We we're so excited to be back together again! I had butterflies as I waited to see my husband again. It's really true that distance makes the heart grow fonder.
After landing in Puerto Rico, the team put us up in a beautiful hotel for 3 nights while we looked for a place to live. We ended up getting in contact with a few different real estate agents out here that had some listings for monthly rentals. After scoping out some options, we found a beautiful ocean view condo that was within our price budget that we fell in love with. The view was absolutely breath-taking and waking up to that in the mornings felt so unreal. It was completely furnished, so we didn't have to worry about that. But having gone to school for interior design, I couldn't help but add some little personal touches here and there to make it feel more 'homey' to us. Just the 'little' stuff added some comfort, got some good deals on throw pillows, candles and a rug. Also re-arranged the furniture a little, but doing that and adding the little things is all I needed to make it feel a little more like 'home'. It was perfect.
We also bought an authentic Puerto Rican hammock and hung it up on our balcony. LOVED it! The Lord provided for us in every way and even went beyond our expectations. We got a great deal on a rental car and everything was falling into place.
The team Daniel played for, the Gigantes De Carolina had a great group of guys and Daniel really found favor in the coaches eyes. Although the other girlfriends and wives at the game mostly spoke Spanish, they we're so sweet to make me feel included and comfortable. Note to self though, I really need to learn Spanish.
We also made great friends with another American couple on Daniel's team. There was a pitcher from the Mets organization, his wife and their 2 year old daughter on the team that we instantly connected with and built an instant friendship with. We feel so blessed to have met them and look forward to continuing a friendship with them. I love how baseball allows us to meet so many different people from all different parts of the country.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Off-Season catch up-Part 2: Venezuela
After about 5 weeks had passed, Daniel got a call from the winter ball team in Venezuela asking if he would be available to play with them before Puerto Rico. Daniel was hesitant because he didn't want to come back too soon from the injury, but was told that it wasn't a for sure thing, that they would only need him as a backup in case two other players couldn't make it. Daniel's leg was already feeling a lot better at this point, so after praying it about and feeling that the Lord must have opened this opportunity for a reason, he agreed to go if they needed him.
Sure enough, they did end up needing him. Daniel and I drove out to Arizona so he could get some at bats in there before leaving for VZ. He flew out from AZ and I headed back home to Cali for 3 weeks til we would meet again in Puerto Rico.
During Daniel's first game in VZ, he had a little setback on his leg and would only end up playing in one game out there. They had him stay in VZ to get the proper treatment and rehab on his leg and it turned out being a really good thing. Although, it was tough for us to be apart, the Lord really opened doors for Daniel to share his faith with guys on the team. To us, that's what this whole 'baseball' thing is really about in the end.... we want to make an impact on peoples life in a way bigger then just baseball. He was also able to get the best treatment possible on his leg, which we feel really helped the healing process. Praise God!
By the end of the 3 weeks in VZ, Daniel's leg was feeling better then ever and we met up in Puerto Rico on the 31st of October :)
Off-Season Catch up- Part 1: Bummer in Bakersfield
WOW! There is sooo much to catch up on! Again...which is why I am the worst blogger possible! But I will try to do my best to update all that's been happening the past few months.
Starting with the end of the baseball season..
I feel like the season came and went this past year. We had so much fun being close to home and having the support of friends and family at the games. Daniel had a very productive year baseball wise (all Glory to God) and it opened up opportunities for winter ball this off season.
We had found out about the opportunity to play in winter ball in Puerto Rico a couple weeks before the season ended. Daniel's hitting coach for the Mavericks, Tommy Cruz, helps coach the team in Puerto Rico and put in a good word for Daniel with the GM there and after getting the approval of the Mariners, we we're really excited for the opportunity for Daniel to play there.
The last series of the season was a road trip to Bakersfield, CA. Going into that last series, Daniel was hitting .302 at the time and was told he would just finish the season off at that point instead of playing in those last games so that he could finish above .300. We were content and satisfied with that because Daniel had already played a lot of games, so we thought it was a good chance to start getting some rest before winter ball.
Well when we got to Bakersfield, they decided to play him. Daniel ended up going 0 for 4 that night, bringing his average to .299. Which is still a great average, but being only a .01 point away, he played the next day hoping to bring it back up to .300 with one hit. But in his first at bat, he ended up getting a minor pull in his hip flexer/quad area as he was running out a ground ball. It was a tough and disappointing way to finish the season, but we had to keep things in perspective and be thankful for the year he did have.
At that point, we weren't sure if Puerto Rico would fall through after all because of the injury. But with winter ball still 7 weeks away, the trainer believed Daniel would be fine and ready to go before the winter ball season started. We knew God was in control, so we we're just going to rest and play it by ear the next few weeks and see how Daniel felt.
Starting with the end of the baseball season..
I feel like the season came and went this past year. We had so much fun being close to home and having the support of friends and family at the games. Daniel had a very productive year baseball wise (all Glory to God) and it opened up opportunities for winter ball this off season.
We had found out about the opportunity to play in winter ball in Puerto Rico a couple weeks before the season ended. Daniel's hitting coach for the Mavericks, Tommy Cruz, helps coach the team in Puerto Rico and put in a good word for Daniel with the GM there and after getting the approval of the Mariners, we we're really excited for the opportunity for Daniel to play there.
The last series of the season was a road trip to Bakersfield, CA. Going into that last series, Daniel was hitting .302 at the time and was told he would just finish the season off at that point instead of playing in those last games so that he could finish above .300. We were content and satisfied with that because Daniel had already played a lot of games, so we thought it was a good chance to start getting some rest before winter ball.
Well when we got to Bakersfield, they decided to play him. Daniel ended up going 0 for 4 that night, bringing his average to .299. Which is still a great average, but being only a .01 point away, he played the next day hoping to bring it back up to .300 with one hit. But in his first at bat, he ended up getting a minor pull in his hip flexer/quad area as he was running out a ground ball. It was a tough and disappointing way to finish the season, but we had to keep things in perspective and be thankful for the year he did have.
At that point, we weren't sure if Puerto Rico would fall through after all because of the injury. But with winter ball still 7 weeks away, the trainer believed Daniel would be fine and ready to go before the winter ball season started. We knew God was in control, so we we're just going to rest and play it by ear the next few weeks and see how Daniel felt.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
August Summary-Part 3-San Jose Trip
Although it was tough getting the news of my Gradnma's passing, it made me realize to not take my time for granted and enjoy this special time with my Tutu. Daniel's team left a day before my Tutu and I were planning to head up and we were able to spend the day celebrating the marriage of my cousin Keoki to his new beautiful bride, Grace. It was such a treat to be able to experience and share in their wedding because during the baseball season, it is usually hard to attend weddings. Everything was beautiful and it was so nice to catch up with family. It was also beautiful to see how my cousin and his wife incorporated both of their cultures. My cousin is Hawaiian and did a hula dance for his bride and Grace is Peruvian and they did a Latino style dance together, it was perfect!
The following day, my Tutu and I were off for San Jose. The drive started out interesting, due to that fact that my GPS-aka Martha took us on a very unexpected scenic route through a national forest. Those windy, pot holed filled pavement roads would not have been my first choice to say the least, but we had fun with it and saw a ton of gorgeous birds and scenery. We arrived at our destination a few hours before the game started and checked into the hotel. We rested up, got ready and we're off to the game. The game started out on a high when Daniel hit a leadoff homerun!
The next day, we met up with my mom's cousins and my second cousins for a delicious home cooked Chinese feast! It was delicious and amazing! We had a ton of fun catching up with everyone and we're so thankful for all the support and cheers they brought to the game for Daniel and his team.
The following day, my Tutu and I were off for San Jose. The drive started out interesting, due to that fact that my GPS-aka Martha took us on a very unexpected scenic route through a national forest. Those windy, pot holed filled pavement roads would not have been my first choice to say the least, but we had fun with it and saw a ton of gorgeous birds and scenery. We arrived at our destination a few hours before the game started and checked into the hotel. We rested up, got ready and we're off to the game. The game started out on a high when Daniel hit a leadoff homerun!
The next day, we met up with my mom's cousins and my second cousins for a delicious home cooked Chinese feast! It was delicious and amazing! We had a ton of fun catching up with everyone and we're so thankful for all the support and cheers they brought to the game for Daniel and his team.
August Summary-Part 2-Faith Night
During a homestand this last month of the season, we had "Faith Night" at the field. It's an awesome promotion night alot of minor league ballparks around the country put on. It is a great opportunity for players on the team to be able to boldly and publicly share about their faith in the Lord. The pre game show started with a great Christian band playing covers and original songs, followed by an interview between the baseball chaplain and a few of the players on the team, Daniel being one of them. I sat there in the stands during the interview in admiration of my husband. I am so in love with the man he is and couldn't be more proud of him! I love seeing the Lord using Daniel in bigger ways in baseball then just playing the game. I know God has a bigger purpose in all of this and it's so exciting to see it unfold.
Speaking of faith, our faith would be tested not too long after that night. About a week after, we got news my Grandma Beck had a massive heart attack and was in critical condition in Illinois. I quickly got online to help my parents book some last minute tickets to Illinois to get out there to be with her. God truly provided a great deal on airfare and my parents were able to leave to following morning. Originally, before this happened, my mom, Tutu (My mom's mother) and I were planning on all going together on the week long road trip with Daniel's team up north to visit family there and catch some games. When we got news of my grandma just a couple days before the trip, my mom had no doubts and understood that she needed to be with my dad during this time, but wanted my Tutu and I continue on with the trip that was already planned. So as my parents took off for Illinois, my tutu and I headed north.
When my parents arrived in Illinois, they were told my grandma had little to no brain activity. She was hooked to life support and after all my dad's siblings arrived, they knew what my grandma would have wanted and they knew the best decision was to take her off the breathing machine. Although it is always hard to lose a loved one, there are almost no words, the Lord truly did give us all a peace in knowing that my Grandma loved and knew Jesus and would be with Him in heaven. II Corinthians 5:8 "...to be absent from the body and is to be present with the Lord."
I am thankful that Daniel and I were able to spend alot of time with her during our time in the Midwest League the past seasons. My grandma loved going to Daniel's games and listening online when she couldn't be there. I will hold onto and cherish those special memories we shared and look forward to seeing her again one day.
Speaking of faith, our faith would be tested not too long after that night. About a week after, we got news my Grandma Beck had a massive heart attack and was in critical condition in Illinois. I quickly got online to help my parents book some last minute tickets to Illinois to get out there to be with her. God truly provided a great deal on airfare and my parents were able to leave to following morning. Originally, before this happened, my mom, Tutu (My mom's mother) and I were planning on all going together on the week long road trip with Daniel's team up north to visit family there and catch some games. When we got news of my grandma just a couple days before the trip, my mom had no doubts and understood that she needed to be with my dad during this time, but wanted my Tutu and I continue on with the trip that was already planned. So as my parents took off for Illinois, my tutu and I headed north.
When my parents arrived in Illinois, they were told my grandma had little to no brain activity. She was hooked to life support and after all my dad's siblings arrived, they knew what my grandma would have wanted and they knew the best decision was to take her off the breathing machine. Although it is always hard to lose a loved one, there are almost no words, the Lord truly did give us all a peace in knowing that my Grandma loved and knew Jesus and would be with Him in heaven. II Corinthians 5:8 "...to be absent from the body and is to be present with the Lord."
I am thankful that Daniel and I were able to spend alot of time with her during our time in the Midwest League the past seasons. My grandma loved going to Daniel's games and listening online when she couldn't be there. I will hold onto and cherish those special memories we shared and look forward to seeing her again one day.
Grandma Beck and I at Daniel's game
Grandma Beck
August Summary-Part I-Latino Dishes & Dancing Gnomes
The longer I have procrastinated writing this blog, the more and more things and events have piled up (obviosuly), which leaves me sitting here stumped not knowing where to begin. Again, I admittedly know that I am not the best blogger.
Well seeing that my last blog was over a month ago, I will try my best to start where I left off. Considering how much has happened, I will put this blog into parts.
So here is... Part I:
August was a full packed month. Having Neyeska and Jose move in with us turned out to be a wonderful blessing and the beginning of a deeper bond we would form with them as friends. Neyeska and I would take turns cooking meals, which worked out great because it cut the work in half for both of us. It also was great because Daniel and I got to experience and taste some real delicious 'Latino' dishes, I even learned to make some myself! We were so thankful to have them with us this season. It's always refreshing to be around other girls follwoing their husbands around on this adventure too, makes me feel a little less crazy knowing I am not the only one.
On the subject of following Daniel around....I know alot of people wonder how/why we do it. To answer that question, this is truly where my heart is. I love being with Daniel and we love being together. Although there is a lot of sacrifice it takes in the minor leagues to follow your husband around (fyi. minor league salary is not much), the sacrifices are worth it to us so we could be together. We're young, healthy and on a wild adventure, why not?!
Back to our adventure... on our first off day of August, we went with some friends to a taping of the game show, Let's Make a Deal! Daniel and I dressed as garden gnomes and had a blast! (Pics Below). Unfortunately, we didn't get chosen as a contestant- which I'm still super shocked about because Daniel was "rocking" that studio! They told us during our interview process to be as crazy and fun as possible in order to have the best chance possible of getting chosen. Well when you tell a "Caroll" to get "Crazy", we mean business! Daniel danced around the aisles during commercial breaks, even started getting dance competitions going between other contestants. It was wild! We did definitely have eye contact with Wayne Brady more then a few times, leading us to believe we would get chosen, but no. We didn't. I blame our seats being in the top corner and Wayne Brady being lazy. Haha. Either way though, we had a blast!
Well seeing that my last blog was over a month ago, I will try my best to start where I left off. Considering how much has happened, I will put this blog into parts.
So here is... Part I:
August was a full packed month. Having Neyeska and Jose move in with us turned out to be a wonderful blessing and the beginning of a deeper bond we would form with them as friends. Neyeska and I would take turns cooking meals, which worked out great because it cut the work in half for both of us. It also was great because Daniel and I got to experience and taste some real delicious 'Latino' dishes, I even learned to make some myself! We were so thankful to have them with us this season. It's always refreshing to be around other girls follwoing their husbands around on this adventure too, makes me feel a little less crazy knowing I am not the only one.
On the subject of following Daniel around....I know alot of people wonder how/why we do it. To answer that question, this is truly where my heart is. I love being with Daniel and we love being together. Although there is a lot of sacrifice it takes in the minor leagues to follow your husband around (fyi. minor league salary is not much), the sacrifices are worth it to us so we could be together. We're young, healthy and on a wild adventure, why not?!
Back to our adventure... on our first off day of August, we went with some friends to a taping of the game show, Let's Make a Deal! Daniel and I dressed as garden gnomes and had a blast! (Pics Below). Unfortunately, we didn't get chosen as a contestant- which I'm still super shocked about because Daniel was "rocking" that studio! They told us during our interview process to be as crazy and fun as possible in order to have the best chance possible of getting chosen. Well when you tell a "Caroll" to get "Crazy", we mean business! Daniel danced around the aisles during commercial breaks, even started getting dance competitions going between other contestants. It was wild! We did definitely have eye contact with Wayne Brady more then a few times, leading us to believe we would get chosen, but no. We didn't. I blame our seats being in the top corner and Wayne Brady being lazy. Haha. Either way though, we had a blast!
Neyeska teaching me how to make "Arepas"
Lets Make A Deal
Monday, August 1, 2011
On The Move
We were married on February 2nd, 2008.
First 10 days of marriage we're spent in AMAZING Jamaica for our honeymoon (Note to self: craving it's beaches, need a vacay there again soon)
After coming home to our parents house for a few days, we were off to start our married life.
First stop, Spring Training 2008. So here the list goes....
1. Friends- Litchfield Park, AZ (February 2008-2 weeks): Before Daniel and I we're able to move into the team hotel for Spring Training, we stayed in the beautiful guest bedroom of our dear family friends, the Hanberrys.
2. Hampton Inn Hotel-Peoria, AZ (March 2008-April 2008): Our second full month of marriage was filled with housekeeping, continental breakfast and a hotplate in our room to cook dinners. (Yes, I broke the rules, no hotplates allowed).
3. Lynndale Apartments-Appleton, WI (April 2008-June 2008): Adored this place. It was a cute lil 2 bedroom furnished apartment and after picking up some couch covers and little accessories from a local store, it was our first "home".
4. Hampton Inn Hotel- Peoria, AZ (Beginning of June 2008): After Daniel broke his hand after being hit by a pitch, we we're back in Arizona rehabbing.
5. Rental House- Helendale, CA (June 2008-July 2008): After rehabbing in Arizona, Daniel was informed he was being sent to the High A team in California. Long story short, all of our stuff was still in Wisconsin and during the All Star break we had 3 days to get out there, pack it up and get back.
6. Back to Lynndale Apartments/My Parents House. Appleton, WI/Moreno Valley,CA (July 2008-August 2008): Yes, after all that moving. We were back in Wisconsin. After finally getting our car shipped back to California, Daniel was sent back to Wisconsin to finish the season there. After spending tons of money on moving expenses, we decided I would just visit Daniel a couple times before the season ended, which explains why this # gets two places.Daniel moved into an apartment with some of the players and I moved in with my parents in between visits.
7. Back to Hampton Inn. Peoria, AZ (September 2008-October 2008): Daniel was sent to the Mariner's Instructional League that off season....so back to housekeeping, best beds ever and I ditched the hot plate this time around, so we did alot of eating out.
8. Honolulu, HI (October 2008-November 2008): With no house to live in and no true commitments, Daniel and I found great airfare to Hawaii and decided "why not"! We went for 6 weeks. First 2 weeks, we stayed with my family out there, which was walking distance from Waikiki so we woke up every morning and went to the beach. The remainder of the trip, my tutu (Hawaiian word for grandma) was able to work out arrangements for us to stay in her friend's furnished condo in downtown Honolulu. Needless to say, it was an incredible 6 weeks.
9. Moreno Valley, CA (November 2008- February 2009): During the last few months of the off season, we knew it didn't make sense to get a place of our own at the point with only a couple months left until Spring Training so we stayed with my parents.
10. Rental House- Peoria, AZ (February 2009-March 2009): We rented a furnished house during Spring Training with our good friends Justin (a teammate of Daniels) and Kayla.
11. Indian Village Apartments- Camanche, IA (April 2009- May 2009): Daniel's first season/stint with the Clinton Lumberkings we rented a 2 bedroom apartment that we shared with a teammate of Daniels. Our time here would be cut short after Daniel broke his thumb after being hit my a pitch.
12. Rental House- Surprise, AZ (May 2009-July 2009): After spending 5 days in Seattle while Daniel got checked out by the team doctor, we we're back in Arizona to rehab again. Our good friends, Will and Lauren who we're with the Padres organization at the time we're rehabbing there as well. They were renting a house from another ball player that was gone playing that season and we were able to rent a room from them. It was a sweet time. Although we we're bummed to be on the DL again, our time there with Will and Lauren was special and made that time so much easier.
13. Host Family- Clinton, Iowa (July 2009-September 2009): When Daniel was sent back to Iowa after returning from the DL, we moved in the with baseball chaplain of the team and his wife. This would be the beginning of a very special bond we would form with them. They became family to us and we were/have been so blessed by them.
14. Ma & Pa's-Moreno Valley, CA (September 2009-February 2010): After all the moving around we did the past season, it was nice to have some stability and be home for a good solid 5 months. We did travel a few times during this offseason though-which included a cross country road trip at the end of season from Iowa to Cali, a getaway to Texas for an annual baseball conference we go to, and a few trips to Santa Barbara to visit family).
15. Rental Room-Peoria, AZ (February 2010-April 2010): Thanks to Craigslist, we found a bedroom to rent from a woman that owned a beautiful home 2 miles from Daniel's spring training stadium.
16. Back to the Fullans (Host Family)- Clinton, IA (April 2010-August 2010): After disappointingly being sent back to Midwest League again out of spring training the Lord put us in the perfect hands, being able to move back in with our host family that baseball season. Our bond and love for them grew deeper this season and I'm thankful that God's plans are always better then our own.
17. Adelanto,CA/Moreno Valley, CA (August 2010-February 2011): Daniel was called up in August and finished the baseball season back in California. We stayed with my parents again during the offseason.
Offseason travels included: Trip to Florida, Palm Springs, and Santa Barbara.
18. Host Family- Peoria, AZ (February 2011-April 2011): We we're blessed with another amazing host family this past spring training and it was a wonderful setup.
19. Pavillion Apartments- Victorville, CA (April 2011-Current): Love this place because I was finally able to crack out our wedding gifts (Yes, after 3 years.... I'm sure you can see why now though). I also love that we've been able to sleep in our own bed this baseball season and be so close to home, it's been a blessing to say the least.
So that brings us to final count of ..... 19 MOVES in our first 3 years of marriage!
And that doesn't even include the countless amount of 'minor league' hotels we've stayed at. Crazy, I know right. I love it though and wouldn't change anything about it! Although I look forward to the day Daniel and I have our own house. Right now my "home" is truly where the heart is and that is with my husband. I love this crazy adventure we are on.....
So until the next move.....
Friday, July 29, 2011
URGENT PRAYER REQUEST
URGENT PRAYER NEEDED!
Please keep Erick Potter, Daniel's uncle in prayer.
A tumor the size of a lemon was found on the left side his brain this past Wednesday. He had been experiencing headaches, loss of memory and confusion the past month and scheduled an appointment for a CT scan this past week, which is when they found the tumor. He was rushed in an ambulance to another hospital and they have been running alot of tests on him since.
As of now, surgery is scheduled to take place in about a week after more testing is done.
We believe in a MIGHTY GOD who is BIGGER then this tumor and has the power to HEAL. We (the family) are trusting in the Lord during this time. Please also keep his wife, Martie in your prayers as well as she supports her husband during this time.
Thank You!
Please keep Erick Potter, Daniel's uncle in prayer.
A tumor the size of a lemon was found on the left side his brain this past Wednesday. He had been experiencing headaches, loss of memory and confusion the past month and scheduled an appointment for a CT scan this past week, which is when they found the tumor. He was rushed in an ambulance to another hospital and they have been running alot of tests on him since.
As of now, surgery is scheduled to take place in about a week after more testing is done.
We believe in a MIGHTY GOD who is BIGGER then this tumor and has the power to HEAL. We (the family) are trusting in the Lord during this time. Please also keep his wife, Martie in your prayers as well as she supports her husband during this time.
Thank You!
New Roomates
So much has happened since my last blog. I wouldn't even know where to begin to sum it up, but the Lord has been so faithful. I can not believe the season is already nearing close to it's end and that we are approaching August in just a couple days.
Daniel hit a milestone is his career last night and stole his 50th base of the season (Praise God!). He continues to show production on the field and stay healthy and we are so grateful. We know God is in control of everything and that our future lays in His hands. More then anything though, it has been a complete blessing to be able to watch Daniel do what he loves free of injury. As you all know, he has faced injuries in the past so this season has been extra special. It has also been extra special because Daniel's home field is only 50 minutes from our hometown. Daniel's team ends a 3 game series tonight in Inland Empire, which is only 15 minutes from our hometown of Moreno Valley, so it's been alot of fun to have so much love and support at the games.
Outside of what's been happening 'on' the field, our living situation has changed due to lots of movements on the team. This happens quite often in baseball because there is constant movement throughout the season. We were caught off guard in June when one of our roommates was sent down and the other two decided to move out into another house that had lost players. It all happened the day before rent was due, so my immediate reaction was panic and feeling overwhelmed, but the Lord always works things out for the best and it ended up being a total blessing for Daniel and I to have our own space the last month.
Another couple on the team was faced with the same situation when their roomates moved out last month and we decided in August that we would all move in together to cut cost down. So as of today, Jose and his wife Neyeska are now our new roommates. They are from Venezuela and speak little English, so I will hopefully be forced to use/practice my Spanish more often now. Daniel is almost fluent, so I'm sure he can be the translator if I don't know what I am saying. I am interested and looking forward to seeing how our different cultures mix and eating lots of Latin food. God is faithful always and I am so thankful for His provision over our lives.
Daniel hit a milestone is his career last night and stole his 50th base of the season (Praise God!). He continues to show production on the field and stay healthy and we are so grateful. We know God is in control of everything and that our future lays in His hands. More then anything though, it has been a complete blessing to be able to watch Daniel do what he loves free of injury. As you all know, he has faced injuries in the past so this season has been extra special. It has also been extra special because Daniel's home field is only 50 minutes from our hometown. Daniel's team ends a 3 game series tonight in Inland Empire, which is only 15 minutes from our hometown of Moreno Valley, so it's been alot of fun to have so much love and support at the games.
Outside of what's been happening 'on' the field, our living situation has changed due to lots of movements on the team. This happens quite often in baseball because there is constant movement throughout the season. We were caught off guard in June when one of our roommates was sent down and the other two decided to move out into another house that had lost players. It all happened the day before rent was due, so my immediate reaction was panic and feeling overwhelmed, but the Lord always works things out for the best and it ended up being a total blessing for Daniel and I to have our own space the last month.
Another couple on the team was faced with the same situation when their roomates moved out last month and we decided in August that we would all move in together to cut cost down. So as of today, Jose and his wife Neyeska are now our new roommates. They are from Venezuela and speak little English, so I will hopefully be forced to use/practice my Spanish more often now. Daniel is almost fluent, so I'm sure he can be the translator if I don't know what I am saying. I am interested and looking forward to seeing how our different cultures mix and eating lots of Latin food. God is faithful always and I am so thankful for His provision over our lives.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
All Star Break Round-Up
The baseball season has officially hit the half way mark. I can't believe it is already near the end of June and July is just around the corner. We are so very grateful for the fruitfulness this season has brought so far. Daniel finished the first half of the season hitting .282 with 8 homeruns and 31 stolen bases!Praise God! Not only are we grateful for the productions he's been able to put up so far this season, but we are so grateful that he has been able to stay healthy and off the DL. This is a first in his career.
This past Monday marked the first day off of Daniel's 3 day All Star break. Three days off in a row is a rarity in baseball, so we we're excited to enjoy the down time.
On Monday we were able to visit my grandma in Orange County and spend the day with her. We went and saw the movie Super 8 (Daniel's choice) and I actually ended up really enjoying it. The storyline between the characters was really cute and even had alot of comical moments. Then Monday night we drove out with my parents to Las Vegas and stayed the night in a condo my brother and sister in law we're renting for the week. We woke up early Tuesday morning and headed to Lake Mead (10 minutes outside Vegas) for a day of boating and tubing on the lake. It was amazing out! I think one of my favorite feelings is being in my bathing suit all day, with no makeup and soaking up the sun. I had a blast with Daniel and my family. We headed back to Cali late that night and crashed out my parents place for the night.
Wednesday, we got hooked up with some free Dodger tickets so thought it would be fun for Daniel to actually sit down and enjoy a game for once. Plus, it was my first time to Dodger Stadium and I was excited to try out the famous "Dodger Dogs". We had great seats and enjoyed the game and the 'Dodger dogs met up to my expectations. Later that night, we got to celebrate a friends birthday with a bonfire at his house and catch up with more friends.
We had an amazing time and are so grateful to have been able to spend time with family and friends. We are now back in Victorville and we're back to baseball tonight. Let the second half begin! :)
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Behind The Scenes
Hello again! Sorry for the lag in blogging. Our days just seem to fly by lately. It's amazing how during the baseball season, our days aren't measured by weekdays and weekends, but by homestands and away series. I quite often have to be reminded of what day of the week it is. Bad. I know. Besides my lack of keeping up with the times, all is going well. Daniel is healthy (Praise God) and there are more wives here for the season now, which I am loving. My sweet friend, Neyeska, is here again this season. She was with me last year. Her and her husband are from Venezuela and being around her really motivates my desire to learn Spanish even more. Although we have the language barrier, it amazes me how we much we can relate to each other just by the fact that we are with our husbands on this crazy adventure as they chase their dreams.
Aside from Neyeska, there are also two other wives here with their children staying for the season. There's also been lots of girlfriends visiting, which I have truly enjoyed. I have really enjoyed getting to know these girls. I feel like the Lord has placed a special place in my heart for women in this crazy life of baseball. I know so many may think this life is 'fun', which it definitely is at times and I am so grateful for this path God has us on right now. But even though it is fun, it can also can be very grinding as well. Not only can it be a grind on the guys physically, but it can easily be a 'grind' emotionally for the woman on the other end.
I am extremely grateful and blessed to be able to have the opportunity to be with and travel with Daniel during the baseball season. I know many girls who are unable to. So often in baseball, the guys get all the recognition because they are the ones out there playing, but I want to recognize the woman. The cheerleaders behind the scenes. It's not always easy. We are the ones packing the house up after a move, or figuring out living situations during the season, or praying silently in the stands as our husbands hit or pitch.
I shared recently in a blog I wrote for a baseball wife site that there were times when I would question what my 'role is' in this career my husband has. The Lord has reminded me over and over again that I am my husband's "helpmate" and I proudly embrace that role. I feel honored to share in these memories we are making together while we are in the minor leagues (the terrible hotels with gum stuck on the headboards, being told by hotel maintenance that the room were staying in is haunted, being lent a car by a local fan that we had to literally pump the gas peddle 3 times and turn the key twice in order to get it started, driving on a 9 hour roadtrip with a player's parents I just met, their dog and their cat, living in basements, living with roommates, driving cross country...the list continues). It is a crazy life, but its our life (totally jacked that from TLC). Daniel makes me so proud and I will continue to support him in whatever else the Lord has in store for our future. To God be ALL the Glory!
Aside from Neyeska, there are also two other wives here with their children staying for the season. There's also been lots of girlfriends visiting, which I have truly enjoyed. I have really enjoyed getting to know these girls. I feel like the Lord has placed a special place in my heart for women in this crazy life of baseball. I know so many may think this life is 'fun', which it definitely is at times and I am so grateful for this path God has us on right now. But even though it is fun, it can also can be very grinding as well. Not only can it be a grind on the guys physically, but it can easily be a 'grind' emotionally for the woman on the other end.
I am extremely grateful and blessed to be able to have the opportunity to be with and travel with Daniel during the baseball season. I know many girls who are unable to. So often in baseball, the guys get all the recognition because they are the ones out there playing, but I want to recognize the woman. The cheerleaders behind the scenes. It's not always easy. We are the ones packing the house up after a move, or figuring out living situations during the season, or praying silently in the stands as our husbands hit or pitch.
I shared recently in a blog I wrote for a baseball wife site that there were times when I would question what my 'role is' in this career my husband has. The Lord has reminded me over and over again that I am my husband's "helpmate" and I proudly embrace that role. I feel honored to share in these memories we are making together while we are in the minor leagues (the terrible hotels with gum stuck on the headboards, being told by hotel maintenance that the room were staying in is haunted, being lent a car by a local fan that we had to literally pump the gas peddle 3 times and turn the key twice in order to get it started, driving on a 9 hour roadtrip with a player's parents I just met, their dog and their cat, living in basements, living with roommates, driving cross country...the list continues). It is a crazy life, but its our life (totally jacked that from TLC). Daniel makes me so proud and I will continue to support him in whatever else the Lord has in store for our future. To God be ALL the Glory!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Mother's Day
So after enjoying a perfect 80 degree night of baseball the other night here in Adelanto, the sun just wanted to tease me and we are now back to windy, colder, jacket layering nights again. With complete disappointment in the drop of temperature, my agonizing desire to want to whip out the summer clothes will have to wait a little longer.
We enjoyed our second off day of this season this past week. We had plans to go to the beach, but again, the sun didn't want to come out and due to it being overcast, we decided we'd wait until it's warmer and try to go our next off day. So instead, we got to spend more time with our families. We had a wonderful time celebrating mother's day/my brother's birthday this past Sunday. Daniel had a day game that day and we were done in time to meet up with my family for dinner at this awesome Japanese steakhouse near home. It was so much fun and felt so good to spend time with family. (I'll post pics below).
Today, we are back in Victorville. The manager of Daniel's team decided to give the guys a "show and go" today, which means Daniel didn't have to be at the field until later then his usual 2:00 showtime. We got to sleep in longer, which Daniel loves. He's played every game since opening day this season, which is a blessing because last year he was fighting for playing time. So while we are thankful for this opportunity, it does take a toll on Daniel's body. So when we get some 'down time', he loves to take advantage of it and recuperate.
We are so thankful and praise God for the fruitfulness this season has brought so far. We are only barely a month in, but have seen the Lord's blessings overflow more then we could have imagined or hoped for. We praise God for the production Daniel's been able to put up so far this season, but know things can always change in an instant and are still taking it day by day. Beyond the stats though, and more importantly, we want to be able to be a bigger impact off the field. My prayer is that our lives and attitudes always reflect that of Christ. That is the biggest desire of my heart. This life is only temporary. The statistics prove that-one out of every one person will die. I want to leave this earth having made an impact for my Lord. In the end, it doesn't matter the stats Daniel leaves or the places we've been or the level my husband played at...it matters what we did for the Lord wherever He had us.
We enjoyed our second off day of this season this past week. We had plans to go to the beach, but again, the sun didn't want to come out and due to it being overcast, we decided we'd wait until it's warmer and try to go our next off day. So instead, we got to spend more time with our families. We had a wonderful time celebrating mother's day/my brother's birthday this past Sunday. Daniel had a day game that day and we were done in time to meet up with my family for dinner at this awesome Japanese steakhouse near home. It was so much fun and felt so good to spend time with family. (I'll post pics below).
Today, we are back in Victorville. The manager of Daniel's team decided to give the guys a "show and go" today, which means Daniel didn't have to be at the field until later then his usual 2:00 showtime. We got to sleep in longer, which Daniel loves. He's played every game since opening day this season, which is a blessing because last year he was fighting for playing time. So while we are thankful for this opportunity, it does take a toll on Daniel's body. So when we get some 'down time', he loves to take advantage of it and recuperate.
We are so thankful and praise God for the fruitfulness this season has brought so far. We are only barely a month in, but have seen the Lord's blessings overflow more then we could have imagined or hoped for. We praise God for the production Daniel's been able to put up so far this season, but know things can always change in an instant and are still taking it day by day. Beyond the stats though, and more importantly, we want to be able to be a bigger impact off the field. My prayer is that our lives and attitudes always reflect that of Christ. That is the biggest desire of my heart. This life is only temporary. The statistics prove that-one out of every one person will die. I want to leave this earth having made an impact for my Lord. In the end, it doesn't matter the stats Daniel leaves or the places we've been or the level my husband played at...it matters what we did for the Lord wherever He had us.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Greeted into Nor Cal with Flashing Lights
Woke up at 6:20 am yesterday morning to the sound of our alarm. My mind wrestled with the idea of continuing to lay in our cozy bed and stay warm or get up to get things going. With little time to spare, the latter won. I got up and got our things together to hit the road for our first road trip of the season. Daniel had to be at the field at 7:15 to meet up with the team and catch the 6 hour bus ride to Modesto,CA.
I decided that I would leave ahead on my own this time instead of following the bus like I have in the past. I left about 30 minutes before the bus left and was on my way. I know 6 hours seems like a long time to be in a car alone (Daniel isn't allowed to ride with me and has to ride with the team), but I was actually excited to just have some alone time to listen to music, catch up on some podcasts and have some good prayer time.
The beginning of the drive went smoothly. Besides hitting some traffic a few hours in, I was really enjoying the California scenery. I stopped mid way through to fill up gas again and was back on my way. All was good. I had driven successfully for 5 and a half hours and only had 15 minutes left before reaching the hotel when I saw the dreaded flashing red lights behind me as I looked in my rear view mirror.
My stomach filled with dread as I slowly pulled over to the side. I have never gotten pulled over or have had any type of ticket in my life so I was a bit shaken up. I heard a pastor tell a story before on how he had got pulled over once and when the cop approached his car he told them he had no excuse for speeding. The cop was impressed with his honesty. since he probably hears countless excuses all day and ended up letting the pastor go. That story fled my mind moments before the cop came to my window, so I thought I'd try to go for it. He came up to my window and I quickly told him that I was sorry and that I had no excuse for speeding.....he had no mercy, so at that point I told him I had been driving for the past 5 hours and was only 15 minutes away from where I was heading, so I must have just lost track of the speed. Again, no mercy! After that, I just began crying because I was freaked out by the whole situation and even then...the cop still had no sympathy.
Although I was super bummed about it and shaken up, Daniel was so sweet to encourage me and make me feel better. I realized a speeding ticket is not nearly as bad as getting into an accident or having car trouble along the way. I was thankful to just make it out here safely. With that said, last night was the first game of the 4 day series against the Modesto Nuts, an affiliate of the Colorado Rockies.
Daniel went 2 for 4 last night (Praise God! He also went 3 for 3 the night before so he is 5 for his 7 last at bats)! And I was finally able to enjoy a baseball game without wearing layers of jackets! It's been freezing at night at the home games in Adelanto so it felt so good to enjoy the gorgeous weather and be able to wear sandals and a tank. I was a happy girl!
A blog I had written for the Baseball Wife Blog site (that I love!) was posted today. If you want to check it out, along with other amazing stories by the girls behind the plate go to:
http://www.baseballwifeblog.com/
I decided that I would leave ahead on my own this time instead of following the bus like I have in the past. I left about 30 minutes before the bus left and was on my way. I know 6 hours seems like a long time to be in a car alone (Daniel isn't allowed to ride with me and has to ride with the team), but I was actually excited to just have some alone time to listen to music, catch up on some podcasts and have some good prayer time.
The beginning of the drive went smoothly. Besides hitting some traffic a few hours in, I was really enjoying the California scenery. I stopped mid way through to fill up gas again and was back on my way. All was good. I had driven successfully for 5 and a half hours and only had 15 minutes left before reaching the hotel when I saw the dreaded flashing red lights behind me as I looked in my rear view mirror.
My stomach filled with dread as I slowly pulled over to the side. I have never gotten pulled over or have had any type of ticket in my life so I was a bit shaken up. I heard a pastor tell a story before on how he had got pulled over once and when the cop approached his car he told them he had no excuse for speeding. The cop was impressed with his honesty. since he probably hears countless excuses all day and ended up letting the pastor go. That story fled my mind moments before the cop came to my window, so I thought I'd try to go for it. He came up to my window and I quickly told him that I was sorry and that I had no excuse for speeding.....he had no mercy, so at that point I told him I had been driving for the past 5 hours and was only 15 minutes away from where I was heading, so I must have just lost track of the speed. Again, no mercy! After that, I just began crying because I was freaked out by the whole situation and even then...the cop still had no sympathy.
Although I was super bummed about it and shaken up, Daniel was so sweet to encourage me and make me feel better. I realized a speeding ticket is not nearly as bad as getting into an accident or having car trouble along the way. I was thankful to just make it out here safely. With that said, last night was the first game of the 4 day series against the Modesto Nuts, an affiliate of the Colorado Rockies.
Daniel went 2 for 4 last night (Praise God! He also went 3 for 3 the night before so he is 5 for his 7 last at bats)! And I was finally able to enjoy a baseball game without wearing layers of jackets! It's been freezing at night at the home games in Adelanto so it felt so good to enjoy the gorgeous weather and be able to wear sandals and a tank. I was a happy girl!
A blog I had written for the Baseball Wife Blog site (that I love!) was posted today. If you want to check it out, along with other amazing stories by the girls behind the plate go to:
http://www.baseballwifeblog.com/
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Proud Wife :)
Things have been off to a great start so far this season, Praise God!
We are all settled in our apartment and have just wrapped up the first homestand of the year. Tonight Daniel is playing in Lake Elsinore (which is about 30 minutes from our hometown) so we're expecting a bunch of our family and friends there which will be fun! Daniel is feeling healthy and is off to an awesome start. He's hitting .333 so far in 54 at bats, with 2 HRs, 5 Doubles and 6 stolen bases! As you can tell, I'm a proud wife. Beyond the stats though, I am just so proud of the man Daniel is. He has carried himself so well through the ups and downs this career has brought. I admire the faith he has had in our Lord through it all as well. It just brings me so much joy as his wife to be able to be on this journey with him as he chases his dream. It's not always easy, but we look at it as "our adventure" and I am so proud of Daniel!
I started my job at the ticket office this past homestand and I've really been enjoying it. The people there are great and I love the opportunity I get to know the people "behind the scenes" of the game. I am so grateful that I was able to get a job with the stadium this year and it's been working out really great.
Well I better wrap this up, got some things to do before I head off the Lake Elsinore. Thank you to all our prayer warriors out there. We appreciate and covet your prayers more then words can say.
We are all settled in our apartment and have just wrapped up the first homestand of the year. Tonight Daniel is playing in Lake Elsinore (which is about 30 minutes from our hometown) so we're expecting a bunch of our family and friends there which will be fun! Daniel is feeling healthy and is off to an awesome start. He's hitting .333 so far in 54 at bats, with 2 HRs, 5 Doubles and 6 stolen bases! As you can tell, I'm a proud wife. Beyond the stats though, I am just so proud of the man Daniel is. He has carried himself so well through the ups and downs this career has brought. I admire the faith he has had in our Lord through it all as well. It just brings me so much joy as his wife to be able to be on this journey with him as he chases his dream. It's not always easy, but we look at it as "our adventure" and I am so proud of Daniel!
I started my job at the ticket office this past homestand and I've really been enjoying it. The people there are great and I love the opportunity I get to know the people "behind the scenes" of the game. I am so grateful that I was able to get a job with the stadium this year and it's been working out really great.
Well I better wrap this up, got some things to do before I head off the Lake Elsinore. Thank you to all our prayer warriors out there. We appreciate and covet your prayers more then words can say.
Our Home For The Season
So we're all moved in! Here's some pics of our place this season.
BEFORE
AFTER :)
Thursday, April 7, 2011
And we're back!
And we're back!.... in California, that is!
We made the drive back and followed the bus out here on Monday. The team puts us up in a hotel for 3 days and during that time we are suppose to figure out our living situation. 3 days seems pretty crazy, I know. Especially since you don't really "officially" know where you'll end up each season until the end of spring training. We had a pretty good idea that we would end up out here in California since Daniel finished here so we began looking into different options ahead of time, but had nothing set in stone.
In the past 3 years that we've been married, we've had several different living situations. We lived in our own apartment, we've lived in hotels, with host families, with friends. Baseball throws you in interesting situations, but it's a total adventure to us. This time around, I was kinda stressing about where we would end up living this season. The Lord has proven to me over and over again that He ALWAYS provides, so I don't know why I ever doubt or worry about it. Well after looking into different options with host families, we decided to get an apartment with a couple of the other players on the team. The living situation in Adelanto for the Mavericks is always tough because there is nothing really close to the stadium. With gas prices the way they are in California, it would have been crazy for us to be driving back and forth from the field so much (we only have 1 car so I'd be dropping Daniel off everyday). With that as a factor, we figured it'd be best to team up with some of the players so Daniel could carpool. We got the keys today to the apartment and will get to move all our furniture in tomorrow.
The nice thing about being close to home is that we are able to bring all of our OWN stuff to the apartment. I will finally get to sleep on our own mattress this season, which I'm excited about because in that past we've done air mattresses since we've never been close to home. Also, I will finally be able to use some of our wedding gifts!!! I know that sounds crazy, but with the way we've been living on "the go" the last 3 years, we really haven't settled down long enough to unpack and use our wedding gifts. So I'm looking forward to that.
Tonight was the first game of the season and since it was an away game (about a 45 minute commute from Adelanto) and it was going to be 30 degrees out, we decided it would be best for me to come home to my parents tonight to pack up our things. We rented a trailer and will be bringing everything out tomorrow morning. So tonight, I listened to the game from the luxury of my parent's couch in the warm house. Daniel went 2 for 4 tonight, which was super exciting! Praise God! We're looking forward to what the Lord has in store for us this season and praying for a healthy year. Let the baseball begin......
We made the drive back and followed the bus out here on Monday. The team puts us up in a hotel for 3 days and during that time we are suppose to figure out our living situation. 3 days seems pretty crazy, I know. Especially since you don't really "officially" know where you'll end up each season until the end of spring training. We had a pretty good idea that we would end up out here in California since Daniel finished here so we began looking into different options ahead of time, but had nothing set in stone.
In the past 3 years that we've been married, we've had several different living situations. We lived in our own apartment, we've lived in hotels, with host families, with friends. Baseball throws you in interesting situations, but it's a total adventure to us. This time around, I was kinda stressing about where we would end up living this season. The Lord has proven to me over and over again that He ALWAYS provides, so I don't know why I ever doubt or worry about it. Well after looking into different options with host families, we decided to get an apartment with a couple of the other players on the team. The living situation in Adelanto for the Mavericks is always tough because there is nothing really close to the stadium. With gas prices the way they are in California, it would have been crazy for us to be driving back and forth from the field so much (we only have 1 car so I'd be dropping Daniel off everyday). With that as a factor, we figured it'd be best to team up with some of the players so Daniel could carpool. We got the keys today to the apartment and will get to move all our furniture in tomorrow.
The nice thing about being close to home is that we are able to bring all of our OWN stuff to the apartment. I will finally get to sleep on our own mattress this season, which I'm excited about because in that past we've done air mattresses since we've never been close to home. Also, I will finally be able to use some of our wedding gifts!!! I know that sounds crazy, but with the way we've been living on "the go" the last 3 years, we really haven't settled down long enough to unpack and use our wedding gifts. So I'm looking forward to that.
Tonight was the first game of the season and since it was an away game (about a 45 minute commute from Adelanto) and it was going to be 30 degrees out, we decided it would be best for me to come home to my parents tonight to pack up our things. We rented a trailer and will be bringing everything out tomorrow morning. So tonight, I listened to the game from the luxury of my parent's couch in the warm house. Daniel went 2 for 4 tonight, which was super exciting! Praise God! We're looking forward to what the Lord has in store for us this season and praying for a healthy year. Let the baseball begin......
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Spring Training
Finally getting around to blog again! We've been so busy lately that I've barely had time to just sit down, relax and write down what's been happening with us this past month.
As I write now, I am currently sitting on the rocker swing in the backyard of the house we've been living at. It's probably about 80 out and the sun is getting ready to set. There is a nearby park and I can hear the sound of people laughing and playing in the distance. Pixie is cuddled up next to my leg and I got a nice glass of ice cold lemonade.....This is what I call relaxation. All that's missing is sand in my feet and ocean waves, but for now, I'll settle for the clear water of the pool right in front of me.
Where do I begin? This last month has literally flown by for us! We arrived out here to Arizona a few weeks ago for spring training and have been pretty non stop since. Every day has consisted of baseball games. I drop Daniel off at the field about 7 each morning. In past spring trainings, I've gotten a job. But since our time out here was so short this year I wasn't able to. So my mornings have consisted of catching up with my baseball girls that I haven't seen in awhile. It's been really nice. We've also have had many friends and family coming in and out of town, which has been a total blessing as well.
Baseball wise, Daniel has been doing really well and is feeling healthy. Praise the Lord! He got called up to 3 big league games this spring and got to play in one against the Rockies the other day. He went into centerfield in the bottom of the 6th and got 2 at bats. The game was featured on the MLB network that night, so it was exciting for us to watch it and see him on there. He had a blast and we are so grateful for the experience and opportunity.
Camp breaks this Sunday and all is looking good for us to be starting the season in the California League with the High Desert Mavericks. Daniel played there for a lil while in 2008 and finished the season with the team last year, so we're excited to head back and be close to home. Looking forward to having lots of friends and family at the games cheering him on! :) We're taking it day by day and are so grateful and feel so blessed that Daniel is getting to do what he loves. We're also so grateful that I'm able to travel with him while we're on this adventure.
We head out Monday for the 5 hour drive to Adelanto. The Lord is so good and provided a job for me already working in the office at the Mavericks Stadium. We're excited for what the Lord has planned for us this 2011 season. I'll be sure to post along the journey.
As I write now, I am currently sitting on the rocker swing in the backyard of the house we've been living at. It's probably about 80 out and the sun is getting ready to set. There is a nearby park and I can hear the sound of people laughing and playing in the distance. Pixie is cuddled up next to my leg and I got a nice glass of ice cold lemonade.....This is what I call relaxation. All that's missing is sand in my feet and ocean waves, but for now, I'll settle for the clear water of the pool right in front of me.
Where do I begin? This last month has literally flown by for us! We arrived out here to Arizona a few weeks ago for spring training and have been pretty non stop since. Every day has consisted of baseball games. I drop Daniel off at the field about 7 each morning. In past spring trainings, I've gotten a job. But since our time out here was so short this year I wasn't able to. So my mornings have consisted of catching up with my baseball girls that I haven't seen in awhile. It's been really nice. We've also have had many friends and family coming in and out of town, which has been a total blessing as well.
Baseball wise, Daniel has been doing really well and is feeling healthy. Praise the Lord! He got called up to 3 big league games this spring and got to play in one against the Rockies the other day. He went into centerfield in the bottom of the 6th and got 2 at bats. The game was featured on the MLB network that night, so it was exciting for us to watch it and see him on there. He had a blast and we are so grateful for the experience and opportunity.
Camp breaks this Sunday and all is looking good for us to be starting the season in the California League with the High Desert Mavericks. Daniel played there for a lil while in 2008 and finished the season with the team last year, so we're excited to head back and be close to home. Looking forward to having lots of friends and family at the games cheering him on! :) We're taking it day by day and are so grateful and feel so blessed that Daniel is getting to do what he loves. We're also so grateful that I'm able to travel with him while we're on this adventure.
We head out Monday for the 5 hour drive to Adelanto. The Lord is so good and provided a job for me already working in the office at the Mavericks Stadium. We're excited for what the Lord has planned for us this 2011 season. I'll be sure to post along the journey.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Dance Time
Some really exciting things have recently come up in our lives so we felt it'd only be best to share it with all of you:
1. We've been working on and perfecting our dance moves
2. We've gotten so good that 'Soul Train' called us up and asked us to be featured on their show
3. We concluded together that BIG HAIR always makes our dancing look even greater, so we decided to grow out our hair and got perms
4. Oh, and all our skin on our body except for our faces turned black!
CHECK IT OUT!
1. We've been working on and perfecting our dance moves
2. We've gotten so good that 'Soul Train' called us up and asked us to be featured on their show
3. We concluded together that BIG HAIR always makes our dancing look even greater, so we decided to grow out our hair and got perms
4. Oh, and all our skin on our body except for our faces turned black!
CHECK IT OUT!
Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!
Here we go again!
It is officially the time of year again when we pack up our life into suitcases and stuff our car to it's full capacity and head to Arizona for spring training!
Pixie was ready to go. She loves car rides. And yes, she has a cat house. Haha. But she loves it. I call it her "dog cave". We arrived out here to sunny beautiful Arizona last week. The drive was great. Daniel and I both agreed we felt like it was one of our easiest drives ever. We are very blessed to only live about 4 1/2 hours from where Daniel has spring training here in Peoria so we got this drive down like the back of our hands.
It's been really nice and relaxing out here. We're living with an amazing host family about a mile from the field that have taken us in with open arms and have been so hospitable and sweet. We met them last year through a bible study we attend out here in Arizona. I got a call from the woman, Dee, about a week before we were gonna head out offering to let us stay with them. It's working out great and the Lord ALWAYS provides! We are so thankful! They actually left this past week for a missions trip to build houses in Mexico so we've been house sitting for them, which has worked out really nice. We've been enjoying our down time together after Daniel gets home from the field and have just been soaking this time up.
Daniel has been heading to the field early everyday. He is feeling great and healthy. He gets so excited to play and it brings me so much joy seeing him getting to do what he loves. We're taking it day by day and are both excited for what God has in store for us. We are rejoicing in the Lord's peace and trusting in His will for whatever is in store for us next. I just feel so blessed and honored to be on this journey with Daniel. He makes me so proud (on and off the field).
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths."
Pixie was ready to go. She loves car rides. And yes, she has a cat house. Haha. But she loves it. I call it her "dog cave". We arrived out here to sunny beautiful Arizona last week. The drive was great. Daniel and I both agreed we felt like it was one of our easiest drives ever. We are very blessed to only live about 4 1/2 hours from where Daniel has spring training here in Peoria so we got this drive down like the back of our hands.
It's been really nice and relaxing out here. We're living with an amazing host family about a mile from the field that have taken us in with open arms and have been so hospitable and sweet. We met them last year through a bible study we attend out here in Arizona. I got a call from the woman, Dee, about a week before we were gonna head out offering to let us stay with them. It's working out great and the Lord ALWAYS provides! We are so thankful! They actually left this past week for a missions trip to build houses in Mexico so we've been house sitting for them, which has worked out really nice. We've been enjoying our down time together after Daniel gets home from the field and have just been soaking this time up.
Daniel has been heading to the field early everyday. He is feeling great and healthy. He gets so excited to play and it brings me so much joy seeing him getting to do what he loves. We're taking it day by day and are both excited for what God has in store for us. We are rejoicing in the Lord's peace and trusting in His will for whatever is in store for us next. I just feel so blessed and honored to be on this journey with Daniel. He makes me so proud (on and off the field).
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths."
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Seasons: Flu & Baseball
It's rainy today in Southern California. And along with the rain...came the FLU. I thankfully haven't caught it (yet) but Daniel has been up all night tossing and turning, with chills, fever and throwing up. My poor husband. He doesn't get sick too often, but when he does it hits him hard. Hopefully he can rest up today and get back to his normal self in no time.
It has been a very busy month for us so far. Daniel continues to work hard and prepare for the upcoming baseball season. We still can't believe it's almost that time again when we pack up our lives in our car and I squeeze as much of my clothing as possible into spacebags (those things are genius!).
We are so excited for what the Lord has in store for us this next baseball season and are thankful for the opportunity Daniel has to do what he loves another year. Usually around this time of year, before we head out, I start to get filled with alot of anxiety. The thoughts of where we'll end up, who will go where, etc start to flood my mind. I see the way I have allowed the enemy in this area of my life to fill my heart with fear and uncertainty. Which ultimately allows me to take my eyes off Jesus. I have decided that I am no longer going to allow the enemy to have victory over this area in my life. The Lord has shown me that His ways are HIGHER and BETTER then my own! And although we have no idea what the future holds for Daniel and his career in baseball, God knows and ONLY He is in control. I find such a peace knowing that He is in control.
Isaiah 41: 10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
We are defined by Christ, not by baseball. More then anything, we want to live in His will and be used for HIS GLORY;not our own. I am excited going into this next season being refreshed and reminded that it's not about us, but about Jesus! With all the uncertainties this career can bring, our stability is in the Lord! Hallelujah!
It has been a very busy month for us so far. Daniel continues to work hard and prepare for the upcoming baseball season. We still can't believe it's almost that time again when we pack up our lives in our car and I squeeze as much of my clothing as possible into spacebags (those things are genius!).
We are so excited for what the Lord has in store for us this next baseball season and are thankful for the opportunity Daniel has to do what he loves another year. Usually around this time of year, before we head out, I start to get filled with alot of anxiety. The thoughts of where we'll end up, who will go where, etc start to flood my mind. I see the way I have allowed the enemy in this area of my life to fill my heart with fear and uncertainty. Which ultimately allows me to take my eyes off Jesus. I have decided that I am no longer going to allow the enemy to have victory over this area in my life. The Lord has shown me that His ways are HIGHER and BETTER then my own! And although we have no idea what the future holds for Daniel and his career in baseball, God knows and ONLY He is in control. I find such a peace knowing that He is in control.
Isaiah 41: 10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
We are defined by Christ, not by baseball. More then anything, we want to live in His will and be used for HIS GLORY;not our own. I am excited going into this next season being refreshed and reminded that it's not about us, but about Jesus! With all the uncertainties this career can bring, our stability is in the Lord! Hallelujah!
Three Year Anniversary
I still can't believe Daniel and I have been married 3 years already. I can remember our wedding day like it was yesterday. The memory and emotions of that beautiful February day easily flood my mind all over again as I reminisce on them. I also can reflect on the last 3 years too and see how much we've grown as well. I can see how the Lord has used marriage to teach me so many things and has used it to allow me to grow in certain areas of my life and in my walk with Christ as well. Marriage is a beautiful thing and I am beyond blessed and thankful to be married to the man of my dreams! I have learned alot along the way though and I'm sure I have alot more learning to do. I was naive going into marriage not realizing and understanding that it takes 'work'. It takes 'choices'- "choosing" to love maybe when you don't always feel like it, "choosing" to forgive, "choosing" to lay down your pride and apologize when you know you're in the wrong. And boy is it a blessing to see how rewarding marriage is when you make those right choices! I adore Daniel and I can truly say I am more in love with him today then the day I married him.
We were blessed to spend our anniversary in Palm Springs this year. Daniel's parents had an awesome timeshare that they let us use. It was fun to have a lil getaway and be on our own. We went on a beautiful hike the day of our anniversary and LOVED it! We want to go back soon and try out another trail that was offered. Here are come pics from that hike:
We were blessed to spend our anniversary in Palm Springs this year. Daniel's parents had an awesome timeshare that they let us use. It was fun to have a lil getaway and be on our own. We went on a beautiful hike the day of our anniversary and LOVED it! We want to go back soon and try out another trail that was offered. Here are come pics from that hike:
Monday, January 17, 2011
Daniel's Black Light Birthday Bash
Daniel turned 22 this month and this past Saturday we celebrated his birthday 'Black Light Style'. We thought it'd be fun to have a party and the idea of 'black light' sounded different, so we went for it. We had a blast! And it was so great to see and spend time with our friends and family! I attached some pics below. I apologize for the 'blurriness' in some, I couldn't figure out the right setting on my camera.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Goodbye 2010, Hello 2011!
Happy New Years Everyone!
I know everyone says this, but I really can't believe another year has come and gone. I remember as a kid, my days would feel like millenniums- sitting in elementary school staring at the clock wondering when the school day would end..to now, feeling like I wake up for breakfast and in a blink am brushing my teeth and heading to bed. What is it about getting older that makes time seem to fly by faster? I think as a child, you don't have a care or worry in the world besides maybe wondering whats for dinner. As a adult, we tend to get consumed with everyday life and worries which in turn causes us to take things forgranted.
I don't really like making 'New Years Resolutions' and I don't claim this to be one, but this year (day by day) I want to slow down and cherish the little things. Cherish the moments. Enjoy those around me more and soak in the memories. But more then that, I want to be able to slow down more and rest in the stillness of Jesus on a daily basis. I desire to delight in Him more. To know Him deeper. To not talk as much and listen more. Lately, I have been so guilty and convicted of being more consumed with meaningless things, rather then stopping and taking in the faithfulness and goodness of God.
2011 is here now. With it comes alot of unknowns of what is to come, but I praise God that He has gone before us and prepares the path He has for us.
Be reminded today, as I have, that you are loved and adored by the King of Kings, rest in His Mercy and Grace and be blessed.
I know everyone says this, but I really can't believe another year has come and gone. I remember as a kid, my days would feel like millenniums- sitting in elementary school staring at the clock wondering when the school day would end..to now, feeling like I wake up for breakfast and in a blink am brushing my teeth and heading to bed. What is it about getting older that makes time seem to fly by faster? I think as a child, you don't have a care or worry in the world besides maybe wondering whats for dinner. As a adult, we tend to get consumed with everyday life and worries which in turn causes us to take things forgranted.
I don't really like making 'New Years Resolutions' and I don't claim this to be one, but this year (day by day) I want to slow down and cherish the little things. Cherish the moments. Enjoy those around me more and soak in the memories. But more then that, I want to be able to slow down more and rest in the stillness of Jesus on a daily basis. I desire to delight in Him more. To know Him deeper. To not talk as much and listen more. Lately, I have been so guilty and convicted of being more consumed with meaningless things, rather then stopping and taking in the faithfulness and goodness of God.
2011 is here now. With it comes alot of unknowns of what is to come, but I praise God that He has gone before us and prepares the path He has for us.
Be reminded today, as I have, that you are loved and adored by the King of Kings, rest in His Mercy and Grace and be blessed.
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