Kevin and Lydia Fowler

Good Times With Great Oldies!

2009-10-18T20:48:00.006-04:00

What a wonderful, exciting, enjoyable, and refreshing time this weekend was. Fall break in this place means several things--Kevin gets time off from school; I have the opportunity to take some much-waited-for vacation days; and, last, it's Maryville College's homecoming. The latter of which means lots of very dear friends are making the trek to the highlands of good ole' MC.

This year, we were blessed multiple times over to have not one, not two, but THREE friends in our home as well as many more friends that we caught up with at MC itself yesterday. What a blessing relationship and friendship are!

First, two of my dear roommates, Anne and Laura, traveled from Charlotte, NC and Columbia, GA, respectively to spend time with us. It was a fast two days, but we didn't waste a minute, except when we were forced to sleep (right, Laura? ;). I don't know what I would have done without these ladies in college. It is such a treat to get together a couple times a year to reminisce and catch up on what the Lord is doing in and through us. I hope to keep these ladies around for years to come! :)

We also had a brief with Mr. Briley Hooper. He's traveled over the mountains from near Asheville, NC a couple of times to visit, and we've enjoyed every visit, especially this one because....

HE BROUGHT EVA!

This girl totally stole the show for me! I've wanted a dog very much since getting our own place, but not as much as when I met this little lady. She's absolutely precious! We asked Briley if we could adopt/foster/borrow/clone Eva, but he's apparently pretty attached to her, and, well, the feelings are mutual.

Kevin did, however, get his shot at her, and she playfully obliged him. Gotta love those ears!

Eva did eventually tire, and there was no waking this pup.

In the end, the weekend was a pure joy. Time with great friends is always appreciated and refreshing. I'm so grateful that we have friends that love us enough to make the hours-long journeys to spend time here.

Let that be an invite to anyone and everyone who desires a clean bed and warm fellowship.

We're waiting!

How do you Dress for a UT Ball Game....

2009-09-26T14:46:00.003-04:00

...when it looks like this out?

Why, like this, of course!

For My Mamma,

2009-09-21T18:33:00.003-04:00

It's only been two years since we got married (slightly over). This past weekend I used, for the first time, the mixer my mother bought us for our wedding present. I have my reasons--like we had no room for it in our other apartment, and I've never been much of a baker, so why bother?

BUT...this weekend, I flew to the store, bought all necessary (and not on-hand) ingredients and, maybe for the second time in my life, made banana bread! You can bet that mixer was working overtime! :)

And since I'm one of those clean-as-you-go cooks, this is as messy as my kitchen ever got. :)

Last, as I was coming in from my Wal-Mart excursion with my ingredients ready to make HER some banana bread, our wonderful neighbor, Regina, was waiting at the base of the stairs for us with a home-made Apple Crisp! Now, just how did she know that Apple Crisp is my absolute favorite!? And it seems to be Kevin's, too, by the way we polished it off so quickly (2 days was all it took, folks!).

SHHH!! Don't tell Kevin...

2009-09-12T19:05:00.004-04:00

...but I've rearranged the study!

Think he'll like it?

My Beloved Hard at Work

2009-09-05T14:27:00.005-04:00

I came around the corner of the hallway yesterday, and was greeted by the sight of Kevin on the porch, citronella candle lit, grading papers by its light. It made me pause and thank the Lord that I have a husband who is so responsible, respectable, hard-working, and loves to provide for his family. Just thought you should know. :)

Short and Sassy

2009-08-27T14:15:00.004-04:00

Oh, how I love thee--let me count the ways....

I know many women whose husbands like them to keep their hair long. This, for the wives, is an act of love to keep their hair long in deference to their husbands likes. They please their husbands in this way, and in so doing, show him their love.

Kevin, however, is no such husband. I have complete and utter freedom when it comes to the length of my hair (although he did nix the "shave it all off" idea I had during college).

So when, recently, I started to get my every-two-year hankering to chop it all off, he was all for it. And, thus the search began. I look at magazines, pictures on the Internet, and started observing in my own day-to-day life at UT what looked good on what girls with which face shapes.

I finally settled that instead of going short, short, I'd go a bit longer than short and then go short later if I still wanted to do it. So, Sunday night, I headed to SuperCuts (we're on a budget here, folks! :). Chesleigh, my new favorite stylist, did exactly what I wanted. She cut my hair to shoulder length with just a bit of layering around my face. I got home, and Kevin exulted at how much he loved it.

But I just wasn't satisfied. My face is long already and the shoulder-length style pulled it even longer. So, Monday I called Chesleigh back and asked if I could come back and whack it all off.

Thus, friends, I am now sporting the shortest do I've had since probably kindergarten.

Truth be told, I LOVE IT!

...and so does my husband. :)

I had fun taking some pictures to send to Mom Fowler and Mom Skidmore.

The night I got it done:

...and after I learned a bit how to style it.

(and with a little photoshop help! :)

First Day of School

2009-08-17T08:10:00.005-04:00

Yup--it's that day that the kiddos head on the buses or strap on their walking shoes for the trek back to good ole' West Valley. And you know what that means: I also get to send my little husband off for his first day of school! Needless to say, things are a little hectic around the school, but I'm sure they will settle down.

Wouldn't you love to have this strapping gent teaching your 8th grader!?!

We covet your prayers as this new school year begins and sails off into the sunset!

Anniversary Flowers

2009-08-12T21:32:00.006-04:00

Maybe you can help me...I'm looking for something. It's quite precious, as things of this nature are. I know I had it, but I just can't seem to find it. Maybe I misplaced it, but I have a feeling that maybe, just maybe, it's gone...

Have you seen the month of July? I mean, seriously, I have no clue where it went.

Hm. Strange.

Well, regardless, the arrival of August means I get to celebrate the day Kevin and I committed our lives to one another. It's been 1,467 days of wedded bliss, and I wouldn't change one second of it.

You hear all the time, "I just keep learning new things about him/her." I never believed it--even when we were dating, I was sure that I'd hit the point where he would bore me or (more likely) I would bore him...But we've not gotten there.

I'm daily amazed that Kevin chose me as his wife, and it only makes me love him more.

I was actually out of town when August 5th rolled around, but upon my return, Kevin had some beautiful red and yellow flowers waiting for me.

Here's to many more August 5ths!!!!!

Two Things That Chirp

2009-07-18T08:55:00.005-04:00

I (Kevin) was placed with the responsibility of blogging this, and surprisingly the Getting Things Done (GTD) guru has procrastinated for almost a month of these very important additions to our family. Yes, we at the Fowlers added two things that chirp to our family.

1. The Apple iPhone 3GS

This is probably the most extravagant purchase I have ever made. Yes, the guy who prides himself on buying hardly anything just bought one of the hottest items on the market. For those that have been around me the past year, this purchase probably isn't a big surprise. I used my (free) iPod Touch religiously and I came across a small bonus at work two weeks before the phone's release. So, I wanted to use this newfound chunk of change on something that I could use everyday. I chose the iPhone and I absolutely love it.

Lydia figured that since I am making this rather expensive purchase, a little treat for her was in order...So, she chose the second thing that chirpped.

2. Optimus Prime (O.P.)

This is our little parakeet budgie O.P. He's quite the contented little dude. Its taken him a little while to get used to us, but he's getting there!

Welcome O.P. and iPhone!

Visits from Afar

2009-07-17T23:31:00.003-04:00

It's been a hectic past couple of weeks on my side. Things at work have picked up tremendously, and so often it's all I can do to fall into bed at a decent hour. With that said, we've also had several visits from some very special people!

Back in June Len Turner (who's studying at Princeton Theological Seminary) and Laura Palmer (who's studying at Columbia Theological seminary in Atlanta) stopped in for a visit. These two ladies are much of what got me through college! I could not have made it as far, and I would not nearly have the GREAT memories I have without them. I'm so grateful for their friendship, love, support, and--most importantly--brutal honesty. Yay Termates! :-)

Just a couple weeks ago, Thomas and Stephanie Russell, also friends from college stopped by. We've missed them greatly since they moved to Arkansas recently. It was a quick stop-in, but we were so grateful they made a couple hours for us. It's been fun to meet up with them on the Wii's and play some competitive MarioKart. :)

And last, my cousin, Megan came down from Michigan with an interpretive dance group to perform at a church in Loudon, just a few miles south of here. I was sad I couldn't see her performance because of my work schedule, but they did let us steal here for a night. It was super fun to see how this young lady, who I've not seen since my wedding (almost two years ago!), has grown in the Lord and matured into a young lady. I remember changing her diaper!!! :)

After a pizza dinner, we spent the evening playing on the Wii. I think we played every sport on there (baseball, bowling, golf, tennis, and boxing) at least once. Kevin showed her how to play Baseball. :)

And that's out story these days! We've been so inspired by the traveling of others that we're embarking on a six-day trip on Sunday. Where are we going? Well, maybe you should just wait and see...But I can tell you that it's supposed to rain the ENTIRE time we're there, and most of what we had planned were outdoor options....We'll be sure to let you know how it goes! :)

A Quote From The Game 20 Questions...

2009-06-19T16:39:00.002-04:00

[Context: Lydia was just given the clue that the answer was a director who has also acted]

Is it that M. Night Sha-ma-ma-layan guy? --Lydia

Heart's Cry

2009-06-13T14:47:00.002-04:00

This might hurt, it's not safe

But I know that I've gotta make a change

I don't care if I break,

At least I'll be feeling something

'Cause just okay is not enough

Help me fight through the nothingness of life

I don't wanna go through the motions

I don't wanna go one more day

Without Your all consuming passion inside of me

I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,

"What if I had given everything,

instead of going through the motions?"

No regrets, not this time

I'm gonna let my heart defeat my mind

Let Your love make me whole

I think I'm finally feeling something

'Cause just okay is not enough

Help me fight through the nothingness of this life

'Cause I don't wanna go through the motions

I don't wanna go one more day

Without Your all consuming passion inside of me

I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,

"What if I had given everything,

instead of going through the motions?"

Take me all the way (take me all the way)

Take me all the way ('cause I don't wanna go through the motions)

Take me all the way (I know I'm finally feeling something real)

Take me all the way

I don't wanna go through the motions

I don't wanna go one more day

Without Your all consuming passion inside of me

I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,

"What if I had given everything,

instead of going through the motions?"

I don't wanna go through the motions

I don't wanna go one more day

Without Your all consuming passion inside of me

I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,

"What if I had given everything,

instead of going through the motions?"

Take me all the way (take me all the way)

Take me all the way (I don't wanna go, I don't wanna go)

Take me all the way (through the motions)

Take me all the way

I don't wanna go through the motions

~Matthew West

Road Triiiiiiiiip!!!!

2009-06-04T21:49:00.005-04:00

A two day conference that counts for work time afforded me the day off today. So, Kevin and I pack up and headed south for a little field trip to Ruby Falls in Chattanooga! It's been a long day and we're both exhausted...so this will be mostly pictures, but they're worth it! :-D

Almost there...

Some self-explanatory sites along the trek to the falls....

Goofing off...

The Falls, head on:

The view from beneath the water fall...Like diamonds falling.

Praise the Lord He gave us such majestic wonders to behold and enjoy.

May they point us back to Him!

Fowler's 40th Anniversary

2009-06-02T19:04:00.006-04:00

Haha--no, not us! Silly you!

Kevin's parents celebrated their 40th anniversary on Sunday, and they let us share in on the fun! We went to Puleo's in Maryville (highly recommend if you're in the area!).

And we showered them with technology! They got a digital camera from Greg and Melinda, and they got a new webcam (with a microphone) from Kevin and me. Super fun evening! We just wish Kim and Josh could have been there to round out the "kids."

I owe them much. They raised the man I love. And they raised him well.

Brothers and sisters-in-law!!!!

(Greg obviously didn't get the white-shirt memo...)

Happy two-days-after your Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

We Love You!!!

Weekend Happenings

2009-05-31T20:25:00.004-04:00

We've tried quite a bit to reign in our weekend activities. I love spending the entire weekend with friends, having fun, and just bumming around recovering from the week...but it means that we don't get anything done around the house or the quality time with each other that we should. Sooo....we've tried to cut back or at least limit and be aware of where we're spending our time. This weekend was a good example.

Friday, I went to a graduation for a couple girls from church (one of whom I met when she was in seventh grade!!!!), and then afterward, Kevin and I watched a movie.

Yesterday, Kevin headed down to Vonore for some assistance installing a new stereo in his Explorer (which ended up never working after an entire day on both his and his brother, Greg's, part!).

After cleaning the fish tank in the morning, I worked for a few hours at Sorenson and then went to The Home Depot to buy some flowers for our porch. It was honestly I think the first time I'd actually enjoyed myself there (sorry, Chris Borders!). :)

Check them out:

We started pretty basic: Flower, Pots, Soil.

Pouring the soil....
Planting the Plant.....
Enjoying the view!!
And these are the wind chimes Kevin bought me a couple weeks ago. I love the brassy color, and they make the most heavenly sound when the wind blows (and they sound like ska music when the wind really blows! :).

We also celebrated Mom and Dad Fowler's 40th wedding anniversary! Can you believe it!?! 40 years of marriage! I'm excited about us nearing 2! :) I'll post some pictures from that later on...Don't want to overwhelm you. :)

And Baby Makes Three....

2009-05-24T11:35:00.005-04:00

But not for us. :-)

Chris and Rachel are having their little Gabriel, Lord willing, within the next few weeks. So, we decided to make one last go of it before he comes, and have a rip roarin' night of chicken and rice casserole (courtesy of Beth) and game playin' (courtesy of the Slates)!
And just to relive childhood (and all those cheesy wedding dances we've been to), we did the train for our group picture. Our personal favorite is Greg's ultra-masculine glamour shot (third from the left).

Left to Right: Lydia, Kevin, Greg, Beth, Rachel, Gabriel (in utero), Chris.

Kevin on the Tube

2009-05-16T11:53:00.002-04:00

Me on the local news:

Quote

2009-05-16T11:51:00.001-04:00

Circumstances are rulers of the weak, but weapons for the wise. -- Andy Andrews in The Traveler's Gift

Lydia Met a Celebrity

2009-05-09T21:40:00.003-04:00

It's been quite the week in the Fowler household.

Over the last week....

~Kevin's school got closed for and entire week for swine flu (as you know).

~Lydia's parents came through on their way moving from Ft. Worth, TX to Pittsburgh, PA.

~Lydia's parents took Kevin with them to help move. Three of their four helpers were unavailable due to various reasons, and so, we see the Providential Hand of God in the school closure.

~Lydia completed her first week of graduations working at UT.

~Lydia took off for Chattanooga to attend the Tennessee Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (TRID) conference with two lovely ladies.

This is a picture with Cheryl Moose, the President of the national interpreters association, the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.

(L to R): Lydia, Cheryl, Shauna, Liz.

...and a mere two hours ago, I arrived back home to pick up and leave again to pick up my husband who just worked his tail off for some very thankful in-laws.

Phew! What's your weekend been like? :) We're just glad to be back home!

Kevin Get's a Week Off of Work...Thanks to Media-Hype

2009-05-04T08:30:00.001-04:00

Baby Love

2009-04-28T08:43:00.004-04:00

In an effort to preserve our baby selves, Kevin scanned in our baby pictures. I'd like to have them restored (they're discolored in person) and then hang them together in our home. In the meantime, thought you'd like a look.

I was born a red-head. Then I went bald. Then it came back in blond, and it' s been steadily darkening since then. My mom like to tell how I was quiet long enough for the picture, but burst into tears the moment the shutter had shut.Kevin apparently always smiled with his tongue out. Thankfully, that much has changed. ;)

Life Changing Software

2009-04-25T08:42:00.003-04:00

Hello friends and fellow Mac heads,

For the past month or so I have been using computer software called Things. It is from a company based out of Germany called Cultured Code. This software is simply a sophisticated to-do list based off of world-renowned productivity guru David Allen's system (and book by the same name) Getting Things Done.

I first experimented with the iPod/iPhone version of this product. I purchased it for $10 (which is pretty expensive as far as iTunes Store apps go) and found that it was totally worth it. I then read about their desktop version which would open a whole new world to my iPod version. I purchased it (after a free 15 day trial) for $50.

For a grand total of $60, I have purchased the entire Things package and it has earned my highest recommendation. Using it and the Getting Things Done model, I have become more productive, more responsible, more punctual, and even...more relaxed. If you would like to know more, I highly encourage you to watch the video that is linked above. You may only want to watch the first half, as the latter half talks about software development. This is a great company and investment. I hope that you will consider it.

Inspiring Reading...

2009-04-17T11:22:00.002-04:00

"Some people try to define worldliness as living outside a specific set of rules or conservative standards. If you listen to music with a certain beat, dress in fashionable clothes, watch movies with a certain rating, or indulge in certain luxuries of modern society, surely you must be worldly.

"Others, irritated and repulsed by rules that seem arbitrary, react to definitions of worldliness, assuming it's impossible to define. Or they think legalism will inevitably be the result, so we shouldn't even try.

"...Both views are wrong. For, by focusing exclusively on externals or dismissing the importance of externals, we've missed the point.

"...[John] takes the debate inside. For that's where worldliness is. It exists in our hearts..."

~Mahaney, C. J.. "Worldliness." pp. 29.

Some Colorful Visitors

2009-04-11T12:57:00.006-04:00

We've had quit the crew stopping by lately. Check out these pictures of some of the crazy critters we've come across!

This is Lenore the Lizard. Her coloring was so vivid, she looked like a rainbow!

She started with a yellow shade and went from green to blue to purple by the time I was looking at her tail.

...and this is Charles the Cardinal. His coloring was so bright I almost thought I was imagining things, but I wasn't. He landed on the tree a couple apartments down from us--a sure sign that Spring is on its way!

A Little Closer Up.

Praise the Lord for the Creativity of His Creation!

Forget the Sky...Our Building's Falling!!!

2009-04-09T13:38:00.004-04:00

For a couple weeks, there's been yellow caution tape around a corner of the building next door...

Kevin came home the other day and said that it's because the building is sinking.

:-/

I came home today, and any suspicion we had was confirmed.

Looks like we may be living on the first floor soon.