Merry Christmas...with just a few pictures!

• MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!! I know I need to "catch up," but it's getting late. This is about all that I have time for tonight. These pictures are from Heather Grace's wedding last weekend, a tacky Christmas sweater party, and Christmas at Grannie's house. I'd like to post more, but like I said...I'm doing good just to get these up!

• Today was wonderful. We woke up (a little early!) to open presents. Then, Grandmama, Granddaddy, Grannie, and Pa Pa came over for breakfast. This is a tradition that we've had as long as I can remember. Dad made eggs, grits, ham, bacon, sausage, and biscuits. It was so good! I am so thankful to still have all of my grandparents living and able to spend Christmas day with us! After we ate our breakfast, Gavin and I showed them our presents.

• As for the rest of the day...we just kind of were lazy. No one went anywhere! We got together with the Browns on Monday and the Weeks family on Tuesday, so we didn't have another place to go! It was great just to lay around, watch movies, and eat...of course!

• I am so thankful to have Jesus at the center of our Christmas. Today is just another reminder of His love for us...that He would come to Earth as a baby so we could have a relationship with Him. Emmanuel, our God is WITH us!

--For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:11

Just in time for Christmas!

I just had to put these pictures up. Hope I don't get in trouble ;-)

I thought after all the success with the pumpkin that a gingerbread house would be no problem, but you can see here how we sort of struggled. I think it was the combination of being full, tired, and a little down about Carolina's loss on Saturday.



Oh, and one more thing. In case you are wondering... Yes, that's a guy. His name is Andrew. That's all I'm saying for right now! :-)



Have a great week!

50 Random things...

Ok, so several of my friends have done this...so unlike my "normal self," I'm jumping on the train! Hope I can make it to 50...

Random things that you may not know about me!

1. One of my pet peeves is when two people sit on one side of a booth at a restaurant. I'm sorry if you do this, but I think it's kinda strange looking!

2. I am terrified of newspaper. Well, not really scared...but I will NOT touch it. I think it's because I touched it once when I was a kid. All I remember is that I got ink on my hands, and that really bothered me!

3. My middle name is Annette. I was named for an aunt who died before I was born. She was blonde, a singer, loved to be around friends and family, and loved entertaining. It's funny that I am sort of like her...

4. I am a night owl. I don't really "get going" til about 10am. I could stay up until about 3am every night...actually, 3am is the day! ;-)

5. I caught the carpet of my Pastor's house on fire when I was younger. By younger....I think I was 13!

6. The one time I can't talk is when I need to warn someone about something. My Dad hit a deer once because all I could do to warn him was point and say, "Uhh...da da da dahhhh...that!"

7. I used to memorize the entire children's Christmas play when I was younger and make my parents video me singing through it. I even did the spoken parts! We have proof of this!

8. I can't ride fair rides. I think it's the fact that they go round and round. I can do Carowinds, but I can't do the fair. Maybe it's the combo of fair food, smoke, and the ride that does me in.

9. Paul Newman is the only movie star that I've ever said was attractive! And...he just passed away. Yeah, he was before my time.

10. I was a little tomboy when I was younger. I refused to pierce my ears until I was 18, and it took me until 15 to start wearing makeup. Let's put it this way...I didn't play with Barbies.

11. When I find a song that I like, I will literally listen to it over and over again. Then, weeks later...I've moved on to the next favorite.

12. I take my camera with me everywhere I go. You can capture some pretty good moments that way.

13. I always wanted to a mouseketeer, but Mom wouldn't let me audition. Seriously, I would have done it in a heartbeat.

14. I hate math. I always have.

15. I still have all four of my grandparents. They (with my parents) will always be the ones I admire the most.

16. I could eat warmed brownies and vanilla ice cream every day.

17. Vitamins make me sick...seriously sick.

18. I love to travel. When I travel by plane, I like to dress up.

19. I used to think that the big bad wolf lived at the end of my hallway at night when it was dark. So, if I ever had to walk down it...I would sprint!

20. I am obsessed with people's names and what they mean.

21. I love star gazer lilies. I think they smell amazing!!!!! I will probably have them in my wedding bouquet...I like them that much!

22. I can eat sunflower seeds like they're going out of style. Secretly, I spit out the shells. Mom hates it!

23. My nicknames when I was a kid were "Boogaloo" and "Squirrel." Both were straight from Dad.

24. My Dad ALWAYS brought us a snack from the gas station...usually a Pepsi and a Zero Bar or Three Musketeers...I will never forget that.

25. I used to write notes to get out of my 4th block class early in high school. My teacher found out though, since I did it for two weeks in a row one time.

26. I was a pageant girl in high school. Not the "Little Miss Pumpkin Patch" pageants, just high school pageants, Junior Miss, etc.

27. I broke my arm the summer before my 7th grade year jumping a fence. I don't jump too many fences now.

28. I would be a newborn nursery nurse for the sole fact that they get to hold, feed, and play with newborn babies all day long!

29. I'm not good with surprises. My cardinal rule is: Don't tell me that you have to tell me something...then, make me wait! Haha.

30. I really want to go to Hawaii and Australia.

31. I sleep in the middle of the bed, and I like for it to be completely dark.

32. I can't tell you when the last time I salted my food was.

33. I don't like watermelon or cantaloupe.

34. I believe that the Bible is pretty specific about caring for widows and orphans. I would love to adopt one day...but I'm not saying that I have to.

35. I am allergic to cats.

36. I'm not a very "mushy romantic" person. I don't need love notes, songs, fancy dates, or loads of flowers. I'd rather just spend time with someone.

37. My parents bought me the Camry when I was in the 9th grade. It was my basketball team's first loss of the season, in which I was double teamed and scored no points. I walked outside, they showed me the car, and I said, "Let's go home." Sounds bratty...but I was just really mad.

38. The first time got stung was by two wasps on my pitching arm at an all star tournament in Hanahan, SC. I had to go make sure I wasn't allergic, so I had to be the designated hitter for the rest of the game.

39. I get one of two things when I go to Starbucks: a regular cup of coffee or a chai tea latte

40. I love the summer. I am the happiest person when it starts getting warm outside, and a pretty sad one when it gets chilly.

41. I never missed a Sunday at church until I was 15. We went to church even on vacation...

42. I have two habits. I twist my hair and rock from side to side...mostly, it's when I sing.

43. I would love to have a big family one day. I always say, I'd take as many kids as my marriage and body can handle! Haha!

44. I was supposed to see Coldplay in concert three years ago, but Chris Martin (the lead singer) got sick, and they cancelled the show!

45. I was always really skinny, and I used to pray that I would get some meat on my bones. What was I thinking???

46. I'm not very good at keeping in touch by phone.

47. I love the song "Claire de Lune" (classical piano). One time, I heard a husband and wife play it as a duet, and I actually cried.

48. I was in a show once and my character had to list off (in a song) all the names of Jacob's 12 sons. I'm pretty sure that I forgot a couple, so I said Reuben and Levi an extra time.

49. If I could, I would sit down and talk to each of my patients for an hour!

50. I talk in my sleep...and people have been telling me that for years!

Ok, if you've made it through even a fourth of these and haven't stopped...I'm impressed. I'm sure Mom will read every single one. Writing all these kinda made me laugh at some strange parts of my life. All right...that's it for me!

Time to catch up!!!!!

Well, I went home to vote the other day. Mom informed me very quickly that it was high time that I get on the ball with my blog. So, I'm trying to think of where I left off...I'm just going to do a list.

1. We moved into our new house. Mom says "it has a little ways to go," but we love it! I spent the night for the first time on Monday. It's so quiet and peaceful where the house is. No neighborhood dogs anymore!!!!!

2. My Dad went to Honduras last week and got back on Sunday! He said that it was an amazing trip, but he'd never seen it rain as much as it did while he was there. Their group saw over 1700 patients. Wow!

3. My thyroid biopsy results came back normal....SO...that means...no cancer and no surgery right now! Praise the Lord! I still have to follow up with the doctor, and I may end up on some medication...but hey, that beats surgery any day!

4. I went to the fair a few weeks ago...and got sick!!! Boo... Actually, we all did. I had to leave early....I think the lights, rides, and food just are too much for me. Ginny said, "There's a reason why adults don't ride those rides....and we ARE at child-bearing age!!!!" Hahaha. I don' know about all that. I can handle Carowinds and the rides there, but it's something about the fair, the smell of smoke and grease....blah...it doesn't do it for me!

5. I've carved pumpkins twice this fall. Actually, I haven't carved a thing. I hollowed out the inside of one of them, but I still helped a little. I'll post some pictures. You have to see the talent that went into these pumpkins!

6. Camille came to visit me this weekend. We went to the Carolina game and got to see Tennessee lose! We also got to sit with the two cutest guys ever...our dates (haha!) Actually, we used Michael's tickets and sat beside his brother, Ryan and his friend Connor. Don't worry...they're 9th graders. However, I must say...it was the best date that I've ever had!

Ok, that's all for now. I'll try to keep this updated more....only a few more weeks of school and Christmas!!!!!!!!! I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!

What the Browns have been up to...

Well, we are officially moving! I saw "we," because although Gavin and I don't live with Mom and Dad anymore, this is still a family effort! The picture above is where we'll be soon!This morning was hilarious. We cleaned out the attic, and let me just tell you how funny going through 20+ years of "stuff" is. We found old IDs of moms from high school, Dad's "love" letters (not to/from Mom...), and lots of our old toys and books. Mom still had our crib up there, which was her's too! She asked if I wanted it for my kids, and I had to tell her that by the time that happens, I'll probably just want one of my own. Since Gavin may end up having kids before me, she ought to ask him! We found cabbage patch dolls, Teddy Ruxpin, Berenstain bears books (my favorite!), Gavin's old fire trucks (which made my life pretty miserable for about 3 solid years!), ALL of my old school books, and much more! I think Mom really loves us a lot, cause she's managed to save everything we've breathed on in our lives! Just kidding, Mom. So, we're set to close on the house in a couple of weeks. We should be moved in just in time to have the family for Thanksgiving, as always. I'm so happy for Mom and Dad. They're really excited. I'm not going to lie...I'm a little like my friend Lisa, who bawled when her parents sold her beloved family van. I am starting to get a little emotional about certain aspects of moving. This morning while I was eating breakfast and looking out the window, I thought, "This is probably the last time I'll do this at 223 Sylvan Road!" I looked over at the fireplace that I made into my weekly stage for all my musical performances, and I got a little sad! Mom even took down most of the pictures in the den already...sad, sad, sad! Ok, I'm going to stop now. I sound silly. I'm sure some of you know what I'm talking about. It must be a girl thing!

I am the only one awake in my house now. Gavin has spent an entire day hunting practically. He went early this morning and again later this afternoon into the evening. Those of you who know me and my family well know that hunting is a HUGE part of us! We have learned to live without the men in our family for a few days out of the year. The one day that comes to mind the most is Thanksgiving. The boys have always been gone on Thanksgiving morning. They come back around just in time for the whole family to get together for Thanksgiving lunch. I vividly remember my Dad, brother Gavin, Granddaddy, Uncle Gene, cousin Miles, and their friends going every year, and coming back home to report to all the girls. I think they killed 22 one year on Thanksgiving. I love that they hunt. It's great to have a hobby, and it's just a tradition that they've kept going for years. So, since Gavin went today...he is passed out on the couch...Mom too....Dad is in his usual seat...snoring! Haha. I hope he never reads this, cause he'll kill me!

Oldies....

These are some pictures I found on my computer back home!!!!!!!!!

Most of them are from a few years back.

Last Formal - May 2006

Cameron's Wedding - July 2006 (I don't know what exactly we were doing!)

Gabe- after he ran a mile in 6 minutes!!!! (He's six in this picture)

Rachael's Wedding - June 2006

Mom, Grannie, and me after Gavin's graduation...she'll kill me for putting this up!

Beth's Wedding - June 2006

Graduation - May 2006

Tagged!

Erica got me with this, so here it goes....

Attached or Single?
Single...that's all I have to say ;-)

Best Friend?
Well, I have many close friends...but I must say if there was anyone who I met exactly when I needed her, it would be Camille Keil!

Cake or Pie?
I'd rather have cake, but if it's Chocolate or Apple pie...I'll take it too!

Day of Choice?
Definitely Saturday

Essential Item?
Mary Kay eye makeup remover. I hate going to bed with mascara on my lashes...gross!

Flavor of Ice Cream?
Chocolate/Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Gummy Bears or Worms?
Bears

Hometown?
Greenwood, SC

Indulgences?
lately...I'm hooked on stopping by Starbucks several times each week...but mostly, it's certain clothes/shoes

January or July?
July...I'll take warm over cold any day!

Kids?
No...but one day I will. I love love love kids!!!

Last Movie I saw in a Theater?
"Nights at Rodanthe" and it was good!

Middle Name?
Annette- I was named for my aunt who passed away before I was born.

Number of Siblings?
One

Oranges or Apples?
I'm so indecisive...I can't make these tough choices! Umm....apples!

Phobia or Fear?
I HATE the newspaper. I think I got some ink on my hands when I was younger, because I will not get anywhere near one. I have never read one in my entire life! Literally--you could chase me around the room with a newspaper, and I'd run!

Quote?
"For those to who much is given--much is required!"

A Reason to Smile?
...because God is good...no matter what!

Season?
Summer

Tag five more:
Abby, Paula, Kristi Hood, Sara, Danielle

Unknown Fact About Me?
I sang in front of Barack Obama at a church service he came to last year in Columbia! I hope I jinxed him...so that he can't win!

Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animals?
I could never be a vegetarian! Go meat!

Worst Habit?
twirling my hair...

X-rays or Ultrasounds?
Well...neither, but I'd rather have an ultrasound...I'll pass on the radiation!

Your favorite Food?
Chicken!!!!!

Zodiac?
Aeries

Movie day...

This afternoon I went to Nights in Rodanthe with Tiffany, Neely, and Ginny. It was good. I am a huge Nicholas Sparks fan, even though he's notorious for "chick-flicks." I would recommend going to see this one if you get the chance. I won't lie...I don't think it tops The Notebook, but then again--what can?

My buddy and me...

Remember those my buddy and kid sister dolls??? Well, I kind of always viewed Gavin (my brother) as my buddy, even though we had a love-hate relationship growing up. He was just too cute, and I wanted all the attention....so go figure how that worked out!

I just realized that I've never really mentioned Gavin, although he's a huge part of my life. I mean, we are roommates now! (Which is quite interesting!) I keep telling me that he'll thank me one day when he's married and he takes the initiative to do chores around the house. At that point it'll be second nature to him, after having me nag him for months! My sister-in-law is going to love me. Gavin will never be able to say, "Well, I don't know how to do that around the house...I've never had to before." Nope. That doesn't work here. I told him when he moved in that I loved him, but I wasn't his mom or his wife!!!! He actually helps out a lot around here!

All joking aside, I really do love good old Gavin. We're so different--but so much alike. It's funny how genetics work. Right now, we're sitting here cheering on McCain in the debate. That's one thing we are in total agreement about--this election. Ok, that's all for tonight. Enjoy the old picture of Gavin and me...when we were cute!

What a day...

Today was very interesting. I had an ultrasound of my thyroid...doctor's orders. She found a nodule on my thyroid gland last week, so now we're checking everything out just to take the right precautions. I'm not too worried about it, but I'd just like to know what's going on. The waiting kills me!

The awkward moment of my day was at the Starbucks drive-thru. When I pulled around to claim my "Chai Tea Latte" (yum!), I noticed a young guy working the window. Now, this was no ordinary guy taking my money. This was a guy who liked his job...well, helping his female customers at least! He was kinda creepy, I'm not going to lie. At first, everything was just your typical drive-thru exchange, but then as I handed him my money, he basically started up a "first date conversation."

"Your drink will be here shortly..."
(Then he proceeds to just hang out the window and stare.)

"Thanks,"
(I say...as I pull out anything to make me look busy from my purse. I grabbed my ipod, cell phone, check book...you name it!)

"So...have you had a good week so far???"
(still staring...even though I'm desperately trying to give off the "please don't talk to me vibe")

"Umm....yeah. I'm not from here, so it's been busy having to travel around during the middle of the week."
(I thought I'd put the idea of us ever seeing each other again out of his head.)

"Ohh...well, where do you live?"

"Columbia."

"You go to Starbucks there?

"Yep."

"Well, we here at Starbucks in Greenwood are considered a remote location."

"Really?"
(I need serious help at this point. I'm creeped out!)

"Yeah, because we're the only Starbucks in a 50 mile radius."

"Whoa.....crazy...."

"YEAH.....Well, my friends and I used to go and party there....in Columbia."

"Yeah, I don't really do that."
(I can see the girl almost finished with my drink...I'm hoping that she hands it off before I have to pretend to make an emergency call.)

"Well, that's good....(long, awkward pause)...It's like I always say--if you're going to Columbia,let me know, but if you're going to party in five-points--I'm out!"

"Yeah..."
(Yes! The girl makes the handoff. I'm almost there!)

"Here you go. Have a safe trip!"

"Ok. Bye."

(the end)
--------------------------------------------------------------

It was only about one minute of awkwardness, but it felt like forever. I mean, how strange was that? Some of you might think that I'm being mean, but trust me....he was creepy. I bet everytime a girl pulls up he thinks, "JACKPOT!" Next time I go to the Starbucks in Greenwood, I'm taking backup.

So, that was my day. The highlight was probably getting new shoes and finishing my group project with Ginny. There are always good times in Greenwood. That's for sure!

I finally did it...

Before
(don't ask me why 1/2 of my hair looks brown here)

After

After a lot of thought, I finally cut my hair. Although it was much harder than I thought it would be, I finally said, "It's just hair, and it can always grow back." I must say...it's a lot easier to deal
with, so that really makes me happy. I know Mom will be happy too. She's been rooting for this haircut for a while now. Well, this covers my weekly update!

Growing Up...

On Thursday, I drove to Saluda to watch Adele cheer at her first football game this season. Unfortunately, the boys lost their game (which seemed to only last for about an hour.) And I must say...I've never spent the majority of the game worried about the cheerleaders like I did at this one. Adele is going to be 13 in November, and I CANNOT believe it! I always hated when people used to say to me, "Meagan, looking at you growing up just makes me feel old!" Well, looking at Adele makes me feel the same thing. I still remember her 3-year old days like they were just yesterday. Now, I'm watching her do toe touches, talking about middle school dances, going shopping, and hearing about boys. Ok, I'm not going to type anymore, because I don't want to embarrass her if she ever reads this!






I also had a pretty big slip up on Thursday. I dropped my phone in the toilet...don't worry, it was clean water...but it's still gross to me! Anyway, I screamed bloody murder. I'm really surprised that no one came knocking on my door to check on me...because it was loud!!! I immediately picked it up and took it apart. Gavin told me to put it in some rice. I left it there for the rest of the day, and when I woke up on Friday morning--it worked!!!!! I am so relieved!! You'd be surprised how many people have dropped their phone in the toilet. One of my friends did it at a football game, so I'm sure there was no rice there. I can't imagine losing all my numbers and having to pay for a brand new one!



I also spent some time babysitting recently. Surprised?? I just have to show you how adorable these two girls are! Miss Hannah is such a sweetie. She has a special snack that she has when she goes to her grandparents house. It's an oatmeal cream pie that she calls a "Da-Da" cookie (pronounced like "Day-Day") See, Da-Da is what she calls her grandpa. Isn't that the cutest thing? So, when she woke up from her nap on Saturday, we had to have a Da-Da cookie and "mash-mellahs." I just love toddlers! Hannah has the best tea parties, she cuts my hair, and she is so smart. I've posted her cheerleader picture and video that she begged me to take! Go Gamecocks!

Then, there's Miss Lindsay. She can sing her ABCs, and recently taught me how to put on "yip-gwoss" (aka lip gloss). She is also super smart and sweet, and I have so much fun with her. We just sit there and laugh at each other most of the time. Lindsay loves to sing, read, and draw. She's a great eater, too. My kind of girl!!! I'm posting a video that I took of her. She's adorable! I just hope to have children one day who are half as fun as these two!

8 more months!!!!!!!!!

That's what keep telling myself. At that time I will finally be out of nursing school. Today, I was able to see the unit where I'll be working...with kids!!!! The hospital where our group will be is so nice. It's the new children's hospital at Palmetto Health Richland. All the floors have a different theme, and ours is the "Polar" floor. There are pictures of polar bears on the walls and everything! The great thing about anything to do with children--it's all bright, cheery, and fun! I am so excited about Pediatrics this semester! The great thing about nursing is that you're able to work in so many different areas of practice with so many different age groups. The problem for me is that I really enjoy every part and age group! I have a gut feeling that I'm going to get "hooked" on peds. I love kids, and making them feel better would be right up my alley. We'll see though.


In other news...we are moving!!!! Well, not me really! My parents bought a new house in Greenwood. I am so happy for them! Everything has just worked out so well so far! The house is only a year old, and it has everything that they want. Dad had Gavin and me come home last week to look at it. He still wanted our opinion. Mom is already talking about Thanksgiving, Christmas, and where her grandchildren will stay when they visit. Oh Mom! Too bad those grandkids aren't even close to coming into existence! I guess she can dream, right???

Mamma Mia...

I have been hanging out with Thomas and Erin since last Friday. I say "hanging out," because it would just be wrong to call this babysitting. #1) These are two of the most intelligent, well-mannered, all-around coolest kids that you'll ever meet! #2) I get to be a kid again. Well, at least I get the excuse to act like one! We've spent the past few days watching the Olympics, out on the lake, playing games, and eating. Yep, it's a tough life. They were so sweet today! When I got to their house, they gave me a cookie cake (complete with "WE LOVE YOU, MEAGAN" and tons of icing decorations by Erin!!) We also went tubing today, which made me feel like a 13 year old again. Too bad my body isn't that young!!!! My battle wounds are the rope burns on my hands, and I'm sure my arms will be sore in the morning. What a workout! But listen to me...I sound like a baby!

Now...the reason for the title of this post. Since Thomas had football practice today. Erin and I decided to catch a movie. We decided on "Mamma Mia." Ok....has anyone seen this????????? Does anyone else think that it's hilarious that Pierce Brosnan attempts to sing in this movie???? Ohhh wow! I did a good job of holding in the laughter at first, but once he broke out into a ballad towards the end.......I LOST IT!!!!!!! I think the people in the movie theatre were laughing at me laughing so hard. I couldn't control myself. All I could think about was James Bond (007) up there on the big screen busting a move and singing!!!! If you haven't seen this...he makes for a good laugh. Don't get me wrong, I love musicals. However, I think they're best on stage. It's just random to see actors bust out into song. You start to think "Here we go again..." Still, we had a great time today, and I hope that Erin's not too worn out for her first day of school tomorrow.

I have a twin....

I spent the first few days of this week with Camille in Charleston. It was great to finally spend some time with her this summer--Gracie too! We were in a store the other day, and the clerk behind the counter was staring at us. Finally, she asked, "Are y'all twins???" Camille and I looked around, like she was asking some other two people. I was stunned...I mean, I love my Camille, but I don't know how you get the idea that we look alike! So, me (in all my awkwardness) tried to make the poor girl feel better by saying comments such as "Oh no....that's ok...I've always wanted a sister...we're so close anyways..." Good job, Meagan! Way to smooth things over. So, do you think we look alike???? Sorry for putting up such a gorgeous picture of us, Miss Camille.

In school news...I'm starting back this Thursday! Technically, I don't have Thursday classes, but Friday's schedule from 9-4:30 will make up for it! I just keep telling myself, "one year...one more year..." This semester I'll take Med/Surg II, Labor/Delivery (can't wait), Pediatrics, and Nursing Leadership and Management.


In family news...Gavin will start the long drive home tomorrow from Tyler, TX. Please say a little prayer for him. He's had an amazing summer, and I think we may eventually lose the boy to the great state of Texas! Gavin is our wild one, so the concept of him moving away isn't surprising at all. Speaking of moving (and moving closer!) Beth and Josh are moving to Atlanta!!!!!!! I just talked with her yesterday, and they'll probably be getting set to leave in a few weeks. That means that they'll be in the South at least until next August! I am so happy to have them closer to home. It seems that they've been sent to every possibly corner of this country...except for the South! We're already planning field trips! ;-) The picture over to the right is of Beth and me after one of our graduation ceremonies at Lee. I think we were "raising the praise" that we made it! It's hard to believe that it's been two years ago!


In wedding news...(Ha! No, not mine) I find it so hard to believe that I already have FIVE weddings on my schedule from now until next August! 3 of those I'll be a bridesmaid, and the other two will just be "wedding singer" appointments! Ginny just made my day by asking me to pull double duty (being a bridesmaid AND singing for hers in August.) S0, I guess I need to rent the movie "27 Dresses"...cause I'm gaining on her! Anyone need a dress?? I have nine of them...I think! Honestly, it is an honor for me to be involved in any way in a wedding. I mean, that is one day where you get to choose everything that you want...exactly. It will be so sad one day when I'm old and don't have a voice anymore...so for now...I'm singing in all the ones I can!

It's great to be back...

Well, our group survived the trip to Honduras! It was wonderful, and were able to see so many precious families! It amazes me each year to witness the appreciation that the villagers have for the smallest things we do for them. I took some stickers this year, and giving them out was like handing out $100 bills! I can think of no one else who'd appreciate something that small so much. You don't go on mission trips for the sole purpose of putting your life into perspective--but it sure does!

I hope to put up some more pictures soon, but for right now...this is it. I'm also posting a video to show you how we ride most days to get to the villages. Let's just say...it's quite an experience. Hope you enjoy!

This is becoming an annual thing...

Tomorrow morning (at 3am!!!) Dad, Gavin and I will leave for Honduras. It's Gavin's second year, Dad's 3rd, and I'll be going for my 4th! I am so excited to see these precious faces again. If you see this while we're there, please pray for us. I am so honored to have this opportunity, and I can't wait until Monday when we finally get to our first village. I'll try to log on while I'm gone to keep you updated! In La Esperanza each night, there's a small window of time where I can go to the Internet Cafe. So, let's hope for that! I'll post pictures when I get back!

Only Me...

Yesterday was our "Celebration of Liberty" at church. We've been having on-and-off rain showers for the past few days (only for it to clear up completely in about five minutes). Luckily, I grabbed my umbrella before I left. Trust me though, that was not good enough....at all. When I left for church (which is literally five minutes down the road from my apartment) the skies looked awful. I knew it was going to rain any minute. I thought about staying in my car, but I'm "Miss Type A-have to be on time-perfectionist," and I couldn't risk being late. Besides, I just knew I could beat it out! Ha! So, I get to the parking lot, get out of the car with my little umbrella...and bag...and new purse...and yep, you guessed it....it started POURING RAIN. I'm talking about a downpour (with crazy wind which blew the rain everywhere). At this point I'm halfway to the church from my car, so I just keep walking. Of course, it just got worse. By the time I made it into the church, my entire white shirt (which I just ironed) was soaked. My cute black shoes had puddles of water the pointy toes, my hair (that I'd just fixed) was a mess, and my long black pants were dripping wet from the knees down. I knew it was bad when I walked into the choir room and saw all the faces of the women there. I'm not really a crier, but I would have. The only thing keeping me from that was my dignity and the fact that I was NOT about to mess up my makeup on top of everything else! Joni was so sweet, and she helped me with damage control! Thankfully, we found a hairdryer, and Joni helped me completely dry my shirt. I think I pulled it together enough for the program. Y'all know me though. This is just not a good situation for Meagan. I wouldn't have cared as much if I didn't have a solo, but this whole show is taped and is aired on TV. I just didn't want to look like a mess on camera. Thank goodness for the divas who bring their curling irons, hairdryers, and hairspray to the church! I think I'm going to start!

Sweet Willa Kate, Gabby, and Jonah

My mom had the joy of teaching the most adorable little girl this year, and here she is! This is Willa Kate. She is just the sweetest thing you ever met. Earlier this year, I was helping Mom out in her classroom one day, and one of the other boys was reciting something he'd memorized in class that week. Well, he got sort of sick looking, and next thing you know....well, you can guess what happened next. Yep, he lost it! So, I tried to get all the other kids away from the "area," but I couldn't budge Willa Kate. She got so upset, and wouldn't leave my side...bawling the whole time!!!!!!! Mom just said, "Yeah, she's really sensitive!" As you can see, she loves the color pink! I just thought this was the greatest picture of her. One time, I put my sunglasses on when she smiled, because I had told her how blinding her pretty white teeth were. Well, she spent the rest of this day smiling and reminding me to put on my shades! I love kids.

I am typing this entry on my brand new laptop. It's so nice to have a computer again. I know it seems sad to admit, but I've been lost without it!

While we're on the subject of cute kids--check out Gabby and Jonah! I have been keeping them every week. Aren't they precious?? I'll have to share some funny Gabby stories some other time. She is hilarious. They are one of the highlights of my week!!!!