February 24, 2010: Seattle

I sent this postcard almost exactly one year ago- Feb. 24th, 2010. I remember I wrote it in the hotel lobby of the W in downtown Seattle. I had just gotten off the phone with my mother who was sharing about her trip to Florida to visit her then boyfriend at the time. I was having a great time with Kyle and with Tex and it was a great road trip. I have some favorite pictures from that vacation out West. However, life could not be more different a year later. My mom is now married. I did not move to Indiana like I was scheduled when I left for the Seattle trip. I am focused on physical health, and last year I was intimidated after an intense bout with bronchitis. I was unable to communicate at the time how I was struggling, and now I can- and am finding myself the strongest I have ever been emotionally, mentally, and spiritually... ever.

This postcard encourages me that on February 24, or 27th of 2012 that anything is possible. Anything. Absolutely anything. That this life is grand, bigger, and more amazing then anything you can think will, could, or might be. It on its own... is fantastic.

Where were you a year ago today?

What were you doing?

What were you thinking about?

What was about to happen that would rock your world?

What were you looking for? Hoping for?

Did you find it?

Were you laughing? Were you sharing?

How are you better today, then you were then?

Are you amazed more that life goes by so quickly, and yet slowly?

Are you someone you love more now, then you understood then?

Did you know that you were going to be ok? Did you really believe it?

Number 9 says: Happy. It's true though I wasn't completely. I was happy in moments and days because I was distracted and free... but I have learned how those things are fleeting.

A year later I am happy because I'm focused and secure. And even in my struggle, hurt, and own mania- I know joy and love more sincerely right now because a year later... I grew up. I changed. I found my voice. I remembered. And I continue to be found where it matters most. In my relationship with JC, and by being able to share deep, authentic, and real love with those that continue to pursue me.

Number 9 today... says Happy. In the way that matters most.

Next year... what will I say? I can't wait.

What about you?

What would you write on a piece of card stock and place a 28 cent stamp on,

to capture this time, moment, and experience?

Share. I'd love to hear about it.

Self.

1) Sunset Evening View

2) Starbucks: Original

3) Kept. Came. Laughter.

4) Beautiful Weather

5) Photography. Several Favorites.

6) Time with BFF

7) Ease in group dynamic

8) New adventures

9) Happy.

Richmond Picasso: Matty Hypes

Yes... he deserves a gold star and blue ribbon for two postcards in one week.

He's just that supportive of me, my ideas, dreams, and heart.

Seriously. Most loyal and most amazing best friend ever.

Matty. Thanks. Love you to the moon and back.

Kurry,

BC & I just finished walking around the Picasso exhibit here in Richmond. I never realized the diversity in his portfolio. It made me wish we had more museums in Lex (not counting Stonewall's). We should come to RVA more often, just throwin' that out there.

Smooches,

Matty

Sock Monkeys: Matty

I have been thinking about this post for a couple of days. I got this postcard on Saturday, and in the midst of some other happenings in my house I was not able to get it posted. The writer does not really need an introduction... if you know me, you know him. You've either met him in person, or you've met him in my stories.

The fact is. Matty is the most loyal best friend I've ever had. Our friendship has had growing pains, and easy tides. We've explored different parts of the country, and we've recreated favorite ethnic dishes at home. He knows my whole family, and my brother Bill is his greatest fan.

As I write this I am remembering an email I wrote a couple of days before Thanksgiving. The night before I had a hurtful conversation with someone and I was giving him the little update. In contrast to the way I had been treated, I think for the first time I had the words to describe to Matt how I felt about him...

"You have always been an incredible stable and loyal force in my heart, life, and pursuit of Christ- and in recent months I have been so humbled and amazed at the way that in our friendship- known, tried, true: how we are continuing to grow in a more special way as brother and sister pursuing Christ... thanks for always having my back and protecting me in groups of gossip, and celebrating life with me in groups of love."

We drive each other crazy. And my Bridal Christmas season has impacted our friendship... but I love him. He's an amazing brother and best friend, and my heart aches with joy and anticipation when I think of meeting his wife and kids one day, and all the stories we will be able to share with our families about the adventures, love, and laughter the Lord blessed us with when we met all those years ago.

Kur,

Found this and thought it would be a great postcard! I'm really excited for House Dinner tonight, Cashew Chicken in the best! HD at your house is always special since that's where it all began. Thanks for being you.

Smooches

Matty

p. Sock monkeys are taking over. Watch out Teddy Bears!

Disney: Jeni Stegman

Jeni Stegman is mother to Mandy Stegman one of my favorite BFF's ever. Jeni recently was in Disney World and sent me a postcard. She's amazingly wonderful. I admire the way she's passionate about family, and her daughters, and I don't doubt that she would do anything for either one of them. Including cleaning their cars, rooms, and laundry (she did this when she'd come visit Mandy during her residence in VA).

Jeni makes me laugh, and drives me a little crazy. I think these two things are mutual. But I love her. She creates a home for me in Ohio, and opens her door each time. When I lost my passport she came to the rescue in Paris, and I felt so incredibly loved by her "take no prisoners we will get this back" approach. We got it back. She was a huge factor in that. Her friendship that day was priceless, and more then that- she was a Mom to me, and well... that means more then any postcard or intro to her could ever say.

Thanks Jeni for the Disney love, it was great motivation as I get excited for this fall and the Half Marathon!

xoxo

Kari,

Just finished my visit with Mickey & Friends.

They were wondering when you are gonna come visit them again!

Hope to see you next week!

Jeni

Green Door Random Thoughts 2.16.11

Green Door photograph is courtesy of Santorini. Favorite place in the world I have ever been. Next to Italy, of course.

Random Thoughts of Today: 2.16.11

1) I am not a morning person. But I aspire to be. I don't like talking first thing after I wake up- I need a good hour to warm up to the day. I wish I loved mornings more because I would love to start the day with a good work out.

2) I love my new queen size bed- but Gracie still takes up more then her portion. I love that she won't get up on the bed until she's given permission and that when she's not under the covers- she sleeps with her head on the pillow like a human.

3) I used to be an avid reader. I miss it. I don't know what I do with my time now that I've stopped reading so much. I have so many great books waiting to be started (and 8 pages of Harry Potter to finish)

4) I daydream everyday about my Spring plans. I ache for skirts, Rainbows, t-shirts, and sunscreen. Ache so much. Come faster.

5) I'm thinking about breaking up with Diet Coke for good. Yes, I'm serious.

6) I love this green door. I want to move to Santorini.

Feb 6-12 Recap

My sister Krystal and I took a little road trip this summer. One of our stops was to our summer home below. Just kidding. But we did visit Hearst Castle: and LOVED it. Everything about it. Just a little recap from last week a little bit late... this post begins the massive updating! Enjoy!

Feb 6-12 Recap

Self:

1) Obviously the Super Bowl- which already had its own postcard.

2) Met Chad for a 2+ hour coffee date. We walked towards W&L and sat on a bench (I heart benches) and I mostly listened. I don't think I've ever enjoyed Chad more than I did during that afternoon pow wow.

3) Quiet day off was uber productive! Though I am still slacking... a lot.

4) The weekend was intense. I know that is always is. But for some reason Saturday felt less fun and more stressed.

5) Holly and I chatted for a little while. I love that we can go so long w/o being in touch but once we talk its like she and I never fell out of touch. The Lord does such great things in our friendships- I so often see that with Holly. She's truly a gift. Love her.

6) Otherwise uneventful but altogether full of goodness with Packers, Chad, & Holly.

Love.Love.

me

Passport Lost: Paris 2009

A few years ago I learned one of the biggest lessons about trusting God in all circumstances and situations while in Disney Paris. I lost my passport on a ride. And after hours of talking to people at the US Embassy, and trying to sort out how I would obtain an emergency passport before my departure the next day to Greece, I was still left without much of a plan.

I left for dinner with the Stegmans whom I had met up for one day of fun out of five weeks of solo time. In the midst of dinner shortly after I said that I knew and trusted God, Jeni's phone rang and my passport had been found. I have written a lot about that day, how I felt, and what that experience meant to me on my personal blog articulating all things I think. I learned so much that day, and those weeks away I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to go. This small blurb about that trip almost seems disrespectful to everything that I learned!

Yesterday in the midst of an incredibly difficult circumstance I found myself remembering that day in Paris without a passport with the Stegmans. I remembered how joyful I was and how much I knew that I was safe. That I was not in control, and how that was a good thing. I thought of this postcard that I sent a friend in the States, and as I went to sleep I thought how so much of this postcard from that day, is exactly what I would have said about yesterday. Thankfully some of my favorite postcards I've ever sent were used in compiling my scrap book and so I have them scanned for my own copies. So... its the Sentimental Sunday offering this week.

I have a bunch of updates for tomorrow- but today will leave this simply to close out a very intense weekend.

June 15 The Most Intense Day Ever...

"I cannot begin to describe what the experience of yesterday has done to my heart. I start crying when thinking about it too long- and I am so moved by the way that the Lord carried me, and how in a way that is typically impossible for me... I let him. The park was great- there was much left undone but I feel confident that I will be there again. I laughed and was excited about it all- and even in the midst of devastations the peaceful calm and trust that I was ok..."

ERMS: Katie Raymond-Santo

A blast from the past. A good one. Thanks to Facebook a childhood best friend and I can continue to be in touch. We can post random jokes. Funny things found online. Mostly, we are able to remember. I admit that sometimes I get incredibly consumed in my adult life that I am not able to just reflect on the goodness that came from growing up in my small town (which after living in the small town of Lexington, I realize that Ridgefield: not so small).

Katie and I used to meet up everyday in the summers and ride bikes into town. We'd get Hot Dogs for lunch at Chez Leonard, or we'd get pizza at Venice. We'd laugh and gallivant. We went through a phase of being obsessed with playing tennis, even though we were not very good. We fought a lot, I think that's fair to say... and I know that it was truly because we are both incredibly passionate and stubborn people. I always told Katie what I thought, and she always made sure to do the same. A few years ago when I was in Ridgefield we met for dinner. Not a single thing was different. We laughed. A lot. And we drove around having nothing to do, just wanted to continue the evening remembering our childhood and teenage years. Like the "Invisible Man" music obsession, The View, days in the City, the 8 hour phone conversation we had once as we hid in our bedroom closets (I don't know why we just didn't hang out that day). Getting thrown out of English class for uncontrollable and contagious giggles. So many more come to mind as I write this, that I can only smile.

I think we all have people like this in our lives. That regardless of the time, distance, and space that when you correspond its just like there was no time since the last time. Thanks to Facebook we can be more in touch, and her contribution to this project came as a very warm and tender surprise. It's encouraging to know that whom we have loved and known we will always love and know. The shape of the friendship changes as the landscape of our lives do- but I know that without a doubt that whenever Katie and I are in the same place again, we will laugh... and that the stories I will tell my kids about her will always have her be the crazier one. Because... she always was.

Words fail my love and gratitude for your arrival in my mailbox.

It completely, like all the others ones have before it- took me by surprise.

Loved it. AND go Hallmark for printing postcards!! How fun!

Hey Kari-

We certainly were the "Queens of ERMS," right? Remember the days of laughing in Mrs. Vikstrom's class or hanging out with Mrs. Kehoe in the office? Wouldn't it be cool if life were that "simple" now? :)

I wouldn't trade those days for anything. They gave me so many memories that I will be passing along to my kids one day. "Yes, your Aunt Kari was a little more crazy than your mom."

Love you!

Katie ;)

WFR: Ashley Hamilton

Ashley Hamilton loves taking pictures, Jesus, the Ocean and sunshine, and of course she also loves People and Young Life. We met in 2003 when I came down to Rockbridge from Connecticut to do Summer Staff. She was a fixture at camp the entirety of my 4 years on Young Life Staff, and was even one of my store summer staff girls one summer. She talks about as fast as me, and is full of energy. We have a lot in common, and its no surprise that when we are together that there is always a lot of talking.

She moved to Washington Family Ranch last fall to learn all she can about Mark 2 Ministries which runs a program with Young Life there. Today I got her postcard and could only smile as I looked at the picture, a place I spent some time last year myself. WFR is a completely different Young Life Camping experience for those who work there. I sometimes miss in the chaos and accessibility the things about being in Antelope brought me. Learning how to go without "running to Walmart quick" for a forgotten dinner ingredient was the biggest one! Mostly. It's quiet. The stars shine bright, and when the moon is full you can see clear across camp without the need for lights. It's a special place in my heart, always will be... and to open my mailbox today and read that a friend is having a sweet journey of growth and exploration with Christ while living there for a season- just made me smile.

Ashley. Yes. Coffee in Lexington next time you are in town. For sure.

Thanks so much for being part of this project, it really means more then I can say. I am glad you think its a genius project! It's been amazingly fun and different then I ever expected!

xoxo Kar

Kari!

Greetings from the West Coast! How's life in Virginia?

I often find myself missing the little things of that fine state.

I think this post card idea is genius. I hope you are doing well, Kari. I hope and pray the Lord is teaching you lots & loving you well. I think that I can honestly say that I've never learned as much as I have about the Lord and about Christ and myself as I have in the last 4 months since I've moved to Oregon It's been a very sweet journey that I would love to share over coffee the next time in Lex if you 're up for it!

Ash Hamilton

Venice: May 30, 2009

Yes... I've been in an Italian frame of mind. So today, this Sentimental Sunday a reminder of what was written from Venice. I can almost feel the ambiance when I recall these moments. Loved it. In my life this day and time will forever be beloved.

Self...

1) Harry's Bar for tasty treat per Matty... a moment between friends.

2) Alleyways, window shopping, getting lost in the maze of walkways, bridges, and canals.

3) Lunch on the Grand Canal. Eavesdropping on the ladies sitting next to me while eating pizza and people watching.

4) Black linen dress. No watch. Quiet moments of beauty. Priceless.

5) Return here. Even if only to dance in the Square.

K.

Love & Peace

Yes.... Valentine's Day postcards to the loves of my life, and of course sent one home to document here. If you didn't get one, you need to get on my list! I love mail, and I LOVE tinyprints.com!

To the Blog- A lot of love and thanks for following this adventure in postcards! xoxo Kar

Family-

So far this year has been driven by change and BIG ideas. With this in mind, I have been made more tenderly aware of the love and blessings I have in my life. The true life fairy tale. Taking leaps of faith, and making bold decisions. For God and for Me. How those choices change everything. You are part of that. Some of you have played larger roles then others but regardless of how this sentimental greeting finds you, I pray that you know that you are loved. That you are missed in the distance between here to there, and the intensity of life's schedule. Thanks for being part of my story and helping to make this year so amazingly different and wonderful then the 29 before it. Happy Valentines Day!

Super Party

Super Party was planned three weeks before the game at work with Leah and Jessica. I didn't even have TV hooked up in my house. But their enthusiasm, and the Packers/Steelers combo won me over. We talked about this party endlessly. We were pumped. And I was particularly excited that they would meet my friends in Lexington, Gracie, and hang out at my house.

I have struggled in balancing a Lexington and a Roanoke life. It's not the commute. I actually have not minded the commute. It's the inability to bring full circle two pieces of my everyday that mean a lot. Super Bowl Sunday did that for the first time. Jessica and Leah were both comfortable and felt included, and its been hysterical hearing their first and lasting impressions of all of my friends.

Honestly. It was a victorious night. For so many reasons. It was complete and whole. I did not want/wish/desire a single thing to be different. Well... with the exception of wanting my brother Bill and sister Kristyn there. But besides that. Perfection.

Still obviously in an Italian state of mind. Below is a photograph of my shadow outside of Harry's Bar in Venice. Matt texted me directions on how to get there, and we shared a Bellini in spirit. It was delicious. Great.Great. Memory.


Sunday Super Bowl Party. Favorite night of 2011 So Far!!

So having the work besties meet my Lexington besties was hysterical.

1) We did an ice breaker. Thanks to Matt's random suggestion of "your name & fave Disney character". Most said that was favorite part of night. (Besides Packers winning).

2) The amazing spread of party food. A true collaborative effort. So delicious.

3) The photobooth is always a winning idea. The pictures are always so hysterical. Processing them? Not as much fun when there are over 600. Must do that today.

4) Watching my friends really enjoy each other. Everyone had fun. Jessica and Leah meeting the Lex crew and putting faces to all of the stories. Worlds colliding. I am thankful that the Lord has blessed me with great people, and that I have a passion for community. Love it.

5) Packers. Yes. Screamed. Happy. Joy for Brother!!

6) Texts from Carol Hypes... so cute. Love that she was "with" us at the party celebrating.

7) I went to bed around midnight. I slept through the night. Woke up at 9am. Slept soundly. Peacefully. Was the first night like that in easily months. Possibly years. Yes. Probably years. It was great.

K.

January 30-Feb 5th Recap

Picture from Venice, Italy. I have been in an Italian state of mind recently.

January 30-Feb 5 Recap

-So Black Swan was a weird movie. But it was artistic and creative and so of course I loved it. Ryan locking his keys in the car was just funny and thankfully it was warm outside while we debated what to do.

-I had 3 days off in one week. Praise the Lord. Days off are hard, but I am learning how to focus my mind in the struggle.

-Friday I went to Target and had the best afternoon shopping for my Super Bowl Party. I felt relaxed. I felt like me.

-Saturday Sangria Sessions continue. Jessica left Alexis and I to join a dinner party with her husband. It was great to sit and catch up- the couple before us at the bar left 1/2 a bottle of wine... it was so good. Alexis and I talked a lot about decisions and how making changes is hard. He's taken a lot of my advice and perspective to heart and its amazing to hear what comes of our Saturday Happy Hour nights @ Carrabbas. I always leave really thankful for Jessica and Alexis.

-With TV reinstalled in the house, watching it is weird but funny. There was a Glee marathon so I caught up on that. Cried during the wedding episode, "Furt".

-Last week Matty and I addressed the weirdness in our friendship. He pursued the conversation. He was bold and vulnerable. As I drove away from it I was deeply moved that someone who had felt replaced in my life--he fought for me and fought for us. I have been hurt by that word recently and it was healing to stand with someone who knew that they could share their heart and in turn hear mine. The fight? was dumb. We are back on track. It was just a weird phase. I think we've moved on now. No one could ever replace Matt. Ever.

Last week was good. Great even.

Favorite things Right now:

1) Avocados

2) Seafood

3) The Trenta size at Starbucks

4) Not the radio. Quiet in the car.

5) Basketball conversations with Mandy. So loud.

6) Sangria Saturdays

7) A really great night's sleep (rarity)

8) Random phone calls just to say Hi.

9) Mentos Spearmint Gum

10) Warmer winter days.

Love.Love.

Me

Virtual BFF: Sarah Haeck

It shouldn't be any surprise but it is every time.

Every time I open up my mailbox and find a postcard tucked inside.

I think what takes me back more is not that there is one, but usually who wrote it.

Today Sarah Haeck's friendship greeting arrived in the mail.

We have never lived in the same town.

We have never really hung out one on one.

We have never exchanged phone numbers.

But we are best friends. Virtual ones.

We know that if we lived in the same place we'd be two peas in a pod.

We would talk endlessly about all things that matter, and then a lot about things that don't.

She wrote me a postcard saying a lot of these things. And I love it. And her.

This blog was such a small idea. I'm so thankful for friends near and far that have contributed, and for friends that I wish lived closer so we could take our friendship to Target, the movies, Dinner's out, and laugh in person about all the things I know we would love and think funny.

Sarah. You are the best. Your message could not have come on a more perfect day. Thanks BFF!

Kari,

So I felt like I wanted to get in on all your postcard joys & stuff. You're so creative! You always have been. I chose my card wisely... as Matt always said to you he thought we'd be best friends if we lived closer. What's more fitting than 2 friends grabbing their teddy bears (or pillows) & a cup of joe or glass of wine & giggling over life & love. Imagine this is how we would be. My dear, know that someone is praying & thinking about you today. May God bless you richly & lavish his love upon you.

And: GO PACKERS!!

Sarah Haeck

Radio.

It's been a few days. I have had these two postcards waiting to be scanned since last week, and I have a few more written in my head just waiting to get on the card. However, life has been a little busy in recent days, but I'll be honest not so busy I have not had time. Just needed a break. Some time. It's been funny to get messages asking for updates on this blog, it amazes me how friends will keep up with me here instead of calling (I know its my busy work season, I'm not judging you, just acknowledging my inability to pursue communication well).

I am learning a ton right now. I am in a really vulnerable and strong place and I am thankful for it. I will get the thoughts that support this growth down on paper today, put a stamp on it and have its journey documented here. I promise.

Until then here are two from last week about the radio. The first one I wrote before I left for work on Wednesday. Then coming home from work I had the experience on the second one, and I only wrote it because I wanted to remember that the bizarre radio playlist happened. It was real. It meant something, but it didn't change anything. And sometimes I wonder how Jesus is at work, and how he uses every avenue to communicate with me, or get my attention. I just don't always understand what He is trying to say. Or remind me. Or convict me. Perhaps mostly, He is just telling me that He is real, and He is at work. Always. Always. Always. Through those I meet, friends I have, hurts I grieve, and in removing distraction so I could either shut the radio off, or be bold and listen. And wait. Wait. For what's next or what's coming. I am thankful that because I believe and trust in Him, I am made more bold and patient, more refined and tender. Changed and changing. So while I listened to song after song that meant something about a time, person, friendship, experience, growth, and loss... I am also able to acknowledge how different I am because I know the truth. He is the truth. All that from that radio... and yes thoughts of my radio friend whom will understand the meaning behind each song I heard, and knows that yes... I tapped my finger on the gearshift with my ring while I drove. Yes. I did.

Yes. Jesus still lives in the radio... but here is a list of my current favorite music indulgences... and frequent repeaters.

1) Parachute: Train

2) That's How You Know: Lori McKenna

3) F*in Perfect: P!nk

4) Rocket Science: Lori McKenna

5) Exit Wounds: The Script

6) If You Ever Come Back: The Script

7) Grenade: Bruno Mars

8) Firework: Katy Perry

9) Don't You Wanna Stay: J.Alden & K. Clarkson

10) I don't have a 10. :o)

My radio friend:

The other day I lost my phone in my house. I left for work without it and enjoyed the feeling of not being so connected to everything. However it made me pay attention to the radio because I wasn't talking. It was the most ridiculous 50 minute car ride. And I'm guessing you had to be there to believe it. But I prayed and I thought for the entire ride home. And was sort of speechless. Back to back I heard the following: Already Gone, Come Back to Me, Black Horse and A Cherry Tree, No Air, Umbrella, and Don't Give Up You Are Loved. If I had my camera there would be proof. Thursday, I didn't want to listen to the radio at all, and I found my phone. Life returned. But that 50 minutes? I just prayed. And thought. -K

Paris: June 13, 2009

I just spent the past five minutes fingering through a stack of old postcards trying to decide what was going to be the selection for today's Sentimental Sunday. I have often said that when I traveled solo I found myself at the end of whatever it was I was dealing with at home, and was able to really hear, see, know, and feel God. Unfortunately, I came home from my adventures and would often struggle to remember the epiphany from abroad.

In the summer of 2009 I went to Europe. I went and backpacked alone for five weeks. That trip was incredibly inspired, moving, challenging, and eye opening. Tonight I hosted a Super Bowl party for my work besties and Lexington Family. There are many things to mention about the experience I just had, but I think the one that most pertains to the selection below is that the girl that I have grown into, matured into, and have become is not far removed or different then the one who backpacked Europe alone. I am a lot like her. However, the biggest difference is that I, with my friends, am exactly peaceful, content, and challenged and in love with life and God IN her community as I was alone. It took awhile to get here. And there was a lot of stuff that happened to get to this place.

But tonight.

I know without a doubt.

It was worth it.

I pray to remember that when it seems like so much has been lost.

I didn't know yet what was coming in Disney or Greece when I wrote this postcard. And I didn't yet know what the future held at home. And not that knowing now changes anything, I understand that accepting it does. It changes me.

Thankful. For Paris. And for what came the next day before the Passport was lost...

June 13

Self...

1) Crepe man this morning.

2) The Eiffel Tower- larger then life

3) Versailles- ornate and majestic

4) The metro... I love public transportation.

5) Best writing found in airports.

6) One more day before Disney with the Stegmans.

7) Still thinking in Italian. But smiles, laughter are universal.

8) I miss Italy. I just can't help it.

9) Happy. Tired. Psyched for Greece.

10) Silence. Thought. Awareness.

11) Notre Dame... Apple.

Lexington Recap January 24-29th

Recap Jan 24-29

1) Dinner with Jessica and Leah. Dennis!

2) 5K on Treadmill. Just curious. Met a different part of me. Loved her.

3) Biggest Loser cut off! Stupid State of the Union.

4) Snowed in with Gracie.

5) Girl talk after House Dinner- so fun.

6) Friday.

7) Tradition: Sangria Saturdays. Laughing so hard. Loving every second.

8) The Running. I hate it. But I love it. I am changing. Its really fun and strange.

9) A much better week.

10) I miss my sisters. A lot.

11) Growing up and moving on. And letting go is sometimes easy. Though most of the time is just hard. Trying to stay focused and real. Open and vulnerable. Hard to not understand. Want to understand. But maturity says sometimes you never will. Growth. Heart is good.

January Recap: With Thanks

When this idea was born, I honestly had no idea what direction it was going to go in. I did not know what to expect from those who would follow it (if anyone would), what those that would comment would say, who would take the invitation and run with it (Talley: 2 postcards to her credit!), and what I would use the card space to say.

Sometimes I found myself wanting to pour out my entire heart on the card.

And other times I only wanted to highlight the good stuff. The great stuff. The stuff that sometimes passes too quickly.

Looking back on this collection so far, I am so incredibly thankful (already) that in the documentation of good and great, that the real was also articulated. The hard. The depth of real true, living breathing life. The challenging. I read those cards and I'm thankful that in the business of life, and the distraction- that there was a moment in the chaos that I was able to be quiet. Even if only long enough to write the postcard.

Looking forward to the next 11 months of this project. I have friends who are about to travel, and I'm excited to see what comes to my mailbox from their adventures. Mostly, having lacked the discipline to journal, I'm encouraged by the opportunity that this project provides to write... to write what matters. The other day I responded to everyone who wrote me this month, and I hope that in the coming months I will be able to continue doing that.

Thanks for the several of you who have followed each post, and written or asked me about how this is going. This idea was seriously born among two beloved siblings, and I am thankful for their encouragement to pursue it.

The month of January:

- 20 posts on the blog

- over 567 hits

- 6 guest contributors

- 4 Sentimental Sunday's

- countless emails of support and enthusiasm

- getting the mail: favorite part of my day.

Thanks Everyone!

Love: Sandy

Today I am introducing you to Sandy Vas, and her marvelous family.

I met Sandy (gosh, really how long ago?), over ten years ago. We were both involved in Emmaus, and she was the older sister my heart longed for my entire life (sounds dramatic, but with two older brothers, yes there was an older sister yearn in my heart that was unmet). She and Tony were friends, best friends before one day Sandy had a revelation at the kitchen table before this beloved friend, and realized that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with him. He knew that he loved her the entire time. She was a little slow. But together they moved forward and I was asked to participate in their wedding. A little later Lucas came. I moved to Virginia. We lost touch. I don't know how we reconnected, but I do know that since then I have again enjoyed her intentional conversation, questions, prayers, support, encouragement, love, mentorship, leadership, and sisterhood. There was no time lost in the quiet. We picked up exactly where we left off. Exactly... right there.

This past summer I landed in Connecticut from Oregon with four days before China. Graciously her girls let me move into their bedroom for a few days. I was scrambled in trying to relocate everything I had in my car to get ready for the month away. Her kids played with me and loved on me endlessly. Sandy and Tony talked to me honestly and frankly about the path I was on, and together they supported me during what was an incredibly painful time. I do not think I could have gone to China if not for their love those days specifically. Sandy gave me an idea that a friend and I should partner in prayer at the same time each day- in the time difference we would be praying at the same exact time. She assured me that the time would be sacred and intentional. Looking back on my experience in China there are countless memories and moments in which I hold tenderly close to my heart. But that time of prayer... each day after my lunch... was intimate and real and allowed me to be vulnerable before the Lord regarding what was left at home because I knew I wasn't praying alone. Honestly. It is what helped prepare me for my return home to Virginia, and to believe that anything is possible. Anything. That the bottom isn't the end, its just where you get to crouch down real low and jump. Up. To higher things.

I love her. And her family. While I do not wish to live in Connecticut again, I do wish that we lived right next door to each other and we could laugh about life, watch Grey's Anatomy together, and share how marvelously loved we are in Christ. Not to mention, I love those precious little people of hers.

On a side note, Sandy and Tony are independent distributor's for Send Out Cards. It's a great home business that is actually perfect for mail senders! It's a company that will print your cards, address them, put postage on them, and send them out from the comfort of your home. Their postcard is a beloved example of which. And their signatures? Are all theirs!

Their website is: www.sendoutcards.com/tonyandsandy

Kari,

Has anyone told you that they love you yet today??

We do!! MWAH!

Love and smooches,

Sandy, Tony, Lucas, Mary, Renee

xxoo