Well, the fall season simply got away from me. I haven't posted since mid-October, and there's SOOO much to say it isn't even funny. Don't you love that when life is slow, it's easy to post. And then when life is crazy and there's lots to say, you never even get a chance to say it! That's how I feel...
Since October we've had some major life changers. Here goes - we're moving to Denver! And while that's really only one major life changer, it's accompanied by lots of not-so-little life changers - like a new job for Drew, job searching for me, new city, selling a house, renting a house, packing, moving, and the holidays... We have perfect timing, right? Who decides to move over the holidays? Crazy people...and us.
We were able to get back to Iowa for Thanksgiving and see not only the Swansons but also my parents, which was awesome. Lots of people and lots of love - and I was tired afterwards. We managed trips to see all three grandmothers in our lives. Impressive, no? And even more, we even made it to the Iowa vs. Ohio State game - which we inevitably lost by a field goal in the end. But it's all good - because Drew and I were able to show Kurt and Tom a good tailgating time with the help of Tina Arthur, Patrick Rossmann, Maureen Beran, Mark Baccei and a flippy cup table (all of Iowa Grad School fame - even the flippy cup table).
I'll post pictures as soon as I can locate my camera and upload. Next up, a trip to Denver to house hunt and check out the scene. Wish us luck!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
We know how to celebrate... ; )
I've heard that a first anniversary is supposed to be celebrated with paper...a card, tickets to a show, something like that. In our case, a race number was the way to go! Yup, we ran a 5K for our anniversary - something neither of us had done before.
Here's how it went.
1. Decide about a month out to do a 5K - find one (Oh, look, it's on our anniversary weekend - what fun!?) and register.
2. Train, sort of. Run 4 nights a week with a chocolate lab - which inevitably means running with a poop bag. Consider it good karma - no one else goes to such measures! Chocolate lab becomes addicted to running - every night. Begs, whines and becomes obnoxious if he doesn't get one.
3. Buy cool running gear to play the part - feel like Superwoman. It helps.
4. After a camping weekend trip to Dahlonega,GA (where the race is) rethink the logic of signing up for an 8am race that's an hour and a half away from home.
5. Feel the nerves come the night before - as if I was about to get up on a balance beam. What!? Geez, I'm competitive. Wake up early, get there early, and sit around wondering if we're in the right spot. The 5K regulars show up a half hour later - follow them to check-in. Pin on the number and instantly have flashbacks of pinning a number onto my leotard.
6. Freeze our butts off and take lots of pictures. Try to look cute pre-8am - unsuccessful. ;) Warm up and stretch like we know what we're doing. Incur no strange looks - perhaps we can pull off this running thing.
7. Start the race, and lose Drew immediately. Oh well, I don't have his legs anyways. About a mile in, marvel over a beautiful mountain/fog view that comes out of nowhere - then marvel over the downhill that comes directly after. Mile two, hear the corp in cadence behind me - uh oh. I must be slow, they're supposed to bring up the rear. Look behind me, can't see 'em. Just keep plodding. Mile threeish - hear woman behind me make the following comment - "Last time it took me about 35 minutes, and we're only at 24 or so. We must have to run laps around the track at the end to make up that time." Kill me now - there goes all my energy at the mention of "laps".
8. Come up on the finish - see Drew smiling and looking fresh. He's done - I'm not. A couple minutes more as I pass him, loop back around to the final stretch and then I kick it. Sprint to the finish and see Drew waiting as I come flailing to a halt, breathless.
9. Both of us killed our goals. Drew ran a 23:24 and I ran a 32:28 (without any stopping!). Stick around to see if Drew placed at all - not quite. Don't wait for the woman's results - I'm not even in the right territory. :)
10. Grab breakfast at Waffle House, find a pumpkin patch and pick ridiculously overpriced pumpkins, and enjoy the scenery as we head home. Ahh, happy anniversary. Anyone up for a foot rub?
Friday, October 15, 2010
We are gathered here today on the seventeenth of October...
In honor of our first anniversary, I thought it would be fun to share our wedding ceremony with you all. We wrote it ourselves and absolutely loved it... : ) Enjoy, or gag from the cheesiness, or cry (mom), whatever!
OPENING
Welcome, and good evening. We are gathered here today on the seventeenth of October to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to cherish the words which shall unite Drew and Brandy in marriage.
And now, I would like to ask, who gives their support and love to Drew and Brandy as they enter into marriage? (Drew and Brandy’s parents say “We do.”)
If any of you has anything to say that might change their minds… they… don’t want to hear it. :) However, they do want to hear from you that you are their village, that you will always be their family, and will support and encourage them as they discover the commitment and dedication needed to make marriage work. And that is why you are here today.
Each of you has been invited to participate in this ceremony because you have, in some way, brought about a new world in Brandy or Drew. The happy couple would especially like to thank their families for instilling in them a sense of interdependence… (each walks into the crowd and hugs their family). And they would also like to thank each other’s family for welcoming them so kindly… (each walks into the crowd and hugs the other family).
Now, Drew and Brandy, if you would please stand facing each other.
BLESSING OF THE HANDS
As you stand here, holding hands, know the gift that you are to one another.
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day as you both promise to love each other today, tomorrow and forever.
These are the hands that will work alongside yours as together you build your future.
These are the hands that will love you and cherish you throughout the years, and with the slightest touch will comfort you like no other.
These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief wracks your mind.
These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes, tears of sorrow, and tears of joy.
These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children.
These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.
These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.
And these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.
Lets us Pray:
Dear Father, bless these hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship rich in caring. May Drew and Brandy see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter and guide. Amen.
In the days ahead of you, there will be times of difficulty and conflict. When you find yourselves in these situations, I ask that you reflect on this marriage advice:
Let your love be stronger than your anger.
Learn the wisdom of compromise, for it is better to bend than to break.
Look for the best in your beloved rather than the worst.
Confide in your partner and ask for help when you need it.
Remember that true friendship is the basis for any lasting relationship.
Give your spouse the same courtesies and kindnesses you bestow on your friends.
Say “I Love you” every day.
VOWS
Drew and Brandy, I remind you that marriage is a precious gift; a lifelong dedication to love and a daily challenge to love one another more fully and more freely.
With this understanding, do you Drew, take Brandy to be your beloved wife? Do you promise to be a tender and faithful husband? Do you promise to love and cherish her, in sickness and in health for richer or poorer, for better or worse and keep yourself only unto her? If so, say I do. (Drew says, “I do.”)
Brandy do you take Drew to be your beloved husband? Do you promise to be a tender and faithful wife? Do you promise to love and cherish him, in sickness and in health for richer or poorer, for better or worse and keep yourself only unto him? If so, say I do. (Brandy says, “I do.”)
RING EXCHANGE
May we have the rings please?
Rings are adornments, carefully chosen for their beauty and simplicity. They quietly sit upon our fingers, reminding us of the power of love and the pledge of the wearer to his or her partner to be faithful and true, and to nurture their love so it will last a lifetime.
Drew, will you give your ring to Brandy and repeat these words:
I give you this ring as a constant reminder of the promises we exchanged today. As you receive this ring, receive my promise of faithfulness to you. (Drew repeats)
Brandy, will you give your token to Drew and repeat these words:
I give you this ring as a constant reminder of the promises we exchanged today. As you receive this ring, receive my promise of faithfulness to you. (Brandy repeats)
May these rings be for you always your most treasured adornment, and may the love they symbolize be your most treasured possession.
CLOSING
Brandy and Drew asked me to include a passage this evening from St. Theresa, Saint of the Little Ways. St. Theresa believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. “Little ways” hold significance in any marriage - for Drew and Brandy those little ways exist in the thoughtful every day traditions that hold meaning for them, and make their life together special.
May today there be peace within.
May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others.
May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content with yourself just the way you are.
Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Drew and Brandy, having witnessed your vows of marriage with all who are assembled here, by the authority vested in me, and more importantly the trust you and your families have given me, I announce with great joy that you are husband and wife.
Drew you may now kiss your bride.
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OPENING
Welcome, and good evening. We are gathered here today on the seventeenth of October to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to cherish the words which shall unite Drew and Brandy in marriage.
And now, I would like to ask, who gives their support and love to Drew and Brandy as they enter into marriage? (Drew and Brandy’s parents say “We do.”)
If any of you has anything to say that might change their minds… they… don’t want to hear it. :) However, they do want to hear from you that you are their village, that you will always be their family, and will support and encourage them as they discover the commitment and dedication needed to make marriage work. And that is why you are here today.
Each of you has been invited to participate in this ceremony because you have, in some way, brought about a new world in Brandy or Drew. The happy couple would especially like to thank their families for instilling in them a sense of interdependence… (each walks into the crowd and hugs their family). And they would also like to thank each other’s family for welcoming them so kindly… (each walks into the crowd and hugs the other family).
Now, Drew and Brandy, if you would please stand facing each other.
BLESSING OF THE HANDS
As you stand here, holding hands, know the gift that you are to one another.
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day as you both promise to love each other today, tomorrow and forever.
These are the hands that will work alongside yours as together you build your future.
These are the hands that will love you and cherish you throughout the years, and with the slightest touch will comfort you like no other.
These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief wracks your mind.
These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes, tears of sorrow, and tears of joy.
These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children.
These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.
These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.
And these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.
Lets us Pray:
Dear Father, bless these hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship rich in caring. May Drew and Brandy see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter and guide. Amen.
In the days ahead of you, there will be times of difficulty and conflict. When you find yourselves in these situations, I ask that you reflect on this marriage advice:
Let your love be stronger than your anger.
Learn the wisdom of compromise, for it is better to bend than to break.
Look for the best in your beloved rather than the worst.
Confide in your partner and ask for help when you need it.
Remember that true friendship is the basis for any lasting relationship.
Give your spouse the same courtesies and kindnesses you bestow on your friends.
Say “I Love you” every day.
VOWS
Drew and Brandy, I remind you that marriage is a precious gift; a lifelong dedication to love and a daily challenge to love one another more fully and more freely.
With this understanding, do you Drew, take Brandy to be your beloved wife? Do you promise to be a tender and faithful husband? Do you promise to love and cherish her, in sickness and in health for richer or poorer, for better or worse and keep yourself only unto her? If so, say I do. (Drew says, “I do.”)
Brandy do you take Drew to be your beloved husband? Do you promise to be a tender and faithful wife? Do you promise to love and cherish him, in sickness and in health for richer or poorer, for better or worse and keep yourself only unto him? If so, say I do. (Brandy says, “I do.”)
RING EXCHANGE
May we have the rings please?
Rings are adornments, carefully chosen for their beauty and simplicity. They quietly sit upon our fingers, reminding us of the power of love and the pledge of the wearer to his or her partner to be faithful and true, and to nurture their love so it will last a lifetime.
Drew, will you give your ring to Brandy and repeat these words:
I give you this ring as a constant reminder of the promises we exchanged today. As you receive this ring, receive my promise of faithfulness to you. (Drew repeats)
Brandy, will you give your token to Drew and repeat these words:
I give you this ring as a constant reminder of the promises we exchanged today. As you receive this ring, receive my promise of faithfulness to you. (Brandy repeats)
May these rings be for you always your most treasured adornment, and may the love they symbolize be your most treasured possession.
CLOSING
Brandy and Drew asked me to include a passage this evening from St. Theresa, Saint of the Little Ways. St. Theresa believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. “Little ways” hold significance in any marriage - for Drew and Brandy those little ways exist in the thoughtful every day traditions that hold meaning for them, and make their life together special.
May today there be peace within.
May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others.
May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content with yourself just the way you are.
Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Drew and Brandy, having witnessed your vows of marriage with all who are assembled here, by the authority vested in me, and more importantly the trust you and your families have given me, I announce with great joy that you are husband and wife.
Drew you may now kiss your bride.
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Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The things you didn't know you forgot...
Last weekend Drew and I took a little trip up into the north Georgia mountains for some fall colors and quiet time. We decided to car camp (stay in one campsite - not pick up camp and backpack to a new one each day) and just enjoy - luxury compared to what we're used to! We armed ourselves with the hammock, new books, s'more makings, camp chairs, and - wait, where did our sleeping bags go!?
Yes, we forgot our sleeping bags... We realized this more than half way into the drive, and there was no turning back. Last time we car camped (engagement weekend) we didn't have our nice warm sleeping bags, so we made do with heavy blankets and an air mattress. So when I suggested this time that we take a blanket and put it under our sleeping pads for an extra layer of comfort (princess and the pea, right!?) and then our sleeping bags on top of all that - all Drew heard was "let's bring the blanket". Miscommunication at its best! Needless to say we both overlooked the lack of bags in our packing the evening before... We were cold, but at least we both could laugh (later) at what of course would end up a good story. I just kept thinking, "Well, that's one for the blog!"
We made it to camp Friday around 2pm and snagged the last "first come first serve" spot. Every other campground was booked for the weekend before we decided to go so we had to wing it and pray that there were open spots at a free-for-all campground. We found one at Lake Winfield Scott - our first attempt. We had two other options lined up as backup, but they were both another 20 minutes away. We watched as other folks just minutes after us did the slow loop around with full campers and trucks - but nothing was available.
Once parked, we went to turn in our fee and realized that we didn't have correct change - $24. We had two twenty dollar bills... Over the next twenty minutes out came every quarter, dime, nickel and penny between the seats in the truck, in the console, and out of my purse. And by golly, we found $4 - and it weighed about a pound - and it wouldn't fit in the envelope without going everywhere if we'd tried to put it in the payment slot. "Oh, but look here, they take checks!" Yeah...well, now we know where all our loose change is.
We spent Friday night around the fire with our books, dinner and s'mores, and then did an 8 mile loop to the top of Blood Mountain on Saturday. Check out the pics!
Monday, October 4, 2010
All things October...
I love October. All things, October. Leaves, chilly air, football, weddings, anniversaries, campfires, s'mores... It's my favorite time of year. It sort of snuck up on me this year due to a busy work calendar. It seems we came skidding into the end of the month with graduation ceremonies to plan, the biggest incoming class for orientation to take care of, and several other events and activities competing for time and energy.
And, true, several birthdays that went unnoticed by the blog (but not by the blog's author - oh, no!). A happy birthday to the lovely Jenn Krebs who is currently surviving week two of grad school and my mom who is busying, well, being retired! :) And a few Gym Hawk birthdays along the way, too.
So now that we've found ourselves in October, Drew and I are planning some things... A camping trip this weekend up in the north Georgia mountains, a celebratory 5K (our 1st one) to commemorate our 1st anniversary, and a trip to Savannah with Drew's parents. Pictures will follow, I'm sure of it.
For now, though, let's revisit one year ago, shall we!?
Monday, September 20, 2010
Introducing the newest nephew!
Hey, there! It's been awhile since the last post, I know. News was a little slow there for a minute...but then I went and got myself a new nephew! Yeah, I know - just like that! : )
Okay, no, this was planned. Rachel (Drew's sister) and her husband, Kurt, welcomed Thomas Steele Whalen into the world on September 8th. Mom, dad, big brother William, and Thomas are all home and doing well. I'll let Rachel share the pictures...for now I'm excitedly planning our next trip home and the first meet and greet!
Newborn hoodies, long sleeves and "My First Halloween" onesies? Yeah, I got the new fall line covered for my man, Thomas... : )
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Henry Ford Museum
So typically by this time in the year I'd be bragging about the Annual Killian Family Salmon Derby... Alas, this is the first year in ten that we got skunked. Though we were all present and accounted for (except the lovely Jenn) from across the country in late July, Lake Michigan just wouldn't cooperate - small craft warnings and big waves kept us off the water and out of the running for a record-breaking salmon haul. Instead we headed southeast towards the Motor City (Detroit for those who don't know...) and the Henry Ford Museum. Best way to make the most of a rainy, breezy day - inside with history, motors, two self-professed enginerds (I mean, ENGINEERS!) and a scientist (Jason, Drew and Grandpa).
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