Introducing..... MEG!!!!

It's my pleasure and privilege to introduce to you my lovely hair designer and beauty professional sister- Meg! She is marvelous on many different levels... but today's focus is everything HAIR. Meg was trained at the cutting-edge Aveda Fredric's Institute in Indianapolis and worked diligently to earn her cosmetologist's license early last summer. For the past 4 months Meg has been working at Entourage Hair Design on the North Side of Indy as a part of her apprenticeship training. She is transitioning out of that role in full competence that she is able to skillfully serve a wide variety of clients and their beauty needs. Meg is extremely talented, professional, knowledgeable and will help you achieve the look that you want! And she's just plain fun to be around! (and I'm not just saying that because she's my sister ;)
So do yourself a favor and book an appointment with Meg. Need a new hair stylist? Or a better one? Call the salon at (317) 571-1120. You won't be disappointed!

More info below!

** Meg cuts my hair and also did my wedding day hairstyle! She is available to do special occasion styling! (click on the photo to enlarge)

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Faves & Raves.

Here goes my first installment of 'Faves & Raves'- I hope you like it, Internet. I'm going to attempt to highlight some of my latest favorite and not-so-favorite things every so often and in a non-complaining way, of course. In my middle school and high school Bible study, my friends and I would share with each other "highs & lows" of our week, and during college, the girls in my study would share "happies & crappies." It was a way to share life with each other, the good and the bad, the fun and the un-fun. I always looked forward to having a little weekly window into each girls' life. And I actually miss it (and them) quite a bit. (Looks like I have a few phone calls to make!) So, consider this a one-sided glimpse into my current faves & raves. Here ya go!

~FAVES~

1. Employment! I have been blessed with a full-time, night shift nursing position at a downtown hospital in the Emergency Room. AND my husband and I are going to be co-workers!! What a gift we are so grateful for!! God surely proved His faithfulness yet again- He is so GOOD!!!!!!. So far, I have one week of general orientation down, with a few more days to go. Then, later this week, I have my first night shift as an RN (a Real Nurse!!!!!!) Pray for me!! :)


2. This vinaigrette. Well, the Trader Joe's store in its entirety is really my favorite, but this dressing is amazing too. It tastes so good. I can't get enough of it. Mmmmm MMM. Plus, it's only 45 calories per serving and is low in saturated fat & sugar. Pretty good, right? AND at $2.99 for this lovely glass bottle, I'd say it's a win.








3. Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in Peony. You never know if you've picked the right shade of lip color until after you've bought it, you're at home, you've opened it, and it's too late to turn back. UNLESS you look at someone else's lips and ask them what their shade is. So I have my mother-in-law to thank for my new favorite go-to lip stuff! (Thanks Jena!!) And it just so happens that peonies are my fave flower so it was really too good to be true. But it was true and it was even 25% off at CVS. Yes.


4. THIS broccoli recipe. It's amaaaazing. In fact, I made it for dinner tonight. And twice last week. Ha! It's baked, not boiled or steamed or pulverized into a soggy, green mush. Click on the link- my mom makes this broccoli and I recently came across the recipe and remembered its amazingness. Taylor loves it and it's so easy to make. Except don't leave it in too long in an oven accidentally set to 500 degrees. I'm really not sure how that happened- but it was bad and dinner was crispy.


~RAVES~

 1. Nightcrawlers in my fridge.  Oh, the neon, sugary, gummy ones, you ask? No. The pink, slimy, squirmy ones. The ones that are ALIVE. I think I can actually hear them slithering around in their styrofoam carton right now. But, it's a reality one has to accept when married to a fisherman. And I wouldn't change it for the world :) You just have to have worms on hand at all times! Right? I know Taylor would remove them if I made a stink about it, but the truth is when they make a stink, they will find themselves in the dumpster outside before they can even wiggle a tail. Or head. Who knows which is which.


2. The news. I simply cannot stand televised disputes between professional news anchor people. You know the breed- two seemingly knowledgeable people facing each other across a table, or tv screen, talking at the same time, in raised voices, about something you can't even decipher because they are talking at the same time. I just found myself watching one and couldn't figure out why my neck was feeling tense and my heart rate was elevated. Then I realized I was watching an argument that didn't seem to have a point or an end. Televised nationally! Good grief. Maybe if I could follow along in the discussion I could appreciate it more? Hmm. I don't know. Craziness.


Well, that's all for the first Faves & Raves, tune in next time for part II!

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Top Ten Lessons Learned So Far. *honeymoon edition*

Newlyweds! On our first flight to Paradise!

The tip of FL is in the upper left corner... and so are the Bahamian Islands. ;)

Lesson #1: Taylor and I stayed at a lovely resort in Nassau, Bahamas... the island of which you can see is barely due east of the southern tip of Florida. We, for reasons unknown, thought we were traveling to the Equator. Or even beyond, who knew! We were going on our honeymoon and nothing could stop us. We were perfectly content with thinking that our two hour flight from Atlanta to Nassau got us 2,000+ more miles than would actually be realistic/possible. Our minds were obviously still in wedded bliss mode. (when does this end?? don't tell us!!) We continued this thinking up until the second night of our stay in the Bahamas, (after apparently arriving there in a hyper-speed Star Wars jet (which we also didn't know)), we found a cool antique map at the gift shop. One glance at the equator told us that we weren't there. We looked up and up and up... and there were the Bahamas! Right by Florida. Oh, we thought. Well at least it feels like we're in another world. :) And now I'm asking for enrollment in an online geography class from Santa this year- this won't be happening again.

At the Crystal Room- T. got crab legs and I got salmon! Mmm.

Lesson #2: Taylor and I both like to eat food. We knew this before we were married of course- but the food at this resort was at another level. It was already prepared for us by happy smiling people, at any time of day and in any quantity. And it was FREE. (or at least we'd paid for it months in advance so it felt like that) Watch out bathroom scale! You're gonna get some use when we get home. Oh and that treadmill too. But back to the food- there were restaurants within 1,2, and 4 minutes of our room. Yikes. Too convenient. But so fun. We got to try lots of fun foods we wouldn't have normally ordered. Yummy seafood, unique combinations of flavors and tons of fresh fruit. Nothing super exotic- but hey, we weren't on the Equator after all. We miss that food... it will always be a delicious memory.

At the fun & exciting Japanese steakhouse- Kimonos

Lesson #3: We both love pulp in our orange juice. The pulpier, the better. Mmm it tastes like Florida in a glass. (Which is basically where we went on our vacation if I haven't already mentioned that. I hope my sarcasm isn't coming across as ungratefulness.. it's just so funny to me what we thought in #1.)

Taylor, me & baby sugar bananas

hahaha!!!!

Lesson #4: The supermarkets in the Bahamas do NOT have good deals. Unless there is something we don't know about... coupons or discounts for the locals... or a scheme to rip off tourists? Either way, we would be losing weight rapidly if we had to live on our own there. Milk- $6.99 a gallon. What!? But hey- Generic Bleach looks cheap, right? Seeing this cracked me up for some reason... enough so that I took a picture. Did anyone miss the fact that this bleach is GENERIC???? Good. You're keeping up.

(We figured out later that since it's an Island, most everything has to be imported... but $6.99 a gallon??)

We loved this awesome tiki hut!! So peaceful.

View of the beach from the tiki hut off the point!

Lesson #5: The primary faith in the Bahamas is Christianity. We were told that most everyone will admit to being a Christian, loving God & going to church weekly, even if they don't act like it on the other 6 days. We had several great conversations with some of the resort staff throughout the week- all of them being so encouraging and positive. It was really fun to be served by such joyful people who seemed to love their jobs and their island. All of the people who chatted with us mentioned the Lord, his goodness in their lives in some way, or that we should continue to read the Bible like we were doing if we wanted our marriage to last. This was definitely a highlight of the trip- and a wonderful glimpse into the Bahamian culture.

Lesson #6: If you make fun of someone else falling off their paddle board (TAYLOR), you will probably fall off yours immediately following your laughter. Or during. I'm glad my tumble didn't make it on film.

Lesson #7: I am a rule follower. Taylor is NOT. For example- say you are kayaking in the ocean in a 2-man kayak with your husband. Say he decides to jump out of the kayak while you are about 1/3 of a mile off-shore. Say you thought you remembered reading that jumping out isn't allowed, but get convinced to jump in the water too. What would ensue after the lifeguard drives his rescue boat all the way out to tell you "Do not get out of the kayak!!" ?? Tension and frustration because you are a rule-follower and he is not. He is smiling and laughing and you are not. This happened to me. (looking back, it was kinda fun. Kind of.)

Yep, this is my hubby. He's all mine, ladies.

Lesson #8: I am now able to pull the "I need to talk to my husband about that" card. And it's awesome. My first chance to throw down that little gem- 5 days into our marriage. A well-meaning but intense woman selling beach cover-ups 10 yards from our umbrella called me over to look at her wares spread out on the sand. I have a hard time saying no to things like this in the first place, and so looking back at Taylor sleeping in his beach chair, I confidently walked over to Sarong Lady. She told me her name was Indiana- which was weird- and I decided not to tell her that's where I was from because who knew what would happen at that point. (Maybe I could have gotten all the cover-ups for free! Or maybe she would have hugged me.) She showed me her beautiful fabrics and jewelry and could "give me a really special honeymoon deal!!!" I looked slowly over the colorful items, and then back at my sleeping husband... and back to Sarong Lady. "You have some really pretty things here, but I need to talk to my husband before buying (plus we had no cash with us which is only a minor detail) but it looks like he's sleeping right now. Thanks!" I smiled kindly to her, went back to my chair and opened up my magazine again. Hopefully this technique won't come back to kick me in the pants, but it's certainly a good one. (But in all seriousness, what a blessing to be in a partnership with someone in which decisions are made together- big, small, financial... everything. God knew I needed to grow in this area- saying 'no' to spending money at various (unwise/unnecessary) times- and that's why He gave me Taylor.)

There's my man- soaking up the sun and new hunting tips.

#9: We both love magazines. Now, until about 4 weeks ago, I would have thought this was something that only I had in common with myself. And so would Taylor. Until we got to the airport at 4am on the Monday we left for our honeymoon. We were bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and ready for a nice vacation. And suddenly, work, wedding planning, driving all over tarnation to see each other, and all sorts of other busy things were not a part of our lives at that moment. And, oh, I don't know, maybe that's what made Taylor suggest we go look at the magazines. :) I love magazines, and have since I came out of the womb. My mother once told me that I like magazines because 'they represent leisure.' Perhaps. Taylor has made fun of me because they are made up of pictures of 'pretty things.' Definitely. Is it a crime? I just like them! There are lots of great things in magazines, really and truly. My favorites are fitness/healthy lifestyle, home decorating and cooking magazines. And now, it is with great pride and pleasure that I announce Taylor's favorite magazine genres.... duhn duhn duhn... Hunting, fishing and all things BIG BUCKS!! (that would be of the deer variety with antlers not the green paper version) Of course, no one is surprised by that, except maybe Taylor himself. I think it was a humble moment when he realized that he actually liked magazines. The best part is that he suggested we get more magazines when we flew back into Atlanta- and I almost said no I didn't need one. Almost. He picked one out and then I realized I couldn't pass up a magazine opportunity. As fun as it is to make fun of T about this (no hard feelings, right babe?) he sure got his money's worth out of those things. He poured over them cover to cover, read every typed word and studied every photograph- and I was even convinced to read some of the big kill stories (which are actually pretty exciting). Considering how long this paragraph is, you can probably tell what a monumentally exciting reality this new commonality is to me.

I'm a married lady!! Whoa!

Out on the pier enjoying the balmy breeze on our last night in Paradise.

#10: You can learn how to be a good parent, and also a bad one, all in 3 hours while waiting in a single line before going through customs. Fact: People take their [very young] children to the Bahamas. Also a fact: Everyone has forgotten all the fun in the sun by the time airport-waiting has rolled around. And no one is happy at that point. Kids, parents, and newlywed couple right in front of the family-reunion-of-4-adults-and-14-kids. Actually there were only 3 kids. But I'll admit it was fun to start out watching one set of parents entertain their kids successfully and happily, and the other set not so successfully (or happily). But the fun didn't last super long. Plus, it looks like a hard job. After we finally made it through customs, we were grateful it was just us and that we had gotten the opportunity to watch some great parents care for their children (and the opposite too).

Goodbye Bahamas!!

#11: (Bonus lesson learned!) There's no place like home. We had an amazing time on our trip, were so thankful for the opportunity to visit such a great place and definitely needed some R&R- but we're also glad to be back. We love our new home and have been settling into our life here in this wonderful world- as husband and wife. P.S. I have a nursing interview this Tuesday (8/28), please pray for me!! 

Here's to many more lessons to be learned. The moore, the better :) God is good!!

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Feng Shui.

Here's to my first post as Annie Moore!! Yep, that's my name, officially. I've got the documents to prove it. That's right-a  new SS card, license, credit & debit cards, RN license (Praise the Lord, I passed!!!!), email address and moore... and I'm sure I'll be finding even mooooore things that need to be changed over the next few years. But it will just be the perfect reminder that I married the most wonderful man in the world. :) Now I just need to perfect my new signature. Still working on that one.

 
Feng shui /ˈfʌŋ ˈʃweɪ/ Show Spelled[fuhng shwey]: the Chinese art or practice of creating harmonious surroundings.

It seems as if the feng shui has transitioned from our relationship (going from dating/engagement to marriage, countless miles driving back and forth to each other, many good-nights said over the phone, and never-ending wedding planning) right into our new little home! Taylor and I have been settling into our humble 875 square feet 1-bedroom and finding it quite cozy. And I mean quite cozy.We've been arranging and re-arranging our simple abode for the last 3 weeks we've lived here. It's like a game- like a 1,000 piece puzzle! Each thing has its home... well, most things. There is currently a waiting list for several housing applicants.... and the options are Closet Avenue, Goodwill Drive or Dumpster Alley. We have each kitchen cabinet set up like a house of cards- one false move and the whole set-up is on the ground. We almost need a diagram to remember how to set it up after using one bowl or cup... it's been expertly organized by Team Moore! And will probably stay like that because the only other alternative is the floor. Ha!

                                        (plus there's a load of dishes in the wash at the moment!)

 Our furniture is finally finding it's permanent spot, towels, linens and clothes have found a resting place. Plus, it's pretty fun having a boy roommate.... stinky socks and all. We are getting settled and finding our rhythm; living life together is a true gift!! And all of this is happening under the watchful glass eyes of Taylor's prize 8-point buck, Ocho Habenero (which by the way, is the one thing not taking up precious space since he's hanging on the wall :) )

So many generous friends and family have blessed us with gifts that have taken up residence in our new home. What an extremely blessed life we live...We have been given eternal life by the God of the universe- through the gift of His Son Jesus!!!! We could have 1 dollar to our name and a box of Cracker Jacks and we'd still be among the richest in the world. Why? Because we are His children- a chosen people, a royal priesthood. We're part of the family! God's family. We've been called out of darkness into His wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:9) And you can be too- you can join the ranks of the poorest rich people in the world, followers of God. (It is truly the best life!!!!) The Lord of the Universe can be your Father and Heaven can be your home. Simply realize your sins- your need for God, and share that with Him through prayer! Just talk to Him. Ask Him to come into your life- to change you from the inside out. And He will! Because He loves you- because He died for you. Praise the Lord for His Glorious Goodness!!

 What do you do when your name is Taylor Moore and you marry a girl with twice the amount of stuff you own yourself? You help her pare down and then you rent a garage :)

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The Waiting Game.

    The above picture has all but been my life for the past month and some odd weeks. Not necessarily the Starbucks part but most certainly the gargantuan textbook part. After graduating from nursing school, the next step before getting to jump into scrubs and stethoscopes is passing the ever-friendly nursing boards know as the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses). Don't worry, I just had to Google what the acronym actually stands for. For those of you who don't know much about it, the exam is called a computerized adaptive test that regulates the amount and level of questions based upon your correct or incorrect answers. Breaking new bulletin: I took it this morning and made it through! So now begins the game... of waiting. Except games are supposed to be fun, right? 2 business days is the magical time for the results to be posted online... and I've heard sometimes they are appear earlier, but who knows. No cigar yet. I'll keep you posted, dear internet.
    But in all seriousness, today was one of the most Divine experiences of my life!! There were SO many people praying for me.... I have never felt more covered in the assurance of the Lord than I did this morning, and still feel right now, even without knowing the outcome. And through it all my wonderful Taylor and dear family were nothing but encouraging and supportive through all the hours (and stress) of studying and preparing. Having my very own nurse coach has it's major benefits... and only a few drawbacks. Like for example, having someone to answer all of my questions and push me to do my best. But with that comes someone to answer all my questions and push me to do my best. ;) It's been an immeasurable blessing to have a realistic picture of what it actually means to be a nurse through living life with Taylor and I've figured out that means no slacking. :) Have I mentioned how amazing Taylor is? Everyone reading this should make it their life goal be his patient at some point in their life. But not really because he works in the Emergency Department.
    I did my very best on the exam and the results are out of my control, but that's the point. My Father's will is better and greater than my wildest dreams and my own efforts are irrelevant if I don't trust in Him. Philippians 4:6-7 certainly rings true.... PEACE that surpasses ALL understanding... that guards heart and mind in Christ Jesus.... Praise be to the Lord!! Hello to full-time wedding planning! And hopefully, goodbye to my well-loved NCLEX prep book. =)

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Real Life Club

I graduated from Purdue University last Sunday. WOOHOO!! But it still seems surreal that, yes, I made it through all the hoops called homework, projects, and exams, (and everything in between) and came out on the other side with a diploma in my hand. It's all a glorious testament to God's faithfulness and love for me, only through Him did I succeed! My time at Purdue now seems extremely brief, but the experience was so rich and full. Beautiful friendships, deep spiritual and personal growth, leadership opportunities, times of hardship, challenges, and wonderful memories characterize those 4 sweet years. Oh, and how could I forget, I also met my future husband during my time in Boilermakerville ;) Needless to say, God is good!! And not just because of who He is to me and what He's done in my life, but it's because of His perfect character that makes Him nothing less than Good, Holy, Righteous, Mighty, and deserving of my entire life. So now that I have my newly minted membership card to the "Real Life Club," I must begin to discover what it looks like to serve the Lord outside the four walls of a classroom on a college campus. He has so much in store for Taylor and me and we desire nothing more than to serve our Heavenly Father with our entire life. But of course I'm guessing it's easier said than done. I'm excited to have this blog as a way to share love and life through words with you who care enough to read it. In the meantime I've got nursing boards to study for and a wedding to plan, but I hope to update our blog as much as I can. (Hey that rhymes!)
Thanks for reading.
In fullness of Joy,
Annie

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