Two in one day.

I know most people (including myself) don't post twice in one day, much less twice within an hour. But this post is simply to update you on Kristine and the baby, so it should be short.

Kristine's appointment was yesterday, and she received good news and not-so-good, but can be improved news. The good news: the baby is growing as it should and is healthy. The heartbeat is strong, as we heard through the doctor's thing-a-majig. The not-so-good new: Kristine lost weight again, this time two lbs., since our last visit. The doc informed her that he wants her to ever be eating or drinking something, even if nothing sounds appealing. As long as she keeps some food down, the baby will get the nutrition it needs and the mommy will still have what she needs to live on. Hopefully, she will get past the sickness within the next week. In fact, tomorrow marks the end of the first trimester.

That's it for now. As always, stay tuned.

The blessing of in-laws.

People are always hearing or telling about the annoying or frustrating things they have to put up with concerning their in-laws. "My wife's parents do this", or "my brother-in-law did that" always seem to end in how one wishes his or her in-laws would change, or be different. It's become a stereotype. In-law jokes are always a popular thing when looking for a good laugh. Why is that? Shouldn't someone cherish the in-laws he has? After all, you are the one who chose them by marrying their child. All that to introduce this: I love my in-laws, and it's quite obvious that they return the love.

This past weekend (and Monday), my in-laws came to visit us. More specifically, Kristine. After hearing about her ER visit, her family decided it was time for a much needed visit, simply to encourage and support us through this bittersweet time of our pregnancy. Kristine has been sick of late, and Friday, August 25, I rushed her to the emergency room by order of her OB-GYN's nurse. While there, they hooked her to an IV to get some fluid in her because she was dehydrated. After spending a little more than four hours there, they released her, but not before informing us that she had a UTI-- urinary tract infection. She was given a work release until Tuesday, August 29. Enter in-laws.

Saturday morning, without any warning whatsoever, Kristine's mom called saying they were on their way. She and Kristine's dad and brother were making an impromptu trip to see us. I started cleaning as much as I could without raising any questions. They called once they arrived, and I redirected them to a neighbor's apt. where we were hanging out. They walked through the doorway and, out of shock and surprise, Kristine was speechless. She was ecstatic to see them.

They stayed the entire weekend, helping around the house with chores and such. Dishes were done, laundry was getting caught up, rooms were getting rearranged. Her parents were generous enough to purchase a baby furniture set for Kristine's birthday, which contained a changing table, a bed, and a dresser. It didn't end there. Her mom, brother, and I started moving things in the guest room to make it the baby room. As we were doing so, her dad put the furniture together. The room looks amazing, as does the furniture. What a blessing!

Every person has his or her pet peeves, as well as his or her own annoying habits. But we get past it. Why does it stick when it's our in-laws? Who knows? But one thing's for sure about my in-laws. They're one of God's blessings to me. Thanks Mike, Shawn, and David. I love you all.

Stay tuned.

Back to school, back to school....

Well, school officially started Tuesday. I was not extremely thrilled to go back, but hopefully I'll get back in the groove of things pretty quick. Kristine is still in nauseau mode, and we have another appointment on Wednesday (Aug. 30). Hopefully it will be good news again. I also hope she'll be feeling much better next week. Well, that's all I've got. I actually need to get on to some school work. Stay tuned.

Three lbs. down, many more to go.

Kristine registered a three lbs. gain at the doctors office on Wednesday after a twelve lbs. loss at our previous appointment. The doctor was thrilled. Therefore, much to our joy, Kristine will not be going into the hospital. The doc did say he wanted to continue monitering her weight, so instead of one month visits we will have twice a month visits. She seems to be doing better lately, without the vomiting and less nausea. There will be a picture added on the website under "photopictures" and "baby pics". Oh, and as far as the gaining weight, I think we can manage. Till next time, stay tuned.

"It's only a day away."

Not even that, now. At 10:10 a.m. tomorrow, Kristine and I will be waiting for the doctor to call us into a small, almost claustrophobic room. And I'm a bit nervous. Kristine hasn't really gained much weight (if any), but I don't think she's lost any either. I'm just really anxious to see what the doc has to say. Hopefully he'll have good news. Continue to keep us in your prayers, and by us I really mean Kristine and the baby. That's it. Shorter than usual, I know. But you know what to do....stay tuned.

Dear Mr. Dave Gregg,

To better understand this entry, check the comments in "Baby Got Back".

I am sorry for neglecting to make a link to your website. I will immediately correct the situation. Anyone who cares to visit my website (jkwoodring.com) will be able to find a link to your website in the "links" section. As far as for Kristine, she seems to be showing improvement. She's kept food down much better recently and has also been eating more lately than she's been able to eat in about two weeks. Thank you all for your prayers and support. Please continue to do so, and stay updated with news on the baby and us by staying tuned.

Baby Got Back...

...and front, feet, face, etc. Here's the latest pic of "Baby" Woodring.

Also, we got to hear the heartbeat. It was amazing. As you can see, the baby is starting to look more baby-ish instead of blobish. The downside to our visit to the doctor today was that Kristine lost 12 lbs. since her last visit. The doc wasn't too pleased with that, telling us that Kristine needed to be eating as much as she can possibly keep down and not to worry about nutrition, but that the baby needs calories. We go back in a week and, if there is no improvement, she may have to be admitted into the hospital, so pray for her. She did get some medicine to help control the nausea, so we're hoping that will work. As far as the baby is concerned, it's healthy, which apparently is the main reason Kristine is so sick. That's it for now. Again, keep us in your prayers and, as always, stay tuned.

Something to blog about: A tribute.

I have absolutely nothing to blog about that I haven't already blogged before. Kristine is still getting sick due to growing a baby, I'm still jobless, and school has yet to start. However, because of my frustration with the lack of updated material on blogs and having to read the same thing over and over until the blog author decides to write again a month and a half later, I feel obligated to write. I wouldn't want to be one of those people I get annoyed with due to that. Anywho, one thing I can say (or write) is Kristine FINALLY got a checkup on her eyes, acquiring some new contacts and expecting a new pair of glasses by next week. Apart from that, nothing new. Our neighbors are our neighbors, our friends and family are doing well (as far as we know), and God is just as good as He's always been and always will be. With all about nothing said, I continue on to write a tribute. Here goes nothin'....

I met her on August 17th in 2001. Oddly, I didn't say a word to her the whole day. I constantly tried getting close to her, but never knew what I would've said if I had gotten the chance to talk to her. It was awkward that entire evening.

The following day was a fresh start. However, I again couldn't seem to say anything to break the ice. What was wrong! I never had had this much trouble talking to someone, much less a girl! Since I couldn't seem to do or say anything, Kristine did the work. "Can I draw a cloud on you?" What kinda question is that? A flirty one. I didn't get it. We all piled on a couple of vans to head to a concert and, as I got on the van, she climbed on and sat next to me. It was a marvelous ride. We talked and continued to get to know each other the whole time. As we arrived at the massive outdoor concert, we received our tickets and, subconciously brushing her hand on the way to our seating area, walked and talked with Kristine the whole way. I remember little about the concert, but a lot about the company. The two of us spent the whole time talking and contemplating about the idea of a relationship. The biggest obstacle was the two and a half hour difference between us. We decided before the night was over to give it a shot, leaving it in God's hands and doing our best to make it work.

We continued to date and, two years later, I moved in with Kristine's gandparents as a caretaker for them as well as a potential youth director for Hebron Regular Baptist Church. I never became the youth director, but I did become the teenage class sunday school teacher. Being closer to her made it much easier on our relationship, and we got to better know each other's habits and pet peeves. A little less than a year later, we were wedded. July 17, 2004 was a wonderful milestone in my life. I never want to forget it. We headed off for Arkansas, which would later become our state of residence.

Two years later, we're still residing in Arkansas where I'm attending seminary. Our marriage is strong, God-centered. Our relationship grows, bringing us closer every day. She is, as I found out five years ago, the love of my life. She always will be. I know she's nothing less than a gift from God. Speaking of which, God has decided to give us another gift, one that Kristine is graciously accepting, along with all that comes with it. Yes, it has been trying, but the outcome will be absolutely amazing. Come early to mid March, I may be writing another tribute. But for now, I say four very important and sincere words to my greatest friend:

I love you, Kristine.

Stay tuned.

Where to start. . .

Much has happened in my life since you've last read. Kristine has remained in morning sickness misery, I attended National Camp 2 at Bogg Springs, and now I am trying hard not to stress too much over trying to find a job while also preparing for school to start. A lot was and is happening to say the least. Therefore, let me fill you in.

As I said, Kristine is still not to her cheery ole self quite yet, but hopefully that will soon change. She was prescribed some medicine that, for what it cost, was well worth getting. It was a blessing for her to have, especially since I was at teen camp for the week. This miracle drug worked almost instantly, relieving her of her nauseating pain for a while. However, she only has about three tablets left, and she really wants to wean herself off of it so she can go on living without having to worry about taking a pill every day just to feel better. I try my best to be there for her and do what I can, but sometimes it doesn't seem to be enough. I hate seeing her so miserable, and I can't wait for this part of the pregnancy to end. I'm anxious to see her GAIN weight instead of lose it. She'll be adorable with a bubble-belly! Please pray for her.

As far as camp, the biggest letdown was the absence of my closest companion. Aside from that, camp was an absolute blast, as well as a big success. More than thirteen people were saved, which means thirteen more people get to know what Jesus is all about and will someday meet Him. That is better than frawesome! The theme for the week was embrace, and the idea was for people to embrace Christ, let Him embrace you, and find out what satisfaction really is. We are to embrace Him as the way, the truth, and the life. There is no other way. There is no other truth(s). There is no other life. Jesus is it. I think the message was clear. I definitely needed the time away from the reality of the world to focus more on the reality of Him. Needless to say, I had a blast. According to the students I had for the week, so did they. Pray that the week lives on, and pray for our new found siblings in Christ.

Now, about a job. I HAVE to get a job, and one that pays better than what I've got right now. I've been offered a position to help out with maintenance around the seminary and apartments, but I don't know yet what all it inquires. Nor do I know for how long it will last or how many hours a week I'll be getting. I also have job security at the school where I previously worked, but the hours aren't enough, and quite frankly, neither is the pay (at least not for someone with a wife and expecting a kid). The search is on, but I hate job hunting. I would really love to do what God has given me a desire to do. Anyone who reads this that is looking for or knows someone who is looking for a youth pastor in Arkansas within 20 miles of Little Rock for at least the next two years, please leave a comment, or email me at jwwoodring@hotmail.com, or call me. I would absolutely love to get my feet a bit wetter. I yearn to do this. The longer I go, the more I yearn. God has given me this desire, this call. If you can do nothing else, though, pray for me in my search for a job.

School is about three weeks away. I'm trying not to stress about it, but summer has gone so quickly this year that I kinda dread going back. I'm sure I'll enjoy it, though I've been told many times by many people that the third year is the year of hand cramps, dead trees, and a lot of staring at computer screens while letters and words appear. However, education is important to me, whether I act like it or not. I am ready to move on, though. At least to get deeper into my ministry, even if I don't leave Arkansas. So, as I've finished each topic, pray for me as I enter school this year.

I guess I could have better titled this "Prayer Requests" or something. I do strongly believe in prayer. Talking to God is important to me. Without conversation with Him, what kind of relationship would we have with Him? Anywho, also keep Kristine's family and my family in prayer. They love us and support us, and I want to be able to show that same support, even if it is in simply praying for them. Oh, and when I say family, I do mean David Story and Josh and Erin Allen too. Well, I guess that's it. I figured this would be a long one. Thanks for your patience. And as always, stay tuned.

Car kaput.

Well, Kristine and I are on the verge of looking for a car. The Monte Carlo isn't (and hasn't been) holding up well at all, with power steering problems, a stripped oil plug bolt, and not to mention it's a V6 gas hog. The Kia doesn't have air, which is never good in Arkansas (where it is 100+ degrees this week), much less for a pregnant woman. That's the least of our problems, though. In an attempt to return from a quick trip to Kroger for some water and contact solution for Kristine, the Kia refused to start. I don't think it's the battery since the windows work, the clock came on, and the lights on the dash responded. I hope it's not something too costly. This most recent incident has amplified our interest in looking for another car. Hopefully everything will work out for the best. We're just relying on God to help us through. Please keep us in prayer, and to see how it all turns out stay tuned.

A Pirate's Life for Me.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest. Frustratingly Brilliant. Go see it. Anticipate the next one. Stay tuned.

Evidence of life.

Today, Kristine and I went to our first baby appointment. Everything is as it should be, with Kristine queezy as ever and the baby healthy and as strong as it can be at this point. Much to our surprise, we were informed that we are actually two weeks later than what we originally thought, putting the due date around March 9. Also unexpected was the ultrasound requested by the doctor, allowing us to see our baby for the first time. It was very tiny, about the size of a large snowflake.

Most exciting, though, was the sight of it's tiny heart pounding, clearly revealing the evidence of life within this tiny being. How can anyone stand for abortion? It's so incredible to see life in such a small creature, even more so to know it's our child. I can't imagine anyone taking that life away. Needless to say (what an ironic phrase), we were both extremely excited about the whole thing.

We were given a couple of pictures of the ultrasound, which shows an image that looks a lot like a diamond ring. The "diamond" is the baby. To see a picture of the ultrasound, click here.

Obviously we have much to anticipate, which means much to blog about. To find out more as time and the pregnancy progresses, stay tuned.

Sick day.

Hello, all. I haven't much to post, but due to the gap I have chosen to do so. Kristine stayed home sick today, feeling really nauseous all day. We also got a complimentary letter stating that all apartment dwellers must discontinue the use of dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers. Why? That's a great question. It's a great inconvenience to us, who happen to have a clothes washer and dryer. We have multiple neighbors who have either the same or a dishwasher. A dishwasher is a great time saver, and the personal washer and dryer are a money saver and more beneficial physically. Yet, for some reason unknown to us and without any previous warning, we were given the before mentioned letter telling us to stop the use of the appliances or face possible eviction. Anyway, our first OB-GYN appointment is Wednesday at 11 a.m. Kristine and I are both extremely excited! Hopefully we'll get to hear the heartbeat, but there's no guarantee. Aside from that, nothing else is really going on. I did preach at Avilla yesterday, and that seemed to go well. Well, that's about all. Until next time, stay tuned.

Over the highway and through the fields.

Kristine and I just recently returned from a trip. It was a magical trip to a magical place known as Mammaw's house. What makes it magical? Obviously the fact that it's my grandmother, which means stories and spoiling. But what makes it magical to me specifically is FRIED APPLE PIES. Sure, grandmothers around the world are known for their magnificent cooking, but few are very well-known for making fried apple pies. My mammaw makes the best.

We left yesterday after Kristine got off of work. She's already started the cravings, and yesterday it consisted of chili cheese fries. What can I say, my wife has great taste! Anywho, we started on our way. Upon arrival we were greeted by Mammaw's four-legged companion, Annie. Sweet dog. As we entered the house with hands full and hugs being given, I noticed a plate wrapped in aluminum foil sitting on top of the washer. There they were. Mammaw knew we were coming, which I'm guessing is what provoked her to make the delicate desserts. Anywho, Kristine and I made ourselves comfortable and enjoyed a quiet evening.

Today we went to White Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church where my mammaw gladly spread the word that Kristine and I are expecting, which in turn was followed by multiple congratulations. We saw three of my four aunts (the fourth being in Evansville with my sister this weekend) and my cousins Emily and Austin. They had just returned from camp that previous Friday. It was good to see them all, especially since we hadn't since February. They all expressed how excited they were for us. After church, we all went out to Western Sizzlin' for lunch. We shared some laughs and had a great time. I'm so glad we took the time to go.

Now we're back in Little Rock enjoying the air conditioning and taking it easy. Kristine has been getting queezy on and off throughout the week, not to mention getting more tired a lot more frequently. We both can't wait to have our first official doctor's visit, where we'll hopefully get to hear the baby's heartbeat. Thank you to all who are keeping us in your prayers, and for more on the baby's progress, stay tuned.

Showers of Blessing....

Are exactly what we're gonna need. Baby showers, to be exact! That's right! Kristine Michelle Woodring, my beautiful bride, is approximately six weeks pregnant with our first child. God is awesome! I'm excited, anxious, scared, thrilled, and a whole lot of other things all at the same time. (To those who already know this, it's now safe to assume that you can spread the word since this information is on the World Wide Web). We found out yesterday morning, first, by home pregnancy test, then by going to the doctor after she got off of work. The doc confirmed the news (phew!). We waited a few hours to tell people, just enough time to give everyone time to get off of work, and then started making the anticipated phone calls. The first calls went to parents and siblings, followed by proclamation to close friends and neighbors, other family members, etc. It was a busy day! Still, the news seems as fresh as a fresh picked apple, and it hasn't seemed to completely set in with me yet, but Kristine is starting to experience some of the nausea and queeziness that goes along with being "with child". I know these next few months will be an adventure, but I'm as ready as I can be (which isn't very) and honestly can't wait until late February rolls around. Obviously there's a lot going on with Kristine and me, meaning there will be plenty to blog about over the next few months. Thus, without further delay, I say to all reading, "stay tuned!"

It's spelled P-A-R-M-E-S-A-N.

Many of you may be wondering about the title, but don't fret over it. It's just an inside joke, and, David, if you're reading this, there is no "e" after the "s". At least spellcheck doesn't think so. Maybe that's the English spelling. Anywho, good day to all. It is Saturday, and somewhat of a sadder day. Today ends Indiana month. David Matthew Story left Little Rock today to return to Morgantown, WV. It was a great four days of nothing more than two close friends spending nothing less of quality time together. The fun started Wednesday, June 21st. I remember as if it were only a few days ago....

06/21/06
David arrived just before 11:30 a.m., and we started laughing almost immediately. We grabbed something to eat at "the" fast food restaurant (Wendy's) and went to the apartments to waste time before picking up Kristine. We did nothing but play PS2 all afternoon. Absolutely frawesome. Kristine joined some of the fun after work, taking time to wind down and relax. Oh, and a couple of "Friends" episodes were involved, naturally.

06/22/06
Happy Birthday, David! I took Kristine to work and, on the way back to the apt., I picked up some chocolate milk, the preferred breakfast (or anytime, really) beverage of David. After all, it was his birthday. We then continued the celebration by going out to a few of our favorite places, which, not ironically, contained a few of our favorite things. Game Xchange, CompUSA, Best Buy, EB Games, Fazoli's (guys have to eat!), back to CompUSA. We had laughs, spent money, and lived it up. God gave us a beautiful day to celebrate the first day of the 21st year of David's birth. After arriving back at the apt., we adequately spent our time playing more video games. David was reintroduced to "Crazy Taxi", and greatfully indulged himself in the reacquaintance, spending much time with the game. Kristine again joined us in our frawesome time, and, by David's request, we ate at Corky's, Little Rock's best (as far as we've found) BBQ joint. We then continued throughout the evening playing more video games before calling it a night.

06/23/06
Magic Springs, here we come! David and I dropped Kristine off at work (unfortunately) and made our way to Hot Springs, AR where the amusement park Magic Springs resides. David got to experience five more roller coasters as well as some other rides while we were there. We later returned mid-afternoon and--you guessed it--played more video games (thank God for technology). We then came back to reality and played some real basketball with David Standridge, and each of us won a game a piece of 21 (how appropriate). We picked up Kristine from work (thank God for Kristine!) and made our three foot journey from our apt. to our neighbors apt. to eat supper, play games, listen to Dave dazzle us on the guitar, and just plain have fun. It, too, was a frawesome day.

06/24/06
The sad day of departure. We made the best of it, though. I took Kristine to work (yet again) and returned to the apt. to see if David would like to take part in some game playing. He graciously obliged. We played until it was about time for Kristine to get off of work and then naturally went to pick her up. From there we went to Fazoli's (Italian is good) for lunch and then returned home. David and I wasted no time in returning to the PS2 while Kristine got a bit more comfortable and headed out to Wal-Mart with a couple of our neighbors. I then, sadly, had to chauffer Dave to the airport for him to make his flight back to Morgantown. We said goodbye, hoping (at least on my part) that the next encounter will not be so far off. It was a bit solemn, but life goes on. God is using David in great ways, and I'm sure has greater things for him yet. As far as for me, Kristine and I are both waiting for whatever it is God has in store for us, allowing Him to use us where we are now and wanting to be used by Him even more.

That's everything. Well, not everything, just the highlights. It was more fun than most can bear in a week, but David and I did it all in a mere four days. Now that's what I call frawesome. As always, stay tuned.

Leaving For Arrival.

WARNING: The following blog contains events over a course of ten days, and is therefore longer than most posts. Viewer discretion is not necessary, I just wanted any readers to know the literary journey ahead is a longer one than usual.

Of course the title doesn't make sense, it's an oxi-moron. Therefore, calm down and let me explain. Kristine and I have spent the past ten days in the great state of Indiana, otherwise known as the "Hoosier State". This explains the gap in blogging. We arrived first in Evansville, IN at Amanda and Andy's (my sister and brother-in-law) on Friday morning around midnight. After getting some much needed rest after the 7 or 8 hour trip, we regrouped Friday morning to reminisce about the "good ole days" and discuss lunch. We chose to dine at a fun little Italian restaurant called Angelo's, which turned out to be pretty good and did not involve the mob as far as we know. from there, Kristine and I went a bit further north to visit her parents.

We arrived at Mike and Shawn Gregg's house around 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Shawn's sister and brother-in-law were there visiting along with their son, Darren, while preparations were being made for David Gregg's graduation party, which was to be held on Saturday. The party was definitely fun, as was the whole visit. Darren, Kristine, and I (along with some others, every now and then) did some high-quality fishing down at a lake not far from the house, catching approx. 25 fish. I used to hate fishing, but I must admit, it was a blast! Tuesday morning we left the Gregg household and headed for Noblesville, IN where Josh and Erin Allen were anxiously awaiting.

We got to Josh and Erin's house around lunchtime, for which we stopped at the greatest hot-sub joint EVER, Penn Station. Kristine and I shared a chicken terriyaki sandwich and some fresh-cut french fries while being entertained by Erin and baby Camrynne (who will be one year old on the 28th). It was very refreshing to spend the time with them and Josh, especially since our time with them is usually so much shorter. I know both Erin and Kristine wasted no time in catching up, and soaked up every moment they could spending time with each other. The "Allen/Woodring quality bonding time" was a huge dose of fun. If you're reading this, thanks a million, Josh, Erin and Camrynne. Oh, and we all found out that devil eggs make for good splats when they hit a hard surface, especially when purposefully thrown straight at the floor.

From the Allen residence, we continued our Indiana journey to my family's house in Anderson, where we encountered my brother Tim, and Dad. We attended the final night of VBS that evening, and were greeted cheerfully by many that were there. We were also greeted with great food. What made the food great, you ask? The fact that most of it was sweets, mainly ice cream, the most incredible cold food known to man and some dogs. It was awesome. The next day started with my Dad and me going out and grabbing the morning grub-- Donuts. Ah, Donuts. The man or woman who came up with the concept of donuts better have some sort of medal. If this genius doesn't have a medal for this miraculous creation, he or she certainly deserves one. A donut shaped one. With chocolate icing. Anywho, we ate donuts. Kristine and I proceeded that day to go to her cousin Samantha's, wedding. It was a nice wedding, and the only one I've been to where the guys in the wedding party wore cowboy hats. My only complaint was the ushers were wearing pink. Anywho, the wedding was wonderful, and congrats to the happy newlyweds.

Sunday, as many of you know, was Father's Day. It was also Dad's birthday. Due to these special occasions, Amanda and Andy Justison came up to visit, gracing us yet again with their presence. We obviously attended church at Landmark. Spending Sunday at Landmark was somewhat nostalgic, and I loved it. After morning services, we came back to the house for lunch, which consisted of hash brown casserole, green beans, fried okra, and steak. It was beyond delicious. Following lunch, Dad opened his Father's Day/birthday cards and gifts. Mandy and Andy gave him an ocean sounds cd and a church history magazine, and Kristine and I gave him a dart board (hope he'll enjoy it). We spent the rest of the afternoon hanging out with Mandy, Andy, and Timothy while Mom and Dad went to a viewing at a funeral home. We took the given time to swim in the cold water and cold wind, just begging for hypothermia. We survived, though, and Kristine gave Timothy a haircut to match mine. That evening, we again went to Landmark for church and, afterwards, spent some high quality family time at the house. Mandy and Andy then headed back to Evansville. This morning Dad left for Daytona, Florida for the national ABA meeting, Mom went to work, and Kristine and I will soon be heading back to the small town of Little Rock, AR.

It was a great week and a half in IN. I miss it more than I allow anyone to know. But don't start sympathizing yet, because the title has yet to be explained. Upon leaving Indiana for Arkansas, we will be expecting the arrival of none other than David M. Story himself, in the flesh, Old Navy wardrobe and all. Thus, we are leaving Indiana to arrive in Arkansas a mere two days before the Story arrives. Indiana month isn't over. Not yet. So stay tuned.

In IN.

Well, we're back in Indiana again. At the present time we are visiting my beloved sister and brother-in-law. They have opted to take us to lunch, which my stomach is pleased about. I probably won't be blogging much between now and when we return to Little Rock, but have decided to take the time to do so today simply to let everyone know about our up and coming website. If it works out as planned, my blogging will most likely continue there. The address is jkwoodring.com, omitting the www. Anywho, it's under construction at this time, so there's not much to look at right now. Check it out if you wish, but there will be more to come later, so stay tuned.

Indiana Month.

Buenos Dias to all, and my apologies for the blog gap. Now that that's done, we can peacefully move on. And so "Indiana Month" continues. It actually started in May with my parents and brother coming in from Indiana to visit family. They stayed with Kristine and me through Memorial Day, leaving that morning for Prescott, AR to see my mom's family. Yesterday, my sister and brother-in-law arrived early (approx. 2:15 a.m.) and stayed until lunchtime. They accompanied me (actually, it was the other way around) to pick up Kristine for lunch and, after dropping me off, set off for Prescott as well. It was beyond enjoyable seeing them all. It was very refreshing. June 1st is Mom's birthday and June 18th is my Dad's.
Speaking of June, Indiana Month continues with Kristine and me going to Indiana for a 10 day getaway. I'm sure it will be wonderful. We'll get to see her family, Erin and Josh, Some church friends and my family. It'll be good, especially for her. She deserves it for all she does.
Following our return, David Story will be coming to celebrate his 21st birthday on the 22nd. That time will be well wasted with bad puns, lots of laughs, and all around good times. By the way, I recommend to anyone and everyone reading this to visit his website. He has done well reinventing it and has a load of new stuff on it. (You can pay me later for the plug, Dave). Anywho, all of the above mentioned adventures are why Kristine and I have dubbed this month "Indiana Month." I can't wait for the rest!
That's all for this post. Except for "Happy Birthday, Mom! 37, and going strong."
Stay tuned.

Birthday Gifts Galore!

Well, twenty-two has been good to me so far. It started much better than twenty-one did: a four to five hour drive to Mississippi just to see my brother-in-law get ordained and spend money I didn't intend on spending. What a birthday. But this year definitely took a different route. My wife gave me the best birthday by doing everything she possibly could to make it as big a deal as possible. She got me great gifts, took me to a movie via tickets from my sister, and brought me home to a surprise of a surprise party. Our apartment was decked out in Spider-Man decorations and our friendly neighbors greeted me. I opened more wonderful gifts, received a card with Penn Station certificates (one of my and Kristine's favorite restuarants), and then David Story gave me an extravagant gift. He sent me twenty-two seperate emails that either gave me tasks to complete or reminisced about past memories we share. Then, he continued on to say that I was the best and most loyal friend he's ever had. That is frawesome. And, as you all should know, that's saying a lot. Thanks, everyone, for a great birthday. I could never had expected anything more.
This second day of being twenty-two has been a good follow up. I had the great opportunity to speak in the morning and evening services at Avilla Baptist Church, the first church I can remember going to. My mind started to fill with past memories, and I saw people I remembered from eighteen years ago. It was definitely refreshing. I enjoyed the company of the people there, and have been home relaxing ever since. So far, I love being twenty-two. I know God has a lot in store for me this year, and I can't wait. Well, that's it for now. Thanks, again to the best wife ever for a frawesome birthday. There's more to come in this twenty-two year old's life, so stay tuned.