The Misadventures of Carmy and Jeff!

My week in February!

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 14:27:00 +0000

I haven’t updated this blog in over a month now... how slack! That’s because I have two other blogs to update as well.

Our Wedding Journal - http://jcweddingjournal.blogspot.com/

Palmwoods Baptist Church - http://palmwoodsbaptistchurch.blogspot.com/

Feel free to share either of these with your friends or anyone who might be interested! Also please comment if you enjoy a post. Blogging can be a pretty boring task if you don’t think anyone is reading. It’s very encouraging whenever you get comments from readers!

Because it’s getting pretty late and I have to be up early in the morning, I thought I’d give you an update on my week in pictures! Enjoy

We saw Kevin preach his first message at Church

I captured some pictures of the gorgeous birds on our feeder!

Delicious afternoon tea with Mum, Dad, Uncle Greg and Aunty Jeanette!

Flooding over the roads. The lodge got totally flooded in!

We had stacks of rain all week! But it was lovely all the same.

Kitty got herslf stuck on the roof and it took ages to get her down. Silly girl!

Mexican for dinner to celebrate Brett's 31st birthday

Bought all the shoes and belts for the groomsmen!

Palmwoods Baptist Church

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 15:47:00 +0000

Let me introduce you to my lovely church – Palmwoods Baptist Church! We are situations in Palmwoods (obviously) and meet in the Girl Guides Hut each Sunday morning at 10am for a church service. We are still growing – small in numbers but BIG in our Faith which is our main focus ‘Faith in God’. Pastor Simon Moir is the pastor of the church with the assistance of John Gadenne (Jeffrey’s father).

Each Sunday morning we start with some hymns which are lead by Jeff, have some announcements and get stuck into the message and sometimes if their lucky I’ll sing an item. The teaching is highly focused on the bible which is the truth that God has left for us to learn from. This year the main focus is on ‘Being settled in your faith’ and we have been learning a lot about what the bible says about Faith. After church we also have a super yummy morning tea where we fellowship together, chat about our week, encourage one another and always learn more about our wonderful saviour!

Palmwoods is a lovely church to attend and you always feel very involved and included. Everyone is very encouraging and I can see Christ in each person that attends. We’ve recently been blessed with some major improvements to the church. We’ve now got two air conditioners, a data projector and screen and a fantastic sound system. God is really blessing us! Jeff just last week got up in the roof of the hut to hook up the wires for the data projector, so we’re all systems go!

The church supports many missionaries and also has a ministry where Jeffrey and his dad (and sometimes I help) run a church service every second Sunday at the Diamond Valley Lodge.

So if you’re currently out of church or looking for a change or somewhere to visit, drop me a line and I’ll give you all the details you need to come visit Palmwoods Baptist Church or even attend one of the Lodge church services. You truly will be blessed. We’d also love you to keep our church and ministries in your prayers. May the Lord bless you and keep you!

PS: We are getting a website up and running so once it starts I'll be incharge of blogging and updating events so keep your eyes peeled for this!

Saying Goodbye to 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 12:23:00 +0000

What was the best part of 2009?

Jeffrey’s and my engagement party was really special and planning our wedding has been a lot of fun. One of the best moments of the wedding planning was putting on my first wedding dress when Rachel, Talia and I went shopping.

What was the worst part of 2009?
You can never have good without bad. There were definitely a few bad bits of 2009 however the Lord only used them to strength my relationship and faith in Him which I’m thankful for. We press forward into 2010 leaving all good and bad behind. The memories we take with us are our choice and I plan to just take the good and of course remember the wisdom I’ve learnt from the bad!

What was the biggest surprise of 2009?
First of all Jeff and I had many surprises as we opened the gifts from our engagement party, we were very blessed. I really enjoyed surprising Brett and Kate with their beautiful photobook for Christmas and I also though the surprise Rachel organized for Aaron was pretty awesome. She bought him his puppy pug Frank who is gorgeous might I add!

What are you most looking forward in 2010?
Definitely the 9th October when Jeff and I get married at Maleny Manor. I’m loving all the planning but I cannot wait for the big day.

Is there anything you are not looking forward to in 2010?
There’s nothing I’m not looking forward too however I know there will be challenges especial with buying a house and moving out. But I have faith that all will be fine.

Which new years resolutions did you keep in 2009?
I don’t make resolutions in the New Year. However my quiet time with God was quite challenging this year, I had to read 5 chapters per night. I didn’t always keep up to date however I did finish all the readings.

What will be your new years resolutions in 2010?
I’ve written up my plan for quiet time with God for 2010 and it’s got a major focus on marriage and the Fruit of the Spirit so I’m praying I can follow through with it each night and benefit.

What will you be doing on new years eve?
On New Years eve Jeff will be arriving back from Sydney so we’re planning on just spending it together away from all the crowds. Jeff’s big brother Brett told me that he believes the way you spent New Years is the way you will spend your year. Well if I was to think like that I’d like my year to be peaceful and close to Jeff and my Lord.

Who will you be with at new years eve?
Jeffrey and we might visit some friends if we have time.

Who do you want to kiss to see the new year in?
Jeffrey my very soon to be husband.

What was the best song of 2009?
Well I don’t follow music that closely these days but if I had to pick a song I played the most this year it would be 10,000 miles by Mark Schultz.

What was the best TV show of 2009?
Packed to the Rafters, Scrubs, House and of course I watch Neighbours!

What was the best book you read in 2009?
Rachel lent me a booked called Happily Ever After which was about marriage. Jan from Church lent me a book called Into China which was about a Chinese missionary and I bought a book called Intimacy Ignited which I plan to finish in the next few days which is basically about sex within marriage. All Christian based books.

What was the best film of 2009?
Hard to remember what I’ve seen but Marley and Me was the first movie I’ve actually cried in and it was a beautiful story. I plan to buy it!

What change would you like to make to your life in 2010?
The biggest change I WILL be making is changing my name from Carmen Owen to Carmen Gadenne (even feels weird to type) and I’d also like to develop more patience during 2010 as I’ve noticed this year I can snap easily.

What change would you like to see in the world in 2010?

I’d like to see people thinking a little more before they do things like chop down trees, waste water and just generally take our world for granted. Not sure what the likelihood is of that happening though.

I've added some pictures of the bigger events or things significant to me during 2009. Enjoy!

Brett and Kate's wedding

Poppy's 80th Birthday

Selling Jeff's Skyline which I was SOOOO happy about!

Our Engagement Party on the 28th February!

Home Group on Tuesday nights. This picture is at Aaron and Rachel's old house however it was also at other people's places each week.

Josh and Kate's wedding which I couldn't make it too but Jeff was a groomsmen

Seeing 2009 in with my friends and Jeff

Giving Brett and Kate their photobook just a few days ago for Christmas

Kitty arriving at Jeff's Dad's house.

My gingerbread house

Chris' graduation

First trip away with Jeff. We went to Rockhampton to visit his friends.

Simon and Jan's wedding on the 13th September

2009 was the year of Chai Lattes yummm.

We got a fair bit of flooding

And a HUGE bush fire on the coast

We explored reception places and settled on Maleny Manor

I visited the Guylian chocolate cafe in Sydney with Mum, Dad and Chris

I got acrylic nails done for the first time and LOVED them!

Was a busy year of teaching

Had the most horrible class ever

but managed to make gingerbread men with them for Father's day!

Helped Aaron and Rachel move house

Suprised with beautiful flowers for my birthday. They smelt heavely!

Kevin gave us a coffee machine for Christmas. Thanks Big Kev!!!

Christmas day 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 15:19:00 +0000

After much anticipation and counting down, Christmas day is now over. It was a really special day with my family but I did really miss Jeff. He’s down in Sydney with his family. I’ll give you a rundown of what happened on my Christmas day and have loads of pictures to share with you on facebook.

We all got up at 8:30am and opened presents around the tree. Jeff’s dad dropped by to pick up Jeff just after 9am to take him to his family. After presents we all chilled out until it was time to get ready and head over to Nana and Poppy’s house for Christmas lunch. After lunch we had our Secret Santa presents which is always fun! My Secret Santa was Poppy and he gave me a tea cup, saucer and plate with a rooster on it (bit of a family joke from years ago when I made a clay chicken for art at school.) He also gave me a framed copy of Rules for Women Teachers 1915 which is quite interesting... I’ve pretty much broken every rule though. I’ll add a picture on facebook so you can read them yourself!

By far the best Secret Santa present was from my brother to my little cousin Morgan. She’s just turned 18 and is into drinking. Chris gave her a bottle of rum which was actually a rum bottle with Ginger Beer in it. That in its self would have been funny but she carried this bottle around all day, very proud of it and saving it for shots with Chris in the night time. By the time she opened it at night every single person knew it was ginger beer but her! She added it to her drink and said ‘Wow this isn’t very strong is it?’ and added more! After Chris and my Uncle sculling after the bottle each and the horrified look on Morgy’s face, she figured it out. Really very very funny moment!

Anyway back to Christmas day, after Secret Santa and dessert we opened presents! For Christmas I got a new Canon IXUS 100is camera, $55 movie money, a DVD from Chris, dip bowl and knife, spice rack, $150 in cash, face towel, lavender soap, mortar and pestle, silk scarf, towels, wedding guest book, lottery ticket so we can win $30 million and a voucher for my uncle to Tint our car!

In the night time we headed over to my cousins house and all jumped straight in the pool for an hour or so. It was so nice! It’s my Aunties birthday on Christmas day so we had a birthday dinner and cake before Sarah and I had a second swim. By the time we got home I was exhausted but really happy. I also got to chat to Jeff a few times during the day, he’s bring home MORE presents for me wooohooo! He’s had a lovely Christmas too!

Christmas eve and Christmas day 2009 were just great and I’ll always remember them especial since it was my last Christmas as Miss Owen and most likely at home! Very special!

Last day til Christmas!!!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:37:00 +0000

On the last day til Christmas... I was still awake from our night of shopping. Jeff had a nap at my house while I made him some breakfast and lunch for work. I also did some washing so he had plenty of clean clothes for Sydney. After he left for work I watched some TV and napped until 1:30pm.

In the afternoon I sat on my bed watching The Santa Clause whilst folding church brochures. While I was folding I hear over a loud speaker ‘Merry Christmas’ so I raced down the driveway with the camera to see Santa on the fire truck. They do it ever year, in 2005 we water bombed Santa... maybe again next year hey!

Uncle Greg and Aunty Jeanette came over at about 5am so I sat around with them having nibbles and chatting. They gave me an award, ‘Facebook Fanatic!”. I love it, think I should frame it above my computer hahaha! When Jeff got back from work we opened our last advent presents and he got a fire extinguisher and fire blanket while I got a $50 voucher for Pure Indulgence! Love it!

In the evening we dropped off to Jeff’s dads to give him a Christmas present then over to Brett and Kate’s for the family Christmas eve party. We had dinner, chatted, did the family circle and opened presents. I got a candle holder, incense and jewellery but I must say that giving is so much nicer then receiving. Jeff and I gave Brett and Kate a photobook of their wedding photos and they just loved it! In fact everyone did. They loved it so much that there was even tears! Was a very special moment with them!

After the family dinner we visited Kevin and then headed back to my house. It’s now 2am so I’m heading to bed before it’s light outside. Looking forward to Christmas morning! So I hope you’ve enjoyed the 12 days til Christmas as much as I’ve enjoyed writing about them.

Have a very Merry Christmas and don’t forget the true reason we celebrate, the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2nd Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:41:00 +0000

On the 2nd day til Christmas... I got up at 8am to get ready to head out with Rachel and Frank. I love spending time with my best friend and with her adore puppy! First we went to the vet then we met Jordan and had a very healthy lunch of salad rolls with him. As usual Jordan tried to feed me meat but he failed!!!

I must mention the cutest moment was when Rachel shut the glass sliding door and Frank ran straight into it. Too cute for words!!!!

On the way home we got caught in a big traffic jam on the highway, think there was an accident and the highway was closed off. Despite the delays, I got an extra long Frank cuddle! I wasn’t planning on it, but when I got home I had a little nap before dinner. I also folded another 300 church brochures.

When Jeff got back from work we drove down to Chermside Westfield for the 24hr shopping. We had a few things to get (not Christmas presents) and weren’t planning on staying too late but we didn’t get home til 4:45am. Jeff is working so he’s going to be one sleepy boy in the night time.

On our shopping adventure we managed to buy a doona cover on sale, latte glasses, a thermometer for our coffee machine and Jeffrey got new pants and socks for Sydney. We also had coffee and Vanilla Slice at the cutest coffee shop called French Twist! What a full on and great 2nd day it has been! By the way it’s Christmas eve eve!

3rd Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:32:00 +0000

On the 3rd day til Christmas... I decided to have a cooking day. I wanted to make vanilla slice and lamingtons. I started with the vanilla slice and what a disaster it was! The pastry puffed too much, I burnt the custard filling, the icing was too thick and when I went to cut it up the whole thing was like concrete and wouldn’t cut. I was very patient with it but in the end it didn’t taste good and wouldn’t cut so I just threw it away.

The lamingtons worked out just fine and tasted pretty yummy. I’d like to figure out how to make lighter sponge cake though but I imagine it just takes practice. It pretty much took me the whole day to finish cooking and I was feeling pretty yucky when I was done so I lay down to watch TV for a bit. I used a bit of my foot soak, scrub and cream which made me feel really nice along with my new facial products. I’m REALLY loving the results of using these, so worth every penny!

When Jeff got back from work we headed over to Bekky’s house for home group. We had lots of fun chatting and playing bible Categories. We were also blessed with some Christmas presents, thanks everyone we love them!!!!

I can’t believe it’s the 3rd day til Christmas!!! Jeff and I have some very busy days ahead of us so stay tuned!

4th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:16:00 +0000

On the 4th day til Christmas... I had such an exciting day... I did two loads of washing woohoo! Well it had to be done at some point. I did some washing for Jeff because he’s heading down to Sydney on Christmas day to spend a week with some of his family. I spent the rest of the day watching TV and listening to my audio bible. I’m a bit behind in my bible reading and have to get it finished by the end of the year which isn’t long. I’m going to start something different for my quiet time with God for next year but I’ll blog about that at a later time.

In the night time when Jeff finished work we headed over the Simon and Jan’s house to pick up the recording of ‘O Holy Night’ from church on Sunday. We ended up stay for a cup of tea and a chat for an hour or so. I’ve also bought home all of the newly printed church brochures which need to be folded and given to the post office to be sent out. I’ve now got 8000 brochures to fold and bundle into lots of 50! Big job but I don’t mind doing it while I watch TV. I’m just thankful that I can be a servant to my Lord and I pray He will continue to use me.

Also Jan gave me a whole heap of those tubes of herbs because she works for the place that makes them. So I felt inspired to make Basil and Feta pasta. I decided to cook some for me and some for Jeff's lunch the next day. It turned out really nice! I just cooked the pasta, drained it and added tomoato, onion, basil, olive oil, salt pepper and garlic. Cooked it and served with feta on top. So yummy!

5th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 05:58:00 +0000

On the 5th day til Christmas... we had a VERY busy day!!! First of all we went to church and Jeff and I worship lead together the Christmas carols. We also did an item where we sang ‘O Holy Night’ which Simon recorded. The church has now got a new sound system, recording equipment, a data projector setup and aircon. The best bit is that it’s all portable!

After church and morning tea we headed down to Brisbane, picked up Kevin and went over to our friend Ashleigh’s house. We haven’t seen her for quite a while and had a Christmas present to give her. We were very lucky and she gave us a recipe journal and some affirmation cards. Kevin also blessed us so much by giving us an Espresso Machine for Christmas. Thank You Kevin!!!! You have a lifetime of coffees at our house!

We picked up Ash and her friend Andrew headed to the big shopping centre for lunch. Jeff and I had Japanese takeaway which I thought I wouldn’t like but it was really quite yummy. I took loads of photos and we window shopped. Jeff looked in the Apple Store and Kevin looked in Telstra (you’d think they’d want to stay away from work on their days off!) I saw so many shops I’d like to look in a little more so we’ve decided to go back for the 24hr shopping on Wednesday!

After dropping Kev to his car and Ash and her friend home, Jeff and I went to Kevin’s church for a Christmas dinner (so yum) and church service. It was really good but I was also very tired! I got up at 8:45am and didn’t leave Brisbane til 8:30pm!!!! When we got home, Kevin dropped by and we made our first ever coffees with the Coffee Machine. They tasted great!!!!! I’m looking forward to many delicious lattes now!

I’m glad the 5th day is over because I’m exhausted but it was a great day and I don’t think my days will get much slower until after Christmas.

Check out some pics here!

6th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 05:27:00 +0000

On the 6th day til Christmas... I got up at about 9am and went shopping with Dad. First of all we went to one of his favourite coffee shops and had breakfast. I had the most delicious vanilla slice and a hazelnut latte. Yummmo! We did a little bit of Christmas shopping but tried to be quick because the shops are so busy at the moment. Dad bought his secret santa present which I can’t say much about but is very funny. I might blog about it after Christmas day!!!!

Dad and I always have a nice time when we go shopping or just out generally on a Saturday. We always have a nice coffee, yummy food and talk ALOT! The one thing I love about being an adult is talking and spending time with my parents more as friends than as authority figures. My relationship with both of them is so different now and I love it!

While we were shopping I caved in and bought the facial products I’ve been wanting for so long. I’ve held off because they cost a lot but I wanted them so they’d help me clear up my skin for the wedding. I’m now getting used to the routine of using them daily.

In the night time Jeff and I went over to his dad’s house and played with TimTam, had hot chocolates and practiced Christmas carols for Sunday church.

7th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 05:24:00 +0000

On the 7th day til Christmas... I got to have a sleep in and at lunch time Jeff and I watched a movie that Simon and Jan (the Pastor and his wife) lent to us called ‘The Cross and the Switchblade’. It was a fairly old movie but was alright. I didn’t see all of it though. I really enjoy just spending time with Jeff doing very little. He’s always so busy working 38hrs a week, travelling 3hrs per day, doing his online course and worship leading at church every week. I’m grateful lodge church is taking a break for Christmas because it means he doesn’t have to plan a message every second Sunday too. I’m very proud of him, he’s a very hard worker and gives all the glory to God which I admire about him. I love you Jeff xoxo

In the later afternoon we went for a drive and took photos with Dad’s SLR camera of things for the church website... in particular palm trees. Jeff has a design idea which we’re all looking forward to seeing. We took some happy snaps too!!!

After dropping in to visit Jeff’s dad and TimTam (that’s what he’s calling the pussycat at the moment) we went to the church and had pizza with Simon and Jan. The two men then played around with the new sound and data equipment while Jan and I had a really great chat. I’m grateful for such lovely people in my life. God really knows who and what we need most.

8th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:49:00 +0000

On the 8th day til Christmas... I rested for most of the day because my wisdom teeth on the left side of my mouth have been really hurting. When they started to feel a bit better I got up to find our house filled with all the different kinds of foods that I love! I also knew we had mangos before getting to the bottom of the steps because of the AMAZING smell!

For the rest of the afternoon I listened to music, listened to my bible, finished organising the last few Christmas presents and writing Christmas cards. The Lord also showed me a very special way to bless two people in Jeff’s family so I got to work on that. I’m so unbelievably glad that God uses me as His servant each day and I pray He will continue to do so!

During the evening I was left home alone which I didn’t really mind. Mum and Dad went for dinner to a client’s house, Chris was at a friend’s house and Jeff worked until late so he couldn’t keep me company. So I took this opportunity of peace and quiet to have a super yummy dinner, freshly home grown corn and a salad with baby spinach, mango, feta, cucumber, and avocado YUMMMMMMM! I sat in front of the TV and watched my favourite Christmas movie Miracle on 34th Street. It’s not really a traditional Christmas film but I have many special memories of watching it at Christmas time. I think I’ve seen it most years too.

It was a peaceful and relaxing 8th day!

I thought I’d leave you with a piece of encouraging scripture:
Then shalt though call and the Lord shall answer, though shalt cry and He shall say, here I am. Isaiah 58:9 Remember the Lord is always available. He’s never out of range or on anther call!

9th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:57:00 +0000

On the 9th day til Christmas... Rachel and I took little Frank to the dog beach for a long walk. It was just the perfect weather for a walk... I’ve got a touch of sunburn and my feet hurt from the hot sand and footpath so very warm. We had a great chat and I just love Frank, he’s gorgeous. I also quite enjoyed the exercise and plan to do a little more over the school holidays.

After our huge walk which took almost 2hrs, Rachel stayed for lunch and we had our favourite – chips and salad! We deserved it after walking so far. By the time she left little Frank was just forcing his eyes to stay opened awww!

I had a well earned nap in the afternoon and cooked my favourite pasta for dinner. Mum was out so either I cook or we have baked beans and I HATE baked beans haha! I don’t mind, I love cooking and everyone seems to like it too. Before Mum went out she made a HUGE batch of chocolate and macadamia cookies so we’ve all been snacking on those too.

I’ve pretty much spent the rest of the night blogging, listening to my audio bible and surfing the web. I’m feeling really good! I think being out in the sunshine gives you a boost!

10th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:21:00 +0000

On the 10th day til Christmas... I went to the hairdressers to get my hair cut! It’s been over a year so I really needed it. Now my hair feels and looks great. I’d really like to get it cut shorter but I’m leaving it til after the wedding next year. I also got a product to protect and set my hair after I’ve straightened it so I’ve been using the straighter. As a side note if you don’t have a GHD straightener I’d recommend you get one and you’ll never look back.

Mum and I did some grocery shopping after the hairdressers and picked up some very yummy food for the next few weeks – Mmmm Mango yoghurt! It was pretty warm today but I managed to get in a bit of a nap before getting ready for Chris graduation.

The QUT graduation was in the Concert Hall at Qpac and might I add kicked my dodgy graduation in the butt! We all got dressed up and headed down to Brisbane in the afternoon and while Chris got his robe and hat Mum, Dad and I had coffee and went for a walk around Southbank. We sat down near the pools and chatted for a while which was really nice.

The Graduation was really good and I had fun taking lots of photos. Afterwards Chris headed off with his friends and Jeff walked over from work to get a lift home with us. When we got home Jeff took me over to his house to see his kitty cat that his Dad is minding for us until we get married. I love her to bits so we spent some time playing with her before Jeff took me home. All in all the 10th day was fairly busy but great!

11th Day til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:43:00 +0000

On the 11th day til Christmas... I spent the very early hours of the morning (until about 4am) researching the cost and destinations for our honeymoon. We had a place in mind but looks like we can’t afford to go there and buy a house. It looks like we might have to settle for a much closer destination. We don’t really mind as long as we’re together.

After sleeping most of the day, Mum took me to a meeting with district office to chat about my job options in the future. Wouldn’t say it was much help but I also can’t say I’m bothered. I enjoyed my relief work and I also enjoy the freedom of not working every day. It’s just the paying off a house bit that makes me needing a job more urgent. I think we could still survive without me working full time but only just!

I also spent the early hours of the morning making a list of all the different places I will have to change my name. I have almost 20 different companies/organizations to contact once we’re married. I’m going to be a busy girl

Advent present number 14 was $20 which is always handy. Thanks Mum! Jeff’s was after shave which I really like the smell of!

12th Day Til Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:28:00 +0000

I can be a pretty lazy blogger so I thought to make up for the year I’ll write a set of blogs which I’m called

The 12 Days Til Christmas

I’ll blog all about what I’m up to for the 12 days leading up to the 25th December and add pictures if I can. (I’m getting a new camera for Christmas!)

On the 12th day til Christmas... I spent the day at church in the lovely air-conditioning that just got put in. We had to arrive early so Jeff could setup the keyboard as he and his dad played the song that Jeff wrote as a special item this morning. It’s a beautiful song called ‘There is One God in Heaven’.

Our Pastor, Simon has been preaching a series on Prayer. Last week he spoke about being ready to do the work God wants when you pray. I liked the way he put it – pray with your shoes on so you’re ready to go! And this week he spoke about asking God to do things but not telling Him how to do them. God answers our prayers all the time but not necessary how we thought He would. It was a great message and really gave me a good kick into action as I’ve been lazy with my prayer lately.

After church we had lunch with Jeff’s Dad, the Pastor and his wife then spent a few hours discussing the design of the church website that Jeff is building. It was hard leaving the air conditioning but Jeff took me to Joyce Mayne to buy my Christmas present, a Canon IXUS 100is digital camera. We also looked at phones Jeff would like for Christmas as his has got a massive crack through the middle of the screen.

At night Jeff took me back to the church and Pastor Simon setup all the sound equipment so we could practice the Christmas carols for next week’s service. Jeff and I are going to worship lead together and do a special item.

The 12th day til Christmas was actually very busy, I hope there not all like this one!

Owen Family Traditions

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 18:31:00 +0000

This is my very last Christmas at home as Miss Owen! Next year we might just still be living here (if we don’t have a house yet) but I’ll be married to Jeff. Thinking about this fact made me reflect on my 23 years of Christmas with my family and some of the family traditions we have built together.

Putting up the Christmas tree on the 1st December

An advent calendar made by Mum. We get to open a little present each day until Christmas eve.

Opening our presents at home as a family in our PJs.

Lunch with my extended family at either a restaurant or at someone’s house

Celebrating my Aunty’s birthday in the night time

Sending out Christmas cards

Going Christmas present shopping for the family

Christmas cooking of some kind

I always remember santa coming down our street on the fire truck

Secret santa with the extended family which seems to never be a secret!

Always getting dressed up in red and green for Christmas day

Putting up the Christmas lights

Watching Christmas movies (Miracle on 34th is my favourite)

Going on a holiday 3 days before Christmas (we haven’t done this for a long time though)

I’m sure that Jeff and I will come up with some of our own Christmas traditions and things that we will do each year to celebrate the festive season. Now that we’re engaged things have changed at Christmas quite a lot as we have to see both sides of the family and have more gifts to give out but it’s still fun. I’ve spent a fair bit of time taking photos of my last Christmas and making it extra special by doing things I’ve always wanted to like making a gingerbread house, lots of cooking, Christmas music, decorating and lots more!

Gingerbread Makes it Feel Like Christmas!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:01:00 +0000

This Christmas seems to be one of much gingerbread! I decided to make gingerbread star cookies for my friend’s gifts and decorate them with smarties and chocolate freckles. I also decided to try my hand at making a gingerbread house. I’ve seen them so many times in shops at Christmas but never thought I could actually make one. Well it took a few days and much patience but it now sits at our front door as a decoration. I plan to take it with me on Christmas day to share with the family. Mum and I are also going to make a gingerbread Christmas tree thing which I’ll take pictures of. But for now I thought I’d leave you with my recipe because it’s really yummy. You can also check out my Christmas pics here.

Gingerbread Recipe

Ingredients

125g butter at room temp

Half cup brown sugar

Half cup golden syrup

1 egg separated

2 and half cups of plain flour

1 tablespoon of ground ginger

1 teaspoon of mixed spice

1 teaspoon of bicarb

1 cup icing sugar

Food colouring

Lollies to decorate

Method – Dough

1. Turn oven on to 180 degrees and line trays with baking paper

2. Beat butter and brown sugar until creamy

3. Add golden syrup and egg yolk

4. Sir in ginger, flour, mixed spice and bicarb

5. Mix until a dough forms

6. Cover and put in fridge for half an hour (I never do this though!)

7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface

8. Cut out the shapes and put on baking trays

9. Cook for 10 – 12 minutes or until golden

10. Leave it to cool so the gingerbread goes hard

11. Decorate

Royal Icing

1. Put the egg white in a clean bowl and beat until soft peaks form

2. Slowly add in the icing sugar

3. Add colouring

Acceptable Conversation

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:03:00 +0000

As of late through bible study, church and prayer with God I’ve been thinking a lot about a certain bible verse. 1 Peter 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation. The first thing I learnt about this verse is that it’s not just referring to what we talk about but the conversation of our whole lives – how we live our life.

This is not just a post for others to read but for myself as well. Lately it’s really been bothering me when I look around at Christians in general and listen or look at what they are doing that others (whom may not be saved) can see or hear. Some of the things I hear come out of the mouths of Christians are disgusting and totally opposed to the gospel. Some of the things I see them partaking in are even worse!

I’ve heard so many times people who don’t believe in God talking about how Christians are hypocrites or judging them for things they do. I think it’s fair to say that eyes are more on Christians as people expect us to always do the right things, they do forget that we are only mere humans. However I strongly believe that it’s very easy to take our salvation for granted and go about life as usual. Once you proclaim the good news of God and that you are a Christian you need to realize that the old has pasted away and not take it so lightly. Things in your life MUST change and not just for a little while but forever. You need to be prepared to get rid of anything rotten or dishonouing to God now or even in the future.

Ephesians 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

We are changed and we need to act like it! I also think everyone needs to keep a close check on their lives, what is coming out of your mouth as I see too many times people speaking things that belong in the world not in heavenly places – which is where our conversation is! Philippians 3:20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

Now don’t for a second think that I believe God wants to steal away our fun or having a laugh. I’m not saying we must talk of God and only God 24/7 or we must be perfect and proper all the time. Noway! I’m saying keep away from the dirty jokes, don’t say nasty things about other and be VERY careful what you write on the web!!!!! Come on guys, everyone can read what you type on facebook or twitter!!!

So don’t let yourself be deceived by worldly conversation or living because you have the eyes of the world on you as well as your Lords. You never know the difference you could make in someone’s life by being faithful to God and His word.

Happy Birthday to Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 03:50:00 +0000

I know this post is a tad late but better late then never I say. One week ago today was my 23rd birthday and I just wanted to thank everyone that made it extra special by sending their love and best wishes. I must have got over 30 messages by text and facebook! Gosh I felt loved.

I spent my special day at home (TRACER didn't call me woohoo) and went out for dinner with my family at night time. I got lots of lovely presents: a GHD hair straighter from Mum and Dad, money, two bunches of flowers, gift vouchers, bundle of things from Kevin, picnic mat, sewing cushion, cheese knive and phone cover.

On Saturday Jeff's family had a BBQ where we celebrated my birthday and another family member Emma too! I'm a very lucky girl and couldn't have had a more special day so thank you everyone!

Here Comes November Again!

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 04:19:00 +0000

November seems to come around very fast each year. I still remember writing this post about November last year. Usually I'm very excited because it's almost my birthday but this year I'm just very tired and I guess a bit overwhelmed with planning a wedding. My birthday is on Thursday (2 more sleeps) and I decided that truly I have everything I could ever want and feel very content. I'm just going to have a small dinner with my family, no fuss! I couldn't be happier. Rachel took me out for coffee and cake yesterday which was a lovely suprise and really really nice! Thanks Rachel :)

Plenty of other things have been happening in the world of Carmy and Jeff. I'll give you a small update:

- We bought a HP mini laptop from our friend Jason with a portable DVD/burner.

- Jeff has discovered white TimTams... I'm pretty sure he thinks they've changed his life hahahaha! We don't seem to be without them at home now.

- Term 4 has actually been quite busy for work and I've been working at Peachester, GCCC, Glenview and Beerwah.

- We finally found time to wash and polish Dobo (the Polo) and it's paint came up beautifully. We couldn't be happier.

- We celebrated 7/11 by having free surplees (so important in our lives hahaha!)- We found time for a date night at long last. Toscan's and San Churros Mmmmmmm!

- My wedding dress is half made and looking beautiful

- Jeff has been trying to get all the boys suits and ties sorted out

- I spent $28 and bought a new LCD screen for my camera, hoping Jeff can put it in and will be able to take nice pictures again.

- Totally paid off Jeff's loan and have offically started to save for our house woohooo!!!

I've also started a wedding blog so I've moved all my wedding posts over there and will continue to update it. Check it out - Our Wedding Journal

23 things before I'm 23

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 06:01:00 +0000

Talia just updated her blog with a post about 23 things she'd like to do before she's 23. Well I just realised that I'm 23 in just over a month so this post is more of a list of things I'd like to or need to get done by then.

1. Get up to date with my bible reading. (I'm a fair bit behind!)

2. Start organising christmas presents

3. Clean out the Dobo... he's looking a bit messy

4. Get some more teaching days

5. Book someone to make our wedding cake

6. Go walking more often

7. Plant some herbs in my side garden

8. Totally pay off Jeff's loan

9. Get my burner working again

10. Burn a CD of wedding photos for Jan and Simon

11. Continue to pray for Jeff and his young adults study group

12. Cook a little more

13. Blog a little more

14. Buy one thing from my wedding list

15. Eat healthier

16. Less chocolate more salad!

17. Continue saving my gold coins

18. Continue saving for our house

19. Buy the ribbon for our invites

20. Get my camera back

21. Sort out my centrelink issues

22. Give my room a bit of a spring clean

23. Decide what I'd like for my birthday!

By God's Grace

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 04:24:00 +0000

12 Months and 15 days
By God's amazing grace things are starting to really come together for our beautiful wedding. I've been thinking about it so much that I even had a nightmare about the colours we picked out hahaha! I was so glad to wake up! More then anything I'm excited about being a wife to my amazing future husband Jeffrey! We've both been talking a lot about being married and we absolutely can't wait!

I'm so grateful that we decided to have a long gap between engagement and wedding because I can make sure everything is well and truly organised. Slowly but surely it is and I'm so grateful for the help I've been getting from family, friends and of course Jeff! I'm especially grateful that God is in everything that we do.

This week we got all the bridesmaid shoes and we also bought the paper for the invitations (because it was on sale woohooo!) Talia has given me some awesome invitation ideas which I've incorporated with mine to come up with what we'll be having! But Jeff was the clever bunny who came up with the main idea just as Mum and I were walking out the door to the paper shop. I'm so happy that he wants to be involved in everything... even the paper! We're going to check out suits on Friday which he's quite happy about.

Bad news is that I took out my camera on Sunday and it's screen (not the glass, the LCD) was all cracked and almost impossible to read. I have to send it away to be assessed and find out if it's covered by warranty or not. I bet it will take ages though!

That's about all that's been happening. I'm also on school holidays and am starting to do a little bit of exercise each day. I enjoyed my time teaching the Year 1/2s and I've added a few pictures here or what we got upto. We also helped Rachel and Aaron move house which you can check out here.

Siman and Jan's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:36:00 +0000

Jeff and I had a busy weekend as we had two birthday parties and a wedding. Our Pastor got married on Sunday after church and I sang at the wedding as well. It's was a really beautiful ceremony and we got to see the Pastor who's going to marry us doing a service. It was only a small service but it was truly beautiful and very special to see two people who you could just see God wanted together!

It made me feel extra excited that we got to see the Pastor who's going to marry us doing this service. We got to chat to him about starting our pre-marriage counselling and about the wedding in general. We're going to do 3 sessions next year and will be travelling to Rockhampton for one of them at least! I think Jeff is pretty happy about that as he loves visiting everyone in Rocky!

We've started to talk about how we'd like our ceremony to take place, how we'd like our vows to be said and who can do what. We're also going to sing so trying to figure out where to fit that in. It's really important that our wedding is something that will honour God because we wouldn't be getting married if it wasn't for Him. We're also going to have a lot of non-Christians present so we definitely would like a small message to share the gospel!

noreply@blogger.com (Jeffrey and Carmen) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

I don't really like to write negative blogs but I need to share about whats been happening at the moment. At least I can read back on this blog and remember how I felt night now. So things are feeling extremely full on and to be honest just a little too overwhelming!

School

My class at school is less then well behaved, in fact they are horrible. I seem to have behavour problems coming out of my ears. Now lets get one thing straight, just because it's stressing me out DOESN'T mean I can't handle it. I'm handling them quite find but it is very stressful and a lot of extra work. The school performance is the most stressful part as the school expects a good performance but my class can't stand still let alone sing and do actions! I'll be extremely happy when it's over on Wednesday night! Mum's coming in to give me a hand for the next two days which is a HUGE blessing!

Wedding Planning

Yes this is very much fun but getting down to the nitty gritty is a bit stressful... most likely because I'm thinking about it on top of my school stuff. At the moment I'm trying to find bridesmaid shoes that will fit and suit each of the 5 girls. I found some really pretty black shoes but I'm not sure if they will suit their dresses! I'm also thinking about invitations and have been making some practice ones! I think I'll put the planning aside until the school holidays! It's also hard because I have an idea of how things will look in my head and it NEVER works out the same. I just have to cancel my thoughts and look at whats in front of me.

On top of all that I fell down the steps yesterday and my leg is so very sore. I can't really bend down at the moment! Must've fulled a muscle in it. Oooweeeeee. Hopefully it gets better quickly because I have to be at school all of this week.