Cora and Disa Update

Here's a quick update on Cora and Disa since I was just in St.Louis. Disa had a doctor's visit on Thursday and she now weighs 12 pounds 9 ounces...she's getting big!! Cora is as adorable as ever and is becoming such a big girl! I look at pictures from even just 6 months ago and can't believe how much she has changed! She is girl after my own heart with a true love of shoes and wanted to wear her shoes in the house today simply because they were new. I had a fabulous time and wanted to share just a few of the moments that we had together. I miss them already and hope to go back soon.

Cora watching cartoons while mommy got some extra sleep.

Disa chillin with her Auntie Kendra.

Cora with her goggles. As you will notice her shirt is partly off...this was after her attempt to "feed" her baby doll. Amy and I died of laughter when we saw this hilarious attempt to be like mommy.

I finally got a picture of Disa smiling, but it definitely wasn't easy!

Cora is sitting at her own little desk next to Amy's desk. She loves coloring and ever since Amy showed her that you can draw fish she now asks everyone to draw lots of little fish on blank paper until the page is filled.

Forest Park Balloon Glow

Friday night Amy and I took the girls to the annual Balloon Glow in Forest Park. I think I had the most fun...my mom told me that I've seen it before but I must have been really little because I don't remember. We got a really good spot just a few hundred yards from where all the balloons were and we had a great picnic dinner once we arrived. The night ended up being much colder than expected and because of the wind the balloons couldn't stay up as long as expected so that was a bit disappointing, but it was still a lot of fun. Here are a few pictures of our girls night out.

Cora watching the balloons being blown up.

Cora and Auntie Kendra

One of the many balloons surrounding us.

All of us trying to stay warm together.

St. Louis Botanical Gardens

Amy and I took the girls to the Botanical Gardens. It was a bit warm today but still incredibly nice. It's been years since I've been there so I really enjoyed it. Cora got to feed the fish which she absolutely loved. She's had a recent obsession with fish and when we read books all she wants to do is look for fish. It's really cute. Here are some pics from the gardens.

GRE Results

I got my GRE results a few weeks ago. Thank you to everyone who prayed for me during the test!! I got a 600 on the math at the 49th percentile meaning 49% of the people tested below me, and I got a 470 on the english at the 52nd percentile. I also had to write 2 essays which weren't too bad (I at least didn't have to write about canned tuna like some people I know :)). I got a 4.5 average for my essays which is pretty good. Now that I have my results I will start applying to PA programs. I'm not sure where God wants me to go so please pray for clarity on that part. Will keep you up dated once I figure out what's going on!

Kristin very nicely reminded me today that I had not updated my blog since going to St. Louis to see my girls. So here are some pictures from the short week that I spent there. I had a great time and it was really good to see Amy and Brian and relax with them. Enjoy the pics!

This was the greeting I got my first morning in St. Louis. She's so adorable!!

Cora saying hi to Disa.

Disa chillin on her auntie's lap...how cute!

Cora...the Superstar!

I tried to teach Cora how to blow bubbles in the water. It worked for a while, but she kept on sucking the water in and choking rather than blowing. Then she kept on wanting me to blow the bubbles by pushing my head into the water. It was great fun!

Cora loves her Auntie :)

Cora "holding" Disa.

Yummy...Maggie Moo's Ice Cream!

The Girls: Cora, Amy, Kendra, and Disa...you wouldn't believe how hard it was to get Cora to cooperate for this picture!! She just has too much energy!

It's Official!

I have finally signed up to take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam)! This test is required in order for me to apply to Physician's Assistant Programs so God will use this test to determine the next 3 years of my life. I'm a bit nervous about the verbal section of the test, but I have a month to study for it so we'll see. The test will be on August 21st and is 4 hours long. I'll let you know how it goes.

Disa Lynne Tiemeier

Disa Lynne joined us on July 18th at 11pm. She weighs 6 pounds 8 ounces and is 19 inches long. Disa is the name of a Swedish heroine known for her wisdom and also mean active spirit. It is also the name of a type of orchid. Both mom and baby are doing well and arrived home this afternoon. My parents and I arrived this evening and have been cuddling her since we walked in the door! She looks quite different from Cora with her dark hair and eyes, but they definitely have the same nose. Below are some pictures of her first few days of life.

Mommy, Daddy & Disa

Daddy and DisaTiemeier Family

Disa Lynne

Disa with Auntie Kendra

Traveling Home

I've just arrived back in Cardiff after an amazing trip on Norway (pictures to come). I will catch a train in a few hours up to Manchester and spend the night with Amy Cole. The journey will continue tomorrow morning from Manchester Airport and I will arrive in Chicago in the evening. Speak to you all then!

Taking a much needed rest...for now at least.

For the past two days I've been relaxing and taking a true rest which I don't think I've done for a few months now due to work and all. We had a great bbq at Neil and Del's yesterday and I got a sunburn, but all is well and I had a great time. Today I went out to lunch with my lovely friend Hayley, my British twin, and of course we just popped around the corner to Cafe Mao. It rained all afternoon, but as I wasn't feeling the greatest it was a good excuse to sit on the couch for the remainder of the day. James made a wonderful curry for dinner and then we watched this really stupid chick flick. For the past few days I've been going back and forth about wether or not to take a trip somewhere since it tends to be pretty inexpensive to fly around Europe. I didn't think it was going to work, but everything has been sorted out and I will be flying to Norway in the morning! I still can't believe it since it was completely unplanned but I'm incredibly excited and have been told that it will be amazing. I will not be taking my computer so I will let you know how it goes when I get back. Bye for now!

Day 5 - The Wedding!

I'm sitting here after the wedding reminiscing with my old housemates from School of the Word and having a very good laugh. It was a fabulous day and God's favor was seen throughout the day. It started with glorious sunshine, which apparently hasn't been seen in several weeks and remained sunny all day. I personally started the day with a full english breakfast from Cafe Mao which I greatly enjoyed after not having it for a year. Sarah and I then went to the building to finish up the decorations for the reception and other last minute things that we discovered needed to be done. Then we hurried home and quickly got ready. The ceremony was a very joyful celebration and we had a wonderful time of worship. Roger Aubrey led the ceremony and Keri Jones gave the message all of which was excellent. The reception started a bit late, but the food and drinks were fabulous. There was an actual roast pig (pictures to come) and loads over other food. The speeches followed and Gary did a great job entertaining us all. There was a swing band at the end and everyone had a great time dancing and laughing together. It was a very memorable day and I'm so greatful that God gave me the opportunity to join Gary and Hannah on this special day. I'll post pictures as soon as I can, but it's after midnight and I must be off to bed so I can get up in the morning. Ta!

Day 4...and it actually was sunny today!

Today was gorgeous although it was a bit windy. Sarah Carr and I went to Delyth's house and looked at all the remodeling that they've done over the past year. Their kitchen is absolutely beautiful. We then went to lunch at...you guessed it...Cafe Mao. It was fabulous once again and I don't think I'll ever tire of it. Afterwards Sarah and I went to the building to help Hannah with decorations and ended up spending 5 hours putting things together! Hannah is doing very well and was still dancing at the end of the day so I don't think she's TOO stressed. When we finished we came home to the lovely surprise that James had made a roast lamb dinner for all of us. It was excellent and we had a great time hanging out together. It's late now so I must head off to bed. More fun to come!

Day 3 in sunny Wales

So it's actually rainy and not sunny but thats ok. I finally recieved my luggage this afternoon after being told it would be delivered yesterday. It was definitely a lesson of patience especially since the only number provided for the delivery company was an automated one so I couldn't speak my mind to a real person....not very helpful to say the least. But praise God all is well with the luggage (a little more roughed up from the long journey) and all my belongings are intact. Today I went to lunch at the Grape & Olive (formerly the Allensbank Pub) with Beth Jones. The Allensbank became a regular spot for us students at the end of the year - a bit run down, but not as loud and smelly as the Heath Pub. The Grape & Olive is very chic and classy and has wonderful atmosphere. Delyth was able to join us for a coffee afterwards and it was fabulous to see her and catch up since it's been a year since the last time I saw her. After coffee Beth and I meandered our way over to M & S to pick out tops for the bible week choir. It was a great time of chatting and catching up. My lovely friend and sister Sarah Carr arrives this evening so I'm very excited to see her. Getting ready to have curry with Katie so shall be on my way. Ta for now! xoxo

Day 2 - Happy 4th of July!!

First of all...HAPPY 4th OF JULY AMERICA!! It's the middle of my 2nd day here and it's fabulous. I've found out that my luggage has arrived in Manchester Airport so praise God - I'm just now waiting for its arrival into Cardiff and believing that it will be tonight. I walked in the rain today which I quite enjoyed since I hadn't done that in over a year. It was sunny yesterday when I arrived, but today it has been very rainy...typical Welsh weather I must say. I was able to eat lunch with James and Esther Hinks at Cafe Bar Mayo (formerly Cafe Mao) and I had the classic chicken mayonaise baguette. It was glorious to say the least :). Tonight I will be spending the evening with Hannah to help her finish up some wedding stuff and then of course having girl talk til the late hour. I feel I've adjusted already to the time change which is a huge blessing since last time I felt like I had jet lag the entire time. Thank you all again for your prayers especially for my luggage. Hope all is well in the States and have a wonderful time tonight with the fireworks!! Ta for now!

Safe Arrival

I have finally arrived in Cardiff! James was patiently waiting for me outside the train station and it was so wonderful to see a familiar face. The two flights went well, there were no delays, and I got about 3 hours sleep. Please pray though....Air Canada lost my luggage!! This is the first time it's ever happened to me and having a great lack of sleep I was not too pleased with having lost my luggage and the delay it caused resulting in me missing my train. What a trip huh?! So I've been praying and confessing all day that my luggage will arrive tomorrow morning safe and sound with nothing damaged or missing. I will keep you all posted as much as I can. Thanks for all the prayers!!

Off to Wales...Again!

I leave for Wales this afternoon for a much needed vacation. My dear friend Hannah Pingree will be getting married this Saturday so I am very excited to be able to go. I'll be gone for about 2 weeks. Will try to post something while I'm there, but if not then I will when I get home. Much love!

One Year Ago...

One year ago today I returned to the United States from School of the Word and started the next chapter in my life here in Chicago. I can't believe that it's already been a year!! It has been a challenging year to say the least which I was not quite prepared for. God has taught me many things throughout this past year and I am continuing to learn to trust God with everything that happens in my life and within the Church. Transitioning from life in Cardiff to life in Chicago was probably the most challenging thing I've had to do, but I know that God has called me here to Chicago and is continuing to shape me into the woman He wants me to be. I'm learning to become more like clay in the Potter's Hand and although it doesn't always feel the best to be poked and prodded, I know that God has a greater purpose in everything that He does in my life.

To Be A Kid Again

For the past two day all I've done is play with Cora. Although that required getting up early (and many of you know I'm not a morning person!), it was definitely worth it. She has tons of energy and really wore me out by the end of the day, but we had loads of fun and I'm glad I got to spend so much time with her. One of her favorite words is "Woah!" and she loves to sing "Jesus Love Me", but right now she can only sing Jesus over and over which is adorable. Yesterday we went shopping at the mall and then played outside all afternoon. Today we got to go to the zoo with Kari and Amy, and look at some of the animals. She was most mesmerized by the penguins (definitely daddy's girl!) and even ended up getting a carousal ride. Tonight we went to Costco (what a surprise huh?!) and met Amy after work and had lots of fun shopping around. It has been a fabulous time and very relaxing. Unfortunately, since I'll be starting my other job soon and traveling a lot in the next month, I don't think I'll be able to come back until the baby is born in August. I may have to sneak in a short trip though if I get a chance. Anyway - here are some pictures from all the fun we had.

Running on the stones on the side of the house - a favorite pass time!

Playing in front of the house.

Looking at the penguins with Amy.

Riding the carousal with Kari and blowing kisses.

Falling asleep after a full morning at the zoo.

Some Time Away

I'm visiting St.Louis again. Today I was able to see my friend Jenny and celebrate her graduation from Lindenwood University. It was great to see her and some other friends here, although it was pretty short. I'm staying with Amy and Brian and as always it is wonderful to be here and play with Cora. Cora has really cute hair now and has become very helpful with her mommy in the kitchen. She's becoming more and more adorable and I'm very excited about spending the next couple days with her. I'll post more when I get a chance.

Mother's Day

Today in the United States we celebrated Mother's Day. Last night our family celebrated with a fabulous dinner and we all had a great time together. Mom got lots of flowers which she loved. Today after church mom and I went out to lunch then spent the entire afternoon shopping. She was able to find a skirt and top for my cousin's wedding and it'll be a perfect outfit for when my parents go to Hawaii later on in the year. It was a fabulous day and it was great to spend time with my mom. Happy Mother's Day to all the mom's!! Love you mom!!

A New Job...

So I have officially been hired at Central DuPage Hospital in their Level III Nursery and will start on June 4th. I will only be working registry (prn/as needed), although I had hoped for a full time position. But this will give me the experience I need to determine if the NICU is what I want to do for the rest of my life. I'll just be working one extra shift a week along with my other job, so it shouldn't be too bad. I'm really excited about it and am looking forward to getting a lot more experience with the premature babies.

i carry your heart by e.e. cummings

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)

i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

e.e. cummings

A New Job Opportunity

Yesterday I applied for a new job at Central DuPage Hospital in their Level III NICU. It was kind of sudden, but it is the position I've always wanted. I currently work in a Level II NICU, but this will be a huge step up from what I'm doing at the moment. Please pray as I go to a job fair tomorrow to meet many people and that I would have favor with them. One of my bosses just found out today that I have applied for a new job, so I'm also not sure what they will now think of me. Also, please pray that it will be clear to me as to what direction I am to take now and if I'm suppose to continue to look for a new job if CDH does not offer me a position. I'll post again as soon as something comes up.

The Joy of Life in Chicago

Ever since I returned from Wales it has felt more like winter than it has spring. I keep on having to remind myself that it is actually April and not December as it would seem. Pictured below is what I woke up to yesterday morning...several inches of heavy, wet snow and possibly more to come. I must say I do wonder what I'm doing here in Chicago since I don't enjoy cold weather very much. :)

My Trip to Wales

So life has been non stop since before I went to Wales, hence I am just now posting about my trip which I returned from almost 2 weeks ago. I had an amazing time in Wales and it was so wonderful to see everyone! When I arrived I found out that my friend Hannah, who I stayed with, had hurt her foot while on a trampoline and could not walk or drive. So my second day there we decided to insure me on her new car so that we could get around during my week there.

This is her lovely little car that I drove. Although the streets are much more narrow, I did alright with driving on the other side of the road and by the grace of God did not hurt anyone in the process.

This is Hannah and I at Southerndown. This quickly became one of my favorite places when I was living in Wales so of course I had to make a visit there. It was a gorgeous day, though a bit breezy, but we soaked up the sunshine while we could since it was cool the rest of the week.

On Saturday morning I ended up helping set up for the wedding that was at 2pm on Saturday afternoon. It was at Caerphilly Castle and was absolutely gorgeous! These are the chairs that we set up that morning and it took 3 1/2 hours to put on the covers and tie each bow! The outcome was definitely worth all the work and I know Katie loved it (at least I hope so :)

This is James and Katie after the ceremony. It was really funny because they had huge smiles and Katie giggled throughout the ceremony. There were shouts of joy when they were pronounced husband and wife. I know that God will bless them greatly in their new life together.

This is me, Katie and James (although James is not looking at the camera). The day was wonderful and I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to go and be a part of their special day.

The week ended entirely too fast and it already feels like a big blur in my memory, but I had an amazing time and just wish I could have stayed longer. :)

Off to Wales!

Today I leave for beautiful Wales and will be returning on April 2nd. I get to stay with my lovely friend Hannah Pingree. We have a short trip planned to St.Davids in West Wales, and I'll also be seeing loads of friends while I'm there. The main reason I'm going is because James Davies and Katie Fish are getting married on March 31st and I'm so excited that I get to celebrate with them! I will be very busy upon my return, but will try to post something as soon as I get back. Bye for now!!

Play Day with Cora

Last week Kristin, Peter and I went up to Brian's parents house to babysit Cora while everyone went to Chicago to see 'Wicked'. We had a great time playing with Cora and it was great to see everyone. Here are a few pictures of the fun.

BIG NEWS!!

Check out my sister's blog at www.tiemeier.blogspot.com to find out some exciting news! :)

A Birthday Celebration

Last night we had a family birthday celebration for me, Kristin & Peter. Peter's birthday is not until February 12th, but they went to California today so we decided to give his presents early. Kristin and I started off by getting pedicures in the afternoon. Then in the evening we had a wonderful time with good food made by mom and wonderful presents. For the first time in 24 years it actually snowed on our birthday. We always wanted it to snow so that we wouldn't have school on our birthday...it finally happened but it doesn't matter anymore since we're not in school! Anyway, I've got some pictures from last night. Hope you enjoy.

Mom & Jeremy

Kristin & Me

Flowers from Kristin

Kristin and my flowers from Jeremy