Sleigh Ride

This video is of a sleigh ride we took in Durango, Colorado with our friends the Veales

Christmas in the Rockies

If you ever have the chance to drive through the Rockies around Christmas, throw in Josh Groban's new Christmas cd. It was a majestic drive as is, but put on Groban and you'll get the full impact of tall, thin pine trees, gigantic mountains covered with snow, little red foxes trotting across the street, elk on the side of the road, and inches of snow.

Brenton and I took on an extra trip when the Veales invited us to visit them during their time in Colorado. After a day and a half in Branson, MO, we packed up and headed to Pagosa Springs, Colorado. We were definitely tired, but we enjoyed our two days of "Christmas in the Rockies" with a sleigh ride and skiing. Brenton and I agreed we entered and left with the Christmas spirit. Let it snow...

The rest of our Christmas adventures are up and coming.

Happy Birthday Caroline!

This is a little tribute to my (Kelly) good friend since college, Caroline Hay. Though her birthday was a little while back, we traveled with her and Kevin to Branson, MO last weekend. It honestly felt like it was my birthday having a chance to get away to such a fun town. Thanks for taking us guys.

Carol and Kev, just know we had the best time with you and we treasure your friendship! Happy Birthday Carol.

Ice Storm '07

Bartlesville experienced the joy of another ice storm this winter. Unlike many others in OK and KS, our campus was blessed to not lose power. The lights flickered on and off a few times, but nothing more. While we did not lose power, we were left with a sparkling coat of ice on campus for a couple of days. The blanket of ice that covered the cement, cars, plants, bikes and buildings was a good 1/2 - 1 in. thick. The ice has mostly melted and as I write I hear chunks of it sliding from the tiles on the Colaw Hall. (A problem which left a huge project and required a good amount of money to fix in '06. I'm assuming that's why terracotta tiles were not meant for OK.)

Amazingly, the leaves themselves were almost an inch high with layers of ice, a phenomenon I never thought possible. Here's a little scene to help you envision the trees, Brenton and I recently went to drive through a small Christmas light show in town. There was a multi-colored light scene consisting of a gingerbread house and pine trees on either side, bending inward to frame the cozy little home. We thought it ironic that the trees around town were also bending over, thought not in efforts to frame a cute little gingerbread house.

The pictures below are of a gorgeous development in town. This home, in particular, has been for sale up to a year now. Brenton and I love dreaming of living in the perfect home with a huge wooden door greeting us on our arrival home. We'll just keep dreaming since we don't plan on ever having a million dollars to spend!

Safe travels over the holiday! Merry Christmas and we'll fill you in after the New Year on all of our travels. You'll be lucky if you see a post before then. ;)

Christmas Parties and Gingerbread

After days of baking, I have come to the end of making Christmas treats. The students all headed out this past week and our Christmas parties are officially over. Normally, this would make me more than disappointed, but I am burnt out of baking this year.

I must say that gingerbread cookies have become one of my favorite holiday cookies. Why, I couldn't tell you since I didn't eat much gingerbread growing up. All I know is that this has been a must for me the past two years. On top of this, we made sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies, peppermint almond bark, fudge, rice crispies, heath bars, chocolate cover pretzels, peanut-butter balls and oreo balls for a Christmas Open House (finals break for the students). The bud and I are getting ready for some good vacation time and travel next weekend. Our break is almost here!

A Must See...

So, Brenton and I stopped by a pet store tonight in Tulsa. They didn't have any kittens or dogs, which encompasses the reasons we'd stop to look. Poor Brenton, I made him stop by the rodent isle to make our time worth while; which I'd say was well accomplished!

A few minutes later, we were enthralled by the Robo Dwarf Hamsters. I know this sounds stranges, but all I can say is take the time to stop by the pet store soon. Look for Robo Dwarf Hamsters and give them a little time to entertain you. You'll quickly find that their name suits them well. These little guys move faster than I could have ever thought possible. They pace, run, jump, knock each other over, fight, and move like little speedsters. The pictures above are very fitting of this small creature. Hope you enjoy your next visit to the pet store!

It's That Time of Year Again!

It's that time of year again... While it looks like we were putting our Christmas decorations up the same time as everyone else, I must say I joined the Christmas spirit, full energy, some time ago! I beat my family to listening to Christmas music, sorry Jen. Sadly, I faithfully bombarded Walmart and Lowe's with phonecalls of when they'd receive Christmas trees as well.

While this is a bit embarrassing, I need to share this little narrative. It began with Brenton and I sitting in our tiny apartment one evening, just as any other. Once again, Brenton encouraged me to call Lowe's, knowing how anxious I was for our tree! Little did my sweet husband know what he was in for! I did as Brenton mentioned and called Lowe's a few second's later.

"I was calling to see if you had Christmas trees?"

"Yes ma'am we do." (To my surprise!)

"Are they real trees." (A moment of silence)

"Yes ma'am they are."

"That's fantastic." (With great enthusiasm)

I hung up the phone feeling like Buddy the Elf had taken over me for a few moments. Within the hour, we were walking into Lowe's. I told Brenton to not act excited, so that we didn't give away the fact that I was the over zealous Christmas lady. However, you must agree that we picked out the best tree of the bunch!





STARBUCKS!!!

Belgian Horses

If you know Brenton, you know about his love for horses. This video is for my love. He is so proud of his grandfather and their Belgian horses. If you listen to the video you can here his grandfather and cousins having a playful conversation. Grandpa Bunnel always has a mischievious glint in his eye and a dry sense of humor. You can't miss it in this video; I thought it was fun because it is "Grandpa Bunnel" at his best.

Thanksgiving on the Farm

While I have spent Thanksgiving on the farm many years (for those of you who don't know my grandparents have a farm in NC), this Thanksgiving we were at a new farm (at least for me, Kelly). We visited Brenton's mother's side of the family in Colony, KS where his grandparents live. It's a quaint, small town where the Bunnels' have very fond memories. Brenton took me into the little coke shop downtown. His childhood hang out smelt of grease; something was sizzlin' away. Sadly, I hear it's not quite the same; not the same products, atmosphere, no movies or fountain drinks any longer, all except the lady who sold us our canned sodas for our ride home. The reality is we've simply grown up now and life changes. All I know is that we had a ton of fun. Brenton enjoyed reminiscing with his family, while we also enjoyed making new memories.

We spent most our time at the local high school playing cards, with the kids or chatting away the hours. Oh, and how did I miss the most important part. We ATE and ATE and ATE! My stomach came away satisfied.

The pictures are from the short get away we took to the Bunnels' farm where they keep their sheep and Belgian horses; might I say, beautiful horses.

First Snow

While we woke up the the usual rustic brown grass that we see every morning, we went to bed with our first light snow! We were a little sad to see the snow go so quickly, yet it was a fun reminder of yet another new season. Christmas is on it's way!

Don't worry, we didn't forget about Thanksgiving. We'll post a on that soon.

An Ocean in OK

So we found out this weekend that there is a mini ocean in OK. About 35 minutes or so from campus, is Lake Oolagah. That's right, you read correct, Lake Oolagah. That was my first impression as well when Brenton told me the name of the lake. I could not remember what sounds to make to pronounce it correctly. However, regardless of my making fun of the name, I must say I was impressed.

We visited a number of locations and were stunned with the view at each one, minus the RV park. At the RV park, we had to move our car because the deer hunters were coming in and we were in their parking spots. First off, there was no one else around and there were a number of places to park. Alongside that, we were trying to figure out where the deer were that they'd be hunting. I surely hope the deer hunters had a closer start to their destination. I'm sure they had a lovely day of hunting deer at the bottom of Lake Oolagah!

Don't worry, we didn't let the deer hunting distraction get in our way. We continued on with our good friends, the Veale's. I'll have to say that the last stop was the most beautiful of them all. It was well worth the many detours.

Family Blogs

As I have mentioned my struggle to blog regularly, I think my motivating factor is the comments...kidding. I love the chance to keep up with those of you that I so rarely keep in touch with. How sad that I don't do a better job, but this post is really to mention my excitement in that a few more of our family members have blogs. I am was so thrilled to see some great Halloween pictures of the Fords (one of Brenton's sisters) and Zach (Brenton's cousin). You can click on their names below to visit their blogs or visit our "Keeping in Touch" section to the right of our blog. We love you guys!

The Fords

Zach

Does Life Just Pass By?

How does blogging time pass so fast? It seems that I return to our blog a day later when in reality I often find a good week has passed. And so life passes by. The last two and a half years as a Resident Director (RD) have been good. Yet I notice myself, like anyone, getting so caught up in the every day flow that I barely notice change in my personal life. There have been a number of moments lately that have caused me to reflect and ponder on the many lessons, words, and memories that have shaped the last few years.

While I have lived life as an RD, life has done more than move on. By this I mean, I have done a great deal more than simply being an RD. I have gained solid life experience, Brenton and I were married, friends have come and gone, student leaders have been developed and stepped forward, and Christ has humbled me a good deal (and is still doing so). Taking the time to reflect on all these things has opened my eyes to the fact that life is a number of moments and lessons building on each other. Rather than just moving on, we are moving forward and growing up in Christ. More than simply earning the title of Resident Director, Christ has been developing my character. It is amazing to see how I can overlook all that Christ is doing in me and through me. However, it is now obvious how it is easy for myself and many other to get discouraged so quickly. Just take your eyes of the mark for a short time and all to soon you have lost your purpose.

Our Buddy Jaylon

So, I have found being an Aunt is a joy! We were so blessed to be able to spend a day with Jen, B and Jaylon in Kansas City. Not only was the company good, but the plaza was gorgeous. Name brand stores and restaurants lined the canal. We were living high class with our Cheesecake Factory and Starbucks.

Amazingly, I held back the tears for a day. I believe it was Tuesday afternoon that I cried realizing how little we see family. As I have said before, I know part of growing up is having a life separate from one's family. However, it's sad to think that the people I spent all of growing up with, miss out on so much of every day life. And vice versa considering how much I miss out on their lives. It's amazing how much Jaylon has grown and smiles. He is a little bundle of blessings that I miss dearly, along with our wonderful eight neices and nephews on Brenton's side. (We have a picture of all Brenton's neices and nephews on an older blog if you have the inspiration to do some research!)

We love you Jen and B!


Brenton and I had a kid! J/K


Snoozin' in Barnes and Noble after a hearty cry


Sisters and a Nephew


The MEN

A Perfect Evening ~

Last night after work I felt like the week had stopped and time just stood still. With winter headed our way we've had some pretty cool days, more specifically evenings. Being outside in the cold air made me dream of holidays and seeing family soon. I can't tell you how perfect the evening was and how amazed I was at the clarity of the moon. It was beautiful and set the mood as I day dreamed about warm drinks, time off and winter weather. This was surprising for me since most everyone knows that I don't handle cold weather well. Yet, there's something about this year and all the different seasons. I guess it all boils down to the fact that change switches up the monotony of life and day to day routines, whether it's through the different season or some other means.

Favorite Halloween Memory

So it was my hope to post a picture on my favorite Halloween memory, since Halloween is coming soon. However, I soon realized I had no way to get that picture on the blog. So to help give you a visual, I made my own personal replica of myself and my siblings. Jen and I were cheerleaders and Brent was a stud football player. I know my work is quite stunning, so in case you did not pick up on the abstract details, we were sitting on our deck outside our house. Sadly, I don't remember much else about that night. All I recall is how badly I wanted to be a trendy little cheerleader, a dream that lasted a night.

I hope you enjoy the lovely work I made; this is especially dedicated to Brent and Jennifer! Don't forget to make a vote on the poll of why you blog before the week expires.

Who's Afraid of Rollercoasters?

So it's a little embarrassing to admit, but I (Kelly) recently found that I am afraid of rollercoasters. Ever since my experience on the "Pamper Pole" at a camp ground; I found that I despise that wonderful free fall feeling that so many pursue. Ironically, at our state fair, I was more scared waiting in line for the Ferris Wheel as an adult than as a child. It was a joy to find that I was still able to enjoy the Ferris Wheel.

On another note, I found a little pup at intramurals the other night. I took a few pictures of the guy so I could show Brenton our new pet, or should I say the pet we'd love to have had.

Blood Diamond

If you are looking for an emotional, heart-wrenching movie...Blood Diamond is the one. Regardless, it is one that everyone should take the time to see. Brenton and I were told to rent the movie because it was a real eye-opener about a true, historical event. Having no idea what to expect and forgetting the reality that many face, I was speechless when then the credits began to scroll on the screen.

I don't want to spoil the whole movie for those who have not seen it, but be ready for a hard reality. After the movie, I remember sitting in our living room wondering how I can live such a complacent life. Later, I realized that the following evening I had already forgotten what I had seen the night before and had, yet again, live another complacent day. However, understanding that somewhere in the world others are facing similar plights as those in this movie, I became so covicted about always living a life of passion. With how blessed I am and with all the God has given me, I should be the first to make the most of every opportunity. I don't want to waste any more valuable time. However, I understand that reality is only going to sink in with constant reminders or how blessed I am. I am blessed, we are blessed, you are blessed! Regardless of what we are going through, there are always others going through trials that are beyond our human comprehension. (While I don't mean to minimize anyone's struggles, we need to remember it is all about perspective.)

If you have time to read a little more, take a second to browse this website (http://www.sos-usa.org) that talks about the causes for orphan children in Africa. Leonardo DiCaprio, who starred in the movie, is shown with some of the orphans also featured in the movie.

Starting Over

There is something about Fall that makes me feel as if life is just beginning, again. It could be that this is the start of a new year on our college campus, as it is on many others. Maybe it's that all of creation signifies there is a time to change. Trees are changing colors, the air is new, fresh and breezes are becoming cool. For all the reasons above and more, I honestly feel a bit renewed.

One of my (Kelly) favorite verses is Psalms 143:8, as you may have already noticed from the bottom of our blog.

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I lift up my soul."

Psalms 143:8

The reason this verse has been close to my heart is because it reminds me that every morning Christ allows me to start over. No matter how terrible my attitude was the day before or how many times I messed up in the past week, I am given a clean slate every morning. "Morning brings word of His unfailing love!" Life cannot get any more hopeful than this. Of course it doesn't make since why the King of creation gives us so many chances, but the fact remains. He does. Christ rejoices in new beginnings and seeing His children renewed in Him.

It is only a simple guess, but I truly believe that this is one blessing of Fall. Christ is reminding us that there is a time to change. Why not choose to make the effort, putting all else behind us and starting fresh? "Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul."

Fall Is A Comin'

I'd have to say that we had one of the most relaxing weekends that I can ever remember. With the cooler brisk weather coming in and lazy afternoons, it couldn't feel much more like Thanksgiving is just around the corner.

It's sad to say, but I've failed at my attempts to take many pictures lately. I truly missed out of some opportune photo opts considering our stops at a pow wow, kiddie soccer games, campus golf adventure, and croquet in the park. (Speaking of croquet, Brenton didn't even let me finish the first round before he got me out as "poison". It was worth the fun though.) Luckily, I did get catch a few moments from our night in Tulsa last night. We actually found it amusing because every store we stopped at had closed since it was Sunday evening. Thankfully, that didn't stop us from having fun driving around 71st street, while dreaming of bigger cities, traffic and lights!