July 23 was always an important day in my family growing up. But so were five other seemingly random days. July 23 is my mom’s birthday, and even though the rest of the world was doing their own thing on this summer day, the Tarter’s were celebrating. And we did this for every family member’s birthday. Birthday’s were (and still are) a big deal for us. It marks a beginning that will forever be etched in the mind of the one who gave birth to us. It’s a special day that no one else in the family can claim as their own (unless you are a twin of course!).
Friday is for Fotos
The top picture is from a family reunion we went to in Ohio. Daniel's mom's side of the family had a reunion and it was great meeting many of them for the first time! I learned so much about his family history, but unfortunately it was information overload and I can barely remember any of it. We got to put our names on the family tree, attaching ourselves to the Rower history.
The bottom picture is from my Grandpa's memorial service in March. This is his entire side of the family (my mom's family). It was the first time we had all been together in years and it was a neat time of remembering Grandpa, but also remember all of our times together as family.
Often we can get so busy with the present that we forget the people who have come before us. There was a time when they were my age, busy with marriage and life. But now they are either gone or aging. They have stories that matter. They have memories that mean something to them. And we can't forget them. Their life is the reason we are here. We are a part of them. For both Daniel and me it is through these families that we heard the Gospel.
I'm so glad I have these pictures. I want our kids (Lord willing) to someday see the people who have come before them and know that they are a part of these families too.
But I also want us to understand that if we are in Christ we are part of an even bigger family, with many saints who have gone before us. This family is not bound by genes, but by the blood of Another, Jesus Christ.
Friday is for Food: Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
I love everything about summer. The weather, the longer days, and especially the food! Summer is great for cold dishes. I found this recipe a few years ago and now I have no idea where I got it! It has sort of morphed into my own creation over these years, so I am not even sure how accurate it is to the original. Daniel and I really enjoy it and it is super easy. It also works well as a potluck dish. And you know how us church-folk love potlucks (or at least the Reissig's do!).
Friday is for Food and Fotos
Today starts a new thing on the blog and it is going to be Food Friday and/or Foto Friday. Depending on what is going on that day, I will post a new recipe I have tried (and there are many for this novice housewife!) or a picture that captures what has been happening in our life here in Louisville. Today you get both!
How a Dad Loves a Prodigal
My Fish Experience: Broiled Tilapia Parmesan
I made fish for the first time ever tonight. For some people this might be no big deal. But for someone who has had a major fish aversion since getting sick from fish sticks in elementary school, this was a huge milestone. Daniel likes fish and he also likes to try new things. He has been trying to get me out of my boring food routine since we met and tonight was a big breakthrough.
One Year Later...
One year later…
I still think you are so dang cute.
I love holding your hand.
I enjoy going to bed with you and waking up next to you.
You still make me laugh, a lot.
I have realized I am much bigger sinner than I ever dared to think.
There is so much left to discover about who you are (and I love finding it out!).
You make me want to study the Bible more.
You help me to love and treasure the Savior.
We love just being together.
You are my best friend.
I love you more today than yesterday, which makes each new day that much more exciting.
Happy 1st anniversary, babe!
Happy Monday!
Snow Day #3
I suppose I should say that this is snow day #4 because we actually had a snow day in January as well. But this is the third snow day that we have had over the course of a week, which is pretty significant for Louisville. Even though this weather is not unfamiliar to a northern gal like me, I still acted like everyone else these last few days and stayed inside. So what else does one do on a snow day?
Paul Richard Garrett 1927-2010
On April 25, 1927, Paul Richard Garrett was born into this world. On February 6, 2010, he went to be with King Jesus. A lot of things happened in his nearly 83 years of life. Most importantly, God saved him out of his sin. But he also married Joan, fathered Deb (and two other children), and became a grandfather to me. He left behind three children, twelve grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Most importantly he left a legacy of love for his family and commitment to Christ.