My schedule looks like this right now: work...work out...eat...sleep. I feel like a robot.

Literally. I work 830-4, work second job 4-7, work out 7-8, eat dinner 8-9, and hopefully end up in bed around 10.

Kyle's schedule is exactly the same, so for right now, this works for us. I didn't really mean to be working this second, part time job each day but it sort of turned into that, which while Kyle has his second, part time job of coaching, it's fine. I'm counting on this only being the case for the Fall (hopefully!). And we're not psycho about working out, but until Oct. 29th when we run the 10k, we have to be.

And speaking of training for the 10k, its going ok. I just really don't enjoy running. It's not my thing. And I'm okay with it. So, I'll keep training to have done this once, but I think I'll be done with running long distances after that. Not to mention, my knees HATE me right now. I'm hoping changing shoes might work because my-knees-going-thumb-after-mile-3 probably isn't a good thing. ;)

In other news, I'm waiting for some fabric to arrive so I can attempt my first upholstery project. More deets and pics soon!

Kyle and I are officially signed up to run a 10k at the end of October.

For me, this is a big deal for several reasons:

1. I have weak knees and shin splints.
2. I don’t really enjoy running in general.
3. I’ve never really trained for a particular fitness goal.


I’ve always known I’ve had bad knees. However, the problem has become worse over the years after my right knee has been knocked out of socket twice, once my senior year of college and then the other two days before getting married. I’ve really worked at strengthening them but they’ve never fully improved. And knees are sort of essential for running longer distances. :) Also, I get shin splints, especially when consistently running on pavement.

I’ve never really trained for any sort of physical fitness goal – I do keep active and attend the gym multiple times a week but not for any specific reason besides staying healthy. This is Kyle’s area of expertise so hopefully he’ll keep me in line and give me good tips. :) I’m interested to see how I react to having to stay disciplined and work through the pain. I actually really want to run a mini marathon someday but just don’t know if my knees/shins can take it – so doing a 10k first should be a good indicator.

And lastly, I just don’t enjoy running long distances. I get easily bored. I’d much rather attend a gym class or outdoor activity where I don’t notice the time flying by and get just as good a workout. However, I've been trying to be more intentional about small goals like this one. I can keep saying I'll do it "someday" or I can just do it now. Plus, I know it will only be harder the older I get and the longer I wait.

So, here's to new goals and commitments to accomplishing new things!

Vacation

Our road trip in pictures...



First stop, Chattanooga:










Next up, Durham:

And then the Outerbanks:

Dream Job

Every now and then I have a sudden revelation of what my dream job would be. These mostly involved totally unrealistc opportunities that only a select number of people probably ever do. But one of those things that I think, "Gosh, that must be awesome to be the person that does _____!"

So, here's my most recent inspiration: The other day I saw a live version of Adele's songs 'Someone Like You' and 'Don't You Remember.' And I thought to myself, who is that guy playing the piano? I watched several live versions and in each one, it's the same man. Did he have to audition to play for her? Does she know him personally? I would like his job please. Seriously, I have total respect for an artist who has such a beautiful voice with only piano as an accompaniment, especially in this age of completely auto tuned voices. Maybe I'm just biased towards the piano. :)

I think this job appeals to me for several reasons: I would never want the job of the 'star.' I could never handle the pressure or all the eyes. But the job of the person playing the star's music, yes please. How many people actually remember who played the piano for famous artists? Nobody. Ok, well maybe the people who are supposed to know, but not the majority of people. Perfect. Less pressure but gorgeous music and the chance to play for incredible people. Ahhhhh.

So Adele, if you ever read this (ha!), I'm your girl!






More realistic personal goal: purchase piano in the next 6 mths to brush up on my skills and then volunteer in the church worship band. I'll keep you updated on my progress...

2-7 and Easter

This last week was full of family. And I loved every minute. I haven’t had my parents present for my birthday in quite some time (at least 6 years). We didn’t have anything extra special planned during their visit but it turned out exactly as I could have hoped for. I was able to take a few days extra off work and just spend time talking, shopping, and being together. I feel so fortunate to have parents that put an emphasis on keeping close relationships, even though we live miles apart. I have always felt so incredibly supported by them and this visit was no different. I know the sadness I felt after they left simply points to our strong bond and for that I am so grateful.



Easter is an extra special holiday to me, not only because of its spiritual significance but because my name carries an Easter meaning,‘abounding in life.’ Only once that I remember has my birthday fallen on Easter Sunday but I always love when it’s at least somewhat close. I love that my very essence in so many ways is tied to Easter.

I have been overwhelmed this last week by incredible family and also in the knowledge of what my Savior has done for me. My heart is so full.

Spring Cleaning, err crafting

So, the weather was on a warming trend and then suddenly it has been overcast and cold again. But the warm weather did spark a motivation for some spring cleaning...and crafting...despite the fact that some of it will have to wait until the temperatures begin to rise again.

I am especially ready for the weather to be warm so we can get out and work in our yard. Its amusing to me the things that become fun once you are a home owner. Home Depot is suddenly a magical place. Yard care is suddenly something I'm googling often. I would rather save up for home decor items or new furniture than for clothes or accessories. . .

This year we are prioritizing getting our yard in order. The lady who previously lived in our house did about zero landscaping upkeep and it shows! So as Spring has begun to arrive, we've already been hard at work clearing dead brush, raking up random piles of leaves (how did those get there!?) and planning out how to make a back yard oasis. Can't wait for the growing season! I'm envisioning lots of backyard barbques, yard games, smores around a fire pit, sunbathing, etc. :) :)

And until I can get my hands dirty outside, I've been doing a little spring crafting inside. Thanks to inspiration and a tutorial from this blog, I made two new pillows for our front porch swing...



It was actually my first time sewing pillows. And they are made from two napkins from World Market. The material is so sturdy, they feel like canvas - perfect for outdoors! I even made them with a flap on the back so I can change them out at any time. And honestly, it was pretty easy. :)


Also, a new Spring wreath for the front door...




Come on back Spring! I miss you!

An update on him

Due to some recent answers to prayer, I thought I'd update you on Kyle's new adventures these days...

1. New job - Kyle begins his new job on Monday as a Marketing Coordinator for USA Funds. Hooray! We've learned a lot through the process of waiting for a new job - I think mostly that God's timing is always better than our own. Don't get me wrong, there were a lot of struggles, frustrations, disappointments, etc along the way! Yet we had to humbly learn to trust and relinquish control to the One who holds every detail in His hands. We had to trust that opportunities we thought were perfect, He knew better. And that even in heartache and confusion, ultimate peace and fulfillment are found in our relationships with Him, not in the outcomes we wish to see happen. (Much easier said than done!) I also think our own relationship has grown in new ways as we together daily sought guidance, encouraged each other when we didn't understand, and surrendered our desires and control over to Him. In these times, I realize it's more about how we handle the process than what is the end result.

2. Freelance - Kyle has begun doing freelance work for a local businessman. He manages this man's website and is introducing him to the world of social media. It's a nice side gig that Kyle hopes to continue in the future with maybe more clients.

3. Podcast - Check out a feature arsenal.com did of Kyle and Joel's podcast while we were over in the UK: http://www.arsenal.com/usa/sh/usa/news/features/feature-arsenal-review-usa-in-london-.(I'm even in a few of the shots!) It's a great plug for their podcast and they since have had a large jump in followers! They also recently interviewed an ex-Arsenal player who is now a US scout for the club. And lastly, their podcast has picked up a sponser (soccerpro.com) which allows them to have giveaways and prizes on the show. I know both Kyle and Joel are excited about the future of the podcast as they continue to make contacts both locally and abroad!



We are so very thankful for the opportunities God has given us and look forward to what the future holds!

Our UK Vacation

Ps. 19:1
"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands."

I never cease to be amazed by our God's handiwork - especially whenever traveling to a new place. This was certainly the case on our recent vacation to the UK.

I could probably write post after post about all my favorite parts of the trip and hundreds of pictures, but I'll keep it short. We spent half our time in London and the other half in Edinburgh, Scotland.

London: I was most fascinated by all the old architecture and buildings that seemed endless. Not to mention being able to tour locations that you grew up reading about in your history books. Obviously the United States is not that old of a city in comparison to many other parts of the world. It was truly amazing to walk through castles and other parts of the city that have been there for hundreds and hundreds of years! And to stand so close to so many famous icons took my breath away.
We also got to attend two Arsenal soccer games while we were in London. And I have to say, there is nothing like experiencing a live European soccer match. It was the most fun I have ever had at a sporting event. The crowds, chanting, and momentum of the game are nothing like the sporting events here in the US. So worth it! Kyle and Joel were also interviewed by arsenal.com while we were there for a special video feature about overseas fans. We also got to meet several of the podcast's UK listeners. We will post a link once the feature is up so you can see it!
London is truly a diverse city, as are many large cities of the world. The fashions, types of people, multiple languages you hear constantly, etc reminded me we were quite a distance from home. I joked with Kyle numerous times on the trip that he missed the male skinny jeans and pointy shoes memo. ;)
One thing that surprised me about London - the affordable all natural/organic take-out food. Our favorite place to stop was a place called Pret a Manger. Apparently they have a couple locations in Chicago and NYC, which I will for sure look up next time I'm there! The food was incredible and so much cheaper than anywhere else! Dear Pret a Manger, please come to Indy asap!
To wrap up, I would visit London over and over! And next time, I plan on going when the weather is warmer. :)






Scotland: My Dad's side of the family is Scottish, so I was naturally very excited to visit Scotland. We took a train from London to Edinburgh half way through the week. The views from our train ride were spectacular and ranged from rolling hills and grazing sheep to sheer cliffs and ocean views. The city itself is built up on a hill and features old cobblestone streets and plenty of local shops and restaurants. We took one full day just to explore the city and the next day went out on an all day tour up into the highlands. The weather reminded me of Colorado summers - can be bright and clear one moment and within minutes a storm is blowing in.
I also learned more about our heritage. My maiden name 'Foster' comes from the Scottish clan 'Forrester.' The Forrester clan lived mainly in the city of Corstorphine, a suburb of Edinburgh. (Unfortunately, the old Corstorphine castle no longer exists.) Because there are so many small clans, most are found under a few core clans. Forrester comes under the main clan 'MacDonald.' Each clan has its own style of plaid, crest, etc and it was fun to walk through all the stores looking at your own clan's specific items. Needless to say, we had a blast exploring Edinburgh and I felt very proud to be from such a place!