In House Business.

First off, I want to celebrate that my blog hit 30,000 views over the weekend! That's a pretty big milestone and I was thrilled about it. So thank you to all my readers from the bottom of my heart, it's nice to know that what I write, gets read. So, use this as your excuse to eat dessert today- we're celebrating!

I had a great time in South Carolina this past weekend. First off, as a Christensen, the Carolinas have a special place in my heart. They're also currently home to my two favorite people - my sisters. Sadly, I wasn't able to see those two this weekend but it was great nonetheless.

I enjoyed the entire trip but the highlight for me was probably the 3 mile walk Thomas and I took Sunday morning. It was fun hearing about his neighbors and childhood stories while seeing where he 'grew up' (he moved around a bit like I have). The weather was unbelievable and it was just a great chance to enjoy that and chat together.

I also got to do my bible study homework while the sun rose, with a lake view. I mean, what more could a girl want? I woke up early (my freakish internal alarm clock does that to me) and while the house was still quiet, I got to spend some time with the Lord. I was so glad I remembered to bring my study with me. We're currently doing, 'He Speaks to Me' by Priscilla Shirer and it's getting me pumped up for the sequel, Discerning the Voice of God. I've put a lot of thought into my prayer life over the last year or so but I think frequently as Christians we talk more than we listen in our 'quiet times' and I'm only now realizing the error of that way.

Last week we took off from bible study and hosted a spa night at my place. Three talented friends donated their time and talents and the proceeds benefited our friend Tiffany's mission trip to Russia this summer. One of the services was eyebrow threading and can I just say my eyebrows have NEVER looked this good - Monica just earned herself a new client.

It really turned out to be a fun night and the concept played out so well, Tiffany is using it again this summer. So...success!

I also wanted to debreif a bit about my doctors visit last week. Thank you to all the people who let me know you were praying for me - your prayers were felt! For the first time ever I was really excited about the doctor I met with. He was incredibly kind and took the time to try'n get to know me and what I've been going through with my health. He wasn't too quick or rash to make a course of action but I truly feel like he's serious about getting the results I want - my life back.

They did have to take 4 viles of blood to test which wasn't fun, obviously. I hate having my blood taken as a few of you may remember from the one and only time I tried to donate blood and had a rather tramatic experience. Eck. But maybe the tests will shed more light on the situation.

For now, I'm trying out a medication for IBS and it kept me well all weekend while I was with Thomas and his family. You may remember that I previously declined the medication route to see if we could cure my problems with dietary changes. Unfortunately that was a major bust so medication it is. I'd love your continued prayer as we iron out the solutions to my problem. But I'm encouraged to have a specialist I like and a plan of action in place. One more thing...I'm joining up with some lovely blogging ladies for this:

And over the next 8 weeks I plan to lose 12 pounds over the next 8 weeks. That's 1.5 per week. I think that's a challenge but doable and healthy. I will be doing that by continuing to count calories and bust my butt in the gym. I've been on this journey almost a year now - but it'll be fun to link up with these darlings and maybe some good progress before summer really kicks off. So please stay tuned and I'll take all the encouragement I can get. ; ]

After two great weekends out of town I'm looking forward to playing a little catch up (mostly on sleep and sunshine) at home this weekend. Life is good, friends. Life is really good. Thanks for being a part of it.

Love, B