Our Summer (1)

It's a little over halfway through the summer now, and we've both been staying busy. Things are now starting to slow down for me, just as they are picking up for Luke.

I spent the first half of my summer taking a summer class. As my senior capstone course, it was very project-heavy, and I gained a lot of experience from the class. I was able to shadow my friend Miranda Castillo, RD, LD, CDE in her clinic every Tuesday from 8-5pm during the month of June. She works at BMI of Texas and provides nutrition counseling to patients who have had bariatric surgeries. Some of the projects I completed during the class include -- building a strong resume (both written and video), creating a portfolio, researching and writing on a nutrition blog, and creating a personal website (which you can view by clicking on the link below! 😊).

https://amg0517.wixsite.com/myportfolio

After my summer class was over, I transitioned right into studying for an examination over food safety and managerial responsibilities in food service operations. I took that exam today -- and passed!! 😄 The exact certification I earned is the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, which you can learn more about by clicking here.

So...now that I've finished my summer class and certification exam, I'm kinda left with not much to do. 😅 No school, no job, not many social gatherings (thanks COVID...). I don't really feel like sitting around the apartment not doing anything for the next month, so I went out on a limb and applied for a job at Target. Completely spur of the moment decision...lol. But I'm hoping they contact me soon to schedule an interview, because I'm feeling desperate for something to do. And they have a sign posted in their store window advertising that starting pay is $15 per hour -- a definite perk I am looking forward to!

Luke has been staying busy volunteering at the San Marcos veterinary clinic and selling peaches at a farmers market in Austin. He also started his vet school application to Texas A&M a couple weeks ago! Both of us are definitely feeling the stress of the application... We will do our best to write his essays well and make sure his application will stand out from the crowd! Here's the timeline if things go as planned...

October 1st - Application Deadline
December 18th - We will be notified if Luke has gotten an interview with the school
January 2021 - In-person interviews at A&M
March 2021 - We will be notified if he has been accepted into the vet medicine program

If all goes well, we will be moving to College Station in March of next year! 😄 (Being the planner that I am...) I've already picked out an apartment complex that we would love to move into next spring. Ohhh to have stainless steel appliances, a huge kitchen island, and a pantry. 😂 Lol. We'll see what happens.

Annnnd that's about all I've got in terms of a life update. Texas State hasn't made an official announcement in terms of how classes will be arranged next fall. I think they're pretty much leaving that decision up to the teachers and letting them structure their class in whatever manner they choose. So far - I've heard from three teachers and they're all doing completely different things. 😮

One teacher is choosing to do asynchronous online learning (my favorite!! 😅). Another is going with a mixture of online learning and in-person learning (i.e. it's a M/W class that is online on Monday's and in-person on Wednesday's). And the last teacher I've heard from has decided to do a rotation (i.e. we meet online the first week, then in-person the next week, then online, then in person, etc... etc...).
It's already getting hard for me to keep everything straight in my head 😅 and I still have two more teachers to hear from! To console myself - I've bought this perfectly lovely, sarcastic planner that will hopefully help me manage the craziness that this semester will be. Lol 😂

Other cool things that have happened this summer:


1. A Tara sister person graduated and she's moving down to Austin next week and her house is 20 minutes from mine! 😄

2. We took my car to the mechanic for a simple wheel alignment. He said they'd have it done in about an hour. Five hours later, we get a call that they can't do the wheel alignment because it would just come undone, hand us a hefty repair bill of $3000, and say "well at least you got a lot of life out of it." 😳😥

You know you have some great in-laws when they're able to order all the parts and spend 10+ hours out in the hot sun doing your car repair work - all for the low price of $400. I knew I was marrying into a great family. 😊 And now it feels like I have a brand new car.

Low-quality picture but high-quality people. 😊😍😊

3. Our crazy upstairs apartment neighbor got crazier. He's been a weirdo guy from the beginning though. He lives by himself with his dog, and Luke and I are pretty convinced that all is not mentally well with this person. 

Something really funny must have happened last week, because we heard LOUD laughter coming from upstairs for about 10 minutes. And two months ago... oh boy was he angry! This guy has a serious temper. His stomps shake our apartment walls, and his incessant cursing and profanities make us want to rip our ears off. No idea what caused his anger this particular time, but he was out on his balcony (right above ours) just shouting his frustrations into the air. The next morning we woke up and looked out the window.... to find that he had ripped out his window blinds. They were broken and strewn all over our patio and the front lawn. 😳 I'm telling you - crazy.

Here's a few more pictures from what has been a perfectly lovely summer so far (despite crazy guy 😂). I plan to do another update at the end of the summer, right before the fall semester picks up.

Thanks all for reading! :)

Guadalupe River Camping Trip - Part 2

This is part two! So if you haven't read part one, go check it out first!!


Day 3, Wednesday
5/20/2020

After a long, tiring day yesterday hiking, we decided to sleep in this morning. When we got up around 10am, we cooked pancakes and sausage for breakfast. Mornings here are some of my favorite times, before lots of the bugs come out and the day gets hot. It was really nice sitting at our picnic table this morning. After cleaning up from eating, we needed to go into town to get some ice for our cooler. It was about a 20 minute drive into Bulverde, where we stopped at Sonic for some drinks, before heading over to Walmart. In addition to picking up some bags of ice, we also grabbed spare batteries, nail clippers, pencil lead, and a swim shirt for Luke. In the afternoon, we planned to swim in the river, but were expecting other people to be around, so he needed something to wear.
When we got back to camp, we prepared turkey sandwiches, chips, and cantaloupe for lunch. We pulled out the game Mastermind, and played a couple of rounds as we ate. I love the game Mastermind, but Luke had never played it before. Unfortunately, it was more frustrating for him than enjoyable. This was the start of one of the roughest times at the camp so far...
It was SO hot today -- the hottest afternoon yet. I think this contributed towards some unhappy moods on our part. Also, a multitude of not so great things happened after the game frustrated Luke (including how I accidentally pulled the plug on our air mattress and let over half of the air inside escape *face palm*). These happenings, among others, created the need for a 20 minute nap to reset. 
After our nap, we packed a bag, put swim clothes on, and headed down to the river. The water was cool, refreshing, and just what we both needed on a blistering hot afternoon. As soon as we went in, moods went up 100% and smiles were back. We entered the river upstream, and swam downstream until we found a nice quiet spot away from the other people to hang out and relax. Luke showed me all kinds of funny, cool water tricks, and there *may* have been a bit of kissing in the river. 😉😄 On our way back upstream, a dragonfly landed on Luke's head. I pointed it out to him and Luke said, "Oh, don't worry, he was just telling me something."
"What was he telling you?" I asked laughingly.
"He said there's trouble downstream."
😂😂 Lol -- I thought that was pretty funny.
When we got back to camp from swimming, we changed out of our wet clothes and fixed quesadillas for supper. After such a hot afternoon, the evening was nice and very breezy. There's a slight chance for rain in the morning, so I think it might be cooling off because of that. We went up to the bathhouse again tonight for showers. Before going into our tent for bed, we found a big, heavy rock to set on top of the totes sitting on our cooler. The coon wasn't able to get into them last night, but he had shifted things around and torn a big hole in our charcoal bag when we woke up this morning -- so we got the rock just in case. According to the park rangers, other people were supposed to be showing up to the campgrounds today, but they never came. So we still have this whole place to ourselves!

Day 4, Thursday
5/21/2020

Before I write about the events of today, there turned out to be more that happened after I wrote in my journal last night. About 30 minutes after settling in for bed, a crazy strong wind began rocking our tent. It was SO loud -- we could hear a gust roaring down towards us about 10 seconds before it would hit the tent with some serious force. We checked our phones, and realized the storms we thought weren't coming until morning, were actually just ten minutes away from us. In a rush of adrenaline, we hurriedly packed a few important things into a bag, grabbed pillows and blankets, and ran to Luke's Jeep, making it just as the first few drops of rain began to fall. A significant weather advisory was issued, stating that wind gusts up to 50 mph would be possible with this storm. Unsure of what our campsite would look like when we returned to it, we weathered the worst of it in Luke's Jeep. He played some episodes of Phineas and Ferb for me to clear my head and get my mind off the storms (since, admittedly -- I was a bit scared, and there had already been a few tears shed). Thankfully, it passed in a little less than an hour, and we were able to return to our tent around 1am. Except for a few items strewn around outside, most of our belongings were in order and the inside of our tent was still dry. We headed inside for the second time that night, and Luke was the sweetest, most loving husband to me. He was probably ready for sleep, but I was still a bit shaken up, and it was still raining slightly so he stayed up and comforted and talked to me for about an hour. We finally got to sleep around 2am.

Moving into today's events -- we had been planning to wake up around 7:30am for some early morning fishing, but due to the events of the previous night, we didn't roll out of bed until around 8:15am. We sleepily packed our lunch bag for the fishing trip, and tried to gather some energy to get started on the day (which is hard, when you're sun-burnt, tired, and sleep deprived 😅). 
Luckily, we were able to perk up a bit on our walk down to the river. We found a nice spot along the banks for fishing, and set up there. It was SO fun learning how to fish! Luke was a great teacher, and even though my technique was far from perfect, I feel it was a good first time for me. We didn't catch anything (besides a hair scrunchie, lol! See pictures below...), but there was great conversation and some enjoyable bonding time. During our time at the river, Luke mentioned the possibility of heading home a day early. We were both still tired from the previous night, and more thunderstorms were forecasted to hit again tonight. I placed a call to the state park, got us checked out, and we headed back from fishing, happy, and satisfied to be heading home soon. 
After a couple of hours packing up our campsite, we were on the road. Tired, but so happy, so content, and so thankful for the amazing few days we got to spend at the Guadalupe River. We definitely grew closer as a couple, and I love my husband so much more now after getting to spend this week with him.

Guadalupe River Camping Trip - Part 1

Luke and I returned tonight from spending the past four days out in nature at the beautiful, scenic Guadalupe River State Park. Neither of us had much camping experience before this little adventure, but I feel we went through this week like pros! It was SO fun, and we made so many memories together this week. There are so many things I never want to forget about our time there. I wrote in a small journal every night before we settled down for bed, so I could remember the details and fun happenings from this week. Transferring those journal writings over to my blog now, and including some pictures from each day as well! We had a great time, but are both definitely happy to be home and in our own bed tonight. 😄



Day 1, Monday
5/18/2020

This is our first camping trip together for our first anniversary. I'm writing this by lantern light as we wind down for bed. It is so peaceful and quiet here in the tent at night with Luke, just listening to the sounds of nature. Today was likely the hardest day of our time here, since we had to set up camp -- first time putting a tent up, woot...! We made campfire nachos for dinner (see below). I like the simplicity of camping so far, and especially that "survival" feeling you get when you have to build a fire to cook your own supper. We have this place to ourselves for our first two nights here, and that's been awesome. There's not any people besides us on the park campgrounds tonight (thanks, covid). Tomorrow I think we'll be going hiking, and maybe Luke will teach me how to fish. So thankful for the time we're gonna spend together this week.

Day 2, Tuesday
5/19/2020

Today was a really awesome first full day at our camp. We woke up about 8:30am and had muffins and bananas for breakfast. After we ate, we got all packed up for a hike. The first trail we went on was hot with very little shade, but went right along the beautiful, flowing river. Luke carried our backpack, which held turkey sandwiches, pineapple, chips, and water bottles for our lunch. We ate sitting on a log by the river under a huge oak tree, where there was a nice breeze. Something really funny happened during our lunch conversation, that I want to remember. Sitting and listening to the river sounds while eating was a really contemplative experience for me. I said wistfully, "I really want to have a big family someday." To which Luke replied, "The provolone cheese on this sandwich is really good." Lol. 😂
After eating, we rolled up our jeans, put on our water shoes, and crossed the river to some hiking trails we wanted to explore on the other side. At the river's deepest point, it came up to about mid-thigh. The trails on the other side were very nice. They were mostly shaded and paved with gravel in some parts. An app on Luke's phone recorded that we walked 6.2 miles today.
When we got back to camp, we cooked hamburgers for dinner on the propane stove. Luke had it on the lowest setting, and the flame was so hot, our thick, prime cuts of meat cooked in about 8 minutes. They were juicy and sooooo delicious.
I didn't know if I would get a shower this week, but after dinner we packed up some clean clothes and headed to check out the camp bathhouses. They were kinda far away, so we drove. Surprisingly, the showers were very nice, and it felt really good to clean off. Tonight in our tent, we drank cold sodas that we got from a vending machine up by the bathhouse, while watching some episodes of Phineas and Ferb. Our first day here at the park has been so fun and relaxing. I can't wait for another day tomorrow. We saw a raccoon from our tent window tonight, trying to get into our cooler. But the lid is on securely and there's totes sitting on top, so I don't think he will be able to.

 Look for Part 2 of our camping trip in another blog post!!

First Anniversary

Today is the first anniversary of our marriage. We leave for a camping trip tomorrow, and I could not be more excited! 😄 We're going to Guadalupe River State Park. I don't know what my favorite part about camping will be yet, but I am excited for hiking, cooking, playing games, reading, and learning to fish. I've got everything packed for us (mostly) and I am super excited for some time to spend outdoors, without distractions, enjoying nature, with my husband.😊

As I write this, my husband is in the other room fixing me a special mystery anniversary dinner. I don't know what he's making, but I can hear him outside right now on our porch getting some things out of storage. And the only things we store outside are the fancy dishes and candles that we almost never use... so he's planning to make this a pretty special evening I think. :)

I told Luke this afternoon that I want to eventually visit every state park in Texas. A lofty goal for someone who hasn't even been on her first long camping trip to see if she likes it. 😅 We counted 89 state parks in Texas. Maybe I'll change my mind after this week, but right now I want to visit every single one.

I think, in my mind, I've romanticized the idea of camping a little bit. Fixing meals over a fire, late night talks under the stars, reading outside in a cool breeze... all sounds super wonderful and perfect. 
In reality, this week is probably going to consist of much sweating, hot restless nights, allergies, going five days without a proper shower, and BUGS. Such fun. But I think it's important to recognize this, and realize at the same time that these things and the more pleasant, romantic things get to happen together. Either way, I'm determined to have a great week. Here's a quote my sister saved on Pinterest a few weeks ago (somewhat on topic) that I really like -

I am so determined to fall more in love with life. Intentionally romanticizing the walks I'm on, the birds chirping, the blooming nature around me, the poetry I write, the things I am learning, my handwriting, dozing off while sitting in front of a window, all of it and more. Because that's when you truly start living. That's when you start looking forward to every day.

I really like that quote.

So, this week, I'm going to focus on the positive aspects of camping. Even though there'll likely be some unpleasant things that happen (just anticipating the amount of flies to be landing on our food all week 😅), I plan to intentionally romanticize the entire experience and enjoy the quietness and peacefulness of nature with Luke.

And here's some fun pictures from our anniversary weekend! Nature, here we come.

Quarantine 2020

First blog post! Yay! 😊 Luke and I both finished our classes today and are moving into finals week. We are so excited to be done and down to one semester left! The second half of this semester has definitely been different and interesting, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. I thought it would be nice to have this blog post for us as a record of the highs and lows of the past few months. There are so many memories I want to keep from this time in our lives.

Writing is sometimes stressful for me - which is why blogging is going to take some getting used to! There are so many words and ways to say things. It's easy for me to spend hours analyzing a few sentences and considering if I've written my thoughts in the best way possible. A peaceful writing environment is beautiful, and I love the one I've created for myself tonight.

My husband is laying beside me in bed, winding down after our day together. I feel fresh and clean after a shower. The room is cool and I have a glass of iced peach water sitting beside me. We had chicken quesadillas and fresh berries for dinner tonight. The kitchen sink is empty and the counters have been wiped down. I love the peaceful feeling that creates. We went for a late walk tonight and it was good to get some exercise after spending a whole day home inside our apartment. There was a slight breeze, a full moon, and my husband beside me holding my hand. We each listened to our favorite podcasts as we walked. I have been enjoying the "Wifey Wednesdays" podcast produced by the Light Network on Apple Podcasts. Each episode is so encouraging and motivating. They always push me towards being a better wife and Christian.

So... quarantine. In many ways, being at home together has been such a blessing. I love what my uncle posted on Facebook a few weeks ago - this time at home right now for young married couples is letting us live out Deuteronomy 24:5 perfectly! Here are some of the highs for us from the past few months:

Using notes during exams... seriously. There's no way to know how much stress this has relieved. All aspects of online school considered, this is definitely one of the best.

More time in general... It's crazy how much more time there is in a day when you cut out driving and walking to destinations. And every event that was scheduled to take place in your life is cancelled. Between church activities, classes, McCarty events, working shifts at CFA - before quarantine we had somewhere to be and something to be doing every minute of the day. After these past few months, I feel so relaxed and inwardly calm. I am definitely going to continue enjoying not having to rush places, for as long as this lasts.

Worshiping together in our home... I have loved this! Don't get me wrong - I am so ready to get back to fellowshipping and being around other Christians in the perfect way God designed the church. I am also finding something special in worshiping God with only my husband in the room with me. Luke and I have studied and prayed together before, but singing together just the two of us has been a new and different experience. It was forced on us, but now I don't want it to stop! Even after we go back to normal life. I think it is so special to sit and sing with my husband.

Completing Home Projects... For the past year, a pile of pictures needing to be hung were leaning against a wall. And now they're on our wall! 😀 Enough said.

Quality time with my husband... Luke and I have grown so close the past few months. He has been amazing to me, and is keeping my love bank overflowing. I posted about this on Facebook, and I think I'll just copy that post over so that I can have a record of it here:

"I’ve had the sweetest husband in the world lately. This week has already been so crazy with school and my stress/depression levels have been way up. Luke has been so good during all of it. Yesterday he sat by me while I took an exam that I was really nervous about. Even though he could have been doing something else, he chose to sit there beside me for an hour and a half, rubbing my back when I was particularly stressed and giving me the amazing gift of his presence. He’s been waking up early with me to support me and treating me to breakfasts at Chick-fil-A. Tonight while I was wrapping up one of my bigger school projects, I could hear him in the kitchen singing and tackling the huge pile of dishes that had been accumulating all week. Oh how I love my husband ❤️ I’m so thankful to have him during this crazy and uncertain time. Please enjoy this picture of our empty sink and clean dishes. It would not have looked this way if it wasn’t for him."

And here's the sink!

There's no telling how many fun times and amazing experiences we've missed due to this quarantine. Instead of depressing my future self with this blog post though, I would much rather look back on this time and remember the special memories we're creating. It's kinda cool getting to live through history! Here's a couple more pictures from the past few months of our quarantine:

An awesome, super comfortable video gaming setup that Luke built for me in the living room

Playing around with a PDF Scanner app! Totally not using the app for the purpose it was created - but so fun! 😄 I think it's really cool how much detail it captures, even down to the Gatorade bottles, glass bowl, and pineapple on the counter behind me.