Another 2-year Anniversary (Baptism)

Today marks the 2nd anniversary of another wonderful day; My and Travis' baptism. We got baptized the day after our wedding, as a way of starting a new life with God and each other. The past two years have been amazing. I've noticed a lot of changes in my life since I turned to God. The obstacles that used to seem like mountains, are now a mere speedbump on the road. It feels good to come out of darkness and into the light. I still have a ways to go, but I take comfort in the fact that I have a life partner to share this journey with.

Our 2nd Anniversary! :)

Today is our 2nd anniversary! I can't believe it's been that long already. We didn't really do anything fancy since money was a little tight this year, although we did get to eat lunch at Taco Bell! :) We ran some errands and then I went to work at 2 pm. When I got home, we ran to Walmart. Travis bought me a pink & green cake and a new ring! We ate dinner (cake for dessert), and put the kids in bed. I had a school seminar, and Travis slept because he has to work tonight. Overall, it was a good day, but it would've been better if I could've spent the whole day with Travis. Next year, hopefully I can afford to take the day off so we can go do something together.

4-H

Church went well this morning. Travis, Robbie, and I read the story of Mary becoming pregnant with Jesus, and Robbie lit the 2nd advent candle. After service, I took Robbie up to the 4-H fairgrounds for the Open House, and to get signed up for Mini 4-H. He's excited! He wants to do Arts & Crafts and Collections. Our first meeting is February 13th. I wish I could've done 4-H when I was little. I could've learned so many skills, but I feel like I missed out. It helps, though, knowing that I can encourage Robbie on his projects. This will be his first year in, so it will be exciting to see the things that he comes up with.

After the 4-H Open House, we went on a tour of an old church here in town. I can't remember the name of it, but it was really neat to see all the old stuff in there. I'm not much of a History person, but it was interesting. Travis loves History so he had a blast! The boys got to decorate pinecone ornaments with glitter, and Robbie made a strand of popcorn, and sewed a piece of a quilt.

Christmas Festival

Travis and I took the boys to our downtown Christmas Festival last night. It was so neat! We missed it last year, so we wanted to let the kids experience it this year. We started our night by going out to eat at Hometown Classic Pizza. They moved to a bigger building, and they now have a big window to put decorations in. Right now, it's housing a beautiful Christmas tree and Nutcracker.

After we were done eating, we walked down to the square and listened to the Christmas Carolers, while trying to stay warm. We grabbed some yummy hot chocolate and cookies, and went walking around for a few. At 6:45, we witnessed the lighting of the Christmas tree, followed by the Parade. We saw Santa ride in on a firetruck. I guess the reindeer must have been sleeping!

The boys wanted to stay and visit Santa in his house, but there was already a long line that formed while we were watching the parade, plus the boys needed to get home and get to bed. We promised them that we would go back another day when it wasn't so crowded. Santa will visit his house on the plaza a few more times before Christmas, so the boys will have plenty of chances to see him.

Overall, we had a very awesome night. I feel like I'm getting into the Christmas spirit more this year than I normally do. I like it!

Death By Parent

I have heard so many stories over the years of parents killing their children, and some of them even get away with it. 

In July of this year, Casey Anthony of Orlando, Florida, was suspected of killing her 2-year-old daughter, Caylee. Her daughter "disappeared" in May, yet Casey did not report it until 30 days later. A few days after the disappearance, she was out partying with friends. Even with all the evidence, she was only charged with providing false information to police officers. She was acquitted of all murder charges. 
Casey Anthony Case

Another woman, Betsy Dalton of Clarksville, Indiana, gave birth to twins back in July, a boy and girl. The girl was placed on top of a boy, in a toilet, and left to die. Police officers found the girl alive, but the boy died. The girl was placed in protective custody. The Mom was found to have "low mental ability" and walked away with no charges.
Betsy Dalton Case

In July 2007, Sametta Heyward of Charleston, South Carolina, left her children in a car in 88 degree weather while she was at work. When she got done, the children weren't responding. She took them home, bathed them, and stuck them in trash bags under the kitchen sink. The next day, she called 9-1-1. She was charged with 2 counts of homicide.
Sametta Heyward Case

In 1991, Kristine Cushing of Seattle, Washington, murdered her 2 children (4 & 8-year old girls), while her husband was serving in the military. By reason of insanity, she was not charged, but they did place her in a mental institution for four years.
Kristine Cushing Case

There are so many more, but frankly, I get too upset reading them all. I don't understand how a parent can get to this point. It is our job to love and protect our children. I understand that many parents may not feel up the challenge of parenting. That's why we have adoption agencies and foster care programs. Give that child a chance! It's really sad that parents feel the need to resort to this when there are other options out there.

Please, if you are a parent who just can't handle the task of parenting, and you're thinking of harming your children, contact your local adoption agency or child protective agency. They will find your child a loving home. You can also contact me privately at AdrienneLich@gmail.com, and I will try my best to help you.

Bowling/Football

Both of our boys attend the local Boys & Girls Club. They had a drawing recently for a few children to attend the Colts game today. Zach got picked!!! He was gone most of the day, so Travis, Robbie, and I got to spend some quiet time together. We went to church this morning and then came home for lunch. We wanted to do something fun with Robbie so we went up the bowling alley for a bit. Robbie ended up beating both of us! How very sad! :(  In my defense, my first game is always my worst. ;) Anyway, we had an overall fun day. The boys are in bed now, and it's almost time for me to head there myself.

Nighty night!

Adrienne

Courageous

Travis and I went to see Courageous Saturday night. I was absolutely blown away. If you haven't seen this movie, GO SEE IT! The characters did a great job. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, so I won't say what happens. However, you will laugh, cry, get angry, and get excited, all within a matter of minutes. This movie truly expresses the importance of being a great Father and Husband, and I hope all you Dads out there will make it a point to see it. Travis and I already decided that we're buying it when it comes out on DVD. It's definitely one for the family collection.