Wednesday, December 31, 2008

It is S-N-O-W C-O-L-D!

O.k.- so maybe it is not a flip flop kind of day...not even a croc day here folks! It is bone chilling cold outside! And so much to do today! Originally when we made the reservation we thought we would be heading South to Franklin today, but with funeral arrangements being delayed, we will not be heading South until the weekend. There is good and bad in that. Derek will be able to see more of his extended family, the girls can experience this new weather sensation, and we will again need to buy some new winter clothes! The bad news would be that we are in the middle of a hotel change! We are actually leaving the city (The Galt House has a huge function tonight, and could not extend our stay!) and heading over to the Hyatt near Hurstborne. This is the area that Derek actually grew up in. It may work out better because it is like Town Center in J-ville, so we have lots of options for food and entertainment! Not that we haven't been busy as ever here.
The last few nights we have attended a basketball tournament over in J-town and watched Derek's cousin play ball. Great basketball!
Derek and B made it into the Courier Journal here in Louisville- It is the local paper!
Today we are going to head over to the mall and attempt to find M some clothes for the wake and funeral as we didn't pack anything for that type of event! We got B taken care of yesterday, we are only lacking shoes for her! After Christmas sales are GREAT!
All in all are week is progressing and we are feeling love and peace! More updates to come!

Monday, December 29, 2008

New Face!

Well, we have had a little bit of down time today while Derek is finishing up the arrangements for the funeral Friday. We are staying at the Galt House (a great hotel) and they have this covered walkway in the sky that goes down to 4th Street Live. We have been out exploring all day today! Downtown Louisville has really proved to be quite interesting AND they even have a PANERA!

The weather isn't that bad today! Maybe we will not see snow this trip! M and B are excited about the trip back because we are going to the American Girl store in Atlanta!

Tonight we are going to another basketball game I believe, and we may even try to take in some college games while we are up here! The U of L campus is gorgeous and stretches along the highway! You should see the silos with University of Louisville written across them! It's great!

Sunday, December 28, 2008

3rd Career --- Long Distance Truck Driver!

Well the Rowan's hit the road about 2:30 Saturday afternoon and rolled in Louisville, Kentucky about 4:30 a.m. Sunday morning! What a drive. It was pretty smooth all the way up until we hit Franklin, and then it poured like buckets rained for the next 2 1/2 hours!

I really do like driving at night when everyone is asleep! It is so neat to drive along and see the lights of distance towns come into clear focus. However, has anyone ever driven the stretch of 65 North from Nashville into Louisville? Well, just for the record, it was my first time, and let me just tell you about that pleasant ride! First of all, the rain probably did not help, nor the 1 1/2 hour dead stop delay while we waited for the accident to be cleared just South of Bowling Green- that's when the fun begin! If you have ever seen the movie Deliverance this ride was like Deliverance Road Style! I mean really the amount of really dark black narrow stretch of bad roads was UNBELIEVABLE! Had I been by myself, I probably would have really been Scared! Not to mention every trucker had to be on that road last night doing about 90mph! And, the scenery was Adult book stores / video stores with signs reflecting "Hell is Real" on either side!

I'm telling you, quite the drive! Just for laughs, I would say from mile marker 28 through about 86 is a rough go at night! We made it though and drove into the Galt House about 4:30!

Today was rough to say the least. Derek's dad passed about 6:00pm Saturday evening and today was spent at the hospital / funeral home attempting to make arrangements!

We are in a really neat area in downtown Louisville, so I will post some cool pics later!

Friday, December 26, 2008

On the Road A-G-A-I-N

Yes friends, the Rowan's are hitting the road again! Tomorrow after a class movie field trip we will be heading to Louisville to visit Derek's dad in the burn unit at University of Louisville Hospital. It is about a 12 hour drive for us, and hopefully Derek will get to spend some time with his dad and family. Last Thursday his dad was involved in a horrible kerosene accident, and received burns over 65% of his body. Today we received a call asking Derek to come up because his dad is not doing well at all. He has a raging infection, unstable vitals, and the original grafts have not taken.

We will stay at the Galt House Hotel which is actually on the Ohio River. It is located right near the hospital and right in the middle of the downtown area.

We will stay until Wednesday when we will head back down to Franklin and see my family there for a few days. Depending on how Derek's dad does, we may head back to Louisville Saturday, or we will head home and Derek will just fly back if he needs to the next weekend!

Here are two quick pictures from Christmas morning! We did have a great holiday with family and friends!


Today when we got up, we both started taking down and putting up our Christmas stuff- We started that last year, and we really like having the house ready for the new year! There is something to be said about "Boxing Day". It works out great now that we will be gone for the next week!
As we take off on yet another long journey, we are excited to finally get to visit with Derek's family and friends in Louisville. More pictures from the road as we get to encounter great snow and more C-O-L-D weather (a stark difference from our balmy 80 degrees here!)

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

What is Your Reason for the Season?

Peppermint is getting ready to make his journey home! We are a little sad to see him go, but no he will be back again next year! One of our tables is ready!

The house this year!

We even let the dogs come out and play!

We have started so many fun things as a family, but as the true meaning of this season draws close to us, we are reminded of all we have, all that has been given to us, and our responsibility as Christians in toady's times!
As we prepare to head out to church for the reading of the true Christmas story....
Luke 2
1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men
.
15And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
21And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
22And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
23(As it is written in the law of the LORD, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)
24And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
25And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
26And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
27And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
28Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
29Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
30For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
31Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
32A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
33And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
34And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
35(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
36And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;
37And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
38And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
39And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
40And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
41Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.
42And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.
43And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.
44But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.
45And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.
46And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.
47And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
48And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.
49And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?
50And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
51And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
52And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

Monday, December 22, 2008

I Know... A Long Overdue Update!

Well here it is, my long overdue post! I know many of you think, as my younger brother so eloquently stated that I have all this free time with my break until the New Year time to sit around and update everybody on what's going on....
Last week was pretty much a blur, in a good kind of blurry way. We were crazy busy with many activities for school and dance. It started Sunday with Hanging of the Green, and just kept going.
Check out our school BLOG to see our great school support night at McDonald's! We raised $507.00 dollars in just 3 short hours! Now, the fun begins as 100+ people try to decide how to spend that money! I personally would like to buy an industrial snow cone machine for the kids, but many of my cohorts want to buy WHITE COPY PAPER which just will drive me nuts!

We ended the week on Friday, taking my mom out to eat for her 61st birthday! It was a great time, and I think she enjoyed it! Thank goodness for Kan-chi and Publix!

Saturday Derek and my brother and his girlfriend went to the Gator game - they said it was a good time, I would not know because I was at home deathly ill from some kind of nasty food poisoning as best we can tell. Was not fun, but I have survived! Thank goodness the house was spotlessly cleaned and the yard immaculately done prior to about 5:30!

Today we did something that we have never done before. We rode the SKYWAY Express to Hemming Plaza downtown and walked to the Main Library and the Landing for lunch! Thank goodness for those honest homeless men that made my children nervous and assisted us in the right "tram order!" Even though we watched them "jump" the fair line! They were quite harmless and ended us guiding us right to the Park!
Lo and Behold! When we arrived Santa was waiting on us... So much for mailing those letter late, he told the girls not to worry,-


And yes, this big hawk was there too! Many people in the park said it is rare to see a hawk there during the middle of the day, but hey the rats must have been near!
The main library was well worth the taxpayer money! I'd actually vote to give more if they would redo the library by our house. But they did have this great display of "book" themed Christmas trees. They were so fun to look at!


This was our first outing of the break! Tomorrow I have a few errands to run, the grocery store, and then I think we are going to see the Cummer for even more Trees!
Peppermint is still around for a few more days, - today he was in the kitchen! I will post his location tomorrow! Enjoy this time - Don't forget the true reason for the season!

Monday, December 15, 2008

He's been busy!

Hey Gabby! We didn't mean to leave you out last time! Where is Joe hiding? Andrew, have you been able to find Joe every morning? Briley and Macey have had to look a little harder lately!



Friday, December 12, 2008

Peppermint is finding his way around!

Hi Andrew! We are excited you are keeping up with Peppermint! He has been all over! It is hard to believe Christmas is almost here! How is Joe doing? Is he hiding from you? Peppermint flew into B's closet last night! They were shocked that he was sitting with Pooh and Tigger!

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

The End Is Near!

This semester has really stretched my abilities both time wise and mentally! It was probably the hardest of all my semesters at school this last go 'round. It just seemed like there was never enough time, and a new dance studio, new school year, putting the house up for sale, being a mom... (you get the picture!)- Anyways, I have one paper left to write this term, and then no school until 1/3! It will be my last official semester of classes, and hopefully that dissertation will be completed during that time as well.
I am mentally preparing myself for the long break. No big plans, just cleaning out some closets, reading some really great books, and spending time with the family. It is going to be great!
When I started this journey, I never dreamed it would be over so quickly- it amazes me how fast time goes by.
"Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking, because you were all called together in one body to have peace. Always be thankful." Colossians 2:15
I am so thankful this Christmas Season. Thankful for my family, friends, and for the ability to trust in God's peace!"

Thursday, December 4, 2008

We Made It Back....

Anyway, I hope you get the idea!

This by far is the cutest thing we have done in a long time at school! Our kids got "elfed!" for our holiday door contest! They are so cute! It's kind of fuzzy! I am trying to hold out until after Christmas to replace my camera that is only working at 50% (the last drop did her in!)
Yeah! Our Christmas tree is up! Not decorated, because notice the elf is in the tree! And we can't touch the elf! We are trying to get everything ready to go up this weekend!
This little guy is the BEST thing ever! He was all the rave in Tennessee. To be honest, I had never heard of him before,- needless to say he showed up on our doorstep Tuesday all the way from the North Pole in his own little special box, with a book that explains his story "Elf on a Shelf"! It has been great excitement as he moves around here! B and M have told everybody about him and even took the book to school today! It's so neat to see them excited!
Oh the drive Sunday was LONG! Lots of traffic through Atlanta, but all in all it was certainly worth the trip! We had a great time in Franklin visiting family, looking at property, and playing with my nephew and his best friend! We were sad to go Sunday! Some fun moments of our trip included Derek winning the "high" score on the basketball game at Chuck E Cheese- M, B, and my nephew thought that was just the coolest thing ever! I had never seen so many ladybugs before- they were everywhere on the property! It was so quiet and peaceful there!

It's hard to believe we are already at Thursday night! Just eleven more days of school to go, and then we have a nice long break! (A much needed break might I add!) I had considered traveling around a bit during the long break, but NO!! I am staying put- cleaning the house, sleeping, reading some good books, and of course really stepping up to complete that dissertation!

My goals for next year include: 1. Learning to say NO and not feel guilty, 2. As my principal would say "Let it go", and 3. Get back to having some really good times- No stress, no school, now worries!
" No one has ever seen this, and no one has ever heard about it. No one has ever imagined what God has prepared for those who love him!" 1 Corinthians 2:9

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