Your Thoughts.

It's strange to think that it was at Christmas time last year that this idea was born.

In light of all that this year brought, I am going to finish out this project for 2011 with a collection of favorites, best of's, and just consider each day what I would like to remember most as we close out this year.

I would love to hear what:

you've learned

have missed

have found

maybe even lost (Mandy always loses things, like cameras)

favorite movie, song, piece of scripture...

if you could relieve one night which would it be?

what do you think has left the largest impression?

send them in. I would love to include your closing thoughts of 2011 along with my own, and they will be put into the keepsake book when the year is complete!

Send them in:

2331 Murphy Lane

Winston-Salem, NC 27104

And an early but grateful thanks to Matt, Jessica, Seth, and Mandy for their multiple appearances this year!

Thanksgiving: Jessica Tyree

From Jessica. Whom I miss and love dearly.

Kari,

I count my blessings every time I think of you! God knew I would need a friend as amazing as you! Love you doll!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Jessica Tyree

last picture placed.

The last picture placed on the wall to complete the initial decoration of my new place here in NC. It's purpose was carefully considered- its placement instrumental to following through. To pray. It reminds me that through prayer and time of transparency with Christ that growth and healing begin and continue. It's hard. Sometimes it hurts more than it relieves. But its the truth. Sometimes I see the glimmer of the key reflecting in the mirror as I get ready- most of the time its hidden. But. It pushes me. To pray. And so it rests there.

Sunflowers.

brother.

Last week my brother had surgery- nothing incredibly worrisome, but surgery nonetheless. It heightened how much I miss him- and how valuable and meaningful our relationship has meant in my life. He's seriously the best. The next time I see him, we will be cheering on the Packers beat the Giants in NYC. I can't freaking wait. This man. Oh, I love him.

-sister

Fall: A Thought

I have had a very wonderful albeit overwhelming fall. This month began with the flu and quick recovery for my birthday. Which was followed by a visit from my dad- and now preparations for Thanksgiving. I think what I will remember most about this time is that vulnerability- transparency- love- friendship are a choice. And its important to hold onto those people tightly and appreciate both being known and pursued- but also chasing and running hard after and for Jesus. Happy. Growing. Incredibly Blessed and Loved.

;) Kar

Birthday: 11.4

Birthday.Weekend.

Was. Amazing.

Lots of my favorite things.

Messages from my favorite people.

Was celebrated and loved in each moment and detail.

Thankful for the old friends meeting new- and a night out to celebrate it all.

Each year. Just gets better. How blessed this life has been.

Like A Build A Bear: Matty

Of all the things Matt and I have exchanged, celebrated, and triumphed in our very long friendship... I appreciate most he knows exactly how to make me feel loved on my birthday. In the past 8 years he's thrown many parties in my honor- with perfectly chosen menu's and invitations. This year he brought his gift to me a few weeks early during a visit, and I left it neatly wrapped on my counter- waiting for the 4th. After I did my coffee and Gracie walk time on Friday I returned to the house, and sat to open his gift. It was perfect. I loved it. Very me. From his trip to Ireland this Fall. I will love it forever. Much like this card below.

Then I got this in the mail the next day, and next to Abernathy's artistic submission, this is my tie favorite card I've been sent since this project was conceived.

The day and weekend was full. I was surprised at every turn and felt loved in each nuance of a moment, and event of the day. Thankful for all the wishes, cards, flowers, gifts, surprise visitors, and friendship. My top 10 card will come this week!

Happy Birthday!

You are 2 feet into the next decade of your life and you are going big!

I know that NC is treating you great on this special day. This handmade postcard is packed full of hopes & love & prayer and just like a build-a bear, it was bathe.

Here to year 31!

Smooches,

Matty

Sweet Salone: Seth

Africa arrived the day before my birthday. Though its not a birthday postcard I've been told since its arrival. In any event I think what I love about Seth's most recent postcard is that besides the "hopefully I will see you in a few short weeks!" - because seriously, that's true. Is that he never misses to mention that the Lord is challenging and molding Him. The journey.

That's what this life is all about. The journey. Reflecting back to Christ. Sharing that.

Kari-Ann,

Once again, greeting from Sweet Salone! Holy Moly. I've been here almost 8 MONTHS! The Lord continues to challenge me and mold me. It has been an incredible journey thus far. I am very much looking forward to returning in January and being part of setting up the new outreach in TOGO. Hopefully (!) I will see you in a few short weekes!

Much amor,

Seth

ps. seriously these stamps are still ugly.

2012 Objectives: Kait

Of course Kaitlan would send somee cards.

This is the 2nd one. The first one is lost in the shuffle of random piles of bills/letters/pieces of paper. I will find it. After the initial one, I sent her a postcard with Jesus. This was her response.

I love it. And her. I miss her a lot now that life is in full swing here, and I've not been back to visit Roanoke since I moved nearly 3 months ago. What? Yes.

Kari (aka Rocket)

Thank you for sending me Jesus.

2012 Objectives:

-Vegas

-Roanoke Reunion

-Random Rollerskating

-Winston-Salem Dance Night

Smile, enough right?

Kait