Crystal, Jacob & Valenzuela

I am beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel as far as my summer school goes. My EDT 3343 (Education Technology) class ends on Thursday. I have 1 more project left and it is a big one. This class has been great because it is self passed so I have been able to put it off until the weekends, but I have had 50 assignments due over the course of 4 weeks. To say that I am tired would be an understatement. My other class lasts for 4 more weeks. Hopefully I can make it through.

We have been able to squeeze in a little bit of fun. A couple of weeks ago our friends, Jacob and Crystal, came over for a little cook out and to watch the Ultimate Fighter finally. Have no fear, Crystal and I looked through InStyle magazine and talked about clothes and make-up while the boys watched guys beat each other senseless.

Jacob and Crystal have been such a blessing in our lives. Besides the fact that Crystal’s family owns the best bakery in town and has kept a steady flow of goodies coming our way, they allow us to share in the life of their beautiful daughter, Valenzuela. Here are some pics from our evening.

Allie giving Valenzuela a kiss.

SOOOO CUTE!!

How can you resist those cheeks?!?!

Jacob and Chris

LOVE!!

Crystal and Jacob!!!

My cheering squad

On Monday nights, I play on a city league volleyball team with Higley, Higley's mom and some other friends. They are usually pretty uneventful, that is until tonight. My small group girls had called me after work to see if I had dinner plans and i mistakenly told them that I could not go to dinner cause I had volleyball. About 10 minutes after I got off the phone with them, they called back and asked if they could come. I know my girls all to well and figured it would definitely mean some form of embarrassment for me, but told them where and when my games were anyway. They arrived at the park in with signs, megaphones and sporting face paint. They yelled the entire time "Go Amy's Team!!!" "Go Team Amy!!!" "You need to have a baby!!" I could not stop laughing. Here are some pics of my crazy cheerleaders.

Haley, Holly and Laney

Holly, Me and Haley

A close up of one of the signs. Yes, those are the words to R. Kelly's Bump & Grind. They are so weird. And because I know some of you are thinking it, no, we do not sing this song at small group.

A close up of the other sign. They are obsessed with wanting me to get pregnant so they can babysit! Would you leave your child with them??

I WON!!

I WON! I WON! I FINALLY, FINALLY WON SOMETHING!!!

I love all of the Gina's designs at A Touch of Whimsy. If you have not seen any of her stuff yet, you should definitly check it out. She has made me some really cute stuff and you can find really good ideas for baby shower gifts. Anyway, sometimes Gina has Freeby Friday's on her blog and this week I won a free luggage tag!! I am so excited. This is design I picked out...

I can't wait to get it and see how cute it is in person.

Campers need your prayers

One of our Hillside Christian students just called from camp and said that there are between 30-40 kids that are sick. They think it might be food poisoning, but they are not sure. Please pray for all of the students and leaders at camp. Pray that God’s will would prevail over Satan’s attempt to ruin their camp experience.

Joy

I wanted to share with you my conviction this morning. Chris and I have been discussing buying a new house in the next year. If I had my way, we would have already been moved, but I know that financially it is better if we save up some more. Anyway, on my way to work this morning, I drove by several houses that are for sale and reminded myself that I needed to look them up on their respective real estate agents web sites to see what the inside looked like and how much they were asking for them. I did and was immediately filled with envy for the lucky people who would get to live in these houses. I then looked down at my clock and realized that I had just enough time to Morning Coffee before I began my work day. I clicked the link and begin to cry at my desk as I knew that God meant these words especially for me this morning. I am so blessed. Blessed to have an amazing husband. Blessed to have my family. Blessed with an amazing church. Blessed with unbelievable friends. Blessed with a roof over my head, food, clothes and money to pay for it all and I always want more. I need to learn to live in the joy of my surroundings and the grace that my Heavenly Father has showered on me rather than wallow in my own self pity.

Backtracking

Ok, I have been doing some backtracking in hopes of getting caught up on my blogging. I think I did it. Thanks for all of you who hung in there through my blogging hiatus. I would like to say that it wont happen again, but considering my 6 hours of Summer classes started today, I would not hold my breathe if I were you.

I have a few prayer requests that I need to recruit all of my faithful prayer warriors help with...

1. The Hillside Christian 11th and Grad camp left this morning for a week of time with God. Please pray for the camp leader, Brandon, and all of the other leaders (Brad & Ashley Ingram, Jordan M., Johnathan, Tessa, etc.) who are helping out this week that God move through them like never before to touch the lives of the 120 campers. Also, please pray for the campers that God would prepare their hearts and minds for the word he has for them and that they would be willing to hear Him this week.

2. My brother, Andrew, set off Saturday night for his 3rd mission trip to Taiwan. Please pray for him and the rest of the TBC team that God would protect them and guide them into the areas were he needs them most. Please pray especially for Andrew as he will be there for 17 days this time and it always take a physical toll on his body. You can follow the events of the trip here and also find a daily prayer list.

3. Doors have been opening for Chris and I lately. Please pray that we would hear God's voice and feel His peace in the months ahead.

Distraction

I have mentioned that I had an excuse for my lack of blogging and here is my proof...

Kitchen Before

Kitchen After

I am soooo excited about how well the cabinets turned out. Chris and I did it all ourselves. We are contemplating tackling the floor next (if you did not notice, it is dreadful), but we are not planning on being in the house after a year so it is making it hard to sink anymore money into it.

Jen's Graduation Brings a Visit from Papa & Ola Faye

Last weekend, my cousin, Jenny, graduated from SJCA. It was a great weekend to celebrate Jenny and we were all excited that it also brought Papa and Ola Faye into town from Oklahoma. Jenny is headed off to Texas Tech in the fall and even though I am going to miss her immensely, I know that God has amazing things in store for her future.

Uncle Bruce, Jenny (the Grad), Aunt Brenda and Cousin Adrien.

Me, Jen & Adrien

Me & Adrien

Uncle Dennis, Papa and Uncle Mike

Adrien, Ola Fay and my mom

Papa

Papa, Ola Faye, Me & Chris

Our Soldier

Last month, my brother-in-law, Charlie was home on leave from Korea for 20 days. It seemed to go by so fast. I am sure it went by faster for his wife, Michelle and their 2 kiddos, Arianna and Camden. Here are a few picture I snapped before he left to go back to Korea for another 6 months. Please pray that God would keep him safe and return him quickly to his family.

Camden

Arianna

Charles, Chris and Uncle Joel

Charles and Chris

Brothers!!

Matt and Leah's Wedding

** Editor's Note**
It has become difficult when I am telling a story to differentiate between if I am talking about my best friend, Ashley Higley, or my sweet new friend, Ashley Ingram. Therefore, I have decided that they will know be referred to by their last names only. Sorry girls.

On May 16th, Higley's little sister, Leah got married. Chris and I were so honored to get to witness their beautiful wedding. We did not take very many pictures, but here are a few.

Matt searching for Leah's garter.

Leah tossing the bouquet! She looked amazing by the way.

Me and Higley.
Have I mentioned that I LOVE that Higley is back in A-town? I have gotten to see her about 7 times in the last 2 weeks. She is such a blessing in my life.

Chris stealing a kiss from Higley.

FABULOUS!!!

I have been anticipating my new blog design and was so excited tonight when I got home and saw it. It was done by Kelly at Fabulous K Blog Designs. Isn't it amazing?!?! I stumbled across Kelly's blog a while back and even though we only know each other through cyber space she really seems to know me and the types of things I like. She nailed it when she designed my blog. I am so excited and could not thank her enough. Kelly has an amazing design style and everyone should click on over and have her design a layout for you. Thanks again Kelly you are truly FABULOUS!!!

Cardboard Testimonies

A while back, I asked for your prayers as God was working through our church and the role that Chris was going to play in some services. This is the video of that service. Everytime I see it I am still brought to tears and my heart rejoices for the changed lives. God has taken Chris on such an amazing journey and I know that he has plans bigger than we can even imagine for how Chris will do work for His glory.

More Proof

I Also received this in an email today from my wacko husband...

This is one of his favorite shows. He has had it marked on his calander for over 2 months now and is anxiously awaiting the start of the new season.

Oh dear!!!

Last night Chris went to go iron a shirt for work at about 11:15 while I watched Top Chef. While he was waiting for the iron to heat up he went to the website of one of his new favorite stores, Restoration Hardware. I turned him on to this gem of a store last time we were in Dallas and he found one of these Yes, that is a telescoping metal back scratcher!! He is now convinced that Restoration Hardware is one of the greatest stores ever along with Dillards and Steinmart where he had also never shopped before he met me. I know, I think he lived in a hole before. Anyway, after he finished ironing he came in and told me that he had sent me an email of something that he had found at Restoration Hardware that he really wants. I was anxious to see what it was and even more excited at the prospect of getting a jump start on ideas for his birthday. I got to work and opened my email to the following message:




"OK, I know we are on a budget, but you need to look at this and see that if I had a pair of these then I would never leave the house. I wonder if I can get approval for these to be worn at work."

Fleece-Lined Down Foot Duvets

$11.99
Lightweight cotton foot duvets
Plumped with a generous layer of insulating duck down
Finely woven combed cotton covers keep down intact—even through machine washing and drying
Lined with soft elasticized fleece cuffs that tuck the warmth inside
Comfortable non-skid sole prevents slipping
Imported
Machine wash
In eucalyptus, garnet or chocolate; all have chocolate accents and lining
Small: youth sizes 3–7; women's 5–7
Medium: women's sizes 8–11; men's 7–9
Large: men's 10–13
Web only
Sorry, only available in medium chocolate and large eucalyptus

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? MY HUSBAND IS SO WEIRD!!!



**Editor's note**


I have been informed that I am lacking on my blogging!! I am aware of this, but I have an excuse and hopefully, I will have proof to show tomorrow. Love!

I mentioned last week that Friday night I was getting to have dinner with my dear friend, Anna. Anna and I met in 1994 when my high school, San Jacinto Christian Academy, purchased Anna's school, West Texas Christian School. Anna was a grade above me, but we instantly bonded after spending a year side by side on the bench of the varsity volleyball team. Anna now lives in San Antonio with her husband, John. I miss her so much. Anyway, I was hoping that she would have some news to tell me at our dinner and she did!! She is pregnant. She is due December 1st and I can not wait!!!! Here is a pic I snapped in the parking lot of Abuelo's.
After I had dinner with Anna, Chris and I went to his brother's house to hang out with the family. Here is a picture of Chris doing what he does best, acting ridiculous.

Wednesday was the last Epicenter until school starts back again and that bums me out, but hopefully, Chris and I will be able to stay in touch with most of the kids throughout the summer.

Tonight, Chris and I are going to Leah and Matt's wedding. Leah is Ashley's little sister. I am so excited for Matt and Leah and can not wait to celebrate with them.

Guess I better get back to work. Love.

Nothing too exciting in the Bunch household to report so I will just leave a list of the latest happenings...

1. Chris’ little brother Charlie came home on leave from serving with the Army in Korea. He is here for 20 days so we have to cram in a lot of family time.

2. Needhams came home and reclaimed their kids Saturday night about 11:30 pm!!! FREEDOM!!!!!

3. I was almost sick to my stomach watching Dancing with the Stars Tuesday. I was so afraid Jason Taylor was going home. Question, why can we not seem to get rid of Marissa? She annoys the daylights out of me.

4. I lost .6 lbs this week. Not much, but in my books a loss is good no matter how much.
5. Our friend Jacob got baptized Wednesday night at Epicenter. It was so amazing. I cried my eyes out.

6. Tara was in town visiting Brad and Ashley and came to Epicenter to hear Brad speak. I don’t remember the last time we saw each other, but it was so good to see her again. She is as beautiful as ever.

7. I finished my finals on Tuesday night and ended the semester with a 4.0. I am going to try to enjoy my 3 weeks of freedom before summer school starts.

8. I am going to get to play Summer city league volleyball with my best friend, Ashley H., starting May 19th. I am so excited that Ashley is moving back to town and can not wait to play volleyball with her again. Hopefully I wont be too rusty.

9. I am having dinner at Abuelo’s with one of my oldest and dearest friends Anna. She is in from San Antonio and making time for me. I am so excited to see her.

10. Tomorrow is going to be all about Chris and I. We have been so busy lately and Chris has been dying to have a Saturday where we can sleep in and make breakfast together maybe go out for lunch and then go see a movie. I love that he wants to spend so much time with me. It makes me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazingly attentive husband. He is always so careful to look out for my needs. I love my husband.

Happy 1st Birthday Allie!!!!

It is hard to believe that my baby is 1!! I can not believe, and am a little ashamed, of how attached I have become to her. I always had dogs growing up, but I remember my mom having to force me to go outside and play with them. We were never allowed to have dogs in the house, maybe that is the difference. I know that sometimes Chris rolls his eyes at me for the way I treat her, but she has brought me so much joy over the last year. I remember when we went to pick her out. I had been hinting about wanting a dog for about a month and one Friday night Chris said that he had picked up a Thrifty Nickle and they had an add for a Dorkie. He had already called the lady and he said he really wanted to go check them out. I was shocked. We decided on the way out there that we would hold hands and squeeze the others hand if we wanted one. I know we are retarded with the hand thing. We have lots of little hand squeezes that mean different things. Anyway, as soon as we sat down and Allie crawled into my lap Chris gave my hand a good squeeze. I was instantly attached. Her first year has been full of many new adventures and I can not wait to see our future kids fall in love with her as much as we have.

I rationalized my desire to make Allie a birthday cake by blaming it on Delaney and stating that "I thought it would be a fun project to keep her entertained for the evening." I have attached the recipe I found online if anyone is as insane as I am and would like to make their dog a cake.

Jerky Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup soft butter
1/2 cup corn oil
1 jar strained beef baby food
4 eggs
2-3 strips of beef jerky

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour an 8x5x3 inch loaf pan. Cream butter until smooth. Add corn oil, baby food, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Mix dry ingredients into beef mixture until batter is smooth. Crumble beef jerky and fold into batter. Pour batter into loaf pan. Bake 1 hour and 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack 15 minutes. Frost with plain yogurt, cream cheese or cottage cheese. Crumble another strip of beef jerky and sprinkle on top of icing. Store in refrigerator.

Allie licking her bone/candle.

Delaney and Allie. It is hard to decide which one is more spoiled.

Dylan and Allie. I have no idea what he was doing in this picture, but it is the only one I had without his face covered.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLIE!!!!

Free to Good Home - 14 year old boy

Yes you read correctly, for this week, we have a 14 year old boy that might be better off with another family. We are watching the Needham’s again. They dropped the kids of Sunday morning before church and will not be home until Saturday evening. Makes for a long week in the Bunch household. Not that our time keeping the kids isn’t crazy enough, but instead of staying at their house they are staying with us while their house is being remodeled. Anyway, I digress. Donna called me on Saturday to tell me that Dylan had gotten into a fight at school last week and would be serving 2 days, Monday & Tuesday, of OSS (Out of School Suspension) and then 2 weeks of ISS (In School Suspension). So Monday and Tuesday he sat at our house and watched movies and played video games all day. Believe me I would have had him doing other things (ie scrubbing toilets with a toothbrush), but apparently his parents are more upset at the school for kicking him out than they are at Dylan for getting into a fight. To make matters worse, last night Dylan and a friend went to the Disturbed concert that Donna had bought them tickets for. Chris and I were both concerned about him going to the concert. The name of the band itself should tell you that their music is not known for its spiritual or uplifting lyrics and melodies. Our instructions from the Needham’s were that if we could get the boys to the concert that the friends step-dad would bring Dylan home. Chris told Dylan that he had to be home by 11:00, which I thought was more than generous, and that if he could not make it by that time he needed to call and Chris would come and get him. At 11:50 when we still had not heard from Dylan and trying to call and text him with no answer, Chris took off to the venue to see if he could find Dylan. At 12:10 Dylan comes running to the front door and before I could even get it open his mouth was running with excuses, mainly that his phone had died (which I tested and was true) and that he could not remember our numbers. I asked him what his mom’s number was and he recited it back to me. I asked him why he did not use someone else’s phone and at least call his parents and have them get in touch with us. I explained to him how concerned and upset we were that he did not even attempt to get in touch with us and that we were worried that something had happened to him. I could hear my own mother’s voice echoing in my head which creeped me out a little. I explained to him that part of being 14 meant he was more responsible and that because of his lack of responsibility he was not allowed to go anywhere for the rest of the weekend because he had not shown us the respect we deserved and that he had not proved himself responsible. I also confiscated his cell phone. I told him that Chris was very upset and that he was lucky Chris was not home. Dylan looked totally defeated. I don’t think he thought we would punish him. I don’t know if we handled it the right way, but I don’t want Dylan to think that just because Chris and I are watching him, he does not have to obey. Any advice from the other parents out there would be greatly appreciated.

Yeah for summer

I know summer is not quite here yet, but with all of the little changes that have been going on in my life (i.e. weight loss, school, etc.) I decided that my look needed a make-over too.

Old me....
New me...

A few pictures until I have something interesting to say

Allie is too cute not to share!!

Allie likes to help me with my homework.

Haley is weird and a little scary!!

Haley walking on Holly's back! Looks dangerous!

Holly giving Haley a pony ride and Allie wondering what they heck these crazy girls are doing.

Allie needed a ride too!

Chris' surprise silly string attack!

The huge pizza we ordered from Papa Murphy's for UFC fight night!!