Josh and Jo Cragun

Living the Dream

2011-07-07T13:19:00.003-04:00

What? Six weeks in Hawaii wasn't living the dream? Or watching the whales jump at the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest? Or living on the river in Florida? Or going to rodeos in San Antonio?

Well, sure. Those were dreams and we did live them.

But my other dream, the dream I've had for the past 10 years or so, was to teach high school science at a school for students who are Deaf using American Sign Language and English. And this fall it is finally happening!

How, you ask? Aren't you living in Texas? Well, I got a job offer from MSSD (the Model Secondary School for the Deaf). It is the high school on the campus of Gallaudet University, where I got my MA in Deaf Education. I have worked there before as an intern and student teacher, as well as a substitute teacher. They were looking for science teachers and I interviewed via videophone from Texas. I found out a little while ago that I got the job and recently accepted it. Josh is able to move most of his rotations this year back to DC.

I'm not thrilled to be back in DC, but it sure does feel good to be on the east coast again.

I have been going to school for so long that I have really only actually taught twice, and both times were only for a few months. This will be my first year really teaching. I am nervous and excited.

Wish us luck!

SeaWorld Reflections

2011-04-18T18:01:00.007-04:00

Temperatures are already in the 80s and 90s everyday. It's important to have a place close by to get cool since all the pools don't open until after Memorial Day (crazy, right? I mean, it's hot NOW!). So SeaWorld is a good option. Josh's brother and his family have season passes so we have been there twice. There's definitely a lot of good things about SeaWorld.

Like the flamingos. They are fun to see. And fun to act like them too.

And the beluga whales that push their trainers on their noses. That's cool.

And the wave pool. Can't beat that. It even has a clock to tell you when the waves will start and stop. This is us with Levi and McKenzie.

And McKenzie under water at the wave pool.

The other things in the lagoon area are nice too, like this big bucket that fills up and dumps on everyone.

As well as the water tube slides. This is McKenzie.

This is her brother, Troy.

Josh and Chase with the flamingos.

Josh with Jake and his boys, Chase, Logan, and Tanner, getting ready for the Shamu show. Another great part of SeaWorld.

And Shamu, I mean, isn't this the best?

And behind me is the mom whale with her new baby whale. The baby tried to do all the tricks with its mom. It seriously made me start to cry it was so cute.

But there were other reasons I was getting a little weepy at SeaWorld. I'm slightly embarassed, but it's true.

The thing is, seeing these animlas is amazing. I mean, I sometimes am torn about how I feel about places like SeaWorld and zoos and things. I mean, I am more for animals to be free in the habitats nature intended for them. At the same time, I feel that by having some animals kept in captivity people can learn so much more about them and will hopefully care more about these creatures because they had intimate experiences with them. In this way, I hope these places educate people to save our planet and everything on it. It's the same way I feel about National Parks and such. And I think (and hope...I need to research this more) now a lot more animals in zoos are born in captivity. This sits better with me knowing they are a "trapped" compared to their wild family members. I can also understand if a species is endangered, and then I can see why we as humans want to step in to save such creatures. And in the end, I do like seeing the whales and how fun and loving and magnificent they are. But it's hard, and I guess I get a little emotional and teary-eyed because...

...I also got to see them like this. And it was one of the most beautiful and majestic things I have ever seen in my life so far. Truly.

Corpus Christi

2011-03-14T12:33:00.005-04:00

This past weekend we kicked off Spring Break by heading down to the beach at Corpus Christi (Port Arnasas) with Josh's brother, Chad, and sister, Emily, and their families. It was a great weekend at the beach!

Chad, Molly, Josh, and little Colin at our first trip down to the beach.

Josh holding Colin, with McKenzie and Troy playing in the ocean.

Josh and Jo.

Kent and Chad, wheeling the wagon with all our beach gear that Chad carefully put together. Way to go, guys.

Our little piece of heaven on the beach.

Josh let the kids take turns pulling them on the boogie board through the waves. Some liked it better than others...McKenzie and Madison are the girls in the background.

Levi, McKenzie, Madison, Colin, Chad, Charlie, and Josh building a sand city.

Charlie, Colin, McKenzie, and Ellie, after Uncle Kent made them into mer-people.

Ellie and I, digging a tunnel.

Josh and Jo, with faces a little sunburned. Still a good weekend at the beach!

iPhone

2011-03-02T22:24:00.001-05:00

I recently switched my phone plan to AT&T to be on a family plan with Josh. It also meant I got an iPhone. So this is me posting from my phone to try it out. I won't lie, it's feelin pretty good so far!

26.2

2011-02-27T13:29:00.003-05:00

...miles, that is. That's right, finished another marathon! Sadly, Josh couldn't be with me this year, but it's my third year going to Myrtle Beach for the race (I think it's my mom's 6th year doing it!)

My mom, me, my cousin Kristin, and our friend AnnaMarie all completed the full marathon. (Don't ask times, just know we finished, and my mom was the first to cross the finish line out of all of us.) My cousins Alison and Shannon, and my Aunt Linda, all did the half marathon. Talk about some fabulous ladies, huh???

We're already gearing up for next year...everyone's invited, any takers? :)

The Question on Everybody's Lips...

2011-02-01T18:38:00.002-05:00

...on their chapped lips...

will Phil feel lucky?

That's right woodchuck-chuckers, it's gonna be GROUNDHOG DAY!!!

Tomorrow we'll see. Early spring? Or six more weeks of winter? I have a hunch we won't be seeing warm weather any time soon.

But it seems Phil might have another prediction:

Black and Gold Love

2011-01-21T16:10:00.003-05:00

Here's a shout-out to our boys. We've done it before, let's do it again!

Dear Weather,

2011-01-10T17:58:00.003-05:00

The last week we were in Florida it was below freezing. Those were record-breaking temperatures for that state. Then we were in DC, VA, and PA, all of which were freezing cold and snowy. Finally, we got to Texas. I thought being so far south in San Antonio that the weather would be sunny and warm. It was...before I got here. I arrived just in time for the cold rain (snow in Dallas). It has been overcast all three days so far and will be the rest of the week, with temperatures below freezing yet again. So, dear Weather, why are you so determined for me to FREEZE? If you could warm things up ASAP I would really appreciate it.

Much love,
Jo

Homeless, Homeless (Like the Christ Child Was)

2010-12-19T18:49:00.008-05:00

...thanks, Michael McLean (the title of this post is one of his songs). It seemed so appropriate though, as Josh and I are actually homeless and it is indeed the Christmas Season.

We finished our time at Jacksonville, Florida and we go to Texas next, but not until January. We gave up our apartment last summer when we started rotations, so we literally "live" no where. No. Where. It's so weird. Not to have anywhere to go back to that is ours. At least our hotel room was "our" room. We do still have our car...

We just finished a week in DC for Josh's school and stayed with friends and are now in southern VA at his parents' house until Christmas. Then we go to my mom and dad's house in PA until it's time for Texas.

Here are some highlights from Florida and from Thanksgiving (Josh and I both went back to PA for Thanksgiving. It was great. Ryan was home for a visit. We were only missing our brother-in-law Justin. I also hunted during that time but still am buck-less).

This was our back yard in Florida, on the St. Johns River

Josh and I went to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the US. We also got to go to the Alligator Farm, the Kennedy Space Center, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal's Islands of Adventure (SO worth it!)

Ryry and I were unsuccessful at squirrel hunting but had a good time out there together

Daddy made his world-famous lasagna. We all helped.

Daddy and Uncle Keith reffed some of the high school basketball games. We got to see Ruthie, Eleanor, Alex, Olivia, and Amber all play basketball as well

Me and Josh, second Thanksgiving together

Our Thanksgiving Table at my mom's house

Playing Just Dance!

Josh, Robbie, Stevie, and little Jacob. Finally, we are startin to get some more fellas in the Neeley clan!

Ruthie played viola and Eleanor played violin in their quartet for Beaver's "Light-Up" Night

Stevie, Robbie, Josh, and Ryan watchin the girls' quartet (they were playing at a hair salon on Beaver's Main Street)

Daddy, Jacob, and Ryan - showin their love for Da Burgh

Our youngest Steelers Fan

Back in DC, we were able to go to see the lights at the DC Temple, and see all the Nativities from around the world in the Visitors Center

Getting ready for Christmas!

Mamma, There's a 'Nother Gator In the House!!!

2010-11-21T21:25:00.007-05:00

Remember this? From the movie Monsters Inc.? At the end, the bad guy, Randall, gets sent to a closet that opens in this trailor on a swamp and the daughter yells to her mom that another gator is in the house. They then proceed to chase Randall. It's comical and a punishment fit for a kid's movie - especially since Randall kinda looks like an alligator.

I always liked that part of the movie. But now it means oh so much more to me. I live in Florida now and look, I've always knows alligators live here. I've been here. I go to alligator farms and zoos almost every year. I seriously know a lot about these creatures. And we came down last spring to visit Josh's brother and his fam in Gainsville, Florida. They talked about gators being in the swamps and stuff.

Fine.

Fine.

But now, I actually live here. AND I live ON the water. Not the ocean. St. John's River. That's fresh water. The whole base is like a big swamp on our side.

First few days, no big deal. We even went to St. Augustine to see the gators pictured below at the Alligator Farm. In a zoo. Behind bars and shatter-proof glass. Where they BELONG:

But then, I was actually here enough. I went about my day. And it happened. I SAW them. Gators. Real live ones. BIG ones. Not like, down the road, or a few miles away in the swamp... IN MY BACK YARD.

This big fella was sunning himself on hole #2 of the blue 9 holes at the NAS Jax golf course. I wasn't sure if he was real or not at first. He's like six feet long! Huge! We had to drive RIGHT past him on the cart path. Don't worry, I practically live on the golf course. No big deal.

And I (sadly) do not have a picture of the next gator (though not for lack of trying...he was gone before I got back with my camera). But I was out for my 12 mile run. I have to run all around where we live to get this far because the base isn't that big. I ran back and forth in my neighborhood. Houses. Children. Playing outside. I stopped by some water thinking I might see a gator, but I just saw a turtle the size of a serving plate plop into the water. Which was still exciting for me.

Next time around I looked for my little turtle friend and almost jumped out of my skin. A 4-foot gator was right there! Right where the turtle was! Right by the houses and the kids and ME! On the other side of the road there was a fence around the water/swamp, but not on this side...the side with the gator!

And secretly, part of me loves it, ok? It's sweet. Gators. Right here. I literally watch where I step near the water for fear of losing a limb. And I always want to see one now. But then I actually do, and pretty much run away while looking back over my shoulder...

Hawaii Highlights

2010-11-21T20:43:00.004-05:00

This is just a quick highlight of my facebook pics, but here is a tribute to my last days of Hawaii.

This is one of my classes at the Hawaii School for the Deaf and Blind. It was so hard to leave them!

Josh and I visited the west side of the island. It was interesting and beautiful.

Josh caught some sweet waves on the boogie board at Sunset Beach.

As did Peter Bell...

And Jen Bell...

And me.

At Pearl Harbor there were WWII veterans there. I got to meet them and shake their hands! It was really great.

And we got to go to the USS Arizona Memorial. It was a touching and difficult experience. I'll never forget what happened on that day and those who lost their lives serving our country.

The Laie Temple was closed for renovations but opened for the open house while we were there. We got to invite some friends and go through it. It was a marvelous experience.

Jenn Blohm, Me, Josh, Robby, Jen Bell's parents, Jen Bell, and Peter Bell.

It was sad to leave, but at the same time, Hawaii isn't a place we would like to live and in many ways we were ready to head back to the mainland. Florida is great and after Christmas break we head to Texas to finish out the year. :)

From Sea to Shining Sea

2010-11-12T09:39:00.002-05:00

Well, we made it off that crazy little rock called Hawaii. Josh had to go straight to D.C. for family medicine training. I went to Seattle, WA where we left our car. I then had to drive it to meet him in Jacksonville, FL.

I don't have my pictures ready yet, but I'm alive and well and blogging anyway.

First night I got to Seattle. Friday morning, I woke up and drove to Salt Lake City, UT. I was able to visit with lots of friends and family there.

Tuesday morning, I drove to Phoenix, AZ. I stopped at Bryce Canyon National Park and at the Glenn Canyon Dam on the way. Then I got to visit with my best friend and her beautiful family, including their newest addition - their one-week-old son. Spending time with her and her three little boys was fantastic.

Saturday afternoon I headed out and stayed in the only hotel I would stay in the whole trip, in Las Cruces, NM. Fun times. Not really. I was scared and worried about my car, but everything was fine.

Sunday, after a long day and some unexpected traveling happenings, I made it to San Antonio to visit with one of Josh's brother's and his family. I had a great time playing with the kids and visiting. I only wish I could have stayed longer.

Monday morning I went to Houston to visit Josh's sister and her family. We shopped, ate gourmet cupcakes, and watched the Steelers Monday night game. Their house is amazing. The company was wonderful. It was a great stop.

Tuesday morning I woke before the sun and headed to Jacksonville. I made it by about 9pm that night. The drive was cool but long. And I finally made it back to Josh!!!

So that was the trip. I've now been here a few days and already been to the oldest city in America and felt like a pirate in an old, piratey town. I also went to an alligator farm AND drank from the fountain of youth. Thanks, Ponce de Leon. I've also driven down the A-1-A. You can pretty much just start calling me Kenny Chesney.

Pics to follow soon.
:)

Good Ol' Hawaii...

2010-10-26T15:27:00.001-04:00

(sign behind a hole-in-the-wall bar on King street in Honolulu, near the recycle bins)

I'm Country

2010-10-24T14:02:00.003-04:00

I have found that there are some good things about bein in a place where hardly anyone listens to country music or is country at all in the way that I know. Every week day morning the one country radio station plays a country song backwards and the caller that guesses the song correctly wins a 50 dollar gift certificate. After days of listening to wrong answers or answers that took too long, I finally decided to give it a try. First time, first call, in about five seconds...I WON! Beer for My Horses was playing backwards and I got 50 bucks to Ruby Tuesdays for it.

Thanks, everyone on Hawaii aside from the military guys, for not listening to country music so I could win this prize. Even in DC, I probably never would have made it through the phone lines.

Kayaking Queens (well, the fellas did a good job too)

2010-10-21T00:47:00.012-04:00

Jen Bell and I have been adventuring all over the island during our stay here, and have had a blast! One day we decided to go kayaking. We got a two-man kayak and set out for a place called the Sand Bar. It is almost a mile out into a bay near Kaneohe but the water in the area is very shallow and at times, the sand is dry there and people dock their boats and hang out. It is like a beach in the middle of the ocean! On our afternoon, there was water over this area, but not much. After the sand bar, we spotted an island and thought, "hey, that doesn't look too far. Let's go there." About 5 kayaked miles later we had visited the island, braved the ocean's waves, and made it safely home.

Jen

The place where we put in our kayak to start our adventure

Me in the back

On our way!

The sea turtle that swam near us. It ducked under just as Jen was taking the shot!

This tree was on our little island. The wind wasn't blowing at the time of this shot. It just grew this ways from years of wind off the sea.

The island as the tide came in

Jen, hanging out. It felt like our own little island because there was no one on the island or around it (until the end...just as we were leaving a boat stopped near by because it seemed to be having engine problems).

The island was a sanctuary for sea birds and they were nesting along this path.

Edge of the island, with Oahu's mountains in the background

Stopping at the Sand Bar on our way back

Lots of other people, enjoying the Sand Bar. Near by, some people even put up a volleyball net and were playing a game!

Me and our kayak, standing on the Sand Bar

They kayak was only 25 bucks to rent from Hickam Air Force Base for a day. This meant we got it on Wednesday and didn't have to bring it back until Thursday evening. So sweet! So after our Sand Bar trip and realizing we were AMAZING ocean kayakers, we decided to champion another adventure - the Kahana River. It connects with the ocean. We started from a beach and went up the river until it got to small to continue.

We put this kayak on the car and tied it down all by ourselves and it didn't budge!

Kayaking through the trees along the river

Kahana River

Me on the river. Please excuse my ridiculously large, shiney forehead.

Coming back into the ocean from the river

The following Saturday, we took the boys with us so they could have some fun AND to show them our new, sweet kayaking skills. We also invited our friend, Robby. So we had two double kayaks and one single. We set off for a set of islands called the Mokes, near Lanikai (I could be spelling that wrong). It was Robbie's first time kayaking and the waves were rough that day. After we started out, Robby and I switched and he went with Josh and I took the single. We got to the island, played around, jumped of a little cliff on the back of the island, and had a great time. After we were done there, we though we might try to kayak around the island. However, the waves were like 8-10 feet and pretty rough, so after being out there a while, we decided it was best to save that adventure for another time...

Our three kayaks on our car. This was not easy. Do not try this at home.

The Mokes. From Lanikai.

Josh and Peter helping Robby get into the water

Josh and Robby in the close kayak, me in the back, after me and Robby had switched. Photo courtesy of Jen and Peter.

Kayakers

Pulling my kayak onto the island

After walking around the volcanic rock that made the island, we found this in the back...

This little area flowed between our island and a little area of rocks, seen on the far left.

We jumped into the above area from a small cliff. This is me jumping, but I didn't go first. I was too scared. I had to see the others go, then I went. Sad, but true. I'm a wuss sometimes.

Josh jumping

Jen and Peter, doing a double jump! (Robby jumped too, but I don't have that picture)

This is the area between our island and the little volcanic rock area. We swam across it. The water was a beautiful blue, but it was scary because the tide was coming in and we went up and down with the water trying to climb up the other side. The water under us was REALLY deep.

Swimming after we jumped off the cliff

Overall, it was a ton of fun. I wish we had a kayak and could do it all the time. Someday you will, JoAnna...someday...

Three Nights of Fire Throwing

2010-10-19T03:15:00.004-04:00

On Friday night, Josh surprised me and took me to the Cirque de Soleil show in Honolulu. I've never been to show like this and it was amazing! I was scared and excited and on the edge of my seat all night. One of the last performances was some of the best fire throwers I have ever seen.

Saturday night, we went to the Polynesian Cultural Center with the Bells and our friend Robby. They also had some guys that really knew how to handle fire and it was a pretty good show.

Finally, on Sunday evening we went to the Maccademia Nut farm for a tour and short show. This man made the fire from rubbing two sticks together, made it big with coconut hair, and then lit his fire stick. Done like a true Polynesian stud. SO cool.

And that concluded our three days of fire thowing. Welcome to Hawaii.

Back to School, Back to School

2010-10-12T22:14:00.003-04:00

During my first few days in Hawaii I spent a lot of time with my friend, Jennifer Blohm, who graduated with me from Gallaudet University. She lives here now. The first Tuesday in town she invited me to a Deaf event where they showed a movie for students and parents at the School for the Deaf and Blind here called "My Dad Will Still Be Deaf Tomorrow." It is a really funny and cute film that has a CODA (Child of a Deaf Adult) telling stories in ASL about growing up with Deaf parents.

We had a really great night and Jennifer happened to introduce me to the principal of the Hawaii School for the Deaf and Blind. Long story short, they happened to be in need of a short-term high school science teacher and hired me a few days later!

I now get to teach biology to high school students (all grades) every morning. And it's perfect because I get out early enough to still enjoy the beach and island (plus, last week was fall break, so I already had a week off!).

I love the school and the students and am sorry we have to leave so soon! For now, I get to enjoy genetics in ASL each morning. :)

Aloha!

2010-10-08T16:48:00.007-04:00

Josh and I are now in Honolulu, Hawaii. We are half way through his psych rotation here. Our hotel is just above the Tripler Army Medical Center, where he works. Here are some pics from our first three weeks.

This is the view from the top of Diamond Head.

When we first arrived, my friend Jennifer Blohm (we graduated together from Gallaudet and she lives here now) met us and gave us beautiful flower leis.

The military has a hotel right on the beach in Waikiki called the Hale Koa. They have a pool and we go there a lot to hang out while the boys are at work.

Hanauma Bay

Monoa Valley Falls

Sunset in Waikiki

We get to see rainbows all the time. This is our backyard at the hotel.

Sitting on the top of the second falls up Wai'oma'o stream

Wai'amo'o Stream Falls

Maunawili Falls. We went with our friends Peter and Jen Bell. We all jumped off just below where we are sitting in this picture. Josh and Peter then climbed about 4o feet up the right side and jumped. It was fun, but I think the fellas were a little sore after the jump...

Jen and Peter Bell, boogieboarding at Sandy Beach.

Sacred Falls

Jen Bell and me

Josh at the two blow holes called Dragon's Nostrils

Spitting Cave

0 to 4 in 6 seconds

2010-09-07T23:42:00.005-04:00

Four kids, that is. And it might not have been six seconds, but it all certainly happened fast. A little while ago Josh and I babysat for Josh's oldest brother, Sean, and his wife, Tia's, kids. They have four - Chloe is 10, Tyler is 7, Ella is 4, and Crew is about 18 months old. Sean and his family will be moving to Dallas soon and needed to go to Texas to look for a house. We came in Friday night and stayed til the following Tuesday (Josh had to leave Sunday night to go back to the hospital).

We went to Seattle on Saturday and went to Pike's Market and the Seattle Aquarium. It was a great day with the kids! They were actually really good the whole weekend and we had some fun too. We even got them to church on time, to the back-to-school night, and kept the house and kids intact.

Here are some pics from our time together:

Lunch time at Pike's Market

The girls, in front of the pig

Josh helping Ella feel comfortable touching the starfish

And then Crew

Josh with the kids in the underwater dome

It was a great weekend, but also reminded us that we aren't in any rush to start our own family just yet... ;)

It's a Bomb! It's an Earthquake! It's a...

2010-08-20T00:12:00.004-04:00

...well, I'm not going to tell you what it was yet. That would ruin my story.

Two days ago I was sitting on my bed in my hotel room on the fourth (and top) floor. I was eating my lunch on my bed as we have no real table, and was minding my own business. Suddenly, I heard a pretty loud bang outside. It sounded like it came from the roof, right near my window. I am on an Army base and thought a training exercise went wrong, but then I realized I'm just crazy and ignored it. About two seconds later, another "explosion" was heard on my roof. This time I started getting nervous. I turned the tv off, I ran to the window, I looked all around...I even went out to the hall. No one. I felt pretty silly, and confused. I went out to run my errands and drove very slowly by the hotel, on all sides, checking the roof. NOTHING. No sign that people were panicked. No sign that my roof was blown off. No shingles in the yard. I almost called the front desk, but was too embarrassed that I was imagining weird things.

I told Josh about this later in the day. He didn't call me crazy to my face, but he acted like I had just told him I went to the store or put gas in the car. I knew he thought, "oh, just my crazy wife, being crazy again."

Later that night, all was forgotten. I get tired as soon as the sun goes down and went to bed before Josh, who was busy with his work. About an hour later I was abruptly woken up by Josh. "Jo! Jo! I just read the news..."

Josh then proceeded to explain to me why I wasn't crazy. President Obama was visiting Seattle that afternoon when a sea plane flew into his air space, 8 miles from him. 2 F-15 FIGHTER PLANES RUSHED TO THE SEA PLANE AND CREATED SONIC BOOMS.

That's right, Sonic Booms. They shook my hotel room all the way down south of Tacoma. And apparently others all over the state felt it too. 911 calls were off the charts. People thought explosions and earthquakes were happening.

At least it wasn't just me being crazy. This time.

(the sea plane)

from worldcorrespondents.com:

Sonic Boom in Seattle Caused by F-15 Fighter Jets Due to Presidential Airspace Restiction Violation – A lot of tweets surfaced Thursday about a great sound that shook some of the apartments and buildings in Seattle. Some thought that it was an earthquake. Others said that it was like a giant stomping his feet on the ground. However, upon further inquiries, it was found out that the sound came from two sonic booms.

A sonic boom is the sound associated with the shock waves created by supersonic flight of an aircraft when it exceeded the speed of sound generating huge amounts of sound energy, sounding much like an explosion.

According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the sonic boom that occurred around 2pm Thursday came from two military fighter jets dispatched from Portland after the pilot of a spotted aircraft violated presidential airspace restrictions in lieu of Obama’s visit to Seattle for a campaign fund raising event for Sen. Patty Murray.

It was then later confirmed that the sonic booms came from two F-15s, a twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter aircraft designed to gain and maintain air superiority in aerial combat. The North American Aerospace Defense Command providing aerospace warning to both US and Canada immediately dispatched the said fighter jets upon receiving reports of anairspace violation.

The subject of the violation was a Cessna 180 float plane which breached the presidential no-fly zone. Laura Joseph, a passenger of the Cessna 180 was puzzled after she saw an F-15 fighter plane calling their attention. She later found out about the airspace violation that she and her companion Daily committed.

The two sonic booms prompted various people to exit from their respective workplaces in nearby areas to inquire about the cause of the two window-shaking booms.

The Fairborn, Ohio 4th of July Parade

2010-08-10T22:37:00.006-04:00

Before arriving at our first rotation, we were told it was in Dayton, Ohio. We quickly found out that the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is near Dayton, but not in Dayton. The small town right outside of the base gates was Fairborn, Ohio. When we first arrived we didn't know what to do so we decided to go to Blockbuster to rent a video. It happened to be the 4th of July. We planned to see fireworks later that night, but had no plans for the day.

Little did we know how lucky we were about to become! As we pulled into the Blockbuster we noticed a parade marching down main street! It was a magical treat and Josh and I hurried over to catch as much if it as we could. Being a small-town girl myself, I couldn't resist!

The parade started out pretty normal. There was an announcer in a band stand, describing each float or parade entry, occasionally calling out advertisements when a float represented a business (or church). This float was from Wright State University, just down the road.

The Shriners drove mini cars around. What would a parade be without them???

But then things started to get a little strange, even for little ol' Beaver-county-me. Several churches made floats or had pick-up trucks to represent them. The man in the bandstand would announce them, generally followed by a message such as, "And the Lutherans invite you to come join them at 9:30 on Sundays," or something. But one church was a little different. I couldn't quite hear the name of the church, but I heard, "...and they are here to remind us that Jesus is the Christ and that He died for our sins."

I thought to myself, "Wow, that's really great. Here were are at a community, public event, and we can still talk about our Savior and how improtant He is." But just then, I saw the actual float. I was, well...just look for yourself...

Suddenly all I see rounding the corner is a huge, red, scary devil mask. I was so confused. Halloween? What? I thought it was church? Then I realized what I was seeing.

That's right, friends. Hell or Heaven, Your Choice. Josh and I laughed a bit and couldn't believe it, especially the girls dressed in black with tambourines. But then I realized, aren't they right? Isn't this the message? I promptly decided we would send our children to this church to "scare the Hell out of them." That oughtta work.

Other parts of the parade were mostly normal.

This is a car that says, "seized from a drug dealer." And, yes, it is the D.A.R.E. vehicle for the town. Sooooooo awesome.

But then there was one more truely noteworthy event. I saw the above SUV drive by. When I realized it was the D.A.R.E car (some of you may be familiar with this program. It is generally run by the local police, set up to teach kids about the dangers of drugs. It stands for Drug Abuse Research Education or something.) Anyway, so I run up to get a picture of it and as I turn around to walk back to Josh I run SMACK into this:

If you can't tell, the woman in the orange halter-top has a SNAKE around her. NO, she is not in the parade. YES, she is just watching. With her boa. Or ball python. I'm no snake expert. I only know enough to realize that this is totally weird. (And when I told my mom she very angrily and very loudly screamed, "NOOOOOO!!!" She really hates snakes.)

But of course, being in Ohio, there are TONS of good folks, AKA, buckeye fans.

And also a few crazy conservatives, but hey, you know me. I'll take it! :)

And what would a parade in Ohio be without a gator-thing, supporting our troops while handing out corn to the kiddies (there was candy too, but not from these folks).

Happy Birthday, America! From Fairborn, Ohio!
(Well the fireworks were in Kettering. But you get the idea.)

A Tale of Two Bugs (Or: A Story for Sarah)

2010-07-30T16:59:00.004-04:00

Soooo, Sarah, I know you are terrified of insects. When we were little I would chase you with grasshoppers until you cried. I'm not proud of this (although I guess not completely ashamed either...look I'm sorry). The point is, you were scared and still are. I guess all those years of being woken up at 5:30am to kill a spider in your shower still gets to me, cause Olivia and I planned to play a little trick on you at the beach.

The first bug tale happened at Holden Beach, NC. Olivia and I found a perfectly preserved, dead, cicada bug at the beach. It was just lying there, beautifully in the sand. We both quickly decided to hide it under a shell, near the sea grass, and when you came out we would scare you with it. Childish, yes. What can I say??? It was SO tempting! We forgot a few times. We kept checking it to make sure it was there. Even after some rain, it was safe under its shell sarcophagus. Anyway, our best-laid plans were ruined simply because we couldn't remember to get the bug. Man. Talk about missed opportunities.

But there is another tale to tell. One full of mystery and karma. Basically, today I was riding my bike home from the wood shop. I was going pretty fast down a little hill when I was suddenly struck in the face by something. It was really more of a punch! It hit me, HARD, right below my left eye, on my upper cheek bone. The hit hurt even a moments after the initial impact.

And then I realized...

It was a cicada!!!

Immediately my thoughts were turned to the days when I planned to play such a devious trick on you, Sarah. The karma-bug-gods got me good! I'll certainly think twice before trying to play such a cruel prank on you again, big sis (but after thinking twice, I'll probably do it anyway, so sleep with one eye open...).

Kidding! ;)

A Summer Picture Journal

2010-07-28T21:31:00.009-04:00

Due to the crazy spring and summer we have had so far, and the fact that we haven't had a real home for quite some time, our blog has been neglected. Here are some pictures for those of you who may have wondered what we've been up to recently.

Josh and I went to the air show at Andrew's Air Force Base before we left DC.

Blue Angels at the air show (LOVE it!).

I finally graduated with my MA in Deaf Education.

Stevie gave the Gettysburg Address at our town's Memorial Day service in the cemetery.

My mom and sisters and I threw a baby shower for Sarah.

Fremont, Ohio

We celebrated Stevie and Josh's birthdays.

Sarah's baby is due in a month and Chrissy had her beautiful baby, Samuel!

Stevie's graduation party (he'll be at BYU this fall).

Stevie graduated from Beaver High School.

We saw the Nats beat the Pirates in DC with Gina.

Josh and I took our first cruise, to the Bahamas.

We went to our nephew, Tanner's, baptism in Florida and got to celebrate Josh's brother, Jake's, graduation from his endodontist program.

AND Josh's mom and I beat him and Tanner at ToyStory bumper cars.

My mom, Stevie, and I took the kids on a week-long road trip out west.

Old Faithful

My cousin Megan got engaged. :)

We had our Neeley Family Reunion at Aspen Grove in Utah.

This was our shirt for the 2010 reunion, for Uncle Bruce.

Well, that's the update. It's been a fun and emotional summer, and it isn't done yet. We still have weddings, babies, moves, and many more surprises to come, I'm sure. We are just grateful to be able to spend so much of our time with our family and friends. (and Sarah and Liz, I'll be posting from Dayton soon! you are in for a TREAT.)

Monopoly, anyone?

2010-07-07T16:47:00.005-04:00

Why monopoly? Because we live in a hotel, of course. But I guess this isn't like real monopoly. Because we don't have a monopoly on anything. And we don't own any property. Or any buildings. Or, well, anything, except the few things we left in a storage unit and the even fewer things we have in our truck. It's more like those monopoly games they make now that are like "Pittsburgh" monopoly. Or "National Parks" monopoly. I guess we would be the "US Military Bases" monopoly. By the time we are done with this year, we will have been to seven. We move about every six weeks for Josh's medical school rotations. To a new base, to another base hotel. Currently, we are at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. This year will have its ups and downs, but in the end it will be all worth it when Josh is an awesome doctor. Until then, I'll be the top hat, you be the ship, and can someone pass the dice please?

Happy Mother's Day, from the Nationals

2010-05-11T22:22:00.006-04:00

This Mother's Day I couldn't go home to see my mom or down to Roanoke to see my mother-in-law, or spend it with any other important and influential woman in my life. Luckily, my dear friend, Gina, let me share her mother! We went to the Nationals baseball game and celebrated Gina's birthday too. Happy Mother's Day and thanks, Gina!

Trip to Utah

2010-05-01T17:57:00.007-04:00

Growing up I had two cousins my age on my dad's side of the family. When I went out to Utah to (try to) run my marathon, I had the opportunity to see one cousin (Brad)'s new baby girl, Naomi, and to see my other cousin, Megan, graduate from BYU. I also was lucky enough to get to ski a bit, climb a bit, and visit with friends and family, especially Liz. Here's a few pics. :)

Tara, Victoria, Kristin, Megan, Aunt Linda, Blankenship, and Me

Shauna and Mark Fishler, and Me

Natalie, Sarah, Ruthe, Liz, and Robbie

Ruthie and Me, climbing

Me and my LuvBugs

Brad, Marie, and Naomi

Vanna, Me, and Vera

Earth Day Garden

2010-04-22T23:36:00.004-04:00

For our seven-month anniversary, Josh gave me a beautiful, leafy plant. After that, several more came. Some made it through the winter, some did not. For Easter he added the fixins for an herb garden* for me, complete with a beautiful "GARDEN" sign and a small rose bush. For Earth Day I am away from my wonderful plants, but Josh has been giving me updates every day on my sprouts. Such a great husband! (Although he says he won't breathe on them like I do sometimes. Unless I die. Then he says he will breathe on them for me. Thanks, Josh, yer a sweetheart.)

Hope you enjoyed Earth Day and did something to celebrate our amazing planet! :)

*I would have written "a herb garden," but luckily my English major sister, Liz, was here to correct me and save the day. Thanks, Liz.

Jo's Marathon Tips

2010-04-20T11:11:00.004-04:00

This past weekend I was able to run the Salt Lake City Marathon with my mom, sister Liz, brother Robbie, sister Natalie (Robbie's sister for those of you who are confused), AND COUSINS MEGAN AND SHANNON (I left these two out the first time I wrote this! Sorry, ladies!). My Uncle Larry also ran the 5K. This was my fourth marathon and my mom's, what, 6th? 7th? I can't even keep track. It was Liz's first. It was Robbie and Natalie's first 1/2 marathon. I wanted to take the time to share with everyone the things I learned this time around:

1. Make sure you know the transportation (trax train) schedule for your race.
2. Don't wait around 45 minutes for a train that isn't coming to take you to the start line.
3. If at all possible, don't run a mile before the race even starts just to get to the starting line.
4. DO NOT start the marathon 1 hour late after the entire starting line and timing stuff has been removed (unless of course there are 8 other people you don't know with you, then just start the race as if you had been there on time).
5. Look at the map ahead of time. That way, if you start an hour late, you will know where to go after all the people are gone. (NOTE: if you failed to look at the map and still did not follow tip #4, just follow the trail of long-sleeved shirts and other clothes people have shed during the race. This is a great "bread crumb trail." WARNING: this "trail" will only last for about the first 8 miles of the marathon as everyone will have taken off their warm clothes by around this point.)
6. Don't worry about writing your name or other comments on your arm if you are going to start so late that you never see another person during the entire race.
7. Don't get lost. Look at the map! Didn't I tell you that in #5? You might add 1-2 miles on to your race! If you do get lost, make sure to ask friendly people outside of their houses. They might just have a printed map of the race course ready to give you if you cry enough. You are probably only two blocks west of where you wanted to be anyway.
8. Avoid leap-frogging with the truck sent to clean up the race barricades.
9. Take the half-drank cup of OJ you find on a random table by some mountain bikers. The next station might already be closed.
10. Don't worry about all the mess you are in so far. If it is a beautiful day and the scenery is nice, just keep going.
11. Be a little concerned when the two people left at a drink station know you by your number and say things like "yup, #412 is coming in now," and "412 just left our station so try to keep yours open a little longer." Also, be concerned when you see the drink station but no one is there and you have to help yourself to the packed-up cups and water.
12. Make sure you let the marathon safety truck with EMTs follow you on major highways when you are the very last runner on the race route. Don't feel silly about this. You will at first, but remember this is their job, they see it all the time, and you need their flashing lights where there is no shoulder or sidewalk to run on near the highway.
13. Start worrying when the EMT following you continually suggests you get in the car with him and he take you to the finish line. (after all, he did get approval to do so)
14. Call your mom from the EMT's phone to let her know you are alright. If she says she is coming to you because her marathon route got messed up anyway due to her not following tip #4, try to at least continue until you see her.
15. If you stop taking in water, stop sweating, keep throwing up and dry heaving, and have a horrible side pain that might be related to your ribs moving when you run, think about getting in that truck.
16. If the EMT pretty much makes you, and you are walking slower than a 3-year-old, think about getting in that truck.
17. When you meet your mom, feel free to cry. Face it, you've been crying already anyway. She already has seen you cry, she's your mom, and the EMT guy really doesn't care. He almost expects it.
18. GET IN THE TRUCK. Come on. At this point, they can't keep following you after 1pm and then you might get hit by a car. Or need someone else to get you anyway. They said they'll take your mom too. Everyone wins!
19. Remember that there is no shame in letting them drive you 3 miles and then finishing the race near the end. No glory, but certainly no shame considering your current state.
20. Don't fall into your sister (let's say, Liz?)'s arms when you cross the line and just start crying on her shoulder. Doing so will result in other sisters crying, as well as the finish line lady. No one needs that.
21. Go to the medic station if they told you too. Don't even worry that they have been waiting for #412 to come and have a place all ready for you because your EMT has been radioing them. Just enjoy the oxygen mask and banana they have for you.
22. Smile and enjoy the day. The pain will be gone soon enough. The memory will remain. And you are probably already signed up for the next two races you had in mind, so just give it another go then (AND REMEMBER TO APPLY ALL THESE TIPS TO YOUR NEXT RACE!)

Well, I hope this helped some of you out there. Keep running and don't forget your sunscreen! ;)

Easter Egg Hunt for Josh

2010-04-15T22:11:00.004-04:00

Josh couldn't make it to the beach, so when I got back I had the Easter Bunny come for a special visit just for him! Here he is, looking for the eggs.

And enjoying the basket the Easter Bunny left on his bed! Yum! (that candy lasted about 2 days...)

A little late, but here was some Easter joy

2010-04-15T21:56:00.004-04:00

My mom and dad and the kids usually go to the beach for Easter. I was able to join them this year (even though Josh had to miss it for med school, I guess that's ok...) We had a great time!

Here's Amber, taking Margot for a stroll on the beach.

And the dolphins.

The Easter Bunny came and found us! Here's Stevie, Paige, Alex, and Ruthie with their goodies.

And Olivia and the kids enjoyed an Egg Hunt! (and I enjoyed their candy from it later)

And, of course, we colored Easter Eggs to celebrate.

Just hangin out.

Finally Finished!!! (well, almost)

2010-04-13T09:55:00.002-04:00

I finished my student-teaching, the last part of my masters program. To celebrate, Josh surprised me with a professional massage, a shopping trip for two new pairs of jeans, and this cake! What a wonderful husband!

The cake.

Our friends, Sara and Drew, came to celebrate with us!

ASL Imagine Video (from Glee)

2010-03-25T13:42:00.004-04:00

Someone sent me this video and I thought it was really beautiful. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Imagine there's no Heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

Carnival!!!

2010-03-24T15:07:00.004-04:00

Beaver High School performed the musical "Carnival" this past weekend. Stevie and Eleanor were in it so Josh and I went home to see the show. The musical itself is a little strange, if you've never seen it, but these guys did a really great job with it! We even got to see it not one, but TWO nights! :)

One of Stevie's parts was the walrus puppet you see, named Horrible Henry. He was so funny!

Eleanor had several ensamble roles and did them all beautifully!

Stevie was also a doctor from Zurich, in love with one of the Carnival ladies.

The doctor and his lady friend.

Josh and I in front of the big painting the students made.

Like father like son...oh wait, my dad would never do this. Here's the one time he's ok with his son wearing make-up. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Me and Olivia, congratulating Eleanor after her star performance!

And Josh taking his turn to congratulate Stevie!

Josh, Eleanor, Mom, Me, and Stevie

Daddy and Mom

Sisters...I know you might be sad you missed this and jealous that I got to see two nights of Carnival-Beaver-Bliss, but I'm sure mom will get the DVD so don't worry. You can share in the excitement too!!!

The Disgrace to Our Constitution (aka: that damn bill)

2010-03-22T15:02:00.006-04:00

"I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them." -Thomas Jefferson

Statement from Governor Romney on House passage of the health care bill:

"America has just witnessed an unconscionable abuse of power. President Obama has betrayed his oath to the nation — rather than bringing us together, ushering in a new kind of politics, and rising above raw partisanship, he has succumbed to the lowest denominator of incumbent power: justifying the means by extolling the ends. He promised better; we deserved better.

He calls his accomplishment “historic” — in this he is correct, although not for the reason he intends. Rather, it is an historic usurpation of the legislative process — he unleashed the nuclear option, enlisted not a single Republican vote in either chamber, bribed reluctant members of his own party, paid-off his union backers, scapegoated insurers, and justified his act with patently fraudulent accounting. What Barack Obama has ushered into the American political landscape is not good for our country; in the words of an ancient maxim, “what starts twisted, ends twisted.”

His health-care bill is unhealthy for America. It raises taxes, slashes the more private side of Medicare, installs price controls, and puts a new federal bureaucracy in charge of health care. It will create a new entitlement even as the ones we already have are bankrupt. For these reasons and more, the act should be repealed. That campaign begins today."
http://www.freestrongamerica.com/press/item/statement_from_governor_romney_on_house_passage_of_the_health_care_bill_

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

2010-03-17T23:47:00.004-04:00

We love being Irish and we LOVE St. Patrick's Day. Here is some of our day we wanted to share with you...

Kiss us! We're Irish! :)

Green mashed potatoes for dinner. (YES. I CAN make mashed potatoes even though I don't like them. And that is indeed thanks to daddy, Liz, and Sarah. Thanks guys. Josh really thanks you.)

At first, this was the only green Josh had on because he has to wear his Air Force uniform to school.

And this was his little St. Patrick's Day surprise!

I got all green for school today so I wouldn't get pinched (and trust me I would have. My students are CRAZY about pinching people for not wearing green!). And this is the plant Josh got me for our 7 month aniversary. I love it! So GREEN!

Hope you enjoyed your St. Patrick's Day as much as we enjoyed ours!

"If you're lucky enough to be Irish, you're lucky enough."

Daylight Saving Time

2010-03-15T09:23:00.002-04:00

I found this website on Daylight Saving Time to share with my students, and thought it might be interesting to others. There is rational, history, and some interesting stories about this man-made event we have. Apparently Benjamin Franklin started the whole thing. I can't say that this is all 100% accurate, but the stories on page 3 about different issues that have come to light because of DST (like dodging the draft or twins births being recorded out of order) are discussed. Check it out if you got some spare time!

http://www.webexhibits.org/daylightsaving/index.html

Happy Pi Day!!!

2010-03-14T22:29:00.003-04:00

That's March 14 (3-14) for those of you who don't know. Today we celebrate that beautiful number that we love so much! Hope you ate some pie, or wished someone happy Pi Day, or at least took a moment to yourself to appreciate the beauty and wonder of this magical day.

We had Key Lime Pie. I hope you took this opportunity to indulge yourself in the name of math.

NYC

2010-03-13T17:30:00.008-05:00

Last weekend Josh and I were in a New York state of mind, so we hopped on a bus headed north to listen to the lullaby of Broadway (plus we had a free hotel, anywhere, that we had to use by that date). Here are some pictures from our 30-hour adventure.

This is the stage for Wicked. We waited in line to get tickets and got some of the last ones, right before the show started! It was amazing and well worth it.

This was us taking one last picture before we had to put our camera away for the performance. It was our first time seeing a Broadway show!

This was our hotel: The Trump Tower. WOW. Very nice. If we didn't have a free night stay at a hotel, we could have never afforded it. They even had Donald Trump water bottles in crystal glasses in our room. And Donald Trump chocolates. And a magnifying glass to read our important documents. Very fancy (just like us).

St. Paul's Cathedral. A wonderfully special place. It's history is amazing; from President George Washington going there to pray after his inauguration to a sanctuary for firefighers during the 9/11 attacks.

First time ever up the Empire State Building.

Then up to the top of the Rockefeller Center. This is the view from up there. Here is the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty is way off to the right, very small.

And of course we toured NBC. We were just like the people that tour it on 30 Rock! We are practically famous!

Again from the Top of the Rock. Sadly, all the photos of us together are me with my hand out, trying to fit us both in. This one turned out alright. Others did not fare so well.

NYC is cool, but too many people and too many lights. By the end of our trip, I was tired from sensory overload and ready to return home.

And that's our trip. Josh did well, but I felt like a silly little country mouse, ready to run back to my safe little country town...until I remembered that I pretty much live in DC and AM a silly country mouse, quite out of place wherever I go here.

But it was a great weekend.

Olympic Hockey Love (pass it around, boys)

2010-03-02T20:54:00.003-05:00

Can't we all just get along? Come on! These are all my boys! Crosby played a great game, as did both Canada and USA, and all the players made me proud, as they do in the NHL every year. I wished so badly that the USA team would have beat the Canadian team, but only because I'm not a huge fan of Canada. As far as the players go, I love my hockey fellas, no matter where they were born.

Blizzard Beach...I mean, Myrtle Beach

2010-02-22T22:44:00.004-05:00

Sunrise. One of the most beautiful I have ever seen.

Me and Josh with our "medals."

And me and mom. Even though the marathon was canceled due to snow, they graciously let use come get our medals...whoohoo.

Josh and me and snow on our beach!

Alex, Josh, mom, and Olivia, enjoying the cold beach.

Blizzard!

2010-02-22T22:18:00.004-05:00

The blizzard came and kept everything in DC closed down for over a week! We managed to have fun, even through the power outages (ours was small) and getting stuck in our parking lot.

Josh is my snow angel!

This was our home before the snow hit, HARD.

Another Neeley Girl Married: Victoria and Justin's Wedding

2010-01-04T14:04:00.006-05:00

Victoria and Justin were married on December 29, 2009 at the Washington, D. C. temple. It was a beautiful but freezing day. The ceremony was sweet and the bride was amazing!

Everyone waiting for the bride and groom...we almost froze to death outside!

Some waiting inside to avoid the chilly wind.

The bridesmaids wore black dresses and red shoes.

Eleanor, freezing but still beautiful!

The Mitterlings!

Justin and Lu with Mom and Daddy.

All the sisters from both families.

And all the brothers.

The whole Neeley clan...everyone was there except Ryan...we miss you and love you RyRy!

What a smooch!

Christmas in Beaver, PA

2010-01-04T12:38:00.011-05:00

Josh showing off his wonderful bass skills for me.

First night in town, just hanging out with my sisters and mom.

Sarah, Victoria, Me, and Liz. I warned Liz that this picture would be online, but she made that face anyway. Enjoy!

Eleanor
Every family member gets a stocking. This is Josh's first year with us for Christmas! The mantle is almost full with all of our stockings.

Olivia, practicing her violin for the Christmas Eve recital.

Olivia, Josh, me, Sarah

Alex and Josh, our two strong, manly, bass players!

Liz and Margot as Santa

Josh and Robbie

Victoria and her husband, Justin, and Ruthie

Stevie, being the narrator for our nativity play.

Our Joseph (Alex) and Mary (Eleanor).

Shepherds and Angels

The Three Kings

All the actors and actresses involved in the nativity.

Sarah and Robbie, accompanied by Aunt Linda, during the Christmas Eve recital.

Me, Eleanor, and Victoria played two violin trios. I love being home and being able to make music with the family! My sisters are so beautiful and talented! And my brothers!

Eleanor on piano.

The photo is a bit dark, but that's Sarah, me, Robbie, Josh, and Stevie, singing at the recital.

Sing-along time! Let the Christmas carols begin!

First Christmas together.

Uncle Bruce, Josh, and daddy. Josh is about to open the safe that Unlce Bruce gave him for Christmas. What a surprise!

Cousins: Megan, me, Brad.

Our Christmas Tree

Christmas morning on the stairs, getting excited to go and open all our presents from Santa!

Opening gifts

Me and Josh

I got Josh a .12 gauge shotgun and a 30.06 rifle so we can go hunting together now!

Brothers!

More singing: Mom, Uncle Keith, Daddy, and Sarah

Daddy, showing off his piano skills by playing the song he wrote himself. SO GOOD!

And Josh won't be shown up by my dad! He took his turn on the piano too. I love my handsome, talented husband!

A little Rock Band to bond with the siblings.

The men getting ready to grill the steaks for the family.

Go Gallaudet!

Winter Wonderland in Wirtz, VA

2010-01-04T12:23:00.004-05:00

This was the view from our hotel room after we got stranded in Lexington, VA on our way to Josh's parents' house. The blizzard caused I-81 to close so we were forced to this hotel for the night. At least we were lucky enough to get a room and didn't have to go to a shelter!

Our car in the morning.

This is what I-81 looked like even after the snow had stopped...couldn't even see the road! We fish-tailed and almost crashed twice during the trip.

Finally in Wirtz, VA! Josh is pushing his nephews down the hill in the backyard, checking out the knee-board's skills as a sled. It was perfect!

Uncle Josh pusing Logan and Tanner down the hill in the front yard.

Every year Kelli and Hal collect wind-up toys and set them all up and wind them all up on Christmas Eve. They did it a little early this year for us.

Logan, Chase, and Josh watching the toys.

Me and Josh on our last night in VA before heading up north to PA.

4 Month Anniversary to the Festival of Lights at the Washington, D. C. Temple

2010-01-04T12:18:00.004-05:00

We went to the Festival of Lights to get in the Christmas spirit and to celebrate four months together! It was a wonderful surprise that Josh planned for us. The night was special and beautiful.

Life After the Wedding: Getting Ready for Christmas

2010-01-04T12:11:00.002-05:00

We had a lot to do to get ready for our first Christmas together. We started by putting up our very first Christmas tree. Our ornaments were Black and Gold, my favorite colors!

Life After the Wedding: Brakes

2010-01-04T12:02:00.004-05:00

We had a few hick-ups with my car this fall. My belt went out. We put on a new belt, but not in time to save my alternator so we got a new one of those too. By the time we realized we needed new brakes, we didn't really have the money to take it to a place so we decided to learn how to do it ourselves. My friend helped us with the front brakes and a month later we did the back brakes ourselves. We love learning new things and working on our cars!

More of Our Black and Gold Celebration

2009-09-25T17:11:00.008-04:00

Our Black and Gold Wedding!

2009-09-25T17:04:00.007-04:00

Hello all! Sorry we haven't posted anything for a while...we have been pretty busy for obvious reasons! The wedding, both receptions and the honeymoon all were wonderful and perfect. We are now both back in school, Josh in med school and me at Gallaudet finishing my masters. Here are some pics from the past month. Enjoy!

ROAD TRIP!!!

2009-07-15T16:28:00.009-04:00

Josh was on leave for two weeks and we were able to take a big road trip around the states, with our main stops being Moab, Utah to camp and hike, and Phoenix, Arizona to see my dear friend Ashley, her family, and her new baby boy.

Although it put the wedding plans on the back burner for a while, we had an amazing time and we thank our family members who were picking up the slack while we were playing out west! Josh had to leave for a month for Air Force duty, but will be back just in time for the wedding. We look forward to seeing everyone at the receptions!

Invitation and Reception Information

2009-06-19T11:53:00.003-04:00

Hello all! We wanted to take a moment to say that we are in the process of sending out our wedding announcements/invitations. We are in the middle of moving and the final week of medical school, so we can only do so many at one time. We are sending them out in waves. Please don't feel bad if a neighbor or sister receives one before another! We are getting them out as fast as possible.

Both receptions are casual/business casual and will both be outside. Children are more than welcome to both! We want everyone to come visit and celebrate with us. Although there is water close by at both reception locations, swimming WILL NOT be available at either reception.

We hope to see you all this summer!

We Interrupt This Wedding Planning to Bring You Some Pittsburgh Love

2009-06-13T22:12:00.001-04:00

Ok, people, let's not lie...2009 is going to go down in the history books as one of the BEST YEARS EVER to be a Pittsburgh fan. We already had a heck of a football season and won the Super Bowl in one of the greatest Super Bowl games of all time. Now our hockey team wins the Stanley Cup after finishing one of the most exciting series in a long time against the Caps and then defeating the Red Wings in a nail-biting Game 7 (oh and we beat the Hurricanes in there...). Last year's hockey season just made this one all the more sweet. So, as a proud girl, born in Pittsburgh with the black and gold pulsing through my veins, I had to take a moment to honor Pittsburgh, her football team, her hockey team, and her fans. Way to go. And, may I add, it is the PERFECT year for a girl like me to get married and have her colors represent the town and teams she loves :)

2009-06-04T16:49:00.000-04:00

We are starting a blog...We have to admit we were nervous to join all our married friends and family by creating our very own place on the net, but it just felt right, so here it is. We also realize that one of us isn't "officially" a Cragun yet, but we don't want to have to change the name of this thing (since the fact that we even got this far on it is AMAZING), so it is what it is. Check for updates and information about our wedding on August 15!

testing, testing...1, 2, 3...

2009-06-04T16:44:00.001-04:00

do not be alarmed. this is just a test.