The Pearsons

Good Ol' Santa

2011-12-10T21:37:00.018-06:00

My mom made a tradition every Christmas season to take her only girl to the holiday brunch at the Zodiac Room in the downtown Neiman Marcus. When my brothers got married their wives joined us. This year, Davis got to come because after all she is a lady. Davis had her first encounter with Santa. "Mixed Emotions" would best title her debut visit with our jolly old friend from the North Pole.

The Santa dilemma... if you are asking the age old question, to Santa or not to Santa, you might find this little nugget of input helpful. Jen Wilkin is a covenant member of our church and gifted teacher. I loved her thoughts on the topic. I also have loved re-reading a book called, Treasuring God in Our Traditions, by Noel Piper. She and her husband are on the anti-Santa train but still, I am challenged and gleaned so much wisdom from the way their family makes the advent season one of worship, nothing taking away from Jesus. Our church's Advent guide is on-line, too. It is composed of short personal and family devotionals. There is much to marvel at this season dwelling on Jesus' humanity and divinity. Grateful.

cutest lil' punkin

2011-10-03T13:14:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, on a whim, we decided to bop over to The Dallas Arboretum. Perhaps we were inspired by the weather or a house made of pumpkins. It was DELIGHTFUL! Here are some pictures from our adventure.

It's a BOY!

2011-08-22T13:34:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Earth baby, NOAH DAVID MEADOWS... we love you.

Aversion to Pears

2011-08-18T13:11:00.001-05:00

What Davis has been up to...

2011-08-16T23:24:00.006-05:00

Bathing.

Having her height measured on the wall.
Story Time.

New Life

2011-08-11T12:37:00.003-05:00

In this season where so many friends are getting pregnant, trying to get pregnant, having miscarriages and other fertility issues, it all only deepens the appreciation for when these little souls arrive to Earth. My dear friend Katie from middle school and her sweet husband Travis welcomed their first child almost a month ago. Baby Maggie is a CUTIE for sure. Katie, in true Katie fashion, was unflappable, cool and calm. I love this quality about her. I was so grateful that I got to be there.

We love you Baby Maggie and pray that God would give you a heart inclined towards obedience and sincere worship at a young age. We pray that you would seek Him to complete you and that you would find your worth in Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. You are already loved by so many. For his beautiful name... AMEN!

Broken Bow May 2011

2011-08-08T15:18:00.005-05:00

Oh goodness sake. I am WAY behind on the ol' blog. Instead of Christmas presents my side of the family rents a cabin in Broken Bow, Oklahoma for a long weekend. We grew up going to Broken Bow so it has always been a special place to the Hoopers.

Florida Swimming

2011-08-06T14:04:00.004-05:00

Baby Davis loves the pool. This little girl makes my heart smile. Our friends have a home in Florida and they graciously extended an invitation to us. Many sweet moments were shared and I will post them soon. But for now... a tiny video of Davis floating. The only thing that would have made it better is if Chris had been with us.

Memaw and Davis

2011-08-05T10:27:00.011-05:00

Psalm 145:4-5
"One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and on your wondrous works, I will meditate."

The only thing better than being a grandparent must be becoming a great grandparent. MeMaw and Papaw are the SWEETEST. Here are a couple of pictures of Memaw, Chris and Davis. Generations of love. It has been a wonderful blessing knowing Chris' grandparents. They are wise and truly God fearing. We glean so much about our savior from being around them. I never got to meet my mother in law's parents and Chris never got to meet my dad. Having a child definitely makes those holes feel even greater. We have to tell lots of stories to do our best at keeping them present even though they are with Jesus and to pass the lessons they taught us on. Things I hope Davis inherits... Mimi Wilson's spirit of generosity and my daddy's work ethic. We only know in part what they know in full. I rejoice in this.

Davy's First Drum Lesson

2011-08-03T22:24:00.006-05:00

Yawnee (also known as Shaun Menary in the photography world) are good buddies. Yawnee and Chris gave Davis her first drum lesson the other day and she liked it.

We might have another musician on our hands... uh oh.

Cole Richard Hooper

2011-07-14T12:37:00.002-05:00

I like to call him Cole Richard Hooper the First because his name sounds so regal. He is a cutie for sure. He was welcomed to Earth on July 8th around 4:30pm weighing in at 8lb 4oz. Tamara and Scott are thrilled. Luke was thrilled until we were leaving the hospital that evening and he realized that mommy, daddy and baby were staying there and he was coming with us. He recovered quickly though and a trip to Bass Pro with fish and boats the next day made everything better. I love my little nephews. Thank you Lord for these beautiful little boys! Here is baby Cole!

Half a Year

2011-07-12T20:16:00.002-05:00

Time flies when you're having fun. Can't believe our little love is already half a year old.

peek-a-boo

2011-07-12T15:04:00.000-05:00

FUN FOR DAYS...

5 Months Today

2011-06-06T13:28:00.000-05:00

First

2011-06-06T13:01:00.006-05:00

Wow, I truly cannot believe 5 months have passed since our little bundle of joy arrived. One feels so cliche saying, "They grow up fast." BUT THEY DO! I have been thinking about the scripture Psalm 39:5.
"You have made my days a mere handbreadth;
the span of my years is as nothing before you.
Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure."
I am so grateful for baby Davis and all the things she is teaching me. I have never been more present in the moment. She changes so quickly; I feel charged to soak up every little moment. I sit at my desk and work while she goes from bouncy chair, to play mat, to bumbo, to lamb swing, etc... we have a circuit like system going on here. I will glance over and she starts giggling, smiling and cooing like someone just promised her an endless supply of milk. I resume working and look over 5 seconds later and she does the same thing. It makes me feel like a million bucks every time. Sweet. Here are some pictures from some favorite first...

First Swim

First Airplane Ride (to Nashville)

First Time to the Arboretum

First Feeding with Rice Cereal

Davy's First Sleeperstar Concert

2011-04-19T15:13:00.005-05:00

Our sweet Davis finally got to attend her first Sleeperstar concert! It was an outdoors all-area young life show in our neighborhood in the early evening. Look at this cute girl cheer on her daddy!

Baby Davy

2011-03-10T14:56:00.005-06:00

I have been in the throws of new mommy hood. As my own mom has told me a million times, "A baby changes everything." Davy has indeed changed EVERYthing... in the most amazing way. Most of you know but in the last 8 weeks I have had two UTI's, mono, and Pyelonephritis which landed me back in the hospital for three days. Ugh. The grandparents were obviously delighted to take care of our little blessing while I recovered. Chris has been so dear during this strained season, helping at every turn. Davis is super baby. She just had her two month appointment and is weighing in at 12 lbs. 4 oz. She sleeps at least six hours every night and has the sweetest social smile that I can't get enough of; I will be making silly faces and singing to her only to look up and notice that 45 minutes have passed. Here are some pictures from her newborn shoot. Andie Hamilton, a dear friend of the Pearsons, graciously offered her talent and time to capture Davis on film. Thank you notes and baby announcements will be coming to your mailbox soon. As it turns out this teeny tiny human consumes a lot of time, laundry and dishes. We are in a new groove though and I am finally getting around to these happy notes! As always, we covet your prayers, and feel certain they have carried us through this JOYFUL season.

Bienvenue Davis

2011-01-19T16:07:00.003-06:00

We are overwhelmed with the gift of this sweet precious babe. I will write more soon, but wanted to go ahead and post a few facts and pictures of our Amazing baby GIRL... that's right people. We had a girl. Davis Mae Pearson was born on January 6th around 8:30pm. She grew big and healthy two weeks past her due date, weighing in at 9lb 9oz upon arrival! We are already learning so much from her and even though there is a new girl in town, Chris is still taking thoughtful care of me. Sweet. More to come soon but for now I must run because our girl is hungry!

Maternity Pictures

2010-12-18T15:40:00.001-06:00

Our dear friend Shaun Menary is always gracious with sharing his gift of photography. Here are a few pictures that he took for us. THANKS SHAUN!

baby p dwelling space

2010-12-18T15:28:00.004-06:00

Here are just a couple of pictures from baby p's room! Hope he/she like it as much as the womb.

We can't wait to know this little soul! Oh and don't worry, all items will be removed from crib once baby p actually gets here.

Dorey's Birthday

2010-12-18T15:18:00.004-06:00

Dorey is the grandmother name my mom insist upon being called. Yes, it was inspired my the blue fish from Finding Nemo that suffers from short-term memory loss. We celebrated my sweet marmee's birthday earlier this month! Make sure you catch Luke's special birthday wishes and the end of the song. PRECIOUS!

ThanksLIVING

2010-12-18T14:25:00.005-06:00

I love this picture of Luke. Why is he SO FUNNY? Thanksgiving was a blast. I love this holiday because of what it is centered around... family and food. It was a bit incomplete because Chris' sister wasn't able to come in town. She really ups the fun factor in life.

2010 Tommy Hooper Memorial Golf Tournament

2010-12-18T14:08:00.002-06:00

My daddy was passionate about the public education system. He served many years as a board member and president of the Rockwall School board as well as ran for the State House of Representatives with Education Reform at the forefront of his campaign. He also loved Texas Tech, his Alma-mater. After he passed away, my mom and the rest of the Rockwall Texas Tech Alumni Association began hosting a golf tournament in his name, raising money for graduating Rockwall High School seniors going to Texas Tech. There is usually one boy and one girl recipient. To date, over 100k has been raised. This is a really bittersweet event every year as we miss, remember and celebrate good ol' Tommy Jack. Thanks for everyone who came out and made this event a huge success.

baby p PARTY

2010-12-18T13:40:00.002-06:00

There is truly something so sweet about the way everyone comes together and helps you get ready to have a little baby. We had not one baby thing and now we are 100% ready (in an earthly goods kind of a way) to have this tot come home! There were other showers but unfortunately I can't seem to locate pictures from those. My dear friends from work threw us a shower and our home group spent a whole evening celebrating and praying over this little soul. Baby P is already so loved and celebrated. God has been so gracious to us and so have you.

Grateful for that.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-12-18T13:08:00.003-06:00

Whoa, I am behind. This will be a series of late posts. I had the happiest birthday back in SEPTEMBER. This was such a sweet birthday. My work friends brought me hydrangeas, posters and love. We had a yummy birthday lunch and celebrated sweetly. Then some of our friends came to Bucca di Peppo, where we all dined at the big round table in the Pope Room. The highlight of that evening was when Chris decided to show everyone how my camera is water proof by dunking it in my water glass unexpectedly. Chris bought me flowers and took me to the Cheesecake Factory which just never disappoints (especially for a gal who was 6 months pregnant)! The week ended with a family brunch at Taverna. Yum Yum. So apparently food is a big part of a happy birthday to me.

oh baby

2010-09-01T11:21:00.005-05:00

Baby P is weighing in at an estimated 1lb 3oz. Here are a couple of pictures from our sono appointment yesterday. Dr. Hays said everything looks great. I cannot stop thanking God or being in awe of this little soul being knit together inside of me. I am not just saying this, but do you see Chris' profile in this picture? I swear I do.

This was the baby's first headphone's experience, Coldplay-Clocks. I think the baby liked it. I imagine the tot saying, "Dad, that was great. What other tunes do you have for me?"

family affair

2010-08-16T17:35:00.008-05:00

Family is so comforting. We are so blessed to have the growing family God has given us. We were especially grateful to have our cousins the Ballotta's over, too.

Lindsay and I have the exact same due date, December 27th!
Luke and Caroline were fast friends.
Luke has mastered the art of giving the sweetest little kisses and the Ballotta's bee is definitely kissable, cutest little girl I have ever seen.

Chelsea & Justin Got Married

2010-08-04T15:25:00.014-05:00

My friend Chelsea Adams got married in beautiful Santa Barbara a couple of weeks ago. I have known Chelsea since 6th grade. Chelsea and Justin’s wedding was at a renown resort called San Ysidro Ranch, made famous when Jackie-O and JFK honeymooned there. With heated floors, personal hot tubs on your private back porch, indoor-outdoor showers and deep soaking tubs, how could anyone resist? Here are some pictures I was able to snag from the day. Thank you, Chelsea and Justin, for allowing us to come and be a part of such a glorious occasion. We love you and pray all the best for you both!

The Beautiful Bride

The Wedding

The Party

Every detail had been thoughtfully considered. I am so happy for my dear friends and feel so grateful that I got to be a part of their special day.

LA LA Land

2010-08-03T13:41:00.008-05:00

Any time Chris and I travel, I take a picture of our feet and call these pictures, “Happy Feet.” This is our “Happy Feet” photo from this trip.
Chris and I just got home from visiting his sister in L.A. He took some meetings and we had the privilege of attending a dear friend’s wedding in Santa Barbara which will merit its very own blog post. Stephenie, my sweet sister-in-love, has been instrumental in creating, stocking and working at a baby store on La Brea Street called, Beginnings. The store is darling. We hiked in Griffith Park with our friend Nick Bolton all the way to the top where there is an amazing view. We got to see our friend Ryan play a show. We cooked at night, packed lunches for the day and just had the most leisurely time. I love how small the world is now. As I was sitting in the plane looking out the window, on our trek out west I thought, I am so grateful that I am sitting here and am not a character in Steinbeck’s, Grapes of Wrath. All those days spent perilously traveling to California in hopes of gold and a new life and there I sat, in a comfy chair in the sky with a cold beverage. I really like 2010. Stephenie, we three already miss you more than words can say. You are truly one of my favorite people in the world.

Some favorites:
1) Matador Beach – not crowded beach in Malibu
2) The Sage Room – yummy Italian eatery in Malibu
3) Key Club – cool music venue
4) Griffith Park – great hike with a view that pays off
5) LaLa’s - Argentinean kitchen. Delicious.
6) Diddy Riese – ice cream sandwiches worth writing home about
7) The weather… happy to escape the 100 plus temperatures of Texas

Happy to be home all at the same time,
KP & Baby P.

one + one = three

2010-06-28T20:06:00.005-05:00

I have been very hesitant to post this mainly because I know how touchy of a subject babies can be. I have friends that have been trying for a long time to have a baby and friends that have lost babies. I also know these same friends celebrate our pregnancy. There is worthy emotion wrapped up in these little lives that God gives us. I can't believe how quickly I have fallen in love with this babe only to realize that though he or she has been entrusted to us, he or she is not actually ours. We will try our hardest to hold this little life with an open hand and pray unceasingly for God's will. We will hope for salvation and a life full of love.

I found out I was pregnant when Chris was away on tour and I had to wait two whole weeks before I got to see him and tell him of our good news. I wrapped a pair of baby green converse and the pregnancy test and waited until we could be alone. Finding moments to be alone when you are traveling with seven guys in a 15 passenger van are elusive at best. Chris opened the box and smiled the sweetest smile I have ever seen. It was definitely worth the wait to tell him in person.

We are due December 27th. I am a little over 14 weeks currently. We aren't finding out the gender. Chris is going to be the sweetest dad in the whole wide world. I am most afraid of the season of sleep deprivation that will quickly ensue once Baby P makes its grand debut. Words cannot describe the depths of love, excitement and gratitude I feel for this little soul being knit together in my womb. God is the giver and take of life. I so wish my dad could be here to hold his grand babies but know He is beholding much greater eternal things.

Just so grateful to our gracious God and King.

family cabin time

2010-05-14T22:23:00.004-05:00

We gifted our beloved Mom for her birthday a weekend with the family at a cabin in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. We rented from a company called Beavers Bend Getaways. It was such a sweet weekend all being together. The weekend entailed lots of board games, hot tubbing, movie watching and good food. I think we are going to try and make this a yearly habit. Here are some pics from our fun family filled weekend.

Happy Birthday Margie!

2010-05-14T21:28:00.002-05:00

We celebrated my mom's 60th birthday in December. Love our little family.

House of Blues

2010-05-14T20:29:00.003-05:00

I am constantly amazed at how many talented friends we have. So many months ago, Seth Philpott and Andy Davis played at the House of Blues; it also happened to be Seth's birthday. This night was so fun and I am just now getting around to posting some pics.

Bienvenue, Saige

2010-03-05T11:14:00.004-06:00

I got to visit my friend Beckie last night and the newest member of the Hall family, SAIGE! We have long anticipated her arrival. Saige made her grand debut on Monday! She is just days old and already so captivating. I could have stared at her all night. Beckie looked so peaceful and totally in her element. I love being around Beckie because I feel like I learn so much about God’s heart, the way he loves, serves and nurtures his people. The Pearsons are over the moon excited for the Hall family and look forward to knowing Saige in the days to come.

Thank you Lord for the gift of life. It is awe inspiring and completely beautiful.

Happy Birthday Luke

2010-02-14T00:32:00.006-06:00

Luke turned one year old yesterday and today we thanked God for his precious life and celebrated in good style, courtesy of Scott and Tamara! Cake, dip, burgers, Dublin Dr. Pepper, gifts and family were all present.

The progression of cake...

Luke, we love you and are blessed to know you. You have such a thoughtful disposition. You take time to enjoy the simple things in life, like looking out the window to see the dogs and even when you don't feel well we wouldn't know unless we took your tempature because you behave so sweetly. We love watching you grow. xo, your auntie and uncle

oh and one more...

2010-02-12T11:06:00.002-06:00

like a snow globe...

2010-02-12T10:51:00.005-06:00

Here are some more pics lovie...

I think I might go ice skating later...

Thought: I would NEVER intentionally drink lake water, but would eat snow without thinking twice. strange.

hello snow

2010-02-11T18:30:00.004-06:00

Chris has been in some ways enjoying the snow and in other cases battling the snow (a $150 tow later). Today the snow came to Texas. I wish so badly I could be sharing the cold outside and the warm inside with my beau, but I also feel joy deep inside knowing that he is sharing his heart and songs with lots of people. I wanted to post these pics for you, but mostly for my man. Babe, look at our house covered in snow.

I can't help but be stilled by the quieting blanket of snow. It kind of just makes everything feel pure. I was thinking about Psalms 51:7, "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." Specifically, I was thinking about how the brilliant white snow was created from dirty water collected from the road, ground and muck. Isn't this His very nature, that He would take what is filthy and make it new and clean? He is so good.

old friends, new times

2010-02-10T01:25:00.000-06:00

Katie, Abby & Amanda have been my buddies since I was twelve. I love and learn from them in completely different ways. Our weekend reunion included:
1) Coffee drank
2) Chats had
3) Walks taken
4) New memories made
5) Old memories revisited
6) Laughter
7) Books exchanged
8) Yummy homemade food

I feel so blessed to know you each and am grateful that you have offered friendship to me all these years.

P.S. Katie thanks for making us go to that shiny shirt club. Even though I was totally against it at first, once they played my song and I got to shoulder dance at the table... all was well.

Happy Belated Turkey Day

2010-01-28T17:18:00.003-06:00

Just some snap shots of Thanksging this year. My sweet cousin, Carla and her husband Bob, always host the best holidays. Thanksgiving at the Pearsons was equally lovely. We are ever grateful to have such wonderful families.

Kelli & Sam got married

2010-01-26T16:53:00.012-06:00

Christopher and I had the privilege of being a part of the Kelli Murray & Sam Larson wedding. Chris and Sam went to college together and have remained friends since their Waco days. I only have met Kelli a couple of times, our wedding being one. Kelli is artistic to say the least. Check out her stuff here. I stole a couple of their wedding photos from her blog and you should definitely take the time to look at them all yourself. Her photographer, Erica, captured the whole thing perfectly in my opinion. Their Encinitas, California wedding was AMAZING. This was a wedding celebration that mirrored Christ’ love for His church. I won’t try to describe everything, because words fall short. So, I hope these pictures say a thousand words.

The wedding was outdoors and I must admit if our people and church weren’t planted here in Texas, to the ocean is where I’d go. God’s bigness and my smallness feel so in tact when I sit at the land’s edge. The sun was shining and the air felt clean. Kelli was a RADIANT bride.

Sam looked dapper, too. Sam’s San Diego community blessed us. They were all so kind and welcoming. We left feeling like we had twenty more friends. The reception was fully equipped with live music, a solid dance party, yummy coffee, good wine, tasty food, a candy buffet and beautiful conversations.

We feel so grateful that we got to celebrate Kelli and Sam’s new life together. The trip was made complete by brunch the following morning with Lacy and Patrick Dodd at a local diner that embodied the 1970's. Let the good times roll…

Sister-in-LAw

2010-01-26T14:09:00.001-06:00

My sweet sister –in-LOVE, I just can’t get over her. Chris’ baby sister is truly one of my most favorite people. Stephenie is sensitive, sweet, spontaneous, talented, free-spirited and has become one of my best friends. For two people that basically generated a friendship over the phone, I feel so grateful that she embraced me. She recently hosted me in her (Brett and Lauren’s) L.A. abode where we drank champagne, cooked dinner, sat on the front porch, hiked Runyon Canyon with the dogs (which was a bit of a hilarious train wreck) and played.

Highlights:
1) They played my jam in the club (Ignition by R. Kelly – don’t judge)
2) Stephenie’s special salad with those crispy noodle things
3) Urth Café with Chris’ manager, Nick (finally got to meet him face to face)
4) Porch time with Stephenie on my last day, just chatting about life and such
5) The introduction to Jay-Z and Alicia Key’s, Empire State of Mind…it has turned into a bit of an obsession
Thank you, sweet sister buddy for taking time to hang out with me. We must plan my next visit out.

Happy Birthday Beloved

2010-01-11T15:38:00.005-06:00

Christopher James turned 27 today! Happy birthday, Boo! Chris is my best friend, always making me laugh and keeping life a grand adventure. He encourages my soul when he could exploit my weaknesses. He loves me unconditionally while I am always undeserving. I pray that God would bless him richly this year. I mean, look at this guy...

... how could anyone not love him?

Happy Birthday lovie,
wif-e

mary married

2010-01-05T12:50:00.002-06:00

Mary is one of my dearest friends. I had the privilege of living with Mary during college in the INFAMOUS Dexter house. Those loving girls took me in, arms wide open, when they didn’t even know me. Mary taught me so much about living out love. She is a servant at her very core. The former Mary Hurst is now Mary Austin, even though I thought Bobbie’s last name was Anderson for an embarrassingly long time. Sorry about that.

Mary’s wedding took place in Nacogdoches at her family’s land and barn. It was like Narnia. It snowed and was the perfect backdrop for this evening that included hot cocoa, evergreens, pine cones, bonfires, rocking chairs and all things that are chic and cozy.

Thank you Mary and Bobs for letting us all be a part of such a delightful celebration. Just love your love…

a note of hope

2009-12-17T11:19:00.002-06:00

As many of you know, our dearly loved pastor has recently discovered that he has a malignant brain tumor. Our hearts are heavy but our hope secured. I was so encouraged by what a good friend of ours, JR Vassar (whom I refer to as Charleelee) ;-) wrote this morning. JR is a pastor in New York at Apostles Church. I pray that these words of truth refresh your soul as they did mine. Our God is good and merciful.

Thinking of my friend Matt Chandler and the difference between Hope and Desire

I write this today because I need to. I need to tell myself these things. I just read the pathology report from the Village Church on Matt Chandler (http://ow.ly/MM81). I have known Matt for many years and love and respect him deeply. I am praying for him and for his sweet wife Lauren, and their kiddos, and the Village. And, I am praying with this in mind: there is a difference between desire and hope.

I am praying with great desire. My desire is that God would heal Matt, hand him to Lauren and the kids to be her husband and their daddy, restore him to the pulpit, empower him to preach his heart out for the magnification of Jesus, and one day let him play with his grandkids. I think God wants me to desire those things and ask Him for them, knocking until my knuckles bleed, making it clear to God how I desire Him to respond. And, those desires are good. But those desires are different than our hope.

Sometimes desires are not fulfilled. But, our hope is. Hope does not disappoint us (Romans 5:5). Our hope is certain and sure. Our hope is that none who trust in Him will ever ultimately be put to shame. Our hope is that in Jesus we are forgiven, given his Spirit, adopted as sons and daughters of God, and will one day be revealed as such (Romans 8:14-16; 1John 3:2-3). Our hope is that Jesus has defeated our greatest enemies of Satan, Sin, and Death and through Him we will triumph (Romans 8:37). Our hope is that God is sovereignly moving heaven and earth to secure the good of his elect and bring about their glory and joy (Romans 8:28). Our hope is that we who are in Christ are the eternal objects of God's love and that nothing, absolutely nothing, can change that status or rob us of its privileges (Romans 8:38-39). Our hope is that these momentary and light afflictions are preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison (2Cor 4:16-17); that the things we suffer are not worth comparing to the glory that God will reveal to us (Romans 8:18). Our hope is that God will not leave us nor forsake us so that even as we experience ten thousand shadows of death come over us, we shall not fear because He is with us (Psalm 23). Our hope is that He who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us into his presence (2Cor 4:14). Our hope is that if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united to him in a resurrection like His (Romans 6:5). And, our hope is that Christ, who is our great treasure, will be exalted as such whether by life or by death (Philippians 1:20). This is Matt's hope. He knows this hope; he lives this hope; he preaches this hope. Lauren knows and lives this hope as well, and Matt is blessed to have her at his side.

I just needed to tell myself that today. I need to remember that as I voice desires to be fulfilled and as I plead with the "God who is able," for Matt's strength and healing and restoration, I must not confuse my desire and my hope. I am holding tightly to hope and finding my comfort in the God of Hope. Praying we all will. Apostles Church will be praying for the Chandlers.

a love fiesta

2009-12-15T17:41:00.014-06:00

My cousin Charles and his (now) wife got married in Tequila, Mexico about a month ago. Who knew Tequila was a place? I sure didn’t. Its name was coined by the Agave plants that are EVERYwhere, which Tequila is made from. Gloria is from Guadalajara. She has made the loveliest addition to our family. I am so behind on blogging/updating but when you are busy living life, you have less time to write about it I suppose…

The wedding was in an amazing cathedral hundreds and hundreds of years old in the town center. The church didn’t have a bathroom it was so old. The traditional Catholic ceremony was beautiful and mostly in Spanish. The priest did a stellar job at translating for our small section of family. After the ceremony was over, everyone followed the bride and groom (and a mariachi band) to the reception. As we were walking the towns people cheered and spoke blessings over the couple. The reception took place at the Jose Cuervo mansion. It reminded me of the Sultan’s palace from Aladdin. We took a tour of their tequila distillery and did some taste testing and then back to the party! We danced and danced and danced. It was an amazing experience, and we feel so blessed that we go to be a part of it all. The hotel we stayed at was modern & stylish ; we really enjoyed our stay.

The day after the wedding, we went to the market and ate street vendor tacos that I have told myself were yard bird, even though I know they could have been dog or rat. You have to live a little, right? Chris and I were the only ones in my family that took on the street food. No illnesses to report, and if I am totally honest… it was DELICOUS, made with fresh cilantro and red onions and some mystery sauce. I would do it again. We stumbled into a furniture store and adored these oversized rocking chairs. The chair would have been cheaper than the shipping though. The store owner works closely with an American interior designer that up and moved to Puerto Vallarta (located only four hours away ). He happened to be in her shop that day, too, working with her. He pointed out all of her specialties: amazing chairs, oversized custom made mirrors, armoires, etc… I was so taken by her work.

Beautiful marriage and a ton of fun…

Should like to go back…

Surprise

2009-11-25T14:31:00.005-06:00

I believe the leaves changing colors is almost like a mood ring. The particular shade of red this one tree in our front yard boast is breathtaking. Chris and I have been talking about it for weeks saying, "I wonder when that tree is going to turn that brilliant red color." Well, SURPRISE... I walked outside this morning on my way to work and there it was. Passion, fun, drama and beauty hanging branch by branch right before my very eyes...

It feels like magic.

Have a Rockin' Weekend

2009-11-20T16:19:00.004-06:00

I found this little Rocking Chair for $5 at Canton. I hope Luke enjoys it for as long as he fits in it! He is dawning a tiny hat that Todd and Lauren purchased for the man while we were in Mexico.

Thanks Tamara for sharing the precious moments with us. Chris and I are at our respective friends Bachelor and Bachelorette parties tonight! He is hunting and I am going to see the Spazmatics in concert!

xoxo,
auntie k

Memorial Golf Tournament

2009-11-18T18:09:00.007-06:00

My sweet Daddy was passionate about education and the public school system. He had real conviction that all children should be given the opportunity to learn. An idealist? Maybe, but I feel inspired that his actions supported the kind of change he dreamt of bringing into the world. After he passed away my mom, along with the Texas Tech Alumni club, began a golf tournament to raise money for two Rockwall High school seniors going to Texas Tech University (consequently the rest of my family's Alma mater). We have raised over $65,000.00 over the last three years and this year's event will only add to that number!

Thank you so much to everyone who came, gave, supported and played in the name of my dad and education. This is such a special day for our family as we continue in a small way to pass the torch Tommy Jack handed us. I love that I still learn from him even though his physical body is no longer with us.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-06T14:33:00.005-06:00

Chris was out of town, but Abby DeCicco, a long time good friend and I carved pumpkins and passed out treats to the little tykes... and some not so little tykes. What is the age limit on Halloween anyways? None the less, we had good talks and a grand time.

Hope your Halloween was equally splendid. The night concluded with a killer game of Scrabble in which I was dominated. You can't win em' all.
xo,
kp