Hello and welcome to Frontier Airlines...

Firstly let me just say, I never actually thought I would get to be a flight attendant. I mean, I have always dreamed of it, and even applied to a few airlines, but NEVER did I think I would get it. It all started when my good friend Machaeha told me about an open interview in Denver. I told her I would go just to be moral support for her. If you have ever seen her, she just screams FLIGHT ATTENDANT! So I knew she would get it, and I probably wouldn't but that was okay. I mean ultimately I want to do ministry so this wouldn't be a big deal if I didnt get it. Anyway, we get there and there are at least 100 people all interviewing for the same job. Its a fligh attendant job for Lynx Aviation, which is like the express company for Frontier. Kind of like Ted for United...Anyway, the group got split in half and Machaeha and I got in the same group (of about 40 people). Here we each had to introduce ourselves, answer why do we want to be a flight attendant, why do we want to work for this company, and what is something special about us/or makes us dazzle..., then we had read an mock announcement. After we all did this they made the first cut. Machaeha and I both got into the second round of interviews! We couldn't believe it. Everyone who made the first cut went back into the interview room and were asked three questions. My questions were: if you could be anyone famous dead or alive or fictious who would you be, what does saftey on the airplane mean and look like to you, and is there anything else you want us to know about you? After that we got to go home and they said that they would let us know within the week. I was a nervous wreck. It was weird how going into this I didn't really want it that bad, but by the time the interview was up I wanted this job more than anything. After two days of hearing nothing, I was driving Erik crazy! I kept going over my answers and analyzing them. Finally I got the phone call! They said I was hired!!! However they have two training classes this summer and they still haven't decided which class I will be in. Either June or August..She said I would know in a week. I'm praying for June. I want to start right away. I can't believe how much my life is about to change. Finally Erik and I can do all the traveling we've been wanting to do. Finally we're going to have money! I just can't stop smiling. God has totally blessed us in yet again, and unexpected way. We are sooo thankful! We get all kinds of benifits. We'll have health insurance (which we already have through Erik's job, but we hate it), we'll get to fly free with Frontier, and we get a 90% discount on tickets with any other airline! I am getting paid way more money alone than Erik and I have ever made combine! We just cannot believe this...

I also haven't gotten write about my parents. As you know my parents came to visit 2 weeks ago. My mom had a layover for a day in Denver and brought my dad along with her. However they also surprised me and brought my sister Shele with them! I was super surprised. As soon as they got here we got them all Big City Burrito for lunch. I knew they would love it! Then we all went up to Estes Park. My parents were in awe of the beauty of the Rockies. We walked around and shopped a little. Then we went to a Japanese steakhouse. It was really fun. My parents were tired and went back to their hotel, while my sister stayed with us in our apartment. Shele, Erik, and I went to see the Wolverine movie. It was so nice because that's exactly what we would've done if I was living in Chicago. Shele was my movie buddy, and usually we could drag Erik along with us. It was awesome to be with my family. It was so nice to show them where I have been making my home, and to show them that I'm growing up...and most importantly that I am happy where I am. My mom is hopefully coming back next month to stay longer than a day. Then my Aunt Monica is coming to stay with us for a weekend in June. I am adding some pics of when my parents were here. Also Im adding a picture of our finished living room, and "after picture" if you will.

God is sooo good, its so great to know He is watching over me!

our newly painted apartment...

me and my sister me and mom, and Shele's bunny ears

my dad didn't know I was taking this picture : )

My First Hiking Adventure

Erik and I totally skipped our small group to go hiking yesterday. We had been inside for two days straight...and were itching to get out. I personally have NEVER been hiking. I mean where would I hike in Chicago? So Erik and I drove about 30 min to the beginning of the hike to the Horsetooth Falls. It was amazing! I had so much fun. Well at first I thought I was going to have an asthma attack. First of all, Erik and I aren't the most active people in the world...Second of all the air was thin and their was just a lot of nature going on. Once I got the hang of it (and Erik slowed down so I could keep up) we ended up having sooo much fun. We had really great converstaion and just kept stopping to stare down at the city and and stare up at the mountains. Then we went to and saw the Horsetooth falls! It was beautiful! I loved every second of it. We stayed their for a while and talked and kissed. Then I suddenly was overwhelmed by hunger. Erik and I started our hike back while we snacked. Suddenly the clouds couldn't hold on anymore and it began to rain. Since I was already feeling like nature woman, I decided to embrace the rain. We had to keep stopping because the trail was slippery and our shoes were too muddy and sticking to the ground...but totally fun! It was so much fun I wanted to stay longer. We left and went home and sat by the fire and watched a movie. It was a perfect day! I couldnt help but feel so much of God's peace and joy while we were hiking. It was just incredible and fun and beautiful. Here are some pics we took while we were hiking. Why haven't I hiked before...I feel like I have been missing out!

Safety

Fort Collins/Loveland, are super safe. I mean really really safe. The other day I saw a car running with keys in the ignition, the driver's door was open and no one was in the car. I mean seriously? SERIOUSLY? In chicago that car would've been gone before the person could even get out the car. Erik and I were just laughing, we couldn't believe it.
I was at the grocery store, picking up a few things for dinner. As usual I locked my car. I mean I know no one would steal our piece of junk car, but its purely out of habit. And as I was walking to the entrance, I noticed a car with a woman's purse sitting proudly in the front seat. No one was in the car and the doors were of course unlocked. I just shook my head in disbelief. In Chicago, that purse would be just a dare for some kid. It would be the easiest crime to commit.
I know I will never get used to the news papers here. I mean I feel like I live in pleasentville sometimes. I mean, literally the headlines here are always things like "Local soccer team wins state!" or "Cat stuck in a tree, firemen finally use their equipment." Verses in Chicago the headlines were things like "10 people shot down by corrupt police" or "Chicago's crime rate gone up...again."
I am completely aware of the fact that it is a lot safer here in Loveland, but still...Don't people ever worry here. Everyone's doors are unlocked to their houses and their cars. Little kids walk around with adult supervision. No one is worried, no is scared. I guess I would be like that too if I had never actually seen crime. Its more like a myth here...

It is done

Today is the day death was defeated.

Today is the day God gave His only son for humanity.

Today is the day Jesus died on the cross. He was beaten, publicly humiliated, and killed.

Today is the day Jesus died so I don't have to.

Today is the day good won over evil.

snow

I'm a little late talking about this, but the other day there was a freakin' blizzard here. It was crazy! I mean we couldn't see anything. Now, coming from Chicago I obviously can handle cold, and snow. However, this was so random! I mean I had be bragging to everyone back home that it has been between 70-75 degrees everyday for a month, and then BAM! its snowing. I put on my facebook status that it was snowing, and multiple crazy Colorado people said they loved the spring snow. What does that mean...'spring snow'? Isn't that an oximoron? Spring and Snow don't mix...at least not in my world. Anyway it melted in two days, so I really shouldn't be complaining. I am adding some pictures of the snow for dramatic effect.

I still don't have job, however Erik and I have come into some money(I've always wanted to say that...I know it sounds like we have millions...not really). So I think we're gonna be okay for a while.

I love Colorado more and more everyday. However I really am craving some girl time, and so far I haven't met any girls. But I know that God will send us a community.

Erik and I are still painting so there will be 'after pictures' soon.

(me getting ready for an interview...)

(The snow....)

(And...we can't see)

(The next day)

These lyrics really touched my in church last night...I thought I would share them...


"From the Inside Out"- Hillsong

A thousand times I've failed
Still your mercy remains
And should I stumble again
Still I'm caught in your grace
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
my heart and my soul, Lord I give you control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Your will above all else, my purpose remains
The art of losing myself in bringing you praise
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
In my heart, in my soul, Lord I give you control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise
From the inside out Lord, my soul cries out

Me

So today I was playing around on facebook (really I have a problem) and I saw this quiz about your personality based on your birthday. Anyway I took it and it couldn't be more true....which was creepy. Here are the results

"Loves to joke. Attractive. Suave and caring. Brave and fearless.Firm and has leadership qualities. Knows how to console others. Too generous and egoistic. Takes high pride of oneself. Thirsty for praises. Extraordinary spirit. Easily angered. Angry when provoked. Easily jealous. Observant. Careful and cautious. Thinks quickly. Independent thoughts. Loves to lead and to be led. Loves to dream. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Sensitive but not petty. Poor resistance against illnesses. Learns to relax. Hasty and trusty. Romantic. Loving and caring. Loves to make friends."

Anyone who knows me would think that this was so true too!
Then I looked up Erik's personality with his birthday...and again sooo creepy true! Here's what his said

"Has lots of extraordinary ideas. Difficult to fathom. Think forward. Unique. Brilliant. Sharp thinking. Fine, strong clairvoyance. make good doctors. Dynamic. Secretive. Inquisitive. Know how to dig secrets. Always thinking. Less talkative. amiable. Brave. generous. Patient. Stubborn. hardhearted. Determined. Never quit. Hardly become angry unless provoked. Love to be alone. Think differently. Sharp-minded. Motivate self. Doesn't appreciate praises. High-spirited. Well-built, tough. Deep love, emotions. Romantic. Uncertain in relationships. Homely. Hardworking. High abilities. Trustworthy. Honest. Keeps secrets. Cant control emotions. Unpredictable."


So this week I was in Chicago for a funeral. My uncle passed away, and I went to be with my family for a few days. When I got to Chicago I realized I didn't miss it as much as I thought I did. It kind of scared me that I wanted to be back in Colorado. I didn't feel as comfortable in Chicago as I once had. I'm sure I thought I was more attached to my family and my home than I really am. Not saying that I don't miss home, but I like it here and I like being on my own. I like making a life with my husband, away from my family. Well I hate to say it but I think this means I'm growing up...wow

Colorado Beauty

So this weekend Erik was actually not working. I was so excited I made plans to fill up our weekend right away. Saturday we went to visit Erik's grandma. She is so much fun and it was just good to see her and hang out. Then we went over to Erik's Uncle and Aunt's house. Its always fun being there. They have 4 kids and every single one of them is full of energy. It was just great to laugh and feel so welcomed. I really love Erik's family and they are starting to feel more and more like my family everyday. After that we went to look at Erik's parents new house...well at least the model of the house. There house won't be built till the summer. However the model was amazing! It totally made me want to buy house...except we don't even know if we'll want to stay here. Then we went to church at the Vineyard. And we loved it!

It wasn't our first time there but it was the first time we've been since we've lived here. Anyway it was great we made some good connections. And we can start our internship in the fall! Also we found a young married small group. So we're pretty excited and it seems this was a good fit for us.

Saturday evening it snowed literally for 5 min! It s was like a blizzard, and then the sun came out and it all melted in about 10 min. Yeah, Colorado is weird...but I love it!

Sunday Erik and I went to Estes Park. It was my idea to get some fresh air. It's weird seeing mountains everyday, so I wanted to into them. Anyway we've been to Estes together before. However I think I forgot how beautiful it is! It is truly amazing what God has created. I feel like I'm never going to get used to the mountains. They are so majestic and just breath taking. Its so weird that I live here. Anyway Erik and I just looked around the town for a while, and then sat by Estes Park Lake. We watched ducks go fishing. Then we drove around so I could get good pictures of the mountains. After a while though we both wanted to go home and nap and drove the hour back down to Loveland. Thats right I only live an hour away from Estes Park!

I haven't been homesick in a few weeks, which is nice. Everyday its getting easier and easier to be here. However I am sad that I have yet to find a job. I have looked almost everywhere and still nothing. But I know that God will have something for me, and until then He is providing for us in everyway. I am so thankful to be here and to never have to worry about where our next meal will come from or if we can pay rent. So when God wants to give me a job then I'll be ready. Until then its not so bad taking care of the house and looking around Loveland. I'm learning my way around and its great not to always feel lost.

The other day I drove to the target and I was talking to cashier about how hot it is here.

me: its so hot here! I'm from Chicago and its probably snowing there right now

cashier (with a confused look on his face): really? they have snow in Chicago?

me (a little taking a back, slightly believing he's being saracastic): umm....yeah of course it snows there

cashier: really?! wow! I never thought there would be snow there! hmmm....

me (trying hard not to laugh): uh yeah! its in the midwest, so its like minnesota or wisconsin.

cashier: wow I really need a geography lesson...

So I realize that not everyone knows Chicago as well as some people, but c'mon really? He didn't know it snowed there? Wow...

Anyway here are some pics of Estes

Our empty apartment

Its weird looking around our empty apartment. Its just full of boxes, no furniture. Its kind of sad. But I thought it would be fun to put before and after pictures of our apartment on here. So the following pictures are our before. Then Erik and I plan on finishing unpacking, actually buying furniture, and painting. When we're all done I will include the after photos. Erik and I going to start painting today actually. So hopefully it won't take too long to inlcude the after pics.

Erik and I need money. I know that we're not supposed to worry because God will always provide for us. And to be honest God actually always has made a way for us. But its still hard not to panick when we look at our bank accounts. Its still hard to trust...I don't really trust very many people. God and I have gone back and forth many times with the trust issue. However God has proven to me over and over again that he is beyond trustworthy and that I just need to believe and know that he knows our needs. I know all of these things but my heart doesn't. I need to make my heart understand and feel the power of Father God, I need my heart to believe that God will never let me down. But its oh so very hard to do...

First week here

So this is my 5th day living here in Colorado. Everything is so beautiful here it almost takes my breath away. Its amazing that all these years I always found tall buildings beautiful...now I know what I was missing out on. Its so warm here, I feel pretty lucky to not be in snowy/cold/windy Chicago anymore. Although I find myself missing the cold, its not right for it to be 70 degrees in February.
I am still unpacking but I keep getting distracted by other things. I didn't realize that Erik and I had so much stuff. I thought we got rid of 80% of all our stuff...obviously not. Erik is off working so its up to me to get us settled in. I am slowly going through each room and trying to set it up to our taste. This is difficult when I keep hearing the bright sunshine call my name and beckoning me outside.
Today we are going to have dinner with another couple. Of course all the people here are Erik's friends, but it will be nice to go out and interact even if I don't know them well. Everyone here is so nice and trying to help us get settled. But this still feels so weird to be here and to know no one. I pray that this will feel like home soon...