A Rather Unusual Maiden for God

Butterfly Days - The New Blog

2012-01-15T19:07:00.000-08:00

A Rather Unusual Maiden for God
has moved!

You can read more about me at my new blog
"Butterfly Days"

There was a temporary problem with my blog a few months back but it is still up and running! Be sure to visit me!

Click here to go to my new blog
Butterfly Days
http://unusualmaidenbutterflydays.blogspot.com

Thanks!
~Rebecca

Wedding photos!

2011-09-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

I finally received my wedding photos!

As soon as I finish posting honeymoon pics

I will post the rest of these!
They will be posted on my new blog

http://unusualcouplebutterflydays.blogspot.com/

God bless,

~Rebecca

Butterfly Days

2011-09-22T23:03:00.001-07:00

Well everyone, its ready! My New Blog is up and running!
I have chosen a brand new look and a brand new name.
"Butterfly Days" is my new bloggy-world home!

I must thank you all for reading my blog and for all the friends I have made!

I will be making a few more tweaks here and there and the formal/official announcement of the transition over to Butterfly Days will be made here.

In the meantime... check it out and let me know what you think!!

God bless,
~Rebecca

p.s. getting wedding photos this weekend I hope!!

Life is Grand!!

2011-09-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
Life has been incredibly busy lately.
I am really enjoying having my own home, and my own husband.
Setting up our apartment has very enjoyable, and learning to cook for a family of two instead of a family of ten has taken some getting used to. :)

I recently had the flu... and my darling hubby took good care of me. Thankfully he didn't catch it from me.

Last week we had the youth group over for an activity night. 6 teens showed up with hungry tummies! Justin is their Sunday School teacher, and has recently been put in charge of the youth group. I am looking forward to future youth activities!

This past Saturday we went to the church to help with cleaning up the grounds for the Harvest Fest, my father-in-law treated us to fresh bakery goodies!

I will hopefully be posting wedding photos soon, they are done and I have to pick them up.

We also went to the Big E!!
That was alot of fun!

Keep an eye on my New blog for more photos and posts.
I will be making the complete transition to my new blog sometime this fall.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Married a Month

2011-09-12T08:24:00.000-07:00

I just realized...
We have been married a month already!

Awesome!

Still waiting for the official wedding photos, these were taken by one of Justin's friends. Thanks Tim!!

~Rebecca

Fun Times

2011-09-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

We recently celebrated a few birthdays for my mom and two of my brothers!
My family came over last week to visit so Justin and I had a small surprise birthday celebration for them! In the picture above my brother Collin is laughing at the gift we got him. It was a toy "cat food" can with little toy sardines in it. We filled it with candy for him. It was a fun evening!

This past Sunday was the official beginning of Justin and I heading up the youth ministry at his church. Justin has been teaching the teen Sunday School class for a few years now.
This past Sunday we had the teens reenact a Bible story from I Samuel 15.
Justin played Samuel, the girl played King Saul (she did a terrific job!)

Justin's cousin played King Agag.

We had alot of fun with the reenactment!
We will be having all the teens at our apartment soon for a youth activity... this should prove interesting!
**************************************************************************************

Married life is going well. Finding new things out everyday about each other! The most interesting thing I have learned about my Justin so far is......
He REALLY likes Chinese food! lol.

I love being married!!

So... made my first official newly-wed blunder that I can laugh about.

We needed to be at a place one evening for 6pm.
Since we had a busy day Justin and I decided to take a nap in the afternoon. I was in charge of setting the alarm for 5:30pm.
Which I did. However I set it for 5:30 AM.

By the time the mistake was discovered it was too late.

oops.

Next time I will double check the AM/PM!!!

God bless,
~Rebecca

p.s.
My husband wants to try our creative ability at doing a photo-comic blog type...thing.
I am not too sure if we could pull off the idea,
so he asked me to ask my readers if you think it would work?
What do you think??

keep checking my new blog for more honeymoon photos coming soon!
link on the sidebar.

Unpacking

2011-09-01T08:37:00.000-07:00

Slowly finding our belongings day by day... with boxes still here and there near and far between our parent's homes and our apartment. Still looking for my electric griddle and a box of hangers. The good news is that we do have the essentials, like clothes, dishes and towels!

I keep wondering where on earth I got so much junk- not to mention crazy enough to pack it! I am keeping the trash can full!

Finding small ways to decorate my home, Justin had these tiny little bud vases and the lily looked quite lovely.

Justin's grandparent's took us out for lunch one day. Aunt Jackie went too but I didn't get a picture of her.

It was very nice to spend time with all of them! Justin's grandparents and aunt are all very sweet. :)

God bless,
~Rebecca

Working on New Blog

2011-08-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

You can visit my new blog
for the first set of honeymoon pictures- still waiting for wedding photos!!
The blog is a work-in-progress, so designs and titles are not finalized yet, only temporary for now. the post itself is permanent.

Enjoy!

God bless,
~Rebecca

I'm Back!

2011-08-30T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!!
Justin and I finally got the internet to work at our apartment so I can finally check my email and start blogging again!

So, a quick hi to you all!

Our apartment is starting to take shape, we have been unpacking and organizing today. starting to get our home comfortable. Still have to dig for things occasionally! I really love having my own home.

Justin is doing a great job being a husband, I love being married!
I look forward to watching as our love and marriage grows and matures as the years go by.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Peek at Honeymoon Photos!

2011-08-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!!
Our honeymoon has been so wonderful and finally being married is very exciting.

We took a five day cruise last week to Canada aboard the beautiful Carnival Glory. The ship was unbelievably gorgeous and made a very nice home for our first few days as a married couple. It was without doubt a perfect honeymoon!

The food on the ship was phenomenal, it was very yummi and from the picture above you can see how fancy too! There were at least 6 or 7 different desserts TWICE a day EVERY day. That was just desserts, you should have seen the meals!!!

Every night we went to a special restaurant for dinner. I was very adventurous with what I ate... for me that is! This dish was a salmon dish. I have never eaten salmon before. It was delicious!

Our stateroom was perfect. We found a different towel animal every evening when we came back to our room after dinner :) my favorite was this little pooch.

We visited two ports on our cruise- St. John in New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia.
The photo above is the Reversing Falls of the John river and the Bay of Fundy.

The stunning Public Gardens of Halifax that we visited.

A photo of our ship from the port of Halifax. I actually liked Halifax better then St. John, although both ports were rich in history and beautiful.

So, one week left for our honeymoon, not sure yet what we are going to do, we started organizing our apartment this morning.

I love my husband!! And I love being married at last.
(sunset on last day of cruise)

God bless,
Rebecca.

p.s. you will be seeing more honeymoon pics and wedding photos soon! I can't wait to see the photos from the wedding!

Honeymoon hello

2011-08-18T00:24:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody!! Our honeymoon is going great and we loved the cruise so much! Justin and I went for a moonlight walk on the ships top deck one night- so romantic! The ship is gorgeous! Can't wait to post pictures! Hello to our families we love you all and miss you! Thanks mom for posting pics of the wedding. See you soon! Thanks for all the comments and to Katy- my husband is so awesome! God bless Justin and Rebecca.

2011-08-13T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hi to all of Rebecca's friends
We would like to thank all of you for your prayers for Rebecca and Justin!
God truly Blessed and answered prayers.
The weather was beautiful!
The wedding ceremony was also beautiful!

Rebecca's Dad and I were so proud and happy for her and Justin!
Here are just a few pictures to tide you over until she comes back :)

For you moms out there this was a joyous day for my husband and I,
but at the same time an emotional day as well.
We are so happy for Rebecca but there will be a void here for a while.
(Now we know what our parents went through :)

We appreciate your continued prayers as Justin and Rebecca
embark on this new exciting chapter of their lives.
God Bless, Kathy (Rebecca's mom)

Our Wedding Day

2011-08-12T00:55:00.000-07:00

To my dear readers:
You have followed our journey for two years,
Your prayers and encouragement have followed us along the way,
You have laughed with us,
maybe cried a little,
and smiled at our young love.

Today our Courtship continues into our Wedding day,
Its hard to believe that we are FINALLY getting married!

Please enjoy the photos below!

Customize a free picture slideshow

There will be a short break of posts on my blog.
But I will be back soon!

God bless,
~Rebecca and Justin

Tomorrow!

2011-08-11T12:13:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow afternoon I am getting married!!!!!!!!!!!

Finally!

Here are a few photos of our beautiful apartment!

Our spacious living-room and my handsome Fiance

Our lovely bathroom!

Our fantastic kitchen!

oh... and a sneak peak...

My handsome brother in the groomsmen's outfit.
He looks oh so dashing!

God bless,
~Rebecca

3 days!

2011-08-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Three days to go!
:)

We should be moving our stuff into the apartment tomorrow, and start decorating the church tomorrow night.

Rehearsal is Thursday night, please pray for the safety of all people traveling!

Also, please keep Justin's dad and my sister Stephanie in prayer- both have been sick/in pain for the past few days. Stephanie has swimmer's ear :( She is my jr bridesmaid. Justin's dad is the best man.

And please pray for Justin and I as we make the last minute preparations!

Thankyou!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Family Trip

2011-08-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

Last family trip to a local amusement park!

My favorite!!!!!!!!!

Caterpillar train!

The boat ride was very exciting!

The girl driving the boat let my brothers try driving too!!

Train ride!

My sweet little buddy!!!

My little brothers love trains!

We had a great time!

God bless!!

~Rebecca

7 days

2011-08-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Seven days to go.

:)

God bless,
~Rebecca

Sweet Relief

2011-08-04T14:29:00.000-07:00

We finally got an apartment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just have final paperwork and we move our things in Tuesday.
Please pray that goes smoothly

Thankyou so much to everyone who prayed for and encouraged us!

*Sweet sweet relief*

God bless,

Rebecca and Justin

Flower Girl and Junior Bridesmaid

2011-08-01T18:55:00.000-07:00

Here is Kitty's very pretty flower girl dress! She is soo adorable in it!

Kitty's hair test. I was trying to be creative with her bun. I have never tried this before.
I made the little hair barrette for her

My little princess :)

Any comments on the bun? Does it look good?
She loved it!!!!

And we found a jr Bridesmaid dress! My sister is incredibly petite and thin so it took a while. I am going to add a purple sash or ribbon to the waist.

My sisters are going to look adorable!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Thanks and Updates

2011-08-01T13:34:00.001-07:00

I just want to say a quick thankyou to all those who have been reading my blog and offering so much a encouragement and all those little bits of advice!

The hungry-all-the-time has stopped, I think it was stress related. I received some very interesting and funny comments on this hungry business... the answer to those questions is no.

Wedding planning going pretty smooth... finally.

Apartment hunt is soon to be over!! I am so relieved!
Justin is still working third shift, and we have been looking for an apartment that would allow us to save some of his income for a better place when we start our own little family.
He is also trying to find a 1st or 2nd shift job instead of 3rd.
But for now he will be working third shift.

Since our two year anniversary mark we have held hands a few times on a few special occasions... but by next week... I can hold his hand whenever I want to!!!

I woke this morning and thought... "I am getting married next week?"

Its about time! lol

God bless,

~Rebeccca

Apartments, 12 days to go

2011-07-31T12:38:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Justin and I are getting closer to getting an apartment. Please continue to pray!

We went to see one Saturday, and we will hear on Monday if we can get it or not.
Please pray that if we do not get it that we will trust the Lord that He has the perfect home for us somewhere else.

12 days to go!

God bless,
~Rebecca

16 Days!

2011-07-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

So, 16 days to go!
The wedding is on the same day as my youngest brother's birthday.
He asks me EVERY day, "How many days till my birthday???"
We are planning a surprise for him at the reception.

For me time has been dragging by..... Very. Very. Slowly.
For Justin time is flying by!
He tells me I am crazy to think it is dragging.
:) Maybe.

We are getting closer to finding an apartment, I am praying we could get it early enough to start moving our things in. The Lord has blessed us with a table and chairs, a couch, and a few other pieces of furniture.

I am pretty much done packing. Just a few things left to pack up, like my bed lamp and clock and so on.

I have been out shopping for things for our home, mostly now its cleaning stuff I have been buying. One of my bridesmaids gave me a shower gift of home essentials, like dish soap and garbage bags. BIG blessing! Thankyou Jordan!!!

Question for my readers...
I am hungry all the time and it is driving me crazy!
I keep trying to eat more protein and fruit, doesn't help.
For the past four weeks I have been dealing with this and its getting very annoying. Anyone know if this is cause by pre-wedding stress?

God bless,
~Rebecca

Ponies

2011-07-27T10:23:00.001-07:00

Justin went to a local comic convention a few weeks ago and while there got this little portrait of us done as "My Little Ponies"

I just had to share this with you all because it is just so cute and funny! The artist even gave him a goatee!!!

Anyways, thankyou everyone for your prayers and encouragement, we have found several more apartments to look into and pray about! And I am doing better trusting the Lord.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Our Rings

2011-07-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

We got our wedding bands!!!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Lord, I Need You

2011-07-23T18:21:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
As I write this post in my heart I am praying and praying.
The past two weeks have been very hard for me.
I have struggled so much with trusting the Lord.

With just twenty days to the wedding, I am excited and happy...
but I am also worried.

We still have not found an apartment, and have looked at eight so far.
With each new apartment that doesn't work out my heart sinks lower.

I want to trust the Lord,
not worry about the apartment and focus on the excitement I should be feeling now that I will finally marry Justin.

My friends have been so encouraging, and so many people are praying for us.
I really want to trust the Lord. But it has not been easy.

I would greatly appreciate your prayers for us.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Corsages and Boutonnieres

2011-07-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

What do you do,
when you need corsages and boutonnieres for your wedding,
and real flowers cost $186 total?

You find another option.

I created all the bouts and corsages needed for parents and grandparents for my wedding.
I bought fabric flowers (roses, leaves, small daisies) at a dollar store.
I found at home 2 shades of purple ribbons, floral tape, craft wire, sewing items and wire cutters.
I looked up images of corsages and bouts online and then set to work

The finished product.

All in all I made about 14 (parents, grandparents, and other assorted wedding assistants) over the course of 6 hours

What would have cost $186 cost only $6

I saved us $180!!!!!

God is good!

God bless,
~Rebecca

O Rejoice in the Lord

2011-07-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

This song blessed my heart recently when I was so discouraged with the wedding planning and the hunt for an apartment. The other night that Justin while trying to comfort me sang this to me. It worked. :)

God bless,
~Rebecca

Wedding checklist

2011-07-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

With less then a month to go I thought you would all like to see what is going on in my world....

Wedding Music- Had meeting with Pianist-trying to arrange a meeting of the singers with the pianist to practice. Our tenor dropped out... we are looking for another one. This was unexpected.

Order of Ceremony : finally completed and a copy has been sent off to pastor

Wedding Dress: Had the last fitting and its all ready!

Hair test: went very well, I chose a style, it looks awesome!

Decorations- arch, lights, tulle, curtains - we need to find these at the church. They seem to have vanished. The last wedding at my church was in 2008, and since then things got moved around. There will be two more weddings besides ours between August and January, so they need to be found.

Reception: -I have a meeting the 26th with the hall to confirm things, guest count and so on. I think we are discussing the cake then too.

Bridesmaids and dresses- check- but all the dresses have to be altered. :( That is being worked on. Jessica's dress came in way too small. All the others are the right size but fit very odd.

Groomsmen and whatever they're wearing: -check, Justin is getting the guys sizes now. I believe they are renting.

flowers: - have been ordered from the florist, I will be making the silk flower bouts and corsages for parents and grandparents this week. (hopefully)

Aisle runner: $20 one at Walmart

Rehearsal and dinner- I have to work on that. Dinner hopefully is pizza. Nothing fancy.

Pictures: checked off Had the meeting with the photographer, all set there. please pray for our Photographer as his wife recently passed away.

unity candle: Check, $7 for my set

autograph picture frame: Check, found one at A.C. Moore

card basket: Check.

rings -We have Justin's ring, mine is ready but hasn't been picked up yet.

other things...........
-Need to find someone for the sound system
- I have to figure out the who whats when and wheres for the morning of the wedding.

- I need to make table numbers for the reception.
- I will be working on seating chart this week hopefully.
- Justin and I are going to do the marriage license next week

- I talked to Justin about what we want for video and we are going to discuss it some more
- getting ready to start packing for honeymoon.

- Apartment....
We would both greatly appreciate your prayers as we are having some difficulty finding a place to live. With less then a month to go the lack of an apartment has me very worried. I am trying not to worry about it and trust the Lord, but it has not been easy.

I keep getting asked if I am "nervous" about marriage yet................

Well..............

No.

I am very excited!

The wedding itself? Now that is a different story.
I am worn out and can't wait to wake up August 13th give my hubby a hug and shout at the top of my lungs.....

"I DON'T HAVE TO PLAN A WEDDING ANYMORE!!!!!!"

That will be awesome!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Sparkles

2011-07-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Guess what I picked up today???

:)

And that is the only hint that you are going to get.

God bless,
~Rebecca :)

Summer Fun!

2011-07-15T12:09:00.000-07:00

To take a break from wedding planning,
You splash with your little sister in the pool!
We sure had fun!

God bless,
~Rebecca (and Kitty!)

1 month to Go!

2011-07-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

One month to Go!!!!!!!!

Our Honeymoon is booked,
Reception decor is all bought,
Flowers have been ordered,

and...
Still searching for an apartment.

God bless,
We appreciate all your prayers!
~Rebecca & Justin

My Bridal Shower

2011-07-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

My Bridal Shower was just this past Saturday! It was quite the event, and to be honest, rather odd for me to be the center of attention!

A big surprise was who my maid-of-honor and my mom picked out to do the devotional!
This is Sarah B., she actually taught several classes Justin and I took during college! Sarah and her husband have been a huge influence on our lives, and such a wonderful example of a godly marriage. She talked about Psalm 37.

It was a very weird feeling to be at the shower... I am really getting married? This is all for us?
Crazy! :)

Many wonderful friends and family from near and a few from far!
I saw some faces I haven't seen in years!

Such lovely bows, ribbons, cards and gifts! Many cards were filled with such sweet words from people who have known me since I was small!

Opening the gifts! The two little girls there were very "helpful" :) One is my sister, Katelyn the other is my cousin Madison.
At one point they both said "I think you have enough gifts now, you don't need anymore!"

A pretty wedding rings blanket was one of the gifts! Justin's mom gave this to us!

Haley and Galina helped put all the gifts away! :)

A special thanks to

Galina- Maid of Honor
Jordan- Bridesmaid
Haley- Bridesmaid
Jessica- Bridesmaid
Stephanie- Jr Bridesmaid
My Mom
Justin's Mom
My grandmothers!

and....... Janierra!!!!!

Enjoy the rest of the photos in the Smilebox below!

Free scrapbook design customized with Smilebox

God bless,
~Rebecca

New Hampshire Wedding Trip

2011-07-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

I recently attended the wedding of one of Justin's friends.
The trip up to New Hampshire was long! I went with Justin's family and a friend who was a bridesmaid for the wedding.

Since we "kids" (Justin and I, Jessica and her friend Jenn)
all fell asleep on the way up there was no
"Are we there yet?"
:)

The wedding was held in a catholic church,
and I had never been to a catholic wedding before, so it was interesting.

Heather and Eric

The Kiss.
Awwwwww.
I was crying at parts of the wedding. lol.
Only because my own wedding is so close now!

The Happy Couple.

Justin's family.

My Man and I.
With only 5 weeks till the wedding, things are getting stepped up a notch.
Every day I realize that I need to do something, call someone, or go somewhere. Or that I have forgotten something!

Justin's apartment hunt is still going strong, although he has looked at a few already.

There are moments I realize just how close the wedding is... and its crazy!
After two years together it is still hard to believe we are finally getting married.
Its hard to believe that in five weeks I won't be living at this house anymore, but at a different place.
Its hard to believe I am leaving my family and starting a new one.
Its hard to believe I am leaving my church to join his.
Its hard to believe that I am finally going to be with him.

Its hard to believe.
But its all real!

God is good,
~Rebecca

Family Trip

2011-07-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

We recently went on our last family trip down to the coast.
We visited a fort and an aquarium.

Mom and I

My favorite pic!
Mr. Penguin says hello to my brother!

My and my little siblings at the penguin exhibit!

My other favorite photo.

Mom and Dad with the little ones!

The 5 little people!

By the Beluga Whale exhibit

We had a great time together!

39 days to go till the wedding- that is amazing!

God bless,
~Rebecca

45 days

2011-06-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

45 days to go.

Seems like yesterday we were at 345! lol

We have his wedding band now, still have to go get mine.
But I thought you all would like to see it! He got a tungsten band.
It fits him perfectly. :)

God bless,
~Rebecca

Meeting Katy and Jason

2011-06-23T17:49:00.000-07:00

Monday, June 20th 2011.

Justin came over for supper and after the dishes were done and all we sat on the couch and looked at apartments online. Our attention was elsewhere since we were waiting for Katy and Jason to arrive!

Around 8:38pm I got the text from Katy "We are here!"

8:39pm I was running outside to meet here!
With great laughter and joy Katy and I got to meet each other for the first time and give great big hugs! Jason and Justin just stood there enjoying this crazy excitement.

Katy and I!
I still can't believe we pulled this off! We owe it to the Lord for working this out, and a big thanks to Katy's husband for bringing her down to visit!

Here we all are!
So that was Monday.

Tuesday morning came, I still couldn't believe that Katy and Jason were here! It felt like a dream! lol
Jason here was playing with my sisters while Katy showed me her wedding photos online.

Later that day Katy and I went out shopping together for wedding stuff and some blouses and skirts. It was so much fun! Jason went with Justin to help him pick out clothes for the groomsmen for the wedding.

By the time Katy and I got back to the house the guys were still out. My parents had arranged to take us all out for dinner that evening.
So, for the fun of it- Katy and I got all fancied up for our guys.
Justin was surprised when he saw me.
It was SO MUCH FUN!

We went to Ruby Tuesday for supper, and ended up swapping meals.
lol.

Don't we look cute? :)

After dinner we went on a tour of my home church, Katy played piano and we sang a few hymns together.

Sweet memories

It was too funny how the guys were both wearing green!
Aren't we a pair of cute couples???

My dad took this photo, its hanging on the wall in my church.

That verse is so true!
We finished Tuesday evening by watching a few episodes of "I Love Lucy"

On Wednesday Jason played with Katelyn one last time.

She adopted Jason! :)

Those two were so funny together.

My sisters loved spending time with Katy and Jason!

Wednesday afternoon Katy and Jason left for Florida, I miss her already!
This meeting was such a gift from God!

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Rom 8:28

So, looking forward to someday seeing her again!

I got let in on her news during the visit.
:)
You can visit Katy's blog here 110% Surrendered.

God bless,
~Rebecca

110% Surrendered meets A Rather Unusual Maiden for God

2011-06-22T11:35:00.000-07:00

You all know that I am friends with Katy from 110% Surrendered.
Well, we met through blogging and were pen pals for two years. We joked about how awesome it would be to meet someday... but impossible right?

Well, with God all things are possible!!!!!!!!!

The story of how it all happened is coming soon!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day Dad!
This is my great grandma, me, and my Dad.

And well.... 22 years later and the family has grown a bit!

Happy Father's Day daddy!

We all love you!

We are in the 50s!

2011-06-15T18:52:00.000-07:00

We just hit the 59 and counting days till the wedding!

I am actually feeling better about the planning of late, asking Crystal to be the coordinator was a great idea. (Thanks Katy for the suggestion of getting one!) She has been very helpful and right on target. It helps to have someone else be in charge.

We are currently debating the goatee or no-goatee for Justin for the wedding. I personally love the look of it.

:)
But its still being discussed.

So, good news, Justin bought our rings today!!!!!!! He has his ring now, mine is getting re-sized.

And more good news, no reaction to the make-up!!! Thank you to all who prayed!

And last but not least,
Katy and Jason are coming to visit next week! I am so excited! We have been friends for two years and haven't met yet. :(
Its been a fun relationship, sorta pen-pals I guess. She has been a huge blessing and encouragement to me!

Another blessing,
Justin has been able to come visit once or twice a week every week. This has been so encouraging to me. I don't see him as much as I used to during college, and I miss him. I am so thankful he takes the time to come visit, even when he is busy. I am very blessed!

God bless,
~Rebecca!

2 months and counting

2011-06-12T18:30:00.000-07:00

So much happened this past week!
Everyday this week I was able to accomplish something for the wedding! It was such a blessing!

Sunday: gave music sheets for the wedding to our pianist

Monday: Janierra and I ran to Savers, the dollar store and a few other places and got some decorations, gifts for wedding helpers, the unity candles and a few other items!
We found 3 candles for $4!! normally Unity candle kits are $30-50.

We also found a basket for $1.50 at Savers, and bought wildflowers sprays at a dollar store for $2.00

Tada! A flower girl basket! Another $30-$40 item at stores.
We made one for 3.50!! I also made Katelyn a matching hair barrette for the wedding.

I am so happy I saved myself about $70.00! God is good.

Tuesday: met with wedding coordinator. We got alot of work done!

Wednesday: worked on some things my wedding coordinator and I had discussed the day before

Thursday: made many phone calls and emails! found out more info about decorating the church, and contacted some people with reception questions.

Friday: Justin and I worked on bridal party gift list and on our vows.

Saturday: went for my first fitting for my wedding dress!!!!!!!!!!! IT IS SO BEAUTIFUL!
Justin ordered bridesmaid gifts. worked on flowers some more with Justin's mom.

Sunday (6/12/11):
picked a photographer, got more music to our pianist, found another potential song for the wedding. Coordinator found a few useful items from her wedding for me to borrow
did the Make-up trial
*PLEASE pray I do not have an allergic reaction. We used all hypo-allergenic and prayed the entire time. If I have a reaction then....... not only is it money wasted but I will have red swollen eyes and a fever. I tried regular make-up once when I was 18 and two days later I experienced a reaction. Hopefully tho the hypo-allergenic will not cause a reaction.

So that was my week!
Planning is alright, but its not my favorite thing in the world. I am thankful though to be planning my wedding.
:)
But I am looking forward to all this hard work paying off!

God bless,
~Rebecca

1 year later....

2011-06-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

Exactly one year ago on this day my best friend in the whole world asked me to marry him.
He is the dearest, sweetest, handsomest and best!

So, one year later.........
We are 2 months away from our wedding!
Life is getting very busy with the planning, apartment hunting, shopping, meetings with people, phone calls, emails, research, discussions, and the general insanity of it all.

I have been very discouraged and tired with the planning of late, but Katey and her husband Jason gave me a call and they were both very encouraging! They shared the many things God has done for them with their planning.

It is so neat how God brings people into our lives just when we need them most.

I hope Justin and I can encourage other couples someday too!

God bless,
~Rebecca

2 months and 1 week!

2011-06-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

Two months, 1 week.
9 Sundays-to-Saturdays.
68 days.

This is it.
The last long uphill climb.

Trying to get it all done, and stay sane at the same time.

Have considered eloping more then once.
(lol don't we all???)

Can't wait till all this hard work pays off.

Feeling a little stuck with the planning at the moment.

Alot going on this coming week though, hopefully get stuff done.

Will see my dress Saturday!!!!!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Memorial Day Picnic

2011-06-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

For Memorial Day this year my family and I went up to visit Justin's family for a picnic.

Anna and Leah trying to stay in the shade.
The morning started with a thunderstorm and lots of rain. But later turned into sunny weather.

Justin's dad manned the grill. The food was plentiful and yummi!

Caleb was very excited for this rare opportunity to drink soda. We don't drink much soda. Personally I don't even like soda! :)

Matthew and I.

It was so nice to be here.
:)
The last time my whole family was here was almost a year ago when Justin proposed!

My very awesome (and very handsome!) Fiance and I.
His t-shirt is a "tea" shirt.
:)
We have been able to see each other at least once a week since College graduation. I miss him alot, but I am very blessed. Some of my engaged friends won't see their fiances till my wedding. (two guys are in the bridal party)

70 days to go!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Jordan's Sister, Katey and Jason

2011-06-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

This is Jordan (one of my bridesmaids) and her sister Amber.
Amber was married this past Saturday as well! She and her husband actually visited my church Sunday morning on their way to their honeymoon.

And I heard from Katey on Monday morning before she and Jason set off for their honeymoon. She is really enjoying being married, and she said the wedding went well!

"we just wanted to let u know we love u all so much and are so blessed to have u in our lives! we r having so much fun together and have been so blessed! it was worth waiting for God is so good! love u all :) and thank u so much for making our wedding day perfect! neither of us would have changed a thing!" -Katey

She probably won't be blogging for a bit for those who are curious.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Congratulations to Jason and Katy!

2011-05-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

Katy sent me a few pics via text to share!

So here is your sneak preview of this beautiful bride!
We have kept in touch over the weekend. I am so happy for you Katy!

Congratulations to Katy and Jason on their wedding today!
My prayers are with you for all things to go smoothly, and blessings on you both as you start your new home together. May God richly bless you both!
Big Thanks to Katy for being there to discuss wedding plans with me!
She is a dear friend and a sweet girl. You got a sweet one Jason!

Katy and I have been pen pals and friends for about 2 years now. Our friendship was forged on the common grounds of being two girls who desire to serve God with all of our lives , to love our guys with all of our hearts, and to manage to plan a wedding and remain sane through it all.
:)

Blessings on your wedding day!
God bless,
~Rebecca, Justin, and our families.

Happy Birthday Galina!

2011-05-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

Happy 20th Birthday Galina!
I miss you very much and hope your birthday celebrations go well!
20 is so exciting!
May the Lord richly bless your year and give you many more to come!

Love, your Becca

And Yet Another Bride

2011-05-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Amanda& Bruce!
Today at a beautiful waterfall, Bruce proposed to his dear girlfriend Amanda!

That makes four brides! I am so excited!
This was our table at the Valentine banquet this past year. It is thrilling to know that we four couples sat together all with the one God created for us.
Its exciting to see God working in all our lives and as we all prepare for marriage.

So please pray for us!

Justin & Rebecca
Kris & Yessenia
Mark & Melissa
Bruce & Amanda

All the guys are from the graduating class of 2011!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Someone asked if any of these couples were involved with my wedding,
Yes some are!
Mark and Bruce are groomsmen, and Yessenia is doing the makeup for me and my girls.
All the couples are coming to the wedding.
:)

Reception decorations

2011-05-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

After much thought I decided upon Flower garlands for decorating the tables at the reception.
Justin's mom has found 7 so far.
I am not going to have the garlands be all identical, as I want a garden like atmosphere.
I also plan to add little butterflies to the garlands

I looked into feather butterflies, but they are $3 a piece for small ones. So I found some coloring page butterflies and will be making them out of paper. Much cheaper! My sister, Stephanie and my brother Collin have been helping me color them in. Afterwards the plan is to cut them out, glue a wire on the back and attach them to the garlands.

Katelyn made this one for me :) Isn't it cute?
I'm going to trim it a little closer and use it.
I don't plan on all the butterflies looking realistic. I know my siblings will feel very special in knowing they had a part in preparing for the wedding.
I love the idea of each butterfly being unique.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Flowers, Rings and Decorations

2011-05-21T18:01:00.000-07:00

I had a very productive weekend!
Justin and I picked out our wedding bands, and I am very excited about that.
:)

We also got our first price for a florist.

The idea for the bridesmaids are calla lilies held like the picture above...

but in these colors.

This is an idea for my bouquet .

And Justin's mom and I picked up some decorations for the reception.
I decided on flower garlands for the tables. I don't have any pictures yet, but you will all see some in due time!

It's getting so busy and exciting around here!

God bless,
~Rebcca

Another Bride!

2011-05-20T11:59:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Mark and Melissa!
Mark recently proposed and we are all excited!
Melissa is the third bride-to-be!

So, here we all are! This photo was taken at the valentine banquet this year.
So- first Justin and I will be tying the knot, then Kris and Yesse, and then Melissa and Mark!
Whew... all these weddings!

Mark is one of Justin's best friends from the college. All the guys know each other pretty well, and we girls are getting to know each other now too.

So exciting!

On that note, the wedding planning is really starting to get busy for me! Getting things done slowly but surely!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Class of 2011

2011-05-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

Bible College Graduation,
Class of 2011!

Both teachers and graduates alike met in the upper room of the church a half hour before the ceremony was to begin. Preparation for the grand event was soon underway.

Candee smiles for me!

I was not too thrilled about the cap... But thankfully it didn't fall off!

Justin getting ready

He looked so handsome in his cap and gown! :)

Meanwhile, my sisters and my cousin await in the church! My grandparents, and aunt came for my graduation. Justin's grandparents and some extended family also came to help celebrate.

We all walked down the aisle to "Pomp and Circumstance"

One of Justin's best friends, and a groomsman for our wedding, Mark.
He received an award for Christian Leadership and Service, along with his Diploma.
Congrats Mark!

Mr. R, Salutatorian for our class

Jared, Valedictorian.
Congrats to both Mr. R. and Jared!

Dr. Horton preached, and gave a charge to the class.

I received my Bible Certificate.

Justin graduated with Bachelor of Biblical Studies,
Secondary Education, History Major, English Minor.
I am so proud of him!

Dr. Townsley.

One of my teachers and dear friend, Mrs. M with my little brother Jeremiah.

My siblings with Joy.

Mrs. Townsley and I, another one of my teachers.

Bruce & Amanda.
:)

Justin's Dad and I.

My best friend, Galina! I was so happy she was here to see me graduate!
I was very happy she was able to come to my graduation.

Justin and I with my parents.

We made it! A bittersweet moment, I will miss everyone.

Well, here is Collin, my brother.
He hopes to graduate someday.
He will be starting College this fall.
But in the meantime he will just borrow Justin's cap :)

I still can't believe Justin and I are done with College! God is good!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Graduation!

2011-05-17T17:33:00.000-07:00

More photos coming soon!

God bless,
~Rebecca

My Sunday

2011-05-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

Galina spent the afternoon with me today!
:) I was so happy!

I can't believe she is really here!
I finally was able to show her all the wedding stuff, my planning notebook, my decorations, my headpiece and my necklace!
It has been one of the top 5 greatest surprises anyone has given me

The graduating class of 2011! I'm so proud of Justin!
This is the largest group in the last 7 years to have known each other all since they were Freshmen back in 2007
(11 out of the 13 are from 2007)
The sad part is, these kids are the heart and soul of the day college, they will be missed!
The good news is, they are graduating and taking the next step serving the Lord..... and wedding bells I hear for some.
:)

Congrats guys!

God bless
~Rebecca

Sweet Surprise

2011-05-14T18:29:00.001-07:00

(Rebecca and Galina June 2010)

This evening was the College Commencement Concert at my church,
Before I went into the church I got a text from Justin....
"If you see a certain someone have them come sit with us,"
I was very confused.

I went into the auditorium and there was a dear face I haven't seen in almost a year!
My dear Galina came up from down South to surprise me and to come to my graduation Monday! Lina is my best friend and maid-of-honor.

I gave her a great big hug and just cried... I have missed her so much! It's been hard being states away from each other especially now that I am getting married.

:)

I still can't believe it!

God bless,
~Rebecca

How do you put 98 invitiations together?

2011-05-13T12:10:00.000-07:00

You throw a party!
Some of my friends came over last week to help me put together all of the invitations!

It went very well, and we finished them all in an hour and a half.

Everyone had their own job to do, and as they say,
"Many hands make light work"

It was a wonderful way to complete a task that might have been dull, long and boring!

Justin found these beautiful invitations for $30 total on clearance at Walmart!

It is such sweet relief to know its done!

L-R: Jordan (bridesmaid), Jessica(bridesmaid), Sarah and Elisabeth (cousins), Me, Joy(friend from college), Janierra (friend from college and my helper!)

God bless,
~Rebecca

Senior Trip to Boston... Old North Church to the USS Constitution... and a surprise!

2011-05-10T04:04:00.000-07:00

Statue of Paul Revere

In the Paul Revere Mall.

The guys in "deep contemplation" over this statue.

Mark was trying so hard not to laugh! College guy humor... gotta love it!

"One if by Land, Two if by Sea,"
The famous Old North church.

Charles Wesley preached in this church for 6 weeks.

The sense of history about this building is thrilling to us history buffs!

We stopped in at Copp's Hill burying ground.

And my favorite stop... Bunker Hill.

It was such a lovely, beautiful, welcoming place...

...To promptly collapse on the grass worn out and exhausted from walking so many miles.
(Tim made the colors weird)

So some of us slept on Bunker Hill.
Thinking all the while about the famous battle that took place here.

Amanda and boyfriend Bruce taking a much needed rest.

Dr. Joseph Warren.
A true Hero.

Tim's epic moment.
The USS Constitution, aka "Old Ironsides"

Justin checking out the Helm.

I think this was a WWII ship.

So after a while we headed to the harbors........

Kriss and Yesse moments before.....

....the moment they will cherish forever.

Kriss proposed!!!!!!!!

Yesse was so happy! But unable to get ahold of anyone to tell the good news for a bit!
(sound familiar... same thing happened to Justin and I)

The highlight of the trip.
:)
Congrats to Yesse and Kriss!!

Although I nearly passed out toward the end of the day, although we were all so sore, although we all got sunburns... we had a terrific time and want to do it again!!!

That's all folks!

God bless,
~Rebecca

25 years

2011-05-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

May 10th, 2011

Happy 25 years of marriage to my Mom and Dad!!!

May God richly bless you both!

~God bless
~Rebecca

Senior Trip to Boston...Old State House to Paul Revere's House

2011-05-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

The Old South Meeting House

The Old State House... near the site of the Boston Massacre.

A colonial lady enjoying modern technology....

We stopped at Quincy Market for lunch.

Outside Quincy Market a street performer did some stunts to amaze us all.

Now look at that!
He gave me a great smile for the picture!!!!
awwwww.... :)

The Holocaust Memorial.

Numbers of the Jewish prisoners killed during the holocaust are etched onto the glass walls of all 6 towers.

Quotes by survivors were also on the glass.

My favorite photo of us from the whole trip.

A local seafood restaurant had some fun scaring us half to death with a "leaping" lobster.
We thought it was just a display till it "jumped" up and hit the window.
Propelled of course by a cook. We had a good laugh afterwards. This wasn't the only interesting picture taken by Tim...

Tim took these too.
Hmmmm.... looks like we are holding hands.

Nope! Gotcha! :)

Now some maybe rolling their eyes... lol.
:)

Me looking back at the sneaky photographer...

The Sneaky Photographer smirking.

On our way to a famous dwelling.

The door to the left is Paul Revere's home!

Kriss contemplates the balconies.
Mark and Justin contemplate that massive chain.

Bruce & Amanda contemplate the cameras.
Alyssa contemplated flowers.

While Yesse contemplated about her darling Kriss.
Something big was brewing.... but you will just have to wait! We are getting there.

My epic man. :)

Candee and Alyssa.

Next part coming soon!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T12:11:00.000-07:00

Senior Trip to Boston.... Boston Commons to the Latin School

2011-05-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

Here are the first set of photos from the trip!
Enjoy!

photos by Me,
Tim, Yesse and Amanda

On the long long long ride to Boston, Kriss gave us a devotional.

Justin did too! :)

We arrived at Boston at last.
Our first spot to find... a restroom please!!!

We found one! While we gals are waiting in line.... Tim takes a pic.
funny funny Tim.
Our faces show our "joy" at being photographed.

Boston Commons
This was my first time to Boston.

Yesse taking it all in with her boyfriend Kriss.
The couple behind are the W.s, our chaperones.

A lovely morning.

Justin and I!

Candee, Alyssa and Janiqua.

Walking around Boston Commons

The weather was beautiful.

A Freedom Trail guide.

An important looking building that I didn't get the name of.

A Civil War monument.

"yeah... nice statue... but look at this!!!"
Apparently there was something even more fascinating about the tree then that stunning statue. I can't remember what! lol but this pic is hilarious!

Yesse probably knew what that building was....

Next we visited Cranary Burial ground

Exploring the graveyard

Paul Revere's tomb.

John Hancock's marker is just as bold as his signature.

Most of the markers have skulls on them.
Kinda creepy....

Benjamin Franklin's parents are buried here.

Ben Franklin's statue by the First Public Latin School.

Stand in opposition.... ?

Ahhhh, a donkey. I get it!
(Republicans and Democrats)

Yesse stand in opposition... to the donkey and her boyfriend.
lol.
:) by the way... this day was a BIG day for Yesse and Kriss...
But you will have to wait to find out!
next post soon!

God bless!
~Rebecca

Coming Soon.... photos from Senior Trip!

2011-05-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

Coming soon....
photos from the college senior trip to Boston, Mass!

God bless,
~Rebecca

99 days till Our Day

2011-05-05T00:54:00.000-07:00

99 days till Our Wedding Day !!!!!!

Wow!

God is good!
And I still can't believe I am planning my wedding!

God bless,
~Rebecca and Justin

Three and a Half Months to Go!

2011-04-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

In three and a half months I am getting married!!!!!!!!
In about 2 weeks Justin and I officially graduate college, I am very excited about that!

God's grace is abounding in our lives right now,
and He is keeping us strong as the time draws nearer.
I have seen so many miracles happen!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Wedding Planning- A Joy to be "Endured"

2011-04-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

Wedding planning is VERY exciting!
But at times, it is exhausting.
And the harder it is to "get things to work"-
the more God gets the glory when things finally come together.

He has preformed miracle after miracle with the planning. Through this whole experience I am learning more and more that I simply need to trust my Savior, and trust Justin.
Justin often reminds me not to worry, "Just trust the Lord dear, God knows exactly what He is doing, and it is all going to come together,"

My man is very sweet.
I've seen him tired from work and school, and just plain worn out- but still adamant that if I need him to just let him know.

It is so nice to have someone I can depend on like that,
to always forgive me for a lousy attitude,
or be patient with me when I just need someone to listen.
to forgive me,
And all along still thinking I'm the best gal around!

:)

It is so worth it to wait on the Lord for your man!
Don't get discouraged young ladies, Someday when your man is calling you just to say good morning to you-remember- its worth it!

God bless!
~Rebecca

Amazing

2011-04-20T11:50:00.000-07:00

I'm Looking Unto Jesus

2011-04-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

My home church recently had a Bible Conference that went from Sunday to Thursday, with chapels each morning and a service each night. I was able to go on Thursday for the morning chapels, and got to spend part of the time with Justin! :)

I thoroughly enjoyed the preaching and it was SO NICE to spend some time with Justin!!
The last sermon of the conference was about allowing God to do the impossible and trusting Him. For the past few days I have been really discouraged with some problems with the wedding planning... so the sermon was a huge blessing.

When I can't go on anymore...when I am weary, worn and want to quit and can only say "God, I can't- but I know You can,"- that is when God performs a miracle...

-Last night after church someone gave us a monetary gift toward the wedding!
God is faithful, and I pray He richly blesses this person for the blessing they gave to Justin and I.

The Men's Quartet from the college sang "I'm Looking Unto Jesus"
I was blown away by how they sounded!
They just keep getting better ever passing semester!

I'm looking forward to graduation come May,
but I have loved my college years and am just a teeny tiny bit sad that it will end.

So, what blessings has God given you today?

God bless,
~Rebecca

Junior Bridesmaid Dress?

2011-04-13T19:20:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

My little sister, Stephie, is my junior bridesmaid.
I am running into the problem of finding a dress for her.
My mom is thinking about sewing Stephie's dress but we can't seem to find a pattern that has sleeves. We are thinking of either sewing it or purchasing one.

Do any of you know of either patterns, or stores that sell Junior bridesmaid dresses with sleeves?

I have found a few dresses online, but none come in purple.

Thanks!!

God bless,
~Rebecca

College Memories

2011-04-12T18:33:00.001-07:00

Some college students and I were invited over to the D's house for lunch and... this friend of mine's surprise birthday party! Lorissa turned 20!

Mr. D loves history and antiques. He is holding a light made Thomas Edison!
The pewter pot belonged to Robert E. Lee and the book was written around 1885! He also showed us a 150 year old music box that still worked!

Amanda & Bruce, and Randall trying to figure out a puzzle.
Bruce is one of the groomsmen for the wedding!

Mark had a great time with this puzzle cube. He was quite intent on figuring out. It was so funny!
He is also one of our groomsmen!

Customize a scrapbook

More Photos and a few videos (funny!!) from the surprise Birthday party!
Enjoy! We had alot of fun!

God bless,
~Rebecca

My Day

2011-04-09T17:56:00.000-07:00

My day was crazy!

We experienced a few technical difficulties today with ordering the bridesmaid gowns.

Long story very very short... I have 3 bridesmaids and of course, my maid of honor. So, we needed to get dresses for my girls! After a long and harrowing search, I finally found a modest one! I saw a sample gown... and loved it!

Then began the quest to find a way to order the gown! With one exception, all of my girls are out of state. So, we searched and searched and searched for a way to order them near their own homes.

Today was the last long "battle" with retailers to get the dresses ordered!
Good news! We got them ordered!
Bad news is, they wont come in till around July 1st. So, we are praying they come swiftly and all in the right color and can be altered with no complications.

The best part was I DIDN'T PANIC!!!!!!!
:)
That was wonderful, because normally I always panic and get anxious and worried.
Maybe I am just getting used to things going wrong... I don't know. lol
I probably will get all worried next time! :)

Big thanks to Galina, Jordan and Justin's Mom for helping this get all done today! We spent alot of time one the phones calling retailers and each other and emailing companies!

Thanks to my mom for encouraging me! :)

Now though I am one tired bride-to-be!

God bless,
~Rebecca (aka the sleepy gal)

MRIs and the Little Red Hat

2011-04-07T11:37:00.001-07:00

First the MRI results, then I will tell you about the Little Red Hat.

The MRI results came back clear, so nothing is wrong! I still don't know what is causing my headaches. But I am relieved that all is a-o-k in my cranium!

I heard from Katey, and her tooth extraction went smoothly! Hopefully she will be fully recovered very soon! It was nice to encourage one another during our health issues.
We go through similar problems, stresses and even blessings at almost the same times... I am so glad we can encourage each other!!

Ok, so the Little Red Hat.
How did I get such a darling hat?
Why from my darling Fiance!

He is sooo sweet!!!! :)

Well, we went Wedding Band shopping Saturday, and we visited a store called Claire's to look at hair stuff for my sisters (junior bridesmaid and flower girl) I put the hat on for a laugh.

"Do you like that hat?" Justin asked.
"Yes! its so cute!" I said.

"Would you like that hat...if its on sale?" Justin asked.
I thought a moment. He wanted to buy me that hat? Awwww....
"Only if its on sale," I said.

He bought the hat! I inquired why he did.

"You looked just too cute in it!" he answered.

awwwww...

And that is the story of the Little Red Hat.
I love it!
Thank you Justin!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Is it just me?

2011-04-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

Or is being sick a common thing with brides-to-be?

:)

I am over the bronchitis, and my ear is at last unblocked (praise the Lord!)

But I still would appreciate your prayers!
I had to go for an MRI today.

I have been getting headaches for quite a few years now from the back of my head, I mentioned it to my doctor last week and she sent me to get an MRI to find out what is going on in there.

I am trying to trust the lord and not worry about what is going on. Justin and all my friends have been a huge blessing and encouragement!

Be in prayer for Katey!
She is having a wisdom tooth taken out tomorrow.
Another bride-to-be friend of mine.

I didn't know being a bride was such hard work!!
I could have used a job description.....

:)

As exhausting and insane as planning the wedding is.... it will be worth it.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Our Story... part 3

2011-04-03T12:16:00.000-07:00

......the Christmas banquet was coming.
I wondered if maybe Justin was going to ask me to go with him....
or if I would have to go alone.

Our Story, part III

I went alone.

"The Christmas Banquet was coming, and... I desired to ask her to the banquet. Only I did not know if she felt the same way and I did not want things to move ahead of the God's timing..."
- Justin

I was missing my dear friend Galina so much!
Who would I talk to at the banquet??

So, I went to the banquet missing my best friend and hoping that the other college girls would want me to sit with them.

When I got to the banquet a few girls told me, "Come sit with us!" so we went to put our coats in the side room. Justin followed us talking to one girl about a college paper he was writing.
We got to our table, the girls sat down....
and I ended up alone at the other end facing an empty chair.
As I resigned myself to just "enjoy the meal" I happened to see a hand on the empty chair in front of me, "May I sit with you?"

I looked up, and there was Justin.
I am not joking, my heart skipped a beat right then and there!

"Yes, of course you can!"

"God saw my caution and blessed that.... we both ended up sitting across from each other. It turned into a special night as we talked and discovered more about each other. I knew I had found someone special."
-Justin.

So thats it right?
We met officially and instantly fell madly in love and KNEW we were meant for each other.....

Not exactly.

but you will have to wait for part 4 to find out what really happened.

God bless,
~Rebecca

I See the Light

2011-04-01T14:16:00.000-07:00

I'm just a sentimental romantic, lol....

God bless,
~Rebecca

Childrens' Portraits

2011-03-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

My littlest sister Kat,

My littlest brother Caleb

I love photography and experimenting with photos!

So, are these photos any good?

God bless,
~Rebecca

My Man

2011-03-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

My Man.
He is the best!!!!!!

Psalm 37:4
Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

~Rebecca

Our Story....part II

2011-03-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

Our Story, part II

"...I was excited to finally be back in school, and had re-acquainted myself with Rebecca... I found myself seeking more time with her as the school year progressed. I started glancing in her direction more often, realizing there was potential there. I sought the Lord and did not receive a red light, so I continued pursuing a friendship with her." -Justin

The fall semester of 2008 had begun.
I had taken a break from college classes for this semester, because I wasn't sure what the Lord wanted me to do. I had started an application process to the day college for the secretarial course, but felt that this was not what God had for me.

Around late September, my best friends' family -Galina and her sister Haley- moved several states away. I was practically devastated. I didn't have any other friends at the time, and didn't really know the college girls my age. I was busy though!

In November my family *tried* to take a family picture, and with 10 people it was quite the experience! When I went to Sunday school that morning, I had no one to share my funny story with! I missed Galina sooo bad! I looked around the room and noticed Justin sitting across from me. I just started telling him about it. He had been hanging around my brother Collin alot, and I thought they were good friends. (ahem...didn't know he had another reason for doing that!)

A few weeks later....

My church began a kids' Bible program once a month, on a Friday night, called "Kingdom Kids". I was one of several teachers for this program and we were always looking for helpers!
I asked one of the college guys to "come help watch a crowd of excited kids"
"I'm working that night, sorry," Kris said.
"Oh, do you know if any other guys are available?" I asked.
Kris scanned the church auditorium, "Hmmm...go try Justin- he isn't talking to anyone right now,"
I bounded up to Justin and explained the situation,
"Sure, I can come, what time?" he said.

I taught the lesson that night, it was quite an exciting story and I was VERY animated. I remember asking Justin what he thought of the lesson when it was done, "Those kids didn't move! You really kept their attention!"

A few days later I thanked Justin for coming by to help out.
"Hey, by the way, how did you know I was off of work Friday?" he asked.
"I didn't know, must've been the Holy Spirit!" I smiled and walked away.
(what I later found out was that he couldn't figure out how I knew he was off of work he NEVER got Friday nights off, and just happened to that night. He thought maybe I was interested in him and asking people about him. not yet!! lol)

I did like him, but struggled.
I didn't want to have another crush!
I tried to not think about guys at all by that point.

But the Christmas banquet was coming....
I wondered if maybe this nice guy was going to ask me to go with him....
or if I would have to go alone.

Part III on its way!

~Rebecca

Our Special Day!

2011-03-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our two year mark yesterday!

My gift to Justin.
:)

We had a very nice day together, and I still can't believe its been 2 years!

God bless,
~Rebecca

part II of our story is on its way, its getting kinda long! I am mostly writing this all out for myself so I don't forget the "little" details. There are alot of little details! But it makes our story so awesome!

2 years Courting!

2011-03-17T12:46:00.001-07:00

Create a free scrapbook design

Sunday will be the 2 year mark since Justin and I started courting...
Still can't believe its been 2 years!

Enjoy the pictures!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Our Story...part 1

2011-03-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

At last! An official "how it all happened" post on here...
How Justin and I met.

Our Story,
It was the day before the start of the fall semester of 2007 and I was signed up as a freshmen in the Night College. My best friend, Galina, was starting her freshmen year at the Day College.
Now that I was a "college student"- I was able to attend the college Sunday school class.
As a nervous 18 year old, I walked into a classroom filled with new young faces, only a few students I knew from previous years, since I attend the church that runs both the evening and day colleges.

I scanned the room for Galina, but she wasn't there yet, and only a few chairs were available in the crowded class room. I walked in and quickly sat down at a front row desk. A new freshmen college student was sitting to my left.
"Hi," I said.
"Hi, I'm Justin," he answered.
"I'm Rebecca, nice to meet you," I replied.
At that moment Galina walked in and I began chatting with her....

I didn't talk to Justin again...until the Valentine Banquet of 2008.

My brother's friend Mark L, someone I have known since we were toddlers, asked me to go with him to the banquet. He was not to enthusiastic asking a girl he didn't know and so... I went with him since he knew me!

The table we ended up being assigned to sit at had an engaged couple, a girl and guess who? That college guy Justin. Well, truth be told only Justin and I talked that entire evening at our table! (lol, at least that is how I remember it...)

We talked about our favorite board games as I can recall. I thought he was a pretty nice guy, and I wondered if he would become one of my friends after that banquet. (I was not interested in him yet tho...)

We never spoke to each other again the rest of that semester!

So, I shrugged my shoulder, "oh well,"
He did strike me as a rather peculiar sort of guy....
Summer break begins....

"By the end of the school year, looking back I could hear the Lord say, "What about her? She is the One, just wait," about a certain someone. I had seen her too. A student at the Night school, Rebecca M, I had been friendly with no other thought then, "Maybe" " -Justin M.

part II to follow!

5 Months to Go!

2011-03-12T00:23:00.000-08:00

5 months to the wedding!!!

Ok, now I am getting butterflies in my stomach!
I have the Groom,
I have the dress,
...

Do I really need anything else??

lol, Well, off to do more wedding planning!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Alright, Who Did it?

2011-03-08T12:09:00.000-08:00

Good news is- all the snow is finally melting!
Bad news is, the snow knocked down, over and out a few things...
There were alot of building collapses in New England this past winter, and this picnic area at the College was one of them. There have been many jokes about who knocked it over at the college.
The thing split right down the middle!

Thankyou everyone for leaving links and suggestions for hairstyles for the wedding! I am not one to really spend hours with my hair, simply pony-tail and tada! So this is new for me.

Midterms this week! After that just 8 more weeks to graduation!!! Yay!!

My grandpa is in the hospital for a few days, so I would appreciate prayers for him. Between the cancer treatments and his diabetes he just isn't doing terrific. My family is continuing to pray for his salvation.

Today is 9 months engaged.
That's a long time!!
I guess the good thing is I don't feel very rushed with the planning, I can do some here and there, take a week off when I need to. Its fun, its exhausting, and I told Justin that I sure hope all this work is going to pay off! :)

82 days left for Katey!! Congrats!!! She is a terrific friend to talk to about wedding planning-
"You know what I mean?"
"Oh yeah Girl, been there done that..."

God bless,
~Rebecca

Hairstyle?

2011-03-07T12:07:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!
I feel kind of odd asking this,
but I am a bit stumped on what to do for my hair for the wedding.

My hair is VERY thick, and since I am getting married in August- I don't know if i should wear it up or down. I also am a bit worried about getting a head ache if I wear it up.
It doesn't hold curls very well.
I am planning to wear a head piece and veil.

Does anyone have any links or ideas for what I could do with this lion's mane of mine??
This photo made me laugh, I was not going to post it because I look hilarious, but It does give a very good idea of how thick my hair is!!

So, any links and suggestions are welcomed!!

God bless,
the Girl with very thick hair, lol
~Rebecca

More Details!!

2011-03-04T12:14:00.000-08:00

I discovered recently that there will soon be just 5 months till the wedding!! Not only is this terribly exciting, but it also means I have alot to get done in a short amount of time!

Justin is almost done with the student teaching!!!! (HALLELUJAH!)
Once that is over with we can start really getting planning done,
-we have gotten a few things done these past 6 weeks but its been tough.
College is going exceptionally well for me, midterms though next week!!!

Next big project is the wedding invitations. Not exactly looking forward to all the work this will entail, but it will be exciting nonetheless.

We are working on music too, Jessica has been an immense help with this.

Last night Justin and I worked on the order of the ceremony. That was fun, I enjoyed that.

Still have to work on bridesmaids gowns to get them actually ordered, and then have to look for my shoes, I have my jewelry already and my headpiece. Flowers, cake decorations.... whew.

I am already packing some stuff up. I figure it might be better to gradually pack my things then to suddenly have to pack EVERYTHING a month or two beforehand.

I hope you like these photos, its all my own work.

God bless, and I appreciate those who are praying for Justin and I as we plan!
~Rebecca

Heart Shaped Plates!!!

2011-02-28T12:13:00.000-08:00

Aren't these heart-shaped plates adorable???

I received these from Haley, one of my dear friends and one of my bridesmaids!
She mentioned in the card that she thought they were a good idea, especially for those first meals after Justin and I get married!

Fantastic idea Haley! They are so cute!! Thankyou!!

Mom and Dad gave me a year's subscription to Picnik,
(a photo-editing site)
And Justin gave me an iced-coffee, lol, and Calla Lily bulbs to plant in the spring!

God bless, and thankyou to everyone who wished me a happy Birthday!!

~Rebecca

I Made It!!

2011-02-27T03:05:00.000-08:00

Today I turn 22!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Life is Interesting

2011-02-25T11:58:00.000-08:00

Me and little sis Kat!

Life is really interesting.
One day you are cheery, life is great! Then the next day everything falls apart. Then you get cheery again and then... well you get the picture! :)

The laptop I use to blog is very stubborn. It is plugged in and still won't charge and dies within 5 minutes... then decides its going to start charging. *rolls eyes*

And I went back to the Dr because I still have a blocked ear. She gave me a another prescription. Apparently there is fluid blockage behind my ear drum. I'm just tired of being sick all the time! Bronchitis last year, followed by colds, and now my ear, and I have a cold again.

But anyways... Sunday is my Birthday! I am turning 22!

Justin is coming over to visit for a little bit, and for some yumi Chocolate chip cookie dough cheesecake!!

God Bless,
~Rebecca

He Gives Me Joy

2011-02-18T19:03:00.001-08:00

How often do we remember to stop and consider the love God shows to us?
I certainly need to think on His love much more.

And the Joy of the Lord, what a blessing! Happiness is dictated by our circumstances, yet we can still have Joy regardless of our circumstances!!

This past week was a hard one for me, I wasn't feeling too well, my ear is still blocked... and so on. But, God kept giving me little blessings to keep me going. Here are some blessings from today.

Justin texted me this morning that he loved me and missed me.

My littlest sister today came over to me, her hair in braids that were coming loose, and she wrapped her little arms around me and said, "I love you Becca so much!!"
I hugged her and told her I loved her too.

My mom gave me a hug too, since I am taller then her she puts her head on my shoulder. Its so sweet and cute and I LOVE it!!!

My sister Stephie told me all about her books she has been reading about Tinkerbell today. ALL about them! lol. I enjoyed it.

And tonight, Caleb, my little buddy... he was folding some towels. He looked so cute I wanted to give him a hug too! So I said, "Caleb, I feel like giving you a hug, and I can give you a hug! Do you want one?" So, he gave me a big old bear hug.

Then he licked my face.

sigh... brothers.

Then my friend Katey was texting me tonight, she is also getting married and we were chatting about how excited we are about our Fiances, and our excitement about being their wives! You can visit Katey here

Now, with my 350th post on this blog, I bid you a great weekend!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Valentine Banquet 2011 Photos

2011-02-14T12:23:00.000-08:00

Hello from our table at the Valentine Banquet!
Meet, Mark & Melissa, Yesse and Kris, Bruce & Amanda, and Justin & I.
Don't we look like such genteel people?
So sweet, and mature?

"Just you wait!"

Yesse smiling at Kris... these two have been together a few months more then Justin and I.

Such lovely smiles!

My handsome Fiance gave me 12 gorgeous red roses!!
After a great meal, sermon, games and dessert we had some fun fellowship.

Justin and his sister Jessica share a sweet sibling moment...

Then... they kept up being sweet siblings!
lol, this was posed- to be honest, the relationship between these two is wonderful.

Jessica is in her second semester at the college and she is doing great.
Ben asked her to the banquet this year as a friend.

Janierra and Ashley dazzle in their lovely gowns!
It is so much fun to wear the gowns and hear the rustle of the fabric!

Janierra, she has an abundance of hugs!!

Paul and Amy.

Yes, we were outside, and yes he is lying in the snow, and no, I do not know why.
But he looked mighty cute!!

"Hurry up and take the picture! It's freeing out here!!!"

Alyssa and I! Both of us are Brides-to-be!!!

Mark & Melissa will now define submission...

:) "Definition of Submission"
Actually he was goofing off and one of her friends called her. I just snapped the photo at the perfect moment!!!

If anyone is looking for some interesting characters... just come to our college!!!
There seems to be an abundance of young men with a great sense of humor!

We girls just chuckle at their antics...

My very special man and I!!

Bruce & Amanda.

Attempt #1 at a good group shot...
We girls all smile sweetly... but masculine humor abounds.

Attempt #2... hmmmm.

Finally a good photo!

Joy and I, one of my sweet friends, she attends my college class with me.

We were more of a patriotic feel then a Valentine one! My dress is a deep sapphire blue, but the flash from cameras make it look like a bright blue.

Hannah and Joy in their beautiful gowns!

Amy admires Paul's handiwork.
(it's a flower made from paper)

Hannah and Janierra!! These two are my "choir buddies" and good friends!

Matt and Hannah, Ariel & Richard

The Education Majors with Dr and Mrs.B.
Congrats to them, they will be graduating in May!!!
Justin is a Secondary Ed. major.

Dan wrapped up the evening by "borrowing" roses and making a "Thanks Everybody" Speech.
lol.

We had a great time at the banquet, it was a very special evening of fellowship, and for us couples a time to celebrate.

God bless,
~Rebecca

Stephie's Birthday Party Photos!

2011-02-13T06:09:00.000-08:00

Customize a free scrapbook

Photos from my sister's 12th birthday party!!

Valentine Banquet photos coming soon!!

~Rebecca

Six Months to Go!!!!!!

2011-02-12T03:15:00.000-08:00

In exactly 6 months....

I will wake up in the morning.
I will spend probably one of the craziest mornings of my life preparing.
I will put on a gorgeous white dress.
I will walk down the aisle with my father.
I will make a sacred promise to this man.

I will kiss this man for the first time.
And...

We will begin our new life together.

Now, granted it will not happen as smoothly as this.... but its the general idea!!

6 months to go!!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Valentine's Banquet Tonight... Memories

2011-02-11T06:10:00.001-08:00

Tonight is the College Valentine Banquet!!

Justin and I are attending, and my parents bought tickets for this year too!
I am looking forward to this evening!

Justin and I will be celebrating more then Valentine's day though.

Soon it will be under 6 months till the wedding!!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Amber Noella asked if this was where we first met....
The first time we actually talked to each other was in fact at the Valentine Banquet of 2008, my brother's best friend asked me to go with him since he was shy and knew me since I was like 3 years old. lol.

But Justin happened to be at the table we were sitting at, and to be quite honest Justin and I were the only ones talking that evening!! I remeber thinking that he was a pretty neat guy, and that I would enjoy talking to him again. He was so funny, and liked to talk! (A fact I have enjoyed!) I hoped he would... but he didn't!!!

According to Justin... at the end of the spring semester of 2008, he began to wonder if the Lord was leading him to try to get to know me better, and if maybe I was "the one."

Well, he got back for the fall semester of 2008.
He noticed I still was not "taken" and began praying about me, and trying to talk to me.
I however did not notice his many attempts! My Dad did though... lol.

By November I slowly started noticing him. God kept doing little things that put us together. I started to like him, and secretly hoped that maybe, just maybe he would ask me to go with him to the Christmas banquet.

He didn't.

BUT.... it was because he really wanted to, but wanted to wait on the Lord.
I went anyways. And I ended up sitting all alone, facing an empty chair.

Justin saw.

"Can I sit with you?"

I happily said yes.

And that's how it all got started.

:)

Whats New!

2011-02-06T11:02:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!
So, there are some new things going on in my life recently!

I had to go see my Doctor this pas week, due to a blocked left ear. She took a look and its not from wax build-up like I thought. My ear drum is inflamed and very red. So, it is not vibrating which explains why it is extremely hard for me to hear with my left ear. So, I am on antibiotics and hopefully the ear infection will heal soon! I'm wondering if its connected to the bronchitis I had last year.

It is very annoying though not being able to hear with that ear!!! I have to keep asking my family to repeat stuff because I can't hear what they said!!!

You may have noticed the decrease in photos on this blog. Well, I managed to reach the limit for Picasa web albums free storage. I had to delete alot of photos just to finish "Letters to Justin"

So.... right before or right after I get married I am planning to start a brand new blog! Don't worry I will give you all a link from here once it is ready!!! :)

Wedding news-
Getting ready to work on the invitations and I plan to have a party when I put the invitations all together. I hope to have some friends, Justin's mom and sister, and my cousins over. I think that would be nicer then trying to put 95 invitations together by myself.

95 invitations may not seem much, but we have 229 people on the guest list!! Why so many people? Large families!!! We may have lots of teens and children at the wedding.

I have been working on looking into Butterfly Release companies, to see if we can have a live butterfly release at the reception. The theme is butterflies for the wedding, and Justin and I like the idea of it.

I do all this research and planning and just shake my head in disbelief....

I'm getting MARRIED?

Yes!!

Praise the Lord!!!

~Rebecca.

(p.s., to my married readers- any advice on wedding planning? like Things that worked for you or things that should be avoided? Thanks!!)

Please Excuse Me, but I have to Brag...

2011-02-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

I received this picture via text tonight of my Fiance and a project he has to do for college. He has to make a historical bulletin board.

Now, When I received the photo, I smiled.

This man is amazing, he really is.

He works third shift 4 nights a week, going in at 11pm, getting out around 7am, then he goes to the academy where he student-teaches (part of his 2ndary Ed Major) from 8am to 3:30pm. He gets what sleep he can and has to take care of projects, lessons prep and one class he is taking at the college, plus the teen Sunday school class he teaches and prepares for every week.

Of course this mean we don't get as much time together as we used to, but what little time we do get is usually very sweet and encouraging.

I am very proud of this man.

He is a hard worker, and maintains this crazy schedule so we can get married.

I had to brag tonight. I am just so proud of him!!

God is so good to bless me with Justin,
Yes, we have had tough times,
Yes, we have struggled,
Yes, we have had to apologize to each other,

BUT,
We have had far more good times,
Many more times of blessings,
And many times of laughter!!

I'm thankful I waited on the Lord and finally trusted Him about who I would someday marry.

It is so worth it to wait for God!!!

I am one young lady who is very proud of her man.
And I love him too!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Visit to Justin's Home Church

2011-02-01T12:24:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday I had the wonderful opportunity to hear my Fiance preach!
It was such a joy for me to be able to visit his home church to hear him!

Justin's sister, Jessica, and her good friend Melanie came down to the church from the college and sang a special.

Justin's Pastor's daughter, Anna, played the piano for them.

"College girls"

I spent the day with Justin's family, Melanie and another couple. We had a great time!

God bless,
~Rebecca

More on Bible College

2011-01-29T19:18:00.000-08:00

In answer to one of my readers...

"Why did you go to night college? Was it so you could watch your siblings during the day?"

I actually went to the night school originally just to "get a taste" of what going to Bible college would be like (i.e. what would be expected of me) I was only going to take one class that fall semester of 2007

But, I just kept going! Although I was almost done with my registration for a regular day college back in 2008, I had no peace about it. I took that semester off of school completely and after much prayer, the Lord led me back to the night college.

For a long time though I struggled with regret for skipping that semester.... "I could have graduated earlier if only I had gone...."
"What a mistake..."

But, one night while talking to one of my teachers it suddenly dawned on me that it was no mistake!!
I get to graduate with my Fiance along with many other blessings and benefits. I am touching lives and being touched by the lives of others that would not have happened if I had graduated earlier. Such sweet relieving peace filled me. God makes no mistakes, and I hadn't made one either.

Yes, One of the benefits has been being able to help my mom out at home! I am currently homeschooling my youngest sister. I have been teaching her to read, it has been such a thrill to see her actually starting to read!

God bless,
~Rebecca

Bible College

2011-01-28T19:03:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! this picture was taken by my teacher at the night school! (I am in the back in red) This is the Ladies' Discipleship II class, the last class I will be taking to graduate!!!

I have loved the Night college so much, I am so glad I was able to attend. If you ever get an opportunity to go to Bible college, there are some wonderful blessings!

I have learned so many wonderful things about God's Word!

This is a night college that is under my church's ministries, as well as the regular day college where my Fiance, Justin, attends. For my newer readers, this was how Justin and I met.

The night college used to be mostly middle aged adults, but when I started to attend in 2007, more and more young people and teens started attending as well.

I am so thankful to God for the night college!

God bless,
~Rebecca

(all those textbooks on the table in the photo are for other classes that use the same room!)

Winter Wonderland

2011-01-25T17:12:00.000-08:00

courtesy rayfowler.org

On our local news a photo of a sign like this one was shown.
:)

We have been getting ALOT of snow here!!

The Driveway...

the back porch...

fun???

Wedding news- I made the first deposit for my dress, and went for measuring. I will see it June for the first fitting.

YEAH!!!!!!!

God Bless,
~Rebecca

Birthdays!!!

2011-01-24T10:54:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrate 2 birthdays!!

Happy 12th Birthday to my sister Stephanie!!!

And Happy Birthday to my Fiance, Justin!
He is 22!!!

I love you both!!

Praise the Lord,
~Rebecca

200 To Go

2011-01-23T10:25:00.001-08:00

Today is a pretty important day!

200
days
till
the....

...Wedding!

Praise the Lord!

(.... whew, better get back to the planning!)

~Rebecca

Does Modesty Matter? Wedding dresses

2011-01-19T18:20:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

Wedding planning is alot of work!!
I am sad to say that modest wedding gowns are very hard to find. When I started looking 7 months ago, I was hoping that there was someway to just walk into a bridal shop and find one that could be altered, or had sleeves. I mean...out of all these bridal shops there has to be something??? It seems that the fashion world thinks that EVERY girl wants to wear strapless, low-backed gowns.

There are many online that are modest. (I am serious- I have looked at over 300 gowns!) But, I didn't feel comfortable just ordering a dress not knowing how it would look on me, or if it would be too big or too small... or too long!!

After much prayer, the Lord led me to a seamstress and after more prayer it seems that the Lord is leading me to have my dress custom made. I have a photo of a strapless gown that I liked the basic style of, so the seamstress can mimic the style AND design it so it is modest!!

Being modest is a choice you have to stick to, and not compromise, but it requires alot of determination and willingness to work hard!

The best part is, Justin often thanks me for dressing modestly. That makes all the headaches and searching worth it!! God is good.

God bless,
~Rebecca