Ktown Katie

The Final Day

2011-04-16T15:34:00.005-04:00

Eighteen months. 400 blog posts. A year in a new job and a new home. Nine months of marriage.
I think I can officially say, I am settled.

I started this blog with the title "Rediscovering Rocky Top." I wanted to celebrate all the things I was discovering and re-discovering about this city, after a decade away. I changed the name to "KtownKatie" as I got a bit more settled in, but life still had so many changes. Since moving, I have fallen more in love with my family, made wonderful friends, planned and celebrate the wedding of my dreams, become a part of Second Presbyterian Church, found dozens of wonderful restaurants, shops, and special things, and become a home owner for the first time. Most importantly, I am married to a wonderful man and I love it.

So, as I'm turning 31, I am taking a break from blogging. And leaving you with 31 things I have learned over the last year and a half.

1. Sabbath is a commandment.

2. While I may be concerned with happiness, God is concerned with Holiness.

3. Google Reader can change your life.

4. Hospitality can be a ministry.

5. Not every girl is girly.

6. It takes time to become good at things.

7. It is okay to not edit your blog posts. You will have typos. People will judge you. But there is freedom in not worrying what they think.

8. God commands. Sometimes He "calls" us or "gives us peace" about something. Other times, He just says do it.

9. It is better to make food from scratch.

10. People don't give kids enough credit. Especially toddlers and preschoolers.

11. In this life, we will always want for things. That is our nature as created beings. Even Eve wanted something she could not have. Only in heaven will we be satisfied.

12. Homes are supposed to be a haven.

13. People will hurt you.

14. Love delights in truth. Evil loves darkness. The Lord loves light.

15. We are supposed to "make every effort" to love people well and to serve with excellence. But our best effort is all we can do and all we are held to.

16. To analize or discuss something, figure out: What are we trying to achieve? What are we trying to avoid?

17. My home and my husband are even more important than my work.

18. When in doubt, wear cowboy boots.

19. Christmas is so fun in your own home. Can't wait for Easter.

20. I want to make everyone feel important and loved while they are with me. The way my dog does.

21. Spiritual disciplines really do fit into the 21st century.

22. Sometimes, the most important thing you can do is not the biggest, most noticeable thing.

23. Weddings are for brides and grooms. But also families. Especially moms.

24. My mom is wonderful. I am blessed.

25. My mother-in-law is wonderful. I am doubly blessed.

26. Yard work is a metaphor for life.

27. Listen more. Honor people by not talking yourself.

28. Being a team player can be thankless. But it's still right.

29. Two become One. Wow.

30. I am never going to know it all and I am never going to be perfect.

31. I am okay with that.

Day 557: Pinterest

2011-04-14T22:09:00.002-04:00

I've just been invited to the coolest new thing. It's a digital bulletin board, called Pinterest. Thanks Julia. I am checking out great home projects, entertaining ideas, fun words, and lots of pretty things.

Here's a little more about Pinterest:
Think of Pinterest as a virtual pinboard — a place where you can create collections of things you love and "follow" collections created by people with great taste.

People use Pinterest to collect and share all sorts of things -- wedding inspiration, favorite T-shirts, DJ equipment. You name it, people are pinning it.

We know you have great taste in something. Our mission is to make Pinterest the best place for you to share your taste with the world.

Source

And here's a little sample of what I've been pinning:

Dreamy decorating ideas.

Home ideas.

Words, words...

And more words...

Monogrammed plates. Yes, monogrammed.

Harding will love this. Brad will not.

Check me out at pinterest.com/ktlf

Day 549: Echo

2011-04-02T08:42:00.001-04:00

To celebrate my birhtday, we enjoyed appetizers, dinner, and after dinner drinks at 3 fabulous locations. The first was Echo. It was my first time at this upscale bistro and wine bar, which is conveniently located in the District in Bearden. It was worth the wait. It was also the perfect place to kick off what promises to be a wonderful weekend, celebrating my wonderful husband's birthday!

Here's a little more about Echo:

Legendary local Chef's Seth Simmerman & Deron Little have teamed up to bring you Echo Bistro & Wine Bar, Knoxville's newest upscale eatery.

As co-owners Seth & Deron bring over 50 years combined experience to your table every night. Serving "contemporary classics" ~ dishes you know and love from decades past ~ Steak Diane, Beef Wellington, & Dover Sole with a modern twist, and offering an extensive wine list.

Echo has an intimate, neighborhood feel that welcomes you the second you walk through the door. Sit down at the bar and you are sure to see a friend or make a new one!

Seth & Deron invite you to come enjoy all Echo has to offer. Once you try it, you are sure to become a regular!

Located in The Shops at Bearden Place - directly across from Buddy's BBQ - old Mango location.

Reservations Recommended. 865-602-2090

Source/www.echobistro.com

Then, we headed over to Chez Liberty, for another first time. It is also in our neighborhood. It's way trendier than anything we normally do, but such a distinct menu. Brad gave up meat on Fridays for Lent, so their seafood selections hit the spot. Here's more about Chez Liberty:

"Chez Liberty is a unique dining experience without the ordeal of dress, time, planning, or wait, with a menu that is gripping, fresh, seasonal, and diverse."

Located in Bearden's Homberg Place at the corner of Mohican and Kingston Pike, we opened our doors in March 2010 as a small dinner-only establishment. We soon added lunch to our line-up, and now offer brunch and Sunday Supper as well. What sets Chez Liberty apart from other restaurants in the area is our unique approach to food preparation. Our dinner menu changes every other Wednesday, with high-quality ingredients chosen specifically for their freshness and seasonal appeal. We also frequently rotate the wines on our wine menu to best complement our current food selections. Every Sunday, we host a family-style supper where our diners can all join together and enjoy home-style southern French cuisine, in serve-yourself, single-seating fashion. The courses change every week, so please sign up for our weekly email newsletter for a special preview of this week's Sunday Supper menu! **Sunday Supper is currently on hiatus, but will resume this summer. In the meantime, come enjoy our regular dinner menu every Sunday from 5-9pm.**

In addition to great food, Chez Liberty also hosts frequent special events such as wine dinners and live music by local talents, as well as private parties and catering. Please see our Food menu page for the latest special event menu. Call or email us for more information.

Source/chezliberty.com

Source (image)

Finally, we ended the evening with friends at Crown and Goose. A favorite, with some of my favorite people.
Happy birthday to me!

Day 542: Sewanee n' Stuff

2011-03-29T14:53:00.002-04:00

To celebrate my husband's birthday, we headed out for a day of driving and discovering. Brad grew up going to Sewanee often. So, we headed down I-75 to explore. Here are a few of the things we found...

The University of the South
Possibily the South's most impressive campus. (Well, if you don't include Converse, of course...)
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Shenanigan's
"Good times, good food, since 1974." Easy place to kick back.
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Monteagle
Picture perfect mountaintop
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Mountain Outfitters
The local's place for the best in gear.
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St. Andrews School
Part of the Domain of the University of the South
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Day 538: Fast Lunch

2011-03-24T15:42:00.004-04:00

This Lent season, 2nd Pres members are fasting the mid-day meal every Thursday. It's been a neat reminder and a practical way for me to welcome the Lord into more space in my day. Some church members are also coming together for a time of devotion, solitude, and fellowship.
This week, I shared the thoughts below from a new favorite blog, burningbushes.org, authored by one of my Converse classmates, Nicole. This is reminds me, what really feeds me.

...I was reminded of the power of His Word and its sufficiency. There is so much reading at my fingertips these days, that I often forget the fact that the truest story, the best story is also the oldest story. I guess at times I can assume that because I’ve already the Bible through a number of times, it’s now old hat. I think that some email or blog post or book or article has more for me at this moment than those ancient words. I forget that God’s Word is living and active…more alive than any person living now. His Word is more relevant to me than any recent story or message...

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Day 536: Bradley's

2011-03-22T15:41:00.003-04:00

I have had there Chocolate. But i had never been inside.

Now, I have.

And I am in love!

In love with the Chocolate...

And in love with all their gift items...

In love.

Source

Day 535: The report from Moultrie

2011-03-21T15:41:00.004-04:00

While was home over Spring Break, Brad was off serving leading college kids on a service project! Here's an article about all the awesome work the Cross Greek Campus ministry did last week.

A group of 78 University of Tennessee students invaded Moultrie Monday with hammers and paint brushes in hand. The students, members of The Cross ministry, are spending the week in Moultrie for their spring break doing mission projects. They began work Monday on at least four separate projects. Continue reading->

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Shout out to Sara!

Day 528-534: Spring Break

2011-03-20T15:40:00.007-04:00

During Knox County Spring Break, more than the schools close down. The city was quiet. The church was peaceful. I was at rest. I do like to be busy, but it was nice to have a week to sit, work, plan, think, clean, and sassed up for Spring.

1. Here are a few of things i did while everyone else seemed to be out of town: Worked on long range planning and a year by year objectives plan for our children's ministry.

2. Continued course work toward my certificate in non-profit management at the University of Tennessee.

3. Clean out all my closets, making room for spring and summer clothes.

4. Fell in love with my spring and summer wardrobe and (not to be too personal) celebrated the fact that I have not gained weight during the first few months of marriage (so many people warned me, but Brad and I have both prevailed).

5. Ran. A lot.

6. While I ran, day dreamed. Big.

7. Walked with Janetta, Kris, and my husband.

8. Got new pillows, pulled out a wedding gift bedding, and gave our room a redo. It look fabulous.

9. Read lots of blogs about decorating, Jesus, and Emily’s trip to Germany.

10. Taught Harding Japanese and enrolled him in art classes.

11. Best of all, I had a wonderful dinner with my family and this YouTube quiz:

Day 529: Stefano's

2011-03-15T12:21:00.002-04:00

Chicago style pizza.
Lunch with my husband.
And it is UT spring break, so there is no traffic on the strip.

I'll take a slice with peppers and mushrooms.
Thanks!

Day 527: Rugby, Tennessee

2011-03-14T11:19:00.001-04:00

Perfect. Relaxing. Weekend.

That is what it was. And the highlight was an imprumptu trip to the wonderful, hisotric colony of Rugby, Tennessee. It is ust over an hour from our house, but seemed a world away.

Here is what is looked like on Saturday, the day the village "reopened" for Spring!

Source for 2 images above

Source for above image of stained glass in Christ Chapel

Historic Rugby Vision
British-founded Rugby, Tennessee, is a rare example of a rural, living community that survives from its 1880s utopian beginnings with its town plan intact, many buildings and its natural setting preserved and with no encroaching incompatible development. This is the result of a long chain of human effort to preserve it, inspired by its founder's vision of equality and cooperation, community planning and natural resources stewardship. Rugby and its heritage must be preserved for all time and shared with this and future generations.
-www.historicrugby.org

I was seriously ready to move into this historic utopia. It was a picture of true community.
The entire way home, I kept asking Brad, "Can we please just go back to Rugby?"

Day 526: Glass Bazaar

2011-03-13T12:28:00.002-04:00

Friday I wen tot one of my favorite shops in Bearden and a realized - I have not blogged about this yet!
It is the Glass Bazaar! Located on Bearden Hill, they have more than everything you need for your kitchen, for entertaining, and for gift giving. It is also a great place for advice on products and creative table spacing ideas. Or you can take a cooking class there - which I would love to do! Friday, I picked up some cute and versitle wicker chargers, I used them for a dinner party that night. Plus, I think they will be a nice mix to dress down our fine china for Easter. I also put some cute monogrammed coffee mugs on my "wish list." In case anyone is looking for a birthday idea for me...

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Day 224: The Southern Market

2011-03-09T12:41:00.001-05:00

a. I finally have a monogrammer I like here in Knoxville that is timely, reasonably priced, and convenient.
b. She works out of the Southern Market
c. I could love at the Southern Market
d. How have i not blogged about this yet?

The Shops at the Southern Market is a unique collection of interior design shops. It included Initially Amy Faye, fabulous pillows, great hostess gifts, nice serving pieces, great art, and lots and lots of local specialities!

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Day 521: Rachel's Shower

2011-03-06T23:03:00.000-05:00

Guacamole. Brittany's perfect recipe. Because the bride loves avocados.

"Sweet Sushi." In honor of the first date.

Apple Pie. Our bride's favorite dessert.

Laura's cheese ball recipe, made by Laurie. It's the grooms favorite...we had it even though he was not there.

Chicken Salad. Great chicken salad. The bride's recipe.

Carrots. Because we thought we should have something healthy.

Rasberry Coffee with White Chocalote Creamer. It makes the world go round.

Red. Our bride's wine of choice.

Green Tea. Hot and cold, because because the bride loves both.

It was a perfect menu for a perfect shower. There is something so personal about a wedding shower. Every bride is so different. And being on this side of marriage, I realize more and more the unique gifts of each couple and each marriage. And in our new home, I realize more and more about engaging personalized attention to detail in our own ministry of hospitality.

On Sunday, our house was the setting for a cozy getting together of 25 women who love Rachel and are so excited she'll be marrying Ethan in a matter of weeks. I never imagined so many people could fit in our living room so well. And Rachel said she was so blessed by all the pictures, notes, and gifts that guests contributed that afternoon.

It was so fun to through the shower with Holly and Brittany. So wonderful to celebrate with women of 2nd. So delightful to watch Kylie and Blakely, from our children's ministry, be our little gift runners. And most of all, such a blessing to get to pray over this bride-to-be and their upcoming marriage.

My the Lord continue to work in them and through them, for His glory!

Day 518-520: Bag A Bargain

2011-03-03T10:58:00.003-05:00

This entire weekend was full of Bags and Bargains. So come and help the Junior League of Knoxville celebrate the 25th anniversary of this giant one-day rummage sale! Funds raised support the Junior League’s 20 plus community programs. The sale includes new and gently used items offered at bargain prices.

Where: Jacob Building in Chilhowee Park
When: Saturday, March 5, 2011
What time: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm

Or, check it out early with the Preview Party Friday, March 4, 2011!

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Day 513: Oscars and Rabbits

2011-02-27T13:57:00.002-05:00

People dressed up like fortune cookies.

Black ties on a Sunday night.

Peeps.

What is going on?

Theme parties. Saturday night, the creators of "frizzleween" hosted a Chinese New Year House party. Some folks were dressed to impress in the styles of the the Chinese New Year (aka the forutne cookies), this year it is the year of the rabbit (aka the peeps). Then, tonight, it the red carpet treatment at the Cutters Oscar party.

Any excuse for a party.

As Brad said, we really are blessed with great community here.

Day 512: Joseph!

2011-02-27T13:56:00.011-05:00

Fabulous! Energetic! Awesome!

We loved West High School's performance of Joseph. The star-studded cast included Molly and Faith!

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Day 514: Tim Keller

2011-02-27T13:56:00.009-05:00

One of the great things about living in Knoxville is that, in addition to our great church, there are other great churches in this open, challenging community. It is a great place to grow. And Sunday night it was a great place to hear from Tim Keller.

As Keller spoke at Cedar Spring Presbyterian Church's missions conference, he focused on 1 Peter 2:9:

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

You can enjoy some of his thoughts by clicking here to visit cspc.net->

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Day 511: Gibbs Young Life

2011-02-27T13:56:00.007-05:00

Friday night we got to serve dinner to the Gibbs Young Life Team. As "friends of Young Life" here in Knoxville, we volunteered to be "team parents". It's how we got to know the Jones and it is how we get to spend time with the fabulous Miss Julia, along with a great group of YL leaders.
So much fun! Plus, there was great chicken lasguana!

Day 508: Babies, Babies, and more Babies

2011-02-22T09:51:00.002-05:00

Hensley Kate.

Eva.

Caroline.

Amelia.

Will.

Wyatt.

Piper.

Cameron.

Kaylynn Grace.

And now one more of my bridesmaids is pregnant...

I am surrounded by babies.

At 2nd Pres, surrounded.

Among friends, surrounded.

Everywhere, surrounded.

Disclaimer: Often I resist the urge to write excessively about this. People seem to think that since I am married and Christian and like kids, that I want to have one immediately. But right now, I am a newlywed and eagerly enjoying this season of our life and family. I can't imagine anything else at this point.

Maybe that is because everywhere I turn, every meeting I go to, in the background of every phone call I get, there are babies. I hear them. I see them. I train people to care for them. I listen to moms and dads worry about them. I pray for them. I pray for people who want to have them. I learn about them. I love being with them. I get such a sweet fill of babies.

I think back to the text message I sent on the night I learned Caroline Grace was born. "REJOICE." That was all I typed in response. That was all I could think. And since then, that word, "REJOICE" has been on my mind. I pray continually that our hearts and lives with REJOICE at the beautiful of life. New life and the developmental discoveries babies make are such a captivting reminder. God is good. He is at work. He is worthy of our awe and worship. And when we look into cribs, we get a front row seat to the glory of His creation.

REJOICE.

Day 507: Nap time

2011-02-20T19:36:00.002-05:00

After a late night out...and serving in morning worship...and teaching 4 year olds...and then teaching second and third graders...and forth and fifth...and high schoolers (this one was Brad, not me)....and then training adult volunteers.
We. Were. Exhausted.
Our whole little family needed a nap.
And we all took one. Brad was in his chair. I was curled up on the couch. The puppy was curled up with me. The puppy was the icing on the cake.
I love my husband.
I love our puppy.
I love my life.

Day 506: The Orangery

2011-02-20T19:34:00.001-05:00

Saturday night was the Knoxville Men's Cotillion (worth the read, one of my fav posts). Yes, men's cotillion. It's a Knoxville Tradition and a reliably fabulous party. These folks can party.

Beforehand, Brad took me out for a romantic dinner with another Knoxville tradition, the Orangery. Neither of us had been there since this restaurant reopened last year. It was wonderful. Romantic. Lovely. Established, but still fresh and unique

The best part of an epic evening...dessert.

Wow.

I had the Chocolate Orange Crème Brûlée.

Brad had the Strawberry Shortcake.

Both were out of this world.

I love crème brûlée.

I love my husband.

I love my life.

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Day 505: Boutique Blowout

2011-02-18T18:42:00.003-05:00

Today I wen to see what all my fav shops have been hyping all week. it was worth it. While it is obviously things you have already seen, they are now at price you can't believe. Like $25 or 75% off. Seriously. From the boutiques of Bearden. Really. right deals in the District in Bearden.

Day 504: Get ready for summer....

2011-02-17T20:56:00.001-05:00

Friday will have VBS planning in full swing! This year, we'll be using Standard Publishing's Main Street cirrculum.
It's inside out. It's upside down. But must importantly, it is "where Jesus makes a difference every day!"

What I like best about it:
-Jesus+Every day people.
-Tells kids that knowing Christ can change a life.
-It is so cute!
-Gratitude.
-Compassion.
-Forgiveness.
-Grace.
-Faithfulness.
-Cooper can come.
-Biblical truth is woven into every activity and station.
-It. Is. Fun.

Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. - Psalm 25:4-5

Watch more here->

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Day 503: Developing People

2011-02-17T09:30:00.001-05:00

At 2nd Pres, we are immersed in a season of growing, planning, and discerning God's calling for our congregation. I'll spare you all the details and all the committee and all the strategic visioning. But, I wanted to share these 5 questions. They are from Missional Renaissance, from Reggie McNeal. These really got me thinking about what god is doing and how the body of Christ might be involved in that.
• What do you enjoy doing?
• Where do you see God at work right now?
• What would you like to see God do in your life over the next six to twelve
months? How can we help?
• How would you like to serve other people? How can we help?
• How can we pray for you?

Read more from Missional Renaissance->

Day 502: the 865

2011-02-15T09:10:00.002-05:00

It's official.

I live in Tennessee.

And I plan to forever.

I gave up the only cell phone number I have ever had and got an 865 number.

I. Am. Home.

...I also got a pretty snazzy new phone as part of my valentine's present. Thanks honey!

Day 501: Bistro by the Tracks

2011-02-13T09:01:00.002-05:00

By brother has great taste when it coming to dining out. He should after all, he is a chef and has been in the midst of the Knoxville restuarant seen for almost half his life. so, to celebrate that life on Friday night, we headed out to Bistro by the Tracks, a fabulous restuarant right in our neighborhood.

Here is what the birthday boy had to eat...

Calamari
Graham flour, smoked tomato sweet and sour, cucumber salad

Lobster Corndogs
Apple mustard dipping sauce

Rack of Lamb
Chermoula, Israeli couscous, cucumber mint salad

...and Humingbird Cake for dessert.

Yum. the rest of our meals were fabulous too. Happy birthday little brother!!

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Day 500: Harrison

2011-02-11T09:41:00.003-05:00

What better way to enjoy my 500th day in Knoxville than a visit from one of my favs. Harrison is in town this weekend to see sweet Mary Scott at UT and I am so excited to get to see her.
Here's to friendships that last for a long, long time.

In honor of this visit, I celebrated a favorite moment of Harrison in my wedding (above).

And a favorite picture of her and MSC...

Love you! Jesus loves you more!

Day 499: Sweet Sheets Paper Boutique

2011-02-11T09:05:00.005-05:00

My sweet friend has a sweet business with sweet invitations, stationary, and more! Mrs. Mindy just designed invitations for our friend Rachel's bridal shower. They are perfect, pretty, and unique. I don't know how she does it - a growing business and her sweet growing family - but Mindy's got a creative, personal touch, and a quick, quick, quick turn around. That makes her my favorite paper location here in Knoxville!

Here are a few of my favorites from her work. Check out more at sweetsheetspaperboutique.blogspot.com.

Rehearsal Dinner Invitation

Contemporary Wedding Invitation

Cute Wedding Thank yous

Can't wait to see more baby shower invites from Mindy!

Shh....

Because your sweater vest should always match your greeting cards

Visit Sweet Sheets online at sweetsheetspaperboutique.com.

Day 498: An Invitation Today from JLK

2011-02-09T10:01:00.006-05:00

Thursday, it is my pleasure to show off the Junior League to friends who might be interested in joining. It may sound cheesy, but the Junior Leagues of both Spartanburg and Knoxville have helped me connect, serve, and have fun - so I am so excited to share it tonight!

More at jlknoxville.org (source)->

Quotes for the day...

2011-02-08T11:28:00.001-05:00

“It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power.” -Alan Cohen

"Easy things don’t hold nearly the potential as doing hard things." - Jonathan Cliff

Source

Day 496: Chi O Bible Study

2011-02-08T09:25:00.002-05:00

Monday night, the Chi O Bible study got into full swing. I am so excited Brittany asked me to help lead this group. What a fun collection of girls - ready to study, talk, and prayerfully purpose what god wants! I am so excited to see this grow!

My prayer for this group is that they challenge each other and that leading them is something that develops and challenges me. I pray it will be a place where they can be open and that God will use this group to develop lots of meaningful relationships and real conversations. Or and I pray that we laugh, a lot!

May we each recklessly pursue God - and nothing else!

But Ruth replied, "Don't ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. - Ruth 1:16

Day 495: The Medical Arts Building

2011-02-07T10:01:00.004-05:00

Downtown Knoxville is full of cool buildings, each with their own history as well as their own contributions to our city. Sunday afternoon, while moving a few things into Brad's new office at Pathway Lending, I found a very cool building. Here, I wanted to share this history with you:

The Medical Arts Building was constructed in 1932 withunique architectural elements consisting of Eclectic Gothic Revival with Art Deco influence...Designed by the architectural firm Manley & Young of Lexington, Kentucky, the Medical Arts Building was built by contractor Earl Worsham (who had his firms offices there after it opened) and Dr. M.M. Copenhaver, who began construction in 1929 for $750,000. However, the building was taken over during the Depression by Metropolitan Life Insurance Co., which sold it to an Alabama businessman in the 1930s...The building originally was designed as a 13-story structure, but only 10 were built because of the Depression...Over the years, its modern equipment and outstanding facilities made it attractive to Knoxville's leading physicians and dentists, as well as to firms as diverse as Hollywood Beauty Studio, Insurance Service Co. and Johnson's Flowers. Despite the fact that it was built at the onset of the Depression, its ornate brass elevator doors and marble interior details give it a feeling of opulence. The interior has marble and terrazzo floors, marble walls and mahogany doors inlaid with walnut. Many of the offices have arched doors and vaulted ceilings. Uncharacteristically, it also once had its own bowling alley...The Medical Arts Building now serves the Knoxville community as a premiere provider of commercial office space for all types of businesses. Throughout the development of downtown, the Medical Arts Building has remained "Knoxville's Best Kept Secret."

Continue Reading (Source)->

Day 494: Katherine Theresa Landon & William Fitch

2011-02-06T15:26:00.003-05:00

Now that life has settled down and we're settled in, here is our wedding announcement - today in the Knoxville News Senteniel.
Note1: This is the 2nd time we have been in the paper this week. Read about Brad->
Note2: One of my first graders was the first one to bring this to me this morning - thanks Dale!

Katherine Theresa Landon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald R. Landon, and William Bradley Fitch, son of Ms. Jenny J. Fitch and Mr. Walter B. Fitch, were married July, 10, 2010, at Second Presbyterian Church, Knoxville.
After a honeymoon in Bar Harbor, Maine, the couple is at home in
Knoxville.
The bride is a graduate of Farragut High School and Converse College and is employed at Second Presbyterian Church.
The groom is a graduate of David Lipscomb Campus School, the University of Tennessee and the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. He is employed at Pathway Lending. Read here->

Thought for the day

2011-02-06T14:34:00.001-05:00

Thank you 320 Sycamore! Love this.
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Day 493: When will it end?

2011-02-05T14:01:00.000-05:00

So, I got had lost track of a couple days, but now seem to be caught up. It's Saturday, February 5th, and it is actually the 493th day since I moved back to Knoxville.
I have been thinking about how long this blog will continue. It has been fun to celebrate the new things of Knoxville, an engagement, a new home, a new job, and a new marriage. But, I think the next new thing may be to retire this blog. Maybe on my birthday. So stay tuned. The end may be in sight.
What do you think?
In the meantime, here's to the new things I will find between now and then...and even after!

Day 260 Updated: Brad's wedding present

2011-02-05T13:38:00.003-05:00

While checking out the Arts Emporium website, I saw the site for my favorite local artist, Mike Berry, who is one of their artistst in residence. That made me realized, I never told you about Brad's wedding gift. It was a collection of work from that artist, Mike Berry. He recreated the picture above, a portrait of our church. It was a little different angle and it has made it's home in our den. Also in the den are 5 other pictures I got for him, print that are also of Knoxville and the surrounding area, highlighting places we love.

The Torchbearer, His Collegiate Home

Big Ed's, Our Favorite Pizza

Neyland, Our Team's Stadium

Market Square, site of Our Engagement

Check out more at mikecberry.com or the Postcards from Knoxville series (source)->

Day 484: The Arts Emporium

2011-02-05T13:26:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday night - they got married! Our wonderful friends Jay and Rebecca were married. Brad was in the wedding and we had a great time all weekend long. One place we really enjoyed was the Emporium, their reception site. I remember telling Rebecca about this location. I had been interested in it, but the street outside was under construction when we got married. But it was absolutely fabulous for Jay and Rebecca's absolutely fabulous reception.
Here's a little more about this wonderful space...

The Emporium Center is Knoxville’s first true arts center. Originally built in 1898, it re-opened following renovations during the summer of 2004. Located at 100 South Gay Street, the 28,000 square feet of flexible use space houses two art galleries showcasing local and regional artists, the administrative offices of the Arts & Culture Alliance, and offices for nine other arts and cultural organizations. Additionally, the building houses studio for ten individual artists and rehearsal, classroom and meeting space...

Source

Day 491: Lakeshore and Kris

2011-02-05T12:57:00.004-05:00

The only thing that could be better than the 2 mile loop around Lakeshore is walking it on Thursday afternoons with Kris.
I love to run or walk at Lakeshore. This 2 mile loop treks around the former Lakeshore mental health institute. It is a part of the Knoxville Greenway system, has great views of the river, and is situated among 60 acres. That's all nestled in just a few miles from our house. What makes it even sweet are memories from soccer practices and games my brother and played there 25 years ago.
Since moving back, Brad and I often enjoyed it and I have met several friends there.
Lately, I have gotten to spend lots of sweet time there with Kris. She's great and such a blessing. We all need so one to talk to, to learn from. And she is becoming one of mine. She gives great advice and thoughts - on life, marriage, ministry, work, change, and lots more. i am not too involved with Young Life things here in Knoxville, but i am thankful that even the minimal involvement has let me get to know Kris. Here are a few thoughts that have been rolling around in my head as a result of these good conversations...
...we are really concerned with our loved ones being happy or having fun, but God cares more about their character.
...God's teaching is full of lots of hard truth, but most of all, it has hope!
...it's all about relationships.
...relationships take time.
...we are so clearly made for more than this world can ever offer.
...I can never be perfect or make anyone happy all the time (sounds obvious, but it's hard for me to believe sometimes)
...marriage is like the greatest gift this world brings!

Source

Day 490: Sequoyah Greenway

2011-02-05T12:50:00.002-05:00

Now that I am thinking about ending this blog, I have got to make sure I tell you about one of my favorite places to run. The Sequoyah Park and Greenway are so great that I probably could have written about them half a dozen times. So, here are half a dozen of my favorite things about this running location:
1. It is so close. I can run there from the church, or hit it between church and home
2. I always see someone I know. Always.
3. There is a bathroom.
4. Lovely view of the water
5. Lovely homes all along
6. The gentle roll of the hills give just enough variety to a pretty easy run.
Bonus: At 2.6 miles - it's exactly one tenth of a marathon!

Read more (source)->

Day 492: Ace Hardware Bearden

2011-02-05T12:48:00.002-05:00

Friday I popped into my favorite local hardware store, Ace Hardware of Bearden. They took time out to help me with what I needed, but they are in full moving mode. This super helpful neighborhood store is now on the move even closer to our house. Wednesday they will be up and running right next to Earthfare. Bearden Ace, a good thing...that just gets better!

Here's more, on their page->

Day 498: Brad Fitch to oversee Knox region for Pathway Lending

2011-02-01T14:42:00.004-05:00

That was the headline this morning with the Knoxville News Sentinel.

Here's the story from knoxnews.com:

Pathway Lending said today that veteran banker Brad Fitch has been named regional program and client manager for the lender’s Knox County region.

The regional office in Knoxville provides loans through the Knox County Technology and Jobs Fund and the Tennessee Small Business Jobs Opportunity Fund.

Fitch previously was community president at Community South Bank in Knoxville. He also was assistant vice president/bank manager at Regions Bank in Jackson, Tenn.

“Brad brings a depth of experience in small business lending and a passion for helping others to our organization, which allows us to significantly grow our presence in the East Tennessee market through the Tennessee Small Business Jobs Opportunity Fund,” Pathway Lending President Clint Gwin said in a prepared statement.

Nashville-based Pathway Lending provides loans to small businesses that do not have access to loans from traditional financial sources. Founded in 1999, Pathway Lending has made more than 400 loans totaling more than $40 million to 300 companies...Continue Reading->

Learn more about pathwaylending.org (source)->

Day 494: Lanie!

2011-01-30T14:56:00.000-05:00

Lanie came to Knoxville for the National Showdown of Champions - Clogging Competition. And...I got to go to see with her!! Here is to perfect friends, good meals, and genuine conversation.

I didn't have a photo from the competition, so I went with some wedding favorites.

Love you Lanie.

Jesus loves you more.

Day 484: Era by Kristi

2011-01-18T08:08:00.002-05:00

Thank you! This boutique might be the best concept that has ever come to the District in Bearden.
Well, first let me explain...
Kristi is back, and they are in their original location. Circa 1999 (I think) and my days of working retail in the district before is was the district.

And they have start something new.

Era by Kristi.

It's "The Fahsion Forward Approach to Designer COnsignment." Not only do you get a good deal on great items, but when you show up in something new to you, no one is going to say - "oh yea, I just saw that in the window at _______."
I picked out a cute little dress for $37. I admit, I never thought I would see a recipt from Kristi for $37. But, it I look forward to many more wonderful finds at Era. And, I am glad to have Kristi back too and look forward to seeing what's new and what's new to me.

Here are a few items from their Facebook page.

Source

Day 483: Norris

2011-01-17T19:54:00.004-05:00

It was a day off. No work pressing. No job searching to do. no snow to keep us inside. Today was MLK Day. In honor of our freedom and our love to America, we ended up on a little road trip through Norris Tennessee. I have been to the Norris Dam as a child and have known a bit of the history. But I learn a little more and loved the drive through this adorable community.

Here's a little overview:

During the 1930s and 1940s the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) built, owned, and administered the community of Norris for fifteen years. After World War II, the government decided to sell the town at auction. On June 15, 1948, real estate broker Henry David Epstein, acting as head of a Philadelphia-based syndicate bought the town for $2,107,500. The Norris Citizens Development Corporation, which had been organized by local residents, raised $1,900,000 but was unable to meet the top bid. In the ensuing years Epstein’s group eventually sold all 341 homes to the citizens. In 1949, the Tennessee General Assembly granted the town a charter of incorporation, and Norris became an independent self-governing community. Continue reading about this "American Ideal"->

Source

Day 481: Celbrating at Preservation Pub

2011-01-17T19:45:00.002-05:00

Saturday night we had a lot to celebrate! Brad got a fabulous job offer on Friday. So, Saturday night, we headed out to Preservation Pub. We told a couple friends we would eb there, in case anyone want to drop by. Well, clearly my husband is pretty popular, cause about 30 people came by to congratulate him. It was so fun and we got to see the new upstairs. You can still enjoy live band from downstairs. But updatirs has got more seating and is a little quiter. It is also better for those of us who want a smoke free location.
Here's to a great night!
And here's to my husband, Brad, and his fabulous new job!

Source

Day 482: Starbucks (Confessions of a Chain Connoisseur Part II)

2011-01-17T19:32:00.003-05:00

Well, the confessions continue as I must admit, I love this place...

Yep, i am all but addicted to Starbucks. And come in often enough to have conversations about engagements and taking out the trash and the weather with the lovely staff at the Knox Plaza location near our house.
My favorite time there is Sunday mornings. I go before church, have my quiet time, pray for the day, oh, and load up with a "venti pikes peak with room for cream." Sunday mornings are fun for me, but they are a bit of a marathon, so this is a perfect way to start the day.

Honestly, coffee, my BIble, and my journal...that is the perfect way to start any day!

Day 480: The Flower Guy

2011-01-15T14:17:00.004-05:00

For years, women on first dates with hopelessly romantic men in downtown Knoxville have come face to face with a dark haired stranger. He is not an urban legend. He is always there, subtlety making his presence known, even if you never know his name. (And even if he cannot be found via any internet search when you are trying to find a photo or additional content for your blog entry.)
He is the flower man. He strolls downtown Knoxville and sells roses each night. For first or second dates. For anniversaries no doubt. Or, in my case, on a random Thursday night while grabbing dinner with my husband after downtown meetings.
2 red roses=a sweet Thursday memory.

Source

Day 479: Panera (Confessions of a Chain Connoisseur)

2011-01-14T11:38:00.004-05:00

I didn't know what to call this post...
...Confessions of a Chain Connoisseur?
...Kumbaya food?
...places where I secretly spend vast amount of time?

I honestly didn't really want to admit this. I want to be that person who only patronizes local businesses. I want to be cool and different. But I am not. I go here...

A lot.

I love to meet the girls from West High School at Panera in Merecedes Place. In fact, yesterday morning, I think we really made our presence known as we enjoyed breakfast there before school. i also love to meet other friends and church members there or at another Panera somewhere in town. They are everywhere and they are reliably a good choice. And the soups. I love the soups. I also love the new little card where they are tacking what I buy and trying to market to me in some complex fashion. I love it, cause I get lots free goodies.

So, yes, I confess.

My name is Katie and I frequent Panera Bread.

Next, well, tune in to see my other favorite. Hint: look across the street.

Day 478: Knoxify.com

2011-01-14T09:49:00.006-05:00

Our neighborhood, Forest Heights is the latest neighborhood to be profiled on the Knoxify.com Neighborhood Guide. Knoxify.com, noted that, "Located just off of Sutherland Avenue, and just a hop skip and a jump from Kingston Pike, Forest Heights is right in the heart of Bearden in close-in West Knoxville." It goes onto highlight nearby amenities, including the Third Creek leg of the Knoxville Greenway system, the EarthFare/Kroger/Fresh Market grocery triangle, restaurants within easy walking distance. The look of the neighborhood is also celebrated, particularly the cottages, tudor styles, lots of stone accents. Plus, they note we have a wonderful neighborhood association. Here is more of what they "dig" about our neighborhood:
* an older home with tons of character
* a very walkable neighborhood
* a location right in the thick of things, surrounded by restaurants and shops
* something very convenient to downtown, UT and I-40
Read the review here (source)->

Day 477: Alfred Angelo

2011-01-11T15:43:00.006-05:00

Guess who is the newest (and I am sure the best ever) consultant at Alfred Angelo?

Hint #1: She was there when I got my fabulous wedding dress.

Hint #2: She paid for it.

It's my mom! Congratulations mom! I know she'll be a tremendous blessing to so many girls and their families as they shop of the perfect dress and enjoy this sweet time of life.

And while you are there at the Turkey Creek Alfred Angelo boutique, you can ask her how to have a happy, fun marriage and a loving family. She and my dad are celebrating another wonderful year together - Happy Anniversary to my parents!!
Source: www.alfredangelo.com

Day 476: The Outlaws

2011-01-11T15:34:00.002-05:00

That is what they are calling themselves. I am not quite sure why. But, the newest, coolest thing that is going on around my life is a group that I am not in. It's a group of college groups who Brad has started meeting with. Our prayer for them is that they will each know a little more of the Lord.
I don't really know what they talk about, but I think it is a time for the to be real with each other and challenge one another. And i know they are starting to read this book, by one of Brad's new favorite guys Xan Hood. It is about "a journey to re-cultivate masculinity in our culture today. We believe that much of what is missing is only a matter of rediscovering it in people, past, and stories. We are in search of this lost part of a man." Check out more on Xan's blog->

Oh and these guys can really put back the Chicken casserole.

Day 475: 6 months

2011-01-10T21:23:00.004-05:00

6 months.
We have been married 6 months.
I have been thinking about it all day, and here are 4 things I have thought about. I wanted to think of 6, but these 5 were perfect.
1. My grandparents have been married for over 50 years. That means we have experience less than 1% of what they have experienced.
2. Marriage is never ending. Every great thing i have been a part of had some sort of end or finish line in sight. Graduation. The literal finish line of a race. These all end relatively soon, when compared to marriage. We get to do this for years and years and years to come!
3. All the cliches are true - it seems like we just got started and at the same time it seems like we have been married forever.
4. I just started a study of Habakkuk and while the context is totally different, this quote sticks with me from that text. "You would not believe [what would happen] if you were told."
5. You can watch reruns of the local news basically any time of day. It is very convenient.
Happy anniversary!

Day 474: The Roundabout

2011-01-10T20:57:00.006-05:00

Sunday was a fun day for "The Roundabout." That is what we call the kindergarten and 1st grade class at 2nd Pres. Each Sunday morning, they get together to have fun and learn about the Lord. What was new Sunday? Mindy is there new teach. She will be there each week to pour talk about the Lord and build a relationship with His kids.
This is such a fun class. Here are a few of my favorite things you can learn from my kindergarten and 1st grade friends.

-If you have too many boys in your life, just keep coloring - that's what the 2 girls in this class of 13 boys do.

-You are never to young to break dance.

-If you stay up past 11pm, you might as well say you stayed up all night!

-Sledding is an excellent metaphor for life.

It's going to be a fun time in The Roundabout!

"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us" - Hebrews 12:1b

Day 473: The Spotted Frog

2011-01-08T17:09:00.001-05:00

It's been open for months, but since I don't live out in Farragut, I had not made it to Turkey Creek's newest treasure, The Spotted Frog. I stopped in today and was delighted. I thought it was more of a gift shop, and they do have great gifts and jewelry and cute little things for the home. But, there are lots of clothes...and shoes...and more clothes. All at a great price point. Everything was a little fun, not generic. But still very wearable. I'll definately be back to check it out again!

And I might go back for a pair of boots like this. Or the version in Go Vols Big Orange!!

Check them out on Facebook (photo source)->
Or on their homepage (logo source)->

PS - Their Motto: Classy and Sassy. Thanks you Katie Arthur.

Day 471: 16 New Orphanages

2011-01-06T11:07:00.001-05:00

This is not happening in Ktown...it is happening across the country to impact kids in India, Haiti, South Africa and Rwanda. We are supporting more homes and you can be a part of the change. Get involved now->
Learn more and follow the cause->

Day 470: Sweet Cece's

2011-01-05T22:47:00.005-05:00

Their modo is "making sweet memories one cup at a time." That's exactly what we had today. I got to hang out with some of my favorite 2nd Pres girls at Knoxville's newest yogurt shop, Sweet Cece's. It is just down the street from the church, and we have did not hve church tonight. So, it was a perfect Wednesday for frozen yogurt. As Hyatt and I headed over, it was snowing. Yep, frozen yogurt in the snow. That's when you know that fun is more important than logic.
We laughed a lot and talked about our plans for the year...lunches, our small group, and pajamas. Then, we prayed for tests and spelling bees and snow days. Then, Elizabeth prayed, "Lord, let there be snow - snow up to my waist!" Elizabeth is about 3 and half feet tall. That is a lot of snow. It's 11pm now and I think there is still a chance that her wish just might come true!

Quote of the afternoon

2011-01-05T14:45:00.002-05:00

“A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed it’s the only things that ever has.” Margaret Mead

Dat 468: Pot Roast

2011-01-04T23:12:00.004-05:00

No, mine did not look like that one. The pot roast above belongs to the Pioneer Woman. But, I did use a variation on 2 of her recipes (this one and this one) to make my first pot roast. Pot roast has never been my favorite, but it is one of Brads. This recipe had a lot of flavor. So, not only was I proud of my new culinary experience - I enjoyed eating it too!

Here's the recipe...cause I am addicted to blogs that feature recipes. I am such a wannabe.

Combine the following ingredigents and cook on low for 8 hours in your crock pot.
* 1 1/2 lbs. Pot Roast (this was the smallest i could find)
* 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
* 2 whole Onions (quartered)
* 4 Red Potatoes (sliced very thick)
* 1/2 bag baby Carrots
* Salt To Taste
* Pepper To Taste
* 2 cans of Beer (we stock PBR)
* Worcester, 3 tablespoons or maybe it was more
* Thyme, one tablespoon
* Parsley, be generous
* Garlic powder (because who keep around fresh garlic to mince at your leisure), one tablespoon

Next time, I will look to include more Worcester

Source

Day 467 and 453: Annual Reunions

2011-01-03T20:13:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite things about Christmas is time with my favs and favorite high school friends.
Every year, for the past 3 years, I have enjoyed our holiday Christmas Tea with my favs, who i have loved and shared life wiht for the past 8 years...almost 9! this year, I wanted them to know know...

1. Everyone needs a Christmas tree. Not when you have a "big enough place." Not when you get married. Not "next year." We are all a part of Christ's story. Now. This year. Today.

2. Christmas is about receiving! Christ is God's gift to us. Open your heart to this life giving truth.

3. We all have hard times. These girls are incredible. Amazing. Fantastically accomplished women. But even they have hard times and questions about life. And we are blessed with our friends to push us, pull us, and carry us through. Friends are God's way of taking care of us.

This 3rd point is what brings me to another fabulous holiday reunion. every year, for longer than I can remember, I get together with my wonderful high school friends, the Zins. We just get better with age. Lots has changed over the years. Loves. Loss. Marathons. Moves across the state, over the mountains, and to the big apple. Grad schools. Careers. Kids. Through each stage, we have a common thread. And even when one of us can't make it, there is always the promise of next year! These are not just my locker partners...they are soul mates.

But we missed Jess's pic taking this year. Here's some vintage Zin!

Day 459-466: 2nd Pres Ski Trip. I learned to Ski

2011-01-03T12:42:00.003-05:00

I get to spend most days with the sleepers, crawlers, walkers, runners, readers, and cool kids (aka the birth thru 5th graders at our church). But this past week, I joined our youth on their ski trip, as Brad and I found ourselves on our first ministry trip together.
It is not a new thing. Our church has been doing it for 29 years. For longer than I have been able to walk, 2nd Pres has been taking high school kids skiing. Brad and I have been praying for this trip for months and we had a great time.
I learned to ski and so much more. Here are some highlights of our trip:
Fact: If you drive a bus for 24+ hours, it will break down.
Fact: When learning to ski, it is critical to first learn how to stand up if you fall over.
Fact: You don't have to be so afraid of going fast. Let the slope naturally slow you down. (This is true in skiing and in life.)
Fact: 20 below = COLD. Yes, 20 degrees below zero.
Fact: There is never anything you can or will ever do that will make God love you any more, or any less. Nothing.
Fact: Inside jokes never get old.
Fact: The Cross of Christ is were the human story insects with the Holy one.
Fact: "When you are old, it doesn't matter how much money you have. It matters how many stories you have to tell." - The Big Hoohah
Fact: Those who are significant live for God.
Fact: We all need revelation, repentance, resistance, and relationship.
Fact: "Ohana Means Family, Family Means No One Gets Left Behind." - Janette, Tiffany, and Lilo
Fact: The more we know about who we are, the more we can understand about who God is. And vice versa.
Fact: I skied a BLUE!

Source

Day 452-8: I celebrate

2010-12-25T22:55:00.004-05:00

This is my prayer...far beyond Christmas, well into 2011.

With this Christmas wish is missed
The point I could convey
If only I could find the words to say to let you know
How much you've touched my life because
Here is where you're finding me
In the exact same place as New Years Eve
And from the lack of my persistency
We're less than half as close as I wanna be

And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realise that you would be my Saviour
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever
And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realise that you would be my Saviour
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever

And so this Christmas I'll compare
The things I've felt in prior years
To what this midnight made so clear
That you have come to meet me here

To look back
And think that
This baby would one day save me
And the hope that
That you give
That you were born so I might really live
To look back
And think that
This baby would one day save me…

And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realise that you would be my Saviour
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever
And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realise that you would be my Saviour
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever

And I
I celebrate the day
That you were born to die
So I could one day
Pray for you to save my life
Pray for you to save my life
Pray for you to save my life

- Relient K

Our First Christmas

2010-12-25T08:04:00.004-05:00

I started to blog about the top moments of Christmas so far...but there are too many. Maybe I will do that later. It has been picture perfect. But, I am reminded, that is not what it is all about. Jesus entered our rough, broken, imperfect world. So I can come before Him in any way, in any condition. He is my present this Christmas.

Below is my Christmas prayer. This is what I meant to say last night during our family worship at 2nd Pres. I think I remembered most of it. But I was so in love with how our kids literally entered into Jesus's story during the live nativity, that I don't even remember what I said.

Father God,

We praise You for the gift of our Children,
May we always cherish them.

We praise You for time with our family, our friends, and our church,
May we savor it.

We praise You for the truth of the Christmas story,
May we believe it with our whole hearts and let it transform our lives.

Most of all, we praise You for the gift of your Son,
That we don't just hear or read the Christmas story,
But just like every child in the live nativity gathers on the altar around the manger,
We too are invited to come.
To live with Jesus.

We are a part of the Christmas story!

Let us know Him as our Savior and as our Lord,
And let that change our lives forever.

Quote of the Season

2010-12-21T23:37:00.002-05:00

"There is not a square inch
in the whole domain of our human existence
over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all,
does not cry: 'Mine!'"
- Abraham Kuyper

With all the wonderful things of this year and this Christmas, I feel like I have it all. But it is His. I am reminded that our Lord is the center of the story. And He loves me so much, that he invites me in.

Day 428: DIY Weddings

2010-12-13T21:17:00.003-05:00

"“I think people think if you want to do a lot yourself and have a big wedding, you have to be engaged for long.” - me!
Yes, that is right. I was quoted today in the Knoxville News Senteniel's article on Do It Yourself weddings. I harding feel like the DIY bride of the year. But, I did have the DIY Mother of the Bride of the year.
" 'I had a bunch of websites that I stalked,' Landon said of her inspiration."

Below is the full story. or read more at knoxnews.com.

Mollie Lacher married her husband, Joe, on Oct. 16 at the Maple Grove Inn in West Knoxville, and during their yearlong engagement, she got crafty. “I knew I wanted something one-of-a-kind,” she said. Lacher is creative, she said, and she wanted to do a lot herself to stay within her budget. “I had my hand in everything,” she said.

Allison Sprouse of The Modern Hostess, a local event designing company, believes DIY weddings have become more common within the past few years. “I think it’s a mixture of the recession,” she said. “And I think a part of it is with blogs.” Sprouse believes brides have more access now because they can see what other brides are doing and get ideas on blogs. “There are great things to be DIY and be thrifty and creative – Save the Dates, programs, favors,” she said.

Local photographer Carrie Jo Pinckard of Texture Photographics agreed. “I have seen a big change in brides desiring their fingerprint on everything,” she said. And the DIY trend helps those brides reflect their style and personality, and it can even include people they love, she said. “It’s so much fun to arrive on a wedding day and feel like you know a couple so much more just by the location they chose and the way the bride so uniquely decorated it,” she said.

And Lacher was one of the DIY brides. She helped design Save the Dates, invitations and programs, and she said along the way, she continued to find more fun DIY ideas to help save money and express her style. “Things that I couldn’t knock down cost-wise were like menu, food, band … so that left décor.”

She collected jars, vases and burlap from Joann Fabrics & Crafts, Hobby Lobby, Southern Market and Home Goods to create reception centerpieces. “I did burlap table runners,” she explained, sewing buttons and weaving teal ribbon through them. She had a friend cut down a tree to make, what she called, “tree trays,” which she then put various vases and jars to hold candles and flowers. She and Joe also created mason jar chandeliers, she said. She gathered mason jars and tinted them blue for an antique look before Joe attached them to wooden boards and hung them from the ceiling. Lacher admitted she loves ice cream, so instead of the traditional wedding cake, she and her mother created an ice cream bar, gathering varieties of ice cream and toppings for guests to enjoy. Her friend Carolyn Coley added to the reception by making a variety of cupcakes. And for wedding favors, Lacher had her family help her make peach preserves.

For new bride Katie Fitch of West Knoxville, a lot of her DIY techniques came down to the details. “I knew I wanted sapphires for my wedding cake,” she said. “My ring is a sapphire.” Fitch said she’s not very traditional, so she wanted to do more herself, like search for unique cake decorations, to make her wedding less generic. Fitch said, “I think if you just go out and get stuff, it makes it less expensive, too.” She did that, with the help of her creative-minded mother, Marlene Landon, when planning her July 10 wedding to her husband Brad. The ceremony was at Second Presbyterian Church, and the reception was at the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

“I had a bunch of websites that I stalked,” Landon said of her inspiration. And together, she and Fitch got to work. While she didn’t do her own invitations, Fitch wax sealed and stamped each one. For her bridal luncheon at the Apple Cake Tea Room, they collected different cups and saucers from thrift stores to hand out as favors and made table runners out of toile fabric. At the wedding reception, they hand-painted signs for drinks and food, and they even created a candy bar, collecting different candies and serving them in paper cones. She also enlisted help of friends and family to set up the reception area.

While she had her hand in many details, Fitch was only engaged to Brad from December to July. “I think people think if you want to do a lot yourself and have a big wedding, you have to be engaged for long.”

Sprouse said the new DIY trend can be accomplished, and luckily, it doesn’t take away her job. She explained The Modern Hostess helps brides create a “blueprint” for their wedding, taking their vision and helping them with details and logistics. “There are things we say, ‘You could save money and do that yourself,” she said.

But both Fitch and Lacher agreed brides can do too much. “Eventually, your head will explode,” Lacher said. And that’s where, Sprouse said, professionals should step in. “When it comes down to it, you do need a professional to help you carry it through in the end,” she said. Pinckard agreed she’s seen the importance of a bride passing her vision on to either a wedding coordinator or trusted person to help carry out final details. “It’s nearly impossible to see that plan carried out on your wedding day when you’re unable to run around because of the train on the back of your dress,” she said. “As a bride, you can’t really celebrate well when you’re distracted.”

Sprouse and Pinckard both said that while the DIY trend is helpful in personalizing weddings, there are some basic rules to apply. Pinckard encouraged brides to consider their guests. If it’s a backyard wedding, remember that it could rain or be cold, which isn’t comfortable for anyone, she said. “Consider caring for all people involved,” she said. “While they are celebrating you, celebrate them.” Sprouse said simply, “Do it because it has means; not just because it saves a dollar.”

Source

Day 437: Snow Day!

2010-12-13T14:56:00.005-05:00

It's our first snow fall in our new home! Inside it is cozy and fun to be working on the laptop across the room from my husband who is also hard at work on his. And sweet puppy Harding loves the snow! Though it makes him a bit rowdy.
it is days like this that I wish I acutally used a camera.
Happy Snow Day!

Source

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

2010-12-13T14:48:00.002-05:00

Here is a great look at Christmas from our great friend Austin. Enjoy and check out his blog at www.whatsleftout.com.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

 His seventeen-year-old fiancé sleeps,
he drives south. Exhaust seeps through
holes in the floor of their Chevy pick-up,
a rusted deathtrap that he curses.
She wakes, she vomits twice, she needs
to pee every two hours. He feeds more
oil into the engine, a scared dog
that shudders above fifty. He watches
her watch the black river of asphalt flow.
Folks back home would be buzzing with gossip
by now. He glances at her
swollen belly, nine months large, not his.
“There’s only one way a girl gets knocked up,”
his best friend’s words pop like distant rifles.

Her water breaks as they pull into town,
a one-stoplight speck, Bethlehem,
Pennsylvania, with no proper hotel
or hospital. Joe ducks inside a bar
to ask about a doctor. Darkness seethes
with folks like them, out-of-towners
needing beds. No vacancies anywhere,
no clean sheets at a bed and breakfast.
Emergency room? Epidural? None.
They hold hands, he prays, “Don’t let Maria
or the baby die. We’ve tried so hard
to do what’s right. People are calling her
a slut and me a fool. You are
our only refuge, our only hope.”

A tap on the window. The bartender
in flannel and jeans nods, “I think I can
help.” They follow him out to pastureland.
He’s called ahead. His wife’s father was
an ob/gyn. She’s cleared off the tool bench
in the garage and spread a faded quilt.
“We’ll have to do it the old-fashioned way,”
she smiles. She has hot water, dish towels,
rubbing alcohol. Joe follows orders.
Maria’s lost more blood than he’s ever
seen, even butchering a deer. He cuts
the cord with a carpet knife. “Tearing
could have been much worse,” she observes.
He’ll believe anything right now.

A crowd has heard somehow and gathers
outside. They sing those happy hymns, laughing,
Glory Hallelujahs, Holy Holys.
He kneels, Maria kisses his fingers
one by one. He wants most to be slow, gray,
kissing her cheek, recalling this night,
terrible, brimming over, okay now,
after he’s known for years that she was
telling the truth, that this really happened,
that he was the one who wiped blood off
the face of God with his busted up hands
and heard in the baby’s first cry
laughter of the Most High, Creator,
Doer of impossible joys.

Source

Day 436: Children and Family Ministries Open House

2010-12-12T19:20:00.003-05:00

With the help and hospitality of my fabulous husband, we hosted a nice afternoon with volunteers and families from 2nd Pres. The menu included, crab brusetta, chips and toasted tomato salsa, veggie and spinach dip, cocktail sausages, and cornbread with pumpkin cutter. To drink, we had hot apple cider, coffee, and chocolate milk. Plus, there were all those Christmas Cookies!!
Our tree looks so wlecoming in the den and welcomed most of the kids in, as elf was playing on the TV. Bu of course, nothing was more intersting to our younger guests than Harding, the perfect pup and party host! Maddie, Mary Sims, and Blakely were also distracted by wedding albums.
Meanwhile, our adult guests munched and drank and chatted and toured the house. These people are such a blessing to me and to our kids at 2nd Pres! What a perfect way to celebrate - God is at work. The desire of HIs heart are all tied up in the things of this afternoon - service, celebration and community!

Day 429: Neighborhood Christmas Party

2010-12-12T19:05:00.006-05:00

Our wonderful neighborhood had it's annual Christmas Party last Saturday night. We met lots of people and got to know several people better. And, I fell even more in love with our neighborhood. Two items of note:
1. There were several people in the neighborhood that have owned multiple homes. They have loved the neighborhood so much that they moved from one house to another. Meanwhile, several others have added on to their homes. There is certainly room to grow in Forest Heights, especially with our lots. Plus, our neighbors are wonderful.
2. Guess what was the primary topic of conversation?
The COYOTE!
Yes, a coyote has been repeatably spotted in our neighborhood. And, it seems to be injured, so it is likely to linger.
Seriously? Can this be happening? A coyote in the middle of town?
We have been told by wildlife officials to shoot it. And then we have been told that shooting anything in the middle of town is illegal. So, we'll see. Ah, the adventures of Forest Heights!

Our sweet little neighborhood.

More at www.forestheights.org->

Source

Day 435: Baking Day

2010-12-12T00:06:00.003-05:00

Today was my first major holiday baking day. It was a perfect day. I was charged up from breakfast at Pete's with my husband and running Saturday errands. And I got to work. Now, I am stucked up for the season and all the celebrations. So, stop by and get any of the following...

Sam's Winter Bark
Anything that involves white chocolate and oreos cannot miss.

PB and Chocolate cookies
A Landon family tradition, these cookies are a lot like Girl Scout tag-a-longs...only better.

Lemon Squares
A favorite of William Bradley.

Sugar Cookies
With all the splendor and sprinkles of the season!

Angie's Toffee
So, so good. I topped it with bit-of-brittle, instead of nuts

There were also some dips and breads to get ready for tomorrow's open house honoring our wonderful volunteers from 2nd Pres! Here's to a happy holiday!!

Quote for the day...

2010-12-09T16:35:00.003-05:00

The Miracle on Main Street was a success.
Plans are all but set at the church.
In less than a week, the celebrations begin.

So, now, I head into my weekend. And I'll make this quote my prayer...

"May your soul breathe deep today, and may your home be a place to be. Not a place to be busy, or to be anxious, or to be contentious. May it not be a place of turmoil, or a place to worry what they are thinking. May it simply be a place of truth, of freedom, and togetherness. May it be restful, joyful, and safe."
- Chatting At the Sky Blog

Day 432: Miracle on Main Street

2010-12-07T16:32:00.006-05:00

"You are invited to our Christmas Show!"
Wendesday Night 6:30 at 2nd Pres!
Holiday dinner at 5:30.
Our kids have worked for months and months and it is a wonderful, wonderful production that we are excited to share!
So excited, so Christmas!

Day 431: CRPD Report at JLK...at

2010-12-07T16:22:00.006-05:00

Tonight, I get to report at the General Membership meeting of the Junior League. Our Community Research and Project Development Committee is recommending that the League review 4 important community projects. It is not the msot exiting announcement in the world, but it will be at a fun location, the East Tennessee Historical Society. I have not yet gotten to enjoy all this musuem has to offer. So, I am looking forward to the evening!

Here's a little more about what this musuem has to offer:
Recognizing that East Tennessee’s history, heritage, and geography are distinct from the rest of the state, the East Tennessee History Center provides services uniquely tailored to the region. Visitors can attend workshops and conferences, enjoy a lecture, peruse exhibitions, research family history or a special historical subject, participate in student and teacher educational programs, as well as find a wide selection of books, crafts, and history-related items in the Museum Shop.

Source

Day 428: Nurturing Your Soul

2010-12-07T16:08:00.005-05:00

Saturday morning, I got to enjoy a wonderful advent retreat hosted by my friend, Lainie Allen, a spiritual director. she and her husband Daniel have an important ministry here in Knoxville. Here is why, in their own words...

Many people sense that they want and "are" something more than the busyness of each day. They have a longing to step away from the pace of life, connect with God and nurture their soul.

To nurture one's soul is to become more aware of God and self through spiritual practices such as quiet, reflection and praise/thanksgiving. It is opening oneself to His love and peace, and finding rest. The early Fathers and Mothers of our faith shared the wisdom of these spiritual practices. Jesus, the wisest Teacher, pointed the way to a deeper spiritual life through these words...Get away with Me and you'll recover your life...Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.... Keep company with Me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.

At Nurturing Your Soul, we walk alongside you to help you find the rhythms of grace by listening for God's voice... Knowing more of yourself and God.

Learn more at nurturingyoursoul.com->

Day 427: Pilgrim Walk

2010-12-05T16:08:00.001-05:00

Friday, admist the fun of First Friday and the anniversary of our engagement, we made time to drop by a book signing at Cafe 4, for our friend, Suzanne Hassel.
Suzanne leads Holy Paths ministries, which is all about guidance, companionship and rest. Brad has gotten to know her work with the Knoxville Fellows.
Now, her new book, Pilgrim Walk, contains meditations alongside breathtaking photography from her son. I can't wait to read it!

More at www.holypaths.org->

Advent Week One: Hope

2010-12-01T09:58:00.003-05:00

It is week one of advent and I am trying to set my ideas on the season at hand.

I have always heard that Christmas is the busiest season in church work. Yep, the seems to be true.
In the midst of the many events and ideas, I am a newlywed seeking to establish holiday traditions of our own and make it a memorable season in our lives.
Plus, my task-oriented self just wants to get things done. Christmas cards out on December 1. Tree and decorations perfectly and promptly displayed. Wonderful, meaningful gifts (purchased at a great price) for everyone on my list under the tree and looking like Martha stewart wrapper them herself.

But, meanwhile I pray, pray, pray that the center of my heart is on nothing but Christ, our Savior, who moved into my world to show His love for me and to eventually save me. I pray that my heart will be guarded from all other distractions. I pray that I will know new truths and learn more about him this season. And if Christ is the center of my heart, it will be easier to keep Him the center of our home, the center of all ministry, and even the center of my todo list.

So, this week, in keeping with the tradition's of the Advent season, I have been thinking about "Hope."

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." - Romans 15:13

I looked at this verse on Sunday, after the candles were lit by one of my favorite families during worship at 2nd.
So, I see that trust leads to peace and joy. Peace and joy lead to hope. And it's all from the Holy Spirit.
Okay.
Makes sense on paper.
But then, let's flash forward to Tuesday morning. This idea of hope is on my mind when I wake up still frustrated and confused about a conversation I had with a friend the previous day. Where is the hope in that; in waking up worried? Then, I talk and pray with a friend who is going through a divorce. I have a long conversation with another friend battling bulimia. I get an email from one of my most academically accomplished friends, who confesses overwhelming feelings of depression and may not be able to continue her academic pursuits. Then, a coworker tells me of the guilt she has for not seeing her grandmother on Thanksgiving, because this grandmother is now in hospice care. I get the news that a sweet Converse and YL family I have known and loved is loosing their father to cancer. Oh, and then there is a leak in my ceiling in my office.

Where is the hope in all of that?
And if we first have to trust God in order to have peace and joy and eventually hope, then how in the world do I tell a hurting world to trust in the midst of all this mess? In the middle of this brokenness?
I know certainly that my God is the source of joy, peace, hope, and trust. He Himself is the author and perfecter of my faith.
But is just blows me away to think, that the Lord of All, would choose to walk into this mess.
He choose to come to earth.
To come into all this hurt and brokenness.
To get His hands dirty.
To fix things.
To love the unlovable.

What wondrous love is this? Oh my soul!

Day 425: Snow!!

2010-12-01T09:50:00.004-05:00

The only thing I like about cold...is snow!
It's the fist snow fall of the season and definitely worth a blog post.
And the only things better than a snowy day as I am leaving the house...is getting to share the news of the snow with 25 preschools!
Love my life.

Day 423: Mercy Me Christmas Sessions

2010-11-30T17:35:00.001-05:00

The reviews were right - fabulous music celebrating Christ and Christmas!!
Got it today. Love it.

Day 423: Advent Wreath

2010-11-30T09:18:00.003-05:00

In addition to our wonderful Christmas tree, my favorite thing about the holiday decor that is all over our house, if the Advent wreath I just made. I used the lovely silver candlesticks that the Stewarts, Mandy, and Jelleys gave us as wedding gifts.
We are all set for the holiday season and I am so proud of the first "real" advent wreath I have ever made.
In honor of this, and for any of you who are less familiar with this tradition, here is some information we shared with our 2nd Pres families about this holiday tradition!

The Advent Wreath
For hundreds of years, Christians have used an Advent wreath to inspire their hopes for the coming of Christ. By lighting candles and reading Bible verses, we are reminded about the meaning of Christ's birth and become more excited about his coming in the past, in the future, and in our own lives.

The Candles and their Meaning
Use these reminders as you use your wreath each week.
1st CANDLE- (purple) "CANDLE OF HOPE" - First week
We can have hope because God is faithful and will keep the promises he made to us. Our hope comes from God. (Romans 15:12-13)
2nd CANDLE- (purple) "CANDLE OF PREPARATION" - Second week
Preparation means to 'get ready'. "Help us to be ready to welcome YOU, O GOD!" (Luke 3:4-6)
3rd CANDLE- (pink) "CANDLE OF JOY" - Third week
The angels sang a message of JOY! (Luke 2:7-15)
4th CANDLE- (purple) "CANDLE OF LOVE" - Fourth week
God sent his only Son to earth to save us, because he loves us! (John 3:16-17)
5th CANDLE - (white) "CHRIST CANDLE" - Fifth week
The white candle reminds us that Jesus is the spotless lamb of God, sent to wash away our sins!
His birth was for his death, his death was for our birth! (John 1:29 and John 3:1-8)

Source 1
Source 2

Day 422: Brunch at the Bistro at the Bijio

2010-11-28T20:32:00.003-05:00

There are about 17,481 things I love about my new husband...give or take a few.
One of them is that fact that he plans and picks fabulous things. We never get in a rut, especially when it comes to dining out. (Which is why restaurants is the #1 tag on this blog). Today he picked Bistro at the Bijio for lunch. We enjoyed their Sunday brunch menu in this historic building adjacent to the legendary Bijio Theatre. I'll do that egg and cheese panini any day, on it's perfectly pressed dense french bread. And I would love to go back Eggs Bijou, which is Carolina crab cakes, tomato, poached eggs and béarnaise sauce on an english muffin. The live jazz didn't hurt either.
Great choice!

Learn more about the restaurant, the world famous theatre, it's history and guests, including Andrew Jackson, Rutherford B. Hayes, James K. Polk, and Ulysses S. Grant here->

Source

Day 421: Our first Christmas Card

2010-11-28T20:23:00.004-05:00

We just received our very first Christmas card as Mr. and Mrs. Fitch! Thanks to my sweet Sarah Weaver for so promptly getting out the holiday greetings. She's always such a rock star.
In honor of the momentous occasion, I fond the a fabulous holiday pic featuring the best and brightest of Converse College crica 1999...I think that is the correct year. Several of us look like we have been adequately scared by the Vietnam experience.
Thanks Weaver, for kicking off the holiday season!

Day 420: Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T10:00:00.002-05:00

So, I started this blog to tell you about new things in Knoxville that I was discovering or re-discovering. And now, I get to add in things I am learning and seeing in a new job, a new home, and as a newlywed!
But today's post is nothing new. It is Thanksgiving! My favorite time of the year!
And true to tradition, here is what the Landon/Theilen and now Fitch families are having for Thanksgiving dinner:

Turkey & Dressing
Crab Legs
Duck
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
Sweet Potato Casserole
Green Beans
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Cranberry Sauce
Deviled Eggs
Crescent Rolls
and maybe more?

While we are watching the Macy's parade, we'll be snacking on:
Apple Dip
Mini Sausages
Pumpkin Bread
Apricot Bread
Cinnamon Rolls
and more!

And for dessert:
Pumpkin Pie
and another pie, whose identity will be revealed when Grandma arrives!

Day 419: Fantasy of Trees

2010-11-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

It opens today!! I'm kicking off the activities in the fabulous Reindeer Pals booth! There are countless other children's activities, shops, entertainment, and, of course...the trees!!! Over 300+ fabulously decorated treed trees. We have truly taken over the convention center. And it is all to benefit East Tennessee Children's Hospital!

Here are jsut a few of the special events you can enjoy...
Carousel, Decorate-a-Cookie, Face Painting, Itsy Bitsy Trees, Letters to Santa, Penguin Telescopes, Princess Manicures, Reindeer Games, Snow Friends and Thumbprint Ornaments to make, a unique "Giving Tree" to give to direct needs at Children's hospital, Gingerbread Village, the legendary Target Raffle Tree, Tinsel Time for Moms & Tots, Babes in Toyland Parade, Santa's Senior Stroll, Kris Kringle's Kiddie Party, Handbell Concert, Baubles and Bangles jewelry, Personalized Ornaments, Santa's Warehouse, Secret Santa, and Trim the Tree shop. Plus, entertainers from throughout the region perform daily at the Fantasy Theater...I fondly remember preforming year after year!!
And, the one, the only-Santa Claus will be there!!

Learn more here->

See you there!

Wednesday, November 24 9 a.m.- 9 p.m.
Thursday, November 25 3 - 9 p.m. (Thanksgiving Day)
Friday, November 26 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday, November 27 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday, November 28 Noon - 6 p.m.

At the Knoxville Convention Center, located at Clinch and Henley Streets.

Source

Day 418: Fantasy of Trees Preview Party

2010-11-23T13:00:00.002-05:00

The Fantasy of Trees starts tomorrow. We've been decorating since last weekend. And now, tonight, it's time for the Preview Party!!

"The Fantasy of Trees Preview Party is a great opportunity for visitors to celebrate the upcoming holidays, enjoy wonderful food and dancing, check out the Fantasy of Trees before the crowds of visitors, and get started on their holiday shopping list," said Elizabeth Thomas, coordinator for the holiday event.

See you there!
Now, what on earth to wear?

Source

Day 417: A tale of 2 Presidents

2010-11-22T10:55:00.002-05:00

My favs.

So many girls I love.

11 junior Bridesmaids...and one honorary Junior Bridesmaid present in spirit via Enrique Iglesias.

8 years and counting.

And now...

2 Sorority Presidents!!

Congratulations Lauren Mc and Lea!!

Clearly, sitting to my right hand is a good thing....

379+381+398=Fabulous!

2010-11-22T09:00:00.002-05:00

Day 379 and 381 meet Day 398 on a moonlit night - check out these fabulous photos from Michele Andreck photography!

Day 416: Belk Shopping Event!

2010-11-21T22:32:00.003-05:00

Eclusive.

Shopping.

Event.

Those were the only words I had heard when I heard about the Belk shopping event.
Okay, maybe those were the only words I remembered.
And I did hear something about 20% off...but I didn't know that was off sale specials already!
I think I heard there would be lots of people...but I had no idea how many.
And there were lots of words I had never realized would apply...

Live Music.

Door Prizes.

Haircuts.

Lots of Door Prizes.

Drink Tickets.

Multiple $500+ Door Prizes.

Fruit Tea.

Heavy h'ordeuvres.

Designer Cakes...that even impressed Mandy.

And you could still get the Lacome free gift!

Wow!

And all this to benefit the Junior League of Knoxville's Mini-Grants for Teachers, were JLK and Belk partner to award mini-grants in the amount of $50 to $500 on a competitive basis to teachers for innovative classroom projects.

Great night.

Learn more about our League (source)->

Day 415: "The Best Christmas Ever"

2010-11-20T10:22:00.001-05:00

This Sunday, we're praying, planning, and playing with our families! This Christmas, our Children's Ministry is investing in our families and their time together. So get set for some great Advent decotions. The only objective is for parents to spend time with kids having Christ-centered conversation, at least more days than not. Over breakfast, in the car, or at bedtime are great times to do this.
And it is never too early to start.
Never to early to engage the heart of your child.

We will be giving out The Christmas Story fro the Family Bible. It's been 2nd parent tested by families of all ages! Come and see or pick up your copy if you can't attend!

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." - John 1:14

Source

Day 412: Old City Java

2010-11-17T09:53:00.003-05:00

A perfect break from the Tuesday night Bible Study...a trip to Old City Java. There, under the wood ceiling painted with a stary atary night scene, we enjoyed some fair trade coffee and drinks made with milk from a local dairy, Cruze Farm. Perfect place to catch up and plot out out our next study. A great place to relax in the Old City for some coffee love!

Visit them online (source)->

Or on Facebook (source)->

Quote of the Day

2010-11-16T11:06:00.002-05:00

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified. Do not be discouraged. For the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go.
- Joshua 1:9

Thanks Rachael

Day 411: Cooking for 100

2010-11-15T22:47:00.003-05:00

12 heads of lettece. 4 onions. 9 pounds of ground beef. 3 bottles of catalina dressing. Tons of chips. Cheese. Enough salsa to swim in. And more!
That's what it took to cook for 100 girls this afternoon.
Yep.
That is right.
100..ish.
And I did it all in about 90 minutes in my sweet little kitchen.
Then, once the food (and Brittany's fabulous soup and fixin's) made it to campus, the sweetest girls from the Chi O chapter at UT just kept coming and coming and coming. And Brittany and I just got to keep serving and serving and serving. They were so cute. So fun. So many great names. Kate. Kaitlin. Catherine. And Katie!
All the while, I was thinking about Rachel, Kim, Becky, and all the wonderful folks who made meals for me while I was in college in Spartanburg!
Now, I am So, so glad to pay it forward and looking forward to getting to know some of the girls better. And I am praying that my favs have yummy meals cooked for them at Clemson, Carolina, Samford, CofC, Catwaba, and even Wofford.
And, I now have a "go to" recipe for 50+ people. Thanks Mindy and Kristy!
Do you need to serve 100 people? Here is the what I recommend->

Day 410: No Shave November

2010-11-15T22:40:00.002-05:00

Okay...so, he does not look like this. But when I googled "No Shave November" this image came up. My husband says he is not shaving this month as in order to raise awareness for prostate cancer.

So he says.

He says he is part of a cause bigger than himself.

He says that it makes him look like a member of "the nobility."

He says people come up to him all the time and tell him how good it looks.

So he says.

Oh, and now my uncle is doing it too?!

Facial hair for a cause...what will they think of next?

Day 409: An SEC Win

2010-11-15T22:30:00.002-05:00

Tennessee 52, Ole Miss 14.

Amen.

A bowl game. It is in sight. Personally, I think my sites are set on the Music City bowl...

Source

Day 408: The Word Players

2010-11-12T22:06:00.001-05:00

Friday night 2nd Pres will host the Word Players! Their traveling performance of the Diary of Adam and Eve will make it's way to our stage.

This organization features year round productions for every type of audience. The Word Player's vision "is a community uplifted by excellent, Christ-centered art, where artists are freed to develop and use their God-given talents in a positive environment founded on Christian principles and values."

So excited about the Word Players at 2nd.

Click here to see their 2010-2011 season->

Source

And how cool to tag this "Christ" and "Arts"!

Day 407: Our 1st Christmas Card

2010-11-11T22:43:00.004-05:00

The holiday season is offically here! And we have reached a new milestone as newlyweds!
Tonight on facebook, we received our first Christmas card as a married couple!

Yes, Kellynn is sticking out her tongue.
Thanks Elmo.

Watch it here->

Day 406: Bellacino's

2010-11-11T21:58:00.004-05:00

I don't know how this is possible. But today was the first time we went to Bellacino's. It is steps away from our neighborhood, so i am so glad we finally went. Plus, I really always love gettting out for lunch with my husband!
Next time, I am trying Bellacino's pizza! They looked and smelled great!

Click here for their menu->

Day 405: Orange Drive In

2010-11-11T21:57:00.003-05:00

Mid week, I headed down to Atlanta with Laura, one of 2nd's most gifted Sunday School teachers, for an "Orange" one day drive in conference. Well worth the time, there was lots packed into this
-It's not about creating "Perfect Christian Families," it is about inviting families into God's story.
-You are precious to God. I am precious to God. If He could pick any girl in the world to be His, he would pick me. He. Loves. Me.
-Being involved in our Children's Ministry will be a blessing to volunteers that are called to teach these kids. But they might not know it is going to be a blessing until they are involved in it.
-High school graduation is not the finish line in ministry - in the church, in young life, wherever. Doing life with people lasts a life.
-as a church, we have an opportunity to serve families - whether they attend our programs or not.
-Any type of ministry involves people...and therefore takes time.

Day 403: Chic Boutique

2010-11-11T21:56:00.002-05:00

I was driving down Kingston Pike over the weekend and I spotted a new little shop in the heart of the district in Bearden. It had just popped up, so I had to pop in. Then I saw their line under the sign, "Stylish. Unique. Affordable." I walked in, a half a dozen shoppers were buzzing about and I fell in love. Loved the leggings. Love all the choices in UT orange. Loved several cut sweaters. And, I loved the price point. Welcome to the neighborhood Chic!!

Learn more on their Facebook page (source)->

Day 404: Wok Hay

2010-11-10T06:17:00.002-05:00

Q: What is better than lunch at Wok Hay?
A: Lunch at Wok Hay with Michele.

Q: What is better than lunch at Wok Hay with Michele?
A: Lunch at Wok Hay, with Michele, and a 2 for 1 coupon.

Q: What is better than lunch at Wok Hay, with Michele, and a 2 for 1 coupon?
A: Lunch Wok Hay, with Michele, and a 2 for 1 coupon...with the Mango Tea.

Next time I am getting that! Yum!

Source

Day 402: Sangria's on Market Square

2010-11-07T21:48:00.004-05:00

When an impromptu guys night pops up. The only way to answer it...is with an impromptu girls night. And to top it off, we hit up a restaurant I have been wanting to try! So, Sangria on Market Square it was. It was Linnea and I's second night in a row on Market Square. My fabulous husband was across the way enjoying a Tennessee football win on the big screen. But meanwhile, we joined Mandy for an incredible meal! Ai-Oli Potatoes. Calamari. Roasted vegetables. Some sort of fabulous tuna. And a sweet White Wine Sangria. Knoxville's first and only authentic Spanish Tapas bar and restaurant exceeded even my highest of expectations!
Can't wait for the next girl's night!

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Day 401: Mr. & Mrs. Fitch's first Christmas card

2010-11-06T18:14:00.003-04:00

Today, I ordered our first Christmas cards as a married couple. Last year, we ordered Christmas cards together - they were also our "Save the Dates." Last year's card featured a photo from the night we got engaged. This year, we are a new family, with so, so much to celebrate!

I know what you are thinking. Gee Katie, did Brad help you with the selection of your Christmas card. After all, the man does love Christmas. To answer your question, yes. Brad was so, so, so helpful. He proposed many, many different pictures to be used in our Christmas card. He really wanted to be sure people enjoyed it. Here are the pictures Brad suggested we use for our Christmas card. Enjoy!

(Click the photos for source.)

Priceless. But in the end, we went with a picture from our wedding. Our first dance actually. We danced to "You are" by Lionel Ritchie. I love how we are looking at each other. It really captures a perfect moment. Right in the middle of 350 people we love and in the middle of a fabulous time of celebration. Celebrating the ceremony of our marriage and kicking off the greatest party of our lives, during the greatest 2 weeks of our lives! And on the back, I selected a verse from Daniel 4, a chapter that has been meaningful to us this year.

Coming soon to a mailbox near you.
Merry Christmas!