.
We are indeed surrounded by good, good people (as I heard it from an old Audio Adrenaline song).
Now as for the other boy involved in the accident - please keep him in your prayers. His name is Kody Fields and he was not as fortunate as Trent. He is still in the hospital with a broken leg, and drugged up because of his injuries. He is also suffering from bleeding of the brain - we are no sure how severe it is, and probably will not until they decide it is safe to begin taking him off of the drugs. Please pray for his physical healing and a spiritual healing.
This blog is another tale of life in a small, small town. After I received the call, I ran down the hall to tell the secretary that I would be needing a sub for the day because I was leaving to go to the doctor with Trent to get him checked out. As I walked back down the hall to my classroom, three other teachers stopped to tell me that they were praying for Trent. How did they already know?
It wasn't five minutes later that the youth minister at the church we've been attending called me to check on Trent and let me know that he was on his way to the hospital to see him. How did he know?
Trent's mom and dad received phone calls all day checking up on Trent. I guess what they say is true: word gets around in a small, small town (as I heard it from a line in a country song).
That night we had several visitors at our house to check up on Trent. These people do not call to let us know they are stopping by, they just stop by (which I'm not quite used to yet since I like to hang out in my pajamas most of the time.) The local preacher stopped by to say a word of prayer, as well as the local youth director, Trent's old secretary, our neighbors, and of course, Trent's family.
We are indeed surrounded by good, good people (as I heard it from an old Audio Adrenaline song).
Now as for the other boy involved in the accident - please keep him in your prayers. His name is Kody Fields and he was not as fortunate as Trent. He is still in the hospital with a broken leg, and drugged up because of his injuries. He is also suffering from bleeding of the brain - we are no sure how severe it is, and probably will not until they decide it is safe to begin taking him off of the drugs. Please pray for his physical healing and a spiritual healing.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Earth's 100th Birthday & Corn Pickin'
Last weekend was Springlake Earth's 100th year celebration for the school. They invited all alumni to the pep rally, an enchilada dinner in the cafeteria, the Homecoming football game, and a choice of a talent show or the Homecoming dance.
Trent and I only attended the dinner and the football game. The talent show afterwards was apparently only for the old farts and after hearing about it from Trent's parents, I'm extremely happy that we did not go.
There were a lot of people in attendance. Some came from far far away to revisit their alma mater. I made sure I was looking cute, because I figured I would meet a lot of Trent's old pals. Well, there were a lot more old people there than young, so I decided to change into something more comfortable before the football game.
I did get to hear a lot of stories of how bad Trent was in school. He got sent to the principal's office a lot for a whoopin! One time he accidentally mooned a teacher. I also heard stories about fights he got into, and throwing mashed potatoes on the cafeteria wall. It also turns out that Trent was a bully. He likes to think he was doing justice by only picking on kids that had a "big head", but it might be hard to make friends around here because Trent probably hurt their feelings back in high school.
Welp, it's corn pickin' season here in West Texas. That means that Trent is gone all day and doesn't return home until about 10 o'clock at night. I'm usually in bed by the time he comes home. His mom is nice enough to cook for them and take dinner out to the farm. I guess farmers need to eat too. Trent told me one time before we got married that his mother would do this for them, insinuating that I would also be expected to do this for him. Good thing his mother still lives here!
I went out to the farm the other night with his mom to deliver the tacos she had made. Trent was sweet enough to take me out on the combine. Those things are amazing! Its large claws cut the corn stalks, and somehow the ears go through a machine that cuts the kernals into the bin of the combine, and spits the ears back out onto the ground. Then another large truck pulls up next to the combine, Trent manuevers a long tube over the bin of the second truck, and begins to pour the kernals into the back of the second truck. That truck then takes the corn to the co-op to be inspected, and then I guess they get paid for it.
The weather is cool here, the leaves are changing, and corn is being cut all around - fall must be coming! And I couldn't be more excited about experiencing this season with an actual fall climate this year! I've already researched where the nearest corn maze and pumpkin patches are located. I have my fall decorations out, and I bought new fall scented candles. Now I just need to hang my fall wreath! Yay for fall!
Trent and I only attended the dinner and the football game. The talent show afterwards was apparently only for the old farts and after hearing about it from Trent's parents, I'm extremely happy that we did not go.
There were a lot of people in attendance. Some came from far far away to revisit their alma mater. I made sure I was looking cute, because I figured I would meet a lot of Trent's old pals. Well, there were a lot more old people there than young, so I decided to change into something more comfortable before the football game.
I did get to hear a lot of stories of how bad Trent was in school. He got sent to the principal's office a lot for a whoopin! One time he accidentally mooned a teacher. I also heard stories about fights he got into, and throwing mashed potatoes on the cafeteria wall. It also turns out that Trent was a bully. He likes to think he was doing justice by only picking on kids that had a "big head", but it might be hard to make friends around here because Trent probably hurt their feelings back in high school.
Welp, it's corn pickin' season here in West Texas. That means that Trent is gone all day and doesn't return home until about 10 o'clock at night. I'm usually in bed by the time he comes home. His mom is nice enough to cook for them and take dinner out to the farm. I guess farmers need to eat too. Trent told me one time before we got married that his mother would do this for them, insinuating that I would also be expected to do this for him. Good thing his mother still lives here!
I went out to the farm the other night with his mom to deliver the tacos she had made. Trent was sweet enough to take me out on the combine. Those things are amazing! Its large claws cut the corn stalks, and somehow the ears go through a machine that cuts the kernals into the bin of the combine, and spits the ears back out onto the ground. Then another large truck pulls up next to the combine, Trent manuevers a long tube over the bin of the second truck, and begins to pour the kernals into the back of the second truck. That truck then takes the corn to the co-op to be inspected, and then I guess they get paid for it.
The weather is cool here, the leaves are changing, and corn is being cut all around - fall must be coming! And I couldn't be more excited about experiencing this season with an actual fall climate this year! I've already researched where the nearest corn maze and pumpkin patches are located. I have my fall decorations out, and I bought new fall scented candles. Now I just need to hang my fall wreath! Yay for fall!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Sorority Pledge
I was never in a sorority in college. I didn't feel that it quite suited me. However, I'm willing to give sorority life a chance for the sake of the experience...and it seems that I have my opportunity!
It turns out that small towns sometimes have sororities for women in the community. Well, Olton has a sorority, and as a new member of the community (I qualify because I work in Olton) I was invited by a fellow teacher to attend pledge night for this so called sorority.
I received several emails reminding me of the first sorority meeting and listing all of the young girls from school that are part of this sorority and would be at the meeting. So I read the names and decided that if all of these cool girls were part of it (and I need to make friends) that I would check it out. So last night I drove to City Bank in Olton to participate in my first sorority pledge party with some cool, young girls from school. Unfortunately, none of the young girls from school could make it, but failed to mention that to me. There were six other women there, most in the 40's - 50's, sporting their sorority pins on their chest, carrying a notebook with greek letters across the front, and all reciting the sorority pledge.
Backflash: this reminds me of when I worked at Girl Scouts and all the older women that worked there thought they were still a Girl Scout and were just proud to be a part of something. They were all a bit cooky (not to be confused with cookie, which they happened to eat a lot of.)
So there I was trapped in the Upper Room of the City Bank having dinner with six strangers in a sort of cult-like fashion. Quite an experience - all for the sake of making friends!
So will I join? You betcha! I talked to my fellow teachers who ditched me, and they all assured me that they will definitely be there next month. So I suppose I will give sorority life a one year trial and see what happens...like oh my gah!
It turns out that small towns sometimes have sororities for women in the community. Well, Olton has a sorority, and as a new member of the community (I qualify because I work in Olton) I was invited by a fellow teacher to attend pledge night for this so called sorority.
I received several emails reminding me of the first sorority meeting and listing all of the young girls from school that are part of this sorority and would be at the meeting. So I read the names and decided that if all of these cool girls were part of it (and I need to make friends) that I would check it out. So last night I drove to City Bank in Olton to participate in my first sorority pledge party with some cool, young girls from school. Unfortunately, none of the young girls from school could make it, but failed to mention that to me. There were six other women there, most in the 40's - 50's, sporting their sorority pins on their chest, carrying a notebook with greek letters across the front, and all reciting the sorority pledge.
Backflash: this reminds me of when I worked at Girl Scouts and all the older women that worked there thought they were still a Girl Scout and were just proud to be a part of something. They were all a bit cooky (not to be confused with cookie, which they happened to eat a lot of.)
So there I was trapped in the Upper Room of the City Bank having dinner with six strangers in a sort of cult-like fashion. Quite an experience - all for the sake of making friends!
So will I join? You betcha! I talked to my fellow teachers who ditched me, and they all assured me that they will definitely be there next month. So I suppose I will give sorority life a one year trial and see what happens...like oh my gah!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Name That Allergy!
Apparently it is allergy season out here. It is also harvesting season. So it turns out that every year during harvest, your nose will plug, your eyes will sting, and your head will feel like someone is pressing a brick against both sides of your head. Suhweet! And I hear that right now it is just Milo and Maize allergies...we haven't even gotten to the good stuff yet: Corn! Pray for my nose!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Workin' 9 to... 3?
Here are few more interesting tid bits about life in a small town:
1. The bank closes at 3. What's up with that? Now, that I'm teaching, I don't know when I will get to go to the bank. Good thing I have direct deposit! Man, 9 - 3. What a life!
2. Businesses take IOUs. Today I went to get my toes painted, but of course they dont take debit or credit, and I did not have any cash or a checkbook. She told me just to come back tomorrow.
3. Football is King. Wednesday night church doesn't even start until 7:30 for high schoolers because so many of them are still in football practice.
Tonight Trent and I attended the youth classes at church because we hope to get involved in the youth program there. There were just as many junior high kids in class tonight as there are junior high kids at my huge church in San Antonio. Since Olton is such a small town, kids are just looking for something to do...and luckily church is about the only thing that provides activities for youth. And the best part is - half of them are not even Christians! Talk about a ministry! This stuff just gets me excited!
1. The bank closes at 3. What's up with that? Now, that I'm teaching, I don't know when I will get to go to the bank. Good thing I have direct deposit! Man, 9 - 3. What a life!
2. Businesses take IOUs. Today I went to get my toes painted, but of course they dont take debit or credit, and I did not have any cash or a checkbook. She told me just to come back tomorrow.
3. Football is King. Wednesday night church doesn't even start until 7:30 for high schoolers because so many of them are still in football practice.
Tonight Trent and I attended the youth classes at church because we hope to get involved in the youth program there. There were just as many junior high kids in class tonight as there are junior high kids at my huge church in San Antonio. Since Olton is such a small town, kids are just looking for something to do...and luckily church is about the only thing that provides activities for youth. And the best part is - half of them are not even Christians! Talk about a ministry! This stuff just gets me excited!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Kids Rock
So I complete my second day of teaching 5th grade today. I'm pooped! I love my students though. Like I've said before, most of them just need LOVE! Both of my team teachers are Christians, so we have started out our days praying together. Does this only happen in small towns?
Well, here is something that I think is pretty special: the church that we have been attending has started a new program on Tuesdays after school. They are gathering all of the kids in K - 6 (that have parent permission of course) and walking them over to their youth building. After a snack, the kids are rallied into a room to sing along with wild and crazy VBS-type songs, and then shared a short message of the gospel. KIDS ROCK is the name. Today I did the "Superman", the "Water Sprinkler", the "Robot", and the "Invisible Hoola Hoop". It was SUH-WEET!
Hopefully the popularity of this program will grow because there is a need for children in the community to learn more about Jesus. For a lot of the kiddos, we are the only Jesus they will encounter.
Praise God for silly songs with goofy hand motions!
Well, here is something that I think is pretty special: the church that we have been attending has started a new program on Tuesdays after school. They are gathering all of the kids in K - 6 (that have parent permission of course) and walking them over to their youth building. After a snack, the kids are rallied into a room to sing along with wild and crazy VBS-type songs, and then shared a short message of the gospel. KIDS ROCK is the name. Today I did the "Superman", the "Water Sprinkler", the "Robot", and the "Invisible Hoola Hoop". It was SUH-WEET!
Hopefully the popularity of this program will grow because there is a need for children in the community to learn more about Jesus. For a lot of the kiddos, we are the only Jesus they will encounter.
Praise God for silly songs with goofy hand motions!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Not Just Salamanders
It's amazing the new discoveries that are being made in my backyard every day! I mentioned the wildlife in this part of the world, and for the most part I was being sarcastic, but I am being proved wrong. There are critters here that I have never seen unless there were in a cage or aquarium on display somewhere.
Yesterday, a new creature was tucked away on our back porch. It was the cutest little furry creature I've ever seen. It had little bitty feet, and a little bitty tail, and little bitty ears. It was rolled into a little ball against the wall and too timid to look around at the large giants hovering over its little bitty body.
Yep, it was a ..... mouse. But the cutest little mouse I have ever seen! I wanted to keep him and name him. Harley found him later and thought it was one of his toys, so Trent felt obliged to fling that mouse over the fence to save it from a horrible death: being eaten by Harley. However, I fear that its life may have come to an end upon hitting the ground after its flight through the air. May that cute mouse rest in peace.
One other brilliant discovery made yesterday: we have a peach tree in our yard! I did not know this, but yesterday there were peaches on the ground and blooming all over the tree's branches. I tasted one - yummy! Peach cobbler anyone?
Friday, August 15, 2008
Not Just Snakes
New wildlife was spotted today in our backyard. If you know me, you know I'm terrified of lizards. It's ok if I see one, as long as it's not near me or able to jump on me. As a matter of fact, I don't really like any critter that has the ability to jump and land on me - hence the grasshopper incident of 2008. (April knows what I'm talking about!)
Well, today I spotted a lizard...but not just any lizard. This lizard was not very big, maybe about five inches long, and it was skinny - much like the green lizards we have in San Antonio. But this lizard was not green!
It was also the first day back to school for all the new teachers. One thing that is unique about a small town is that the local churches are sponsoring the teachers' lunches for the next week. Today the Methodist church fed us a great spread of fresh corn, ocra, green beans, squash and tomatoes. We also had potatoes, roast beef, ham, stuffed green peppers, deviled eggs, spinach casserole, and a whole lot more. There was banana pudding, brownies, and an assortment of pies for dessert!
There was a prayer before lunch and a prayer after lunch. There were also several door prizes donated by local businesses.
I can't wait til lunch on Monday!
Well, today I spotted a lizard...but not just any lizard. This lizard was not very big, maybe about five inches long, and it was skinny - much like the green lizards we have in San Antonio. But this lizard was not green!
It was also the first day back to school for all the new teachers. One thing that is unique about a small town is that the local churches are sponsoring the teachers' lunches for the next week. Today the Methodist church fed us a great spread of fresh corn, ocra, green beans, squash and tomatoes. We also had potatoes, roast beef, ham, stuffed green peppers, deviled eggs, spinach casserole, and a whole lot more. There was banana pudding, brownies, and an assortment of pies for dessert!
There was a prayer before lunch and a prayer after lunch. There were also several door prizes donated by local businesses.
I can't wait til lunch on Monday!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Outside of Earth
When you live in Earth, sometimes you just want to get out of Earth for a while. Trent and I took a day trip to Amarillo to visit with our friends Kara and Luke. They were nice enough to take the day off to show us some of the highlights of Amarillo. And of course you can not visit Amarillo without seeing Cadillac Ranch!
Nice Legs! The man who created Cadillac Ranch had some other interesting pieces of Art in Amarillo, such as these:
We finished out the day with a great burger at Blue Sky. If you are ever in Amarillo, grab a bite to eat there. It was very tasty. Now I leave you with this: a view from our front porch. Sometimes it's hard for some people to see the beauty in Earth. However, today I captured what Earth looks like when a storm is rolling in...pure beauty.
Nice Legs! The man who created Cadillac Ranch had some other interesting pieces of Art in Amarillo, such as these:
We finished out the day with a great burger at Blue Sky. If you are ever in Amarillo, grab a bite to eat there. It was very tasty. Now I leave you with this: a view from our front porch. Sometimes it's hard for some people to see the beauty in Earth. However, today I captured what Earth looks like when a storm is rolling in...pure beauty.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Why is THAT in My Garage?
Welcome to Earth, where snakes like to hang out in your garage...and husbands seem to be nowhere around when you need them most!
So I had to call Trent's dad to come get the snake. Turns out that it was just a garder snake, but the garder snakes in San Antonio are about the size of an earth worm. This was no normal sized garder snake to me. Bleh!
So I had to call Trent's dad to come get the snake. Turns out that it was just a garder snake, but the garder snakes in San Antonio are about the size of an earth worm. This was no normal sized garder snake to me. Bleh!
Attack of the Killer Okra
Have you ever seen ocra like this? I'm used to the weenie ocra at Souper Salad!
They reminded me of witch fingers.
What's coming up in Earth:
Tonight (Friday) - Fish Fry at the Wolverine
Saturday - Day trip to Amarillo (our mini vacation)
to meet up with my good friend Kara Deal and her husband, Luke.
Come back soon to see pictures of our upcoming weekend!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Picture This!
How to have fun in Earth:
Shave a mohawk.
Marvel at the wildlife (not pictured: birds, jackrabbits, snake)
Rock out on Rock Band
Go to the Earth Rodeo
Enter the popular cow milking competition.
Enjoy the West Texas sunset.
Shuck some corn.
Wash some corn.
That's a whole lotta corn!
Compete in a potato sack race.
Cut some corn.
Hang out with your good lookin' hubby.Monday, August 4, 2008
Church and Sunday Eating
Trent and I visited church in Olton yesterday. We actually really enjoyed it. I think we will visit there again. The church is not too big, but seems to have a larger group of younger attendees and more activities to get involved in. However, one of the appeals of going to church where his parents go is that they really don't have much going on, especially for younger people, and therefore we see a need there for people who are interested and willing to take the bull by the horns and get the ball rolling. Trent and I are willing to do that, but we also have the need of being fed spiritually and finding a group of people we can actually hang out with!
So with that being said, we will visit Olton a few more times and be in prayer about our decision as to where the Lord wants us.
Now, a lot of folks like to enjoy a meal out after church on Sunday mornings (or afternoon actually). So in Olton, Trent took me to a really nice restaurant. It's really the only restaurant that exists in Olton, or at least the only one that is open on Sunday. Are you ready for this?
Trent took me to DAIRY QUEEN! If you don't like going to church on Sunday, at least you have lunch to look forward to!
One Oreo Blizzard Please!
So with that being said, we will visit Olton a few more times and be in prayer about our decision as to where the Lord wants us.
Now, a lot of folks like to enjoy a meal out after church on Sunday mornings (or afternoon actually). So in Olton, Trent took me to a really nice restaurant. It's really the only restaurant that exists in Olton, or at least the only one that is open on Sunday. Are you ready for this?
Trent took me to DAIRY QUEEN! If you don't like going to church on Sunday, at least you have lunch to look forward to!
One Oreo Blizzard Please!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Three Ways to Eat Squash
So it seems like everyone around here is growing squash in his/her personal garden right now. Trent brought some home for me, but I don't know how to cook squash in a way that Trent might actually eat it. Come to think of it, I don't really know how to cook squash at all! However, in the past week, I have tasted three new delicious ways to enjoy squash.
I have previously tasted steamed squash (I think that's what it is called) and squash casserole (which is mighty tasty, but once again, do not know how to cook it myself.) Well, here are three more ways to cook squash:
1. Deep fry tiny squash cubes with other veggies such as ocra and onions
2. Deep fry thin slices of squash into crispy squash chips
3. Chop and mix squash with jalepenos and onions, and then batter in flour and eggs and fry
Ok, ok, I have to admit...even though these recipes are delighful, they all void the nutritional value of great veggies. Turns out, the only way Trent's family will eat most vegetables is if they are deep fried and will possibly clog an artery. Yummie!
I have previously tasted steamed squash (I think that's what it is called) and squash casserole (which is mighty tasty, but once again, do not know how to cook it myself.) Well, here are three more ways to cook squash:
1. Deep fry tiny squash cubes with other veggies such as ocra and onions
2. Deep fry thin slices of squash into crispy squash chips
3. Chop and mix squash with jalepenos and onions, and then batter in flour and eggs and fry
Ok, ok, I have to admit...even though these recipes are delighful, they all void the nutritional value of great veggies. Turns out, the only way Trent's family will eat most vegetables is if they are deep fried and will possibly clog an artery. Yummie!
Monday, July 28, 2008
I'm Freakin' Famous!
Everyone has heard that news travels fast in a small town. There is even a song called "Everybody Dies Famous in a Small Town". Well, let me tell you...it is not just a cool saying or a good country song. It is for real!
Today I went to the pharmacist in Olton for the first time. I did not know who he was, had never heard his name from any of Trent's family, and had definitely never met him before. But he knew who I was. Well, he at least knew that my last name on the label might be Laxson, but it is now Parish, and he knew that I would be teaching in Olton this year.
Well, he could not take my current insurance so I had to go to Muleshoe to pick it up instead. Muleshoe is about 20 miles west of Earth and about four times the size, so surely they don't keep track with us Earthites in such a big city such as Muleshoe! WRONG! Even the pharmacist at United knew that I had recently married, moved to Earth from San Antonio, and would be teaching in Olton.
It's a good thing I don't do anything embarassing, because I'm pretty sure everyone in a 20, maybe even 40 mile radius would know about it.
I must say, I feel special!
Today I went to the pharmacist in Olton for the first time. I did not know who he was, had never heard his name from any of Trent's family, and had definitely never met him before. But he knew who I was. Well, he at least knew that my last name on the label might be Laxson, but it is now Parish, and he knew that I would be teaching in Olton this year.
Well, he could not take my current insurance so I had to go to Muleshoe to pick it up instead. Muleshoe is about 20 miles west of Earth and about four times the size, so surely they don't keep track with us Earthites in such a big city such as Muleshoe! WRONG! Even the pharmacist at United knew that I had recently married, moved to Earth from San Antonio, and would be teaching in Olton.
It's a good thing I don't do anything embarassing, because I'm pretty sure everyone in a 20, maybe even 40 mile radius would know about it.
I must say, I feel special!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Friendly Neighbors
So one of the refreshing qualities of Earth is that neighbors actually stop by to meet you and bring you a bundt cake. This might happen other places also, but it is a requirement if you live in Earth.
Trent and I have been visiting different churches just to get a feel for our options and where we think the Lord might be leading us. So yesterday the preacher from one of the churches we have visited stopped by our house (since he did not have our phone number) and asked when his family might be able to stop by and meet us. So last night him, his wife, his two daughters, and one of their friends, came over with a delicious pan of brownies (Mmmm) just to say hello. We did not talk about church, mostly just our backgrounds and interests. I think they heard that we had Rock Band and wanted to come check it out. JK. However, they did mention that whether or not we chose to attend that church, they were hopeful to get to know us...either way. I just think that's cool!
But then his wife said something really cool! It was music to my ears. She asked me something that I will never forget: "Do - you - like - playing - games?" My jaw dropped. I pointed to my entire closet full of games. So hopefully I have some potential game opponents for the future! YAY!
Oh, one other side note - "neighbors" in Earth refers to anyone within six houses around you in any direction. Everyone keeps telling me that they are our neighbors, and I'm thinking "I thought Bobby Sue was my neighbor!" "No, we are the neighbors behind Bobby Sue and next to Billy Ray." So whether the person actually lives next to you, across from you, behind you, or four doors down and caddy corner...they are your neighbor! It's very hard to remember all of my neighbors.
Trent and I have been visiting different churches just to get a feel for our options and where we think the Lord might be leading us. So yesterday the preacher from one of the churches we have visited stopped by our house (since he did not have our phone number) and asked when his family might be able to stop by and meet us. So last night him, his wife, his two daughters, and one of their friends, came over with a delicious pan of brownies (Mmmm) just to say hello. We did not talk about church, mostly just our backgrounds and interests. I think they heard that we had Rock Band and wanted to come check it out. JK. However, they did mention that whether or not we chose to attend that church, they were hopeful to get to know us...either way. I just think that's cool!
But then his wife said something really cool! It was music to my ears. She asked me something that I will never forget: "Do - you - like - playing - games?" My jaw dropped. I pointed to my entire closet full of games. So hopefully I have some potential game opponents for the future! YAY!
Oh, one other side note - "neighbors" in Earth refers to anyone within six houses around you in any direction. Everyone keeps telling me that they are our neighbors, and I'm thinking "I thought Bobby Sue was my neighbor!" "No, we are the neighbors behind Bobby Sue and next to Billy Ray." So whether the person actually lives next to you, across from you, behind you, or four doors down and caddy corner...they are your neighbor! It's very hard to remember all of my neighbors.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
That's a Whole Lotta Corn!
So the "putting up corn" party was interesting. Since I was not really sure what that meant, I threw on a very comfortable skirt and blouse. It was steamy hot that day, so I thought the skirt and loose blouse allowed for a nice breeze. Well, when I arrived at Trent's parent's house (Trent had to stay late in the fields, which is why I went alone), his parents suggested that I go home and change into "work clothes". Trent had made a comment earlier that day about "better put on your work boots!" But I thought he was kidding!
There was a pile of 550 ears of corn in the back of a pick up all waiting to be "shucked". So first you must shuck the corn. That means you take the leafy things off from the yellow part that we eat. Then you must wash the corn, cook the corn, and finally, cut the corn. I did cut corn for very long, since for every one corn I cut, Trent's mom was able to cut four. I finally earned the job of the "corn bagger". I bagged the corn to be put in the freezer until the perfect day came for that lucky bag of corn to be chosen for dinner.
I have some pictures that I will post soon hopefully.
Crop Dusters - one almost hit me yesterday as I pulled out of my driveway. I did not see it coming, and all of a sudden I thought a huge truck was about to plow me over, but then I saw this little red airplane zoom past my windshield. Ok, it wasn't low enough to actually hit me, but it was just low enough to scare the snot out of me!
Jacuzzi Baths - Our new master bathroom is finally finished and I have already enjoyed three lovely baths in my brand new jacuzzi bath! Yay! But here is something I had to learn the hard way: Jacuzzi baths and bubbles do not mix well! Attempt only with caution!
There was a pile of 550 ears of corn in the back of a pick up all waiting to be "shucked". So first you must shuck the corn. That means you take the leafy things off from the yellow part that we eat. Then you must wash the corn, cook the corn, and finally, cut the corn. I did cut corn for very long, since for every one corn I cut, Trent's mom was able to cut four. I finally earned the job of the "corn bagger". I bagged the corn to be put in the freezer until the perfect day came for that lucky bag of corn to be chosen for dinner.
I have some pictures that I will post soon hopefully.
Crop Dusters - one almost hit me yesterday as I pulled out of my driveway. I did not see it coming, and all of a sudden I thought a huge truck was about to plow me over, but then I saw this little red airplane zoom past my windshield. Ok, it wasn't low enough to actually hit me, but it was just low enough to scare the snot out of me!
Jacuzzi Baths - Our new master bathroom is finally finished and I have already enjoyed three lovely baths in my brand new jacuzzi bath! Yay! But here is something I had to learn the hard way: Jacuzzi baths and bubbles do not mix well! Attempt only with caution!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Welcome to Earth
Earth has welcomed me as a new member of the community. I have already been initiated into the Earthite life just in the five weeks that I have been here so far. Here are some of the highlights (in no particular order):
1. The Earth wildlife - Here are some of the fine creatures I have found in my yard: lots and lots of birds (which means lots and lots of bird poop), a dead bird (unfortunate accident with the window), a large frog, a jack rabbit, a bull snake, and my dog, Harley. I expect to also witness raccoons and coyotes, but hopefully not on our property.
2. Fourth of July parade and picnic - Community members line up at the Springlake firehouse to show off their hot rods, horses, tractors, and riding lawn mowers. There is a picnic to follow at the Springlake park with burgers, fries, and all the homemade ice cream you could want. Lawn chairs scattered across the field and a mediocre band plays Oakridge Boy songs. The night ends with a nice display of fireworks in the clear sky.
3. Homemade ice cream - I mentioned the ice cream at the picnic, so as a new member of Earth, I thought it appropriate to try to fit in by preparing my own homemade ice cream for the picnic. BIG MISTAKE! This was my first time to attempt this on my own. Well, I never made it to the picnic with ice cream, but I did get my aggression out on the ice cream maker. It took several hard jabs with the ice pick and a few curse words from my mouth. I found out later that it may not have worked due to an overload of salt in the ice (now that I think of it, that is probably right.) But I have not brought the ice cream machine out again since that tragic day.
4. Sweet Corn - Trent and I picked up some sweet corn for the family out of the back of someone's pick up. After testing the corn and approving its tastiness, Trent's parents went back and bought 500 stalks of corn. Trent surprised me today when he announced we would be eating dinner at his parent's house so we could "can corn." Excuse me? Apparently we will be canning 500 bushels of corn to eat over the next century. Yay!
5. Town and Country - Yes, the gas station. Right now, Earth only has an Alsups, but word on the street is that Town and Country might be coming to Earth! And not only that, but it might also have a Subway in it! What a dream come true. I also heard that someone was looking to reopen the old Dairy Queen that closed down. I guess since the Earth population has grown by 6 (Me, Trent, and Trent's sister's family), Earth is in the middle of a major growth period and must prepare for this boom.
6. Earth Rodeo - The Earth Rodeo was this past weekend, and boy was that a treat! I'm used to sitting in the nose bleed section to watch Keith Urban perform at the rodeo. But this weekend I got a very close look at what actually happens on the ground at a real rodeo. Cowboy's came from Abilene, Clovis, Muleshoe, and Earth to compete in standard rodeo games, and some not so standard rodeo games. Ever heard of a wild mare race? Teams of three race to catch a wild horse by its ears and tail and saddle it up. Or how about this one - the wild cow milking race! Yup, teams of three race to catch wild cow and MILK IT!
7. Rock Band - Trips to Lubbock, and even Plainview are a real treat for me. Trent takes me there when I've been real good. Just kidding. Well, since there is not a whole lot of entertainment in Earth, Trent and I thought we should invest in some stay-at-home entertainment, so we bought...ROCK BAND! And let me tell ya, Trent and I ROCK! Soon all of the Earthites will be lining up at our door. Let's see, what should our cover charge be?
8. The Tractor - Trent called the other day while he was working in the fields and invited me for a romantic ride on the Tractor. When I say romantic, I mean: it had two cushioned seats, was air conditioned, played music, and he let me drive! Working on a tractor seems kinda fun!
Well, those are all of the highlights I can think of right now. Trent and I are still fixing up our house. Our master bathroom should be finished today. YAY for not having odd men in my house anymore! We moved all of our bedroom furniture in yesterday and it looks GREAT! So I'm very excited about that.
Now, that I have internet, keep checking back to see what other crazy things are going on in Earth. Thanks for stopping by!
~The Farmer's Wife
1. The Earth wildlife - Here are some of the fine creatures I have found in my yard: lots and lots of birds (which means lots and lots of bird poop), a dead bird (unfortunate accident with the window), a large frog, a jack rabbit, a bull snake, and my dog, Harley. I expect to also witness raccoons and coyotes, but hopefully not on our property.
2. Fourth of July parade and picnic - Community members line up at the Springlake firehouse to show off their hot rods, horses, tractors, and riding lawn mowers. There is a picnic to follow at the Springlake park with burgers, fries, and all the homemade ice cream you could want. Lawn chairs scattered across the field and a mediocre band plays Oakridge Boy songs. The night ends with a nice display of fireworks in the clear sky.
3. Homemade ice cream - I mentioned the ice cream at the picnic, so as a new member of Earth, I thought it appropriate to try to fit in by preparing my own homemade ice cream for the picnic. BIG MISTAKE! This was my first time to attempt this on my own. Well, I never made it to the picnic with ice cream, but I did get my aggression out on the ice cream maker. It took several hard jabs with the ice pick and a few curse words from my mouth. I found out later that it may not have worked due to an overload of salt in the ice (now that I think of it, that is probably right.) But I have not brought the ice cream machine out again since that tragic day.
4. Sweet Corn - Trent and I picked up some sweet corn for the family out of the back of someone's pick up. After testing the corn and approving its tastiness, Trent's parents went back and bought 500 stalks of corn. Trent surprised me today when he announced we would be eating dinner at his parent's house so we could "can corn." Excuse me? Apparently we will be canning 500 bushels of corn to eat over the next century. Yay!
5. Town and Country - Yes, the gas station. Right now, Earth only has an Alsups, but word on the street is that Town and Country might be coming to Earth! And not only that, but it might also have a Subway in it! What a dream come true. I also heard that someone was looking to reopen the old Dairy Queen that closed down. I guess since the Earth population has grown by 6 (Me, Trent, and Trent's sister's family), Earth is in the middle of a major growth period and must prepare for this boom.
6. Earth Rodeo - The Earth Rodeo was this past weekend, and boy was that a treat! I'm used to sitting in the nose bleed section to watch Keith Urban perform at the rodeo. But this weekend I got a very close look at what actually happens on the ground at a real rodeo. Cowboy's came from Abilene, Clovis, Muleshoe, and Earth to compete in standard rodeo games, and some not so standard rodeo games. Ever heard of a wild mare race? Teams of three race to catch a wild horse by its ears and tail and saddle it up. Or how about this one - the wild cow milking race! Yup, teams of three race to catch wild cow and MILK IT!
7. Rock Band - Trips to Lubbock, and even Plainview are a real treat for me. Trent takes me there when I've been real good. Just kidding. Well, since there is not a whole lot of entertainment in Earth, Trent and I thought we should invest in some stay-at-home entertainment, so we bought...ROCK BAND! And let me tell ya, Trent and I ROCK! Soon all of the Earthites will be lining up at our door. Let's see, what should our cover charge be?
8. The Tractor - Trent called the other day while he was working in the fields and invited me for a romantic ride on the Tractor. When I say romantic, I mean: it had two cushioned seats, was air conditioned, played music, and he let me drive! Working on a tractor seems kinda fun!
Well, those are all of the highlights I can think of right now. Trent and I are still fixing up our house. Our master bathroom should be finished today. YAY for not having odd men in my house anymore! We moved all of our bedroom furniture in yesterday and it looks GREAT! So I'm very excited about that.
Now, that I have internet, keep checking back to see what other crazy things are going on in Earth. Thanks for stopping by!
~The Farmer's Wife
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Finally Online! Well...almost.
Well, hopefully I still have some readers because I am finally getting internet at our house on Monday. For the past month we have had to use the web at the in-law's house. Check back next week to hear some of the stories I have already obtained while my stay in Earth. Everything from Fourth of July parades, homemade ice cream extravaganzas, tractor riding, and rodeos.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Answered Prayers
So after an extremely awesome bachelorette weekend at the beach, I began rethinking the whole rural living experience. Was I going to be able to live the extraordinary life that I have always wanted? How can I make a big difference in such a small town? When will I get to take advantage all of the wonderful things that the world has to offer me? Yes, I want to see the world, but most of all, I want God to work through me. It is then that I will fill like I have really fulfilled my purpose, and therefore, experienced life to its fullest.
So I got to thinking: you know what, Karessa! It doesn't matter where you live - God can still use you! Duh, why did it take me so long to realize that? Sometimes I'm an idiot. Anyway, so I began to pray: Lord, show me where I can be used and just give me peace about this move.
He began to answer my prayers:
1. I visited the school where I will be teaching 5th grade math next year ~ the first woman I met already knew who I was. She is from Southern California and married a farmer in Olton. Ok, example: people from big cities really can make it in a small town.
I ventured on to meet several other teachers who all seemed extremely sweet and very proud to be working at this school. And once again, they all already knew who I was.
But the best part came when I was able to meet some of the students. I was introduced to the current 4th graders as their new math teacher for next year. They were all very excited and wanted to give me hugs or hold my hand. Later when I was spotted walking down the hall by the same students, they all pointed me out and began telling the others who I was. As I was in the hall with the principal, one fourth grade girl came to see me and I asked her what her name was: STAR.
For those of you who do not know, Star is my middle name. I knew right then that I was going to be used in ways that I don't even know right now.
The students in Olton are mostly Hispanic and of lower income, and for the most part just need a lot of love. I am so excited to give my love freely to these beautiful students and hopefully impact some lives in the mean time.
From that moment through the rest of my stay in Earth (while I was moving my stuff into the new house) I was completely at ease and enjoyed every minute there. I love our house, I love the community, I love the school, and I love the beautiful sunset that we get to watch every night from our incredible back porch.
I can't wait to live an extraordinary life in Earth with my husband.
So I got to thinking: you know what, Karessa! It doesn't matter where you live - God can still use you! Duh, why did it take me so long to realize that? Sometimes I'm an idiot. Anyway, so I began to pray: Lord, show me where I can be used and just give me peace about this move.
He began to answer my prayers:
1. I visited the school where I will be teaching 5th grade math next year ~ the first woman I met already knew who I was. She is from Southern California and married a farmer in Olton. Ok, example: people from big cities really can make it in a small town.
I ventured on to meet several other teachers who all seemed extremely sweet and very proud to be working at this school. And once again, they all already knew who I was.
But the best part came when I was able to meet some of the students. I was introduced to the current 4th graders as their new math teacher for next year. They were all very excited and wanted to give me hugs or hold my hand. Later when I was spotted walking down the hall by the same students, they all pointed me out and began telling the others who I was. As I was in the hall with the principal, one fourth grade girl came to see me and I asked her what her name was: STAR.
For those of you who do not know, Star is my middle name. I knew right then that I was going to be used in ways that I don't even know right now.
The students in Olton are mostly Hispanic and of lower income, and for the most part just need a lot of love. I am so excited to give my love freely to these beautiful students and hopefully impact some lives in the mean time.
From that moment through the rest of my stay in Earth (while I was moving my stuff into the new house) I was completely at ease and enjoyed every minute there. I love our house, I love the community, I love the school, and I love the beautiful sunset that we get to watch every night from our incredible back porch.
I can't wait to live an extraordinary life in Earth with my husband.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
My Fave 3
Here are three reasons I can't wait to move to Earth:
My nephew Caleb
My nephew Caleb
My niece Carly
My future hubby "Farmer Trent"
Aunt Karessa and Uncle TrentWednesday, May 14, 2008
Showers and Postal Service
So, I realize that I am moving to a small town, but here is what I found out today proving exactly how small Earth really is:
I will be having a bridal shower in Earth this month and the gracious women from the church are organizing it. In San Antonio, you would make a list of people you would like to invite and send them an invitation. You might even post a general invite in the church bulletin that you attend.
In Earth, however, no invitations are necessary. No, they just blow up a flyer and post it in the grocery store, the co-op, and the post office (would be more locations if there were actually that many places to go in Earth); and place the information inside every church bulletin in Earth and Springlake combined (except for probably the Church of Christ who might frown upon such a thing.)
And apparently, the postal service is just as casual as the shower invitation. We currently do not have a mailbox at our home (since Jack thought it was essential for him to take it to Tennessee with him.) So, when Trent was not home for the post woman to deliver mail, she just walked right on in the house and left him a note on our kitchen counter. No one locks their doors in Earth - until I move there!
So there it is - living in Earth will be like living in a whole different world - but one where everyone knows you, supports you, and makes themselves at home.
I will be having a bridal shower in Earth this month and the gracious women from the church are organizing it. In San Antonio, you would make a list of people you would like to invite and send them an invitation. You might even post a general invite in the church bulletin that you attend.
In Earth, however, no invitations are necessary. No, they just blow up a flyer and post it in the grocery store, the co-op, and the post office (would be more locations if there were actually that many places to go in Earth); and place the information inside every church bulletin in Earth and Springlake combined (except for probably the Church of Christ who might frown upon such a thing.)
And apparently, the postal service is just as casual as the shower invitation. We currently do not have a mailbox at our home (since Jack thought it was essential for him to take it to Tennessee with him.) So, when Trent was not home for the post woman to deliver mail, she just walked right on in the house and left him a note on our kitchen counter. No one locks their doors in Earth - until I move there!
So there it is - living in Earth will be like living in a whole different world - but one where everyone knows you, supports you, and makes themselves at home.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
A New Book
Some might say they are beginning a new chapter in their life. I am about to begin writing a whole new book.
For those of you who do not know, I currently live in San Antonio, Texas. I grew up here and will always call it "home". However, I am about to embark on a brand new adventure called rural living.
You see, about four years ago I met a young man who ended up making my heart go pitter patter. And you know when that starts to happen, you can do some really strange things - like pack up all your things and move to a place where every yard backs up to a cotton field, church is a regularity, homemade ice cream isn't just for special events, and the nearest wal-mart is 40 miles away. The same place where John Deere reigns, but the Dairy Queen has been dethroned and closed down. It's a place where they have all sorts of weird sayings that I don't ever understand, and all the women know how to cook and bake the best desserts I've ever tasted.
Earth, Texas: Population 1109. Twenty miles west of Muleshoe and 40 miles east of Plainview. Twenty miles south of Dimmitt and 20 miles north of Littlefield. Closest large city - Lubbock to the southeast and then Amarillo to the northeast.
I look forward to my new life with my new husband (to be official on June 14 in Concan, Texas on the Frio River). I hope to blog all of the exciting new things that will be part of my life in Earth: the people, the parades, the fellowship meals, the small town gossip, the great food (that hopefully I will learn to make), the extreme weather at times, the farm, the newlyweds, the family, and all other new life lessons that I am sure to learn in my first year married to a farmer and living in Earth.
Hope y'all come back now, ya hear?
For those of you who do not know, I currently live in San Antonio, Texas. I grew up here and will always call it "home". However, I am about to embark on a brand new adventure called rural living.
You see, about four years ago I met a young man who ended up making my heart go pitter patter. And you know when that starts to happen, you can do some really strange things - like pack up all your things and move to a place where every yard backs up to a cotton field, church is a regularity, homemade ice cream isn't just for special events, and the nearest wal-mart is 40 miles away. The same place where John Deere reigns, but the Dairy Queen has been dethroned and closed down. It's a place where they have all sorts of weird sayings that I don't ever understand, and all the women know how to cook and bake the best desserts I've ever tasted.
Earth, Texas: Population 1109. Twenty miles west of Muleshoe and 40 miles east of Plainview. Twenty miles south of Dimmitt and 20 miles north of Littlefield. Closest large city - Lubbock to the southeast and then Amarillo to the northeast.
I look forward to my new life with my new husband (to be official on June 14 in Concan, Texas on the Frio River). I hope to blog all of the exciting new things that will be part of my life in Earth: the people, the parades, the fellowship meals, the small town gossip, the great food (that hopefully I will learn to make), the extreme weather at times, the farm, the newlyweds, the family, and all other new life lessons that I am sure to learn in my first year married to a farmer and living in Earth.
Hope y'all come back now, ya hear?
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