A quick note from 'the Rourkes' in wishing you and your family / friends a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
May God truly fill your hearts with His love, joy and HOPE!
"The Lord is faithful to all His promises, and loving toward all He has made" Ps. 145:13b
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
More Christmas functions
Lance's staff Christmas party was this week as well. This was the first year of me going as 'the wife' instead of 'the employee' which was a little akward, difficult and strange to say the least. But the party is always a lot of fun and this year did not disappoint. It was wonderful to see all the staff and reconnect with them throughout the evening. Oh how I've missed them :)
Yesterday evening was Lance's birthday gift from me. We went to see the VSO performing Vivaldi's Four Seasons along with other classical music. We had front row seats which was great to see the expression on the musicians faces and watch as they loved playing the music. We both have such an appreciation for classical music and this concert was like no other. There is no way to describe it except that you sit in awe of the music and let it sink in. I'm so thankful the Lord gave us ears to hear the beauty of music. WOW!!
Today we are going to the Lang Christmas party which is my Mom's side of the family. There should be around 50 people there that are ALL related. It is a highlight for my Grandpa as his ENTIRE family is there to celebrate Christmas. Grandpa has 6 kids plus spouses, 14 grandkids plus spouses, and 16 great grandchildren and 1 on the way for spring next year. What a celebration it will be. :) I'll post pics later this week.
I hope you all are enjoying every function of this wonderful season and lovin' on everyone around you as that is the true meaning of Christmas - God's incredible love!
Yesterday evening was Lance's birthday gift from me. We went to see the VSO performing Vivaldi's Four Seasons along with other classical music. We had front row seats which was great to see the expression on the musicians faces and watch as they loved playing the music. We both have such an appreciation for classical music and this concert was like no other. There is no way to describe it except that you sit in awe of the music and let it sink in. I'm so thankful the Lord gave us ears to hear the beauty of music. WOW!!
Today we are going to the Lang Christmas party which is my Mom's side of the family. There should be around 50 people there that are ALL related. It is a highlight for my Grandpa as his ENTIRE family is there to celebrate Christmas. Grandpa has 6 kids plus spouses, 14 grandkids plus spouses, and 16 great grandchildren and 1 on the way for spring next year. What a celebration it will be. :) I'll post pics later this week.
I hope you all are enjoying every function of this wonderful season and lovin' on everyone around you as that is the true meaning of Christmas - God's incredible love!
Piano Christmas Party
This fall I had to give up my Piano students due to my new position that demanded more of my time. This was a VERY hard thing to surrender but I knew the Lord was calling me to do it. There was no way I could do both jobs as much as I loved it. The Lord provided another teacher just starting out that I was able to transfer my students over and bless her with the extra income. The only students I hung onto were what I call my 'adopted nieces' and 2 of my own nieces. These 4 girls have been a blessing to teach and pour into them musically and I'm so proud of how far they have come since the fall.
This past Wednesday I had a Christmas Piano party for them and we had so much fun! It started with making individual pita pizza's, then they played their christmas song for everyone, followed by christmas games and Piano games. Prizes were won for each game and presents ended the night. It was a lot of fun. :)
Lance's birthday - part 2
The surprise party was a huge success but that was only one of the surprises for Lance. :) His brother coming from Edmonton was another surprise and we enjoyed having him spend the night at our place. Lance's actual birthday was last Sunday so we spent the morning with his Brother, had blueberry waffles & bacon for breakfast, drove him to the airport, and then went to Campbell Valley Park for a walk as the snow started to fall. It was so peaceful and calm as the beauty of nature surrounded us.
In the afternoon the surprise was for us to go to the Stanley Park Christmas Train in Vancouver with our 'adopted' family. All 8 of us headed down for dinner at the White spot on Georgia Street and then went to Stanley Park. This has been a tradition in my family since I was a little girl but each year they add more and more lights that are so spectacular to see you are speechless. If you get the chance to go, get your tickets on Ticketmaster. They are open every day (Except Christmas day) until New years day.
Lance's 40th Birthday!
This was a BIG birthday for my husband and I started planning a big SURPRISE birthday bash back in the early fall. This was an undertaking in itself as Lance is SO observant of everything and VERY SNEAKY! He LOVES to be in the 'know' so to keep secrets from him is very difficult.
Lance went to visit his brother and sister in Edmonton back in October for a weekend. I took this opportunity to meet with my family to make the plans into action and have their help to pull it off as when I'm not at work, Lance is around which makes it hard to do anything for a big party. With every one's help we did invitations, slide show, a song about Lance, a hallway of pics from his life, menu planning, music, and the best surprise - His brother was coming from Edmonton!! I have never told so many 'fibs' in my life to pull it off but it was SO worth it!! Just to see his expression on his face when we arrived at my parents place was AWESOME and then his eyes POPPED when his brother came around the corner! What a great moment!! :)
There were about 25 people in attendance (plus kids) and the evening was so much fun! Old friends, new friends, family & kids made the party a huge success.
My sister-in-law was the 1 person that worked and worked and WORKED to make it all happen. For her to do everything she did for this party, let alone be a Mom to 2 boys, was amazing. A HUGE THANK YOU to Sarah!!!! This party would NOT have happened without you!! The hours she spent on Lance's cake did not go unnoticed as that is all everyone talked about.
Overall it was a big success and Lance walked away feeling loved, valued and excited for the next 40 years! We know God has BIG things in store for this significant year in his life. There is something biblical with the #40. 40 days & nights it rained and flooded the earth. 40 years the Israelites wandered in the dessert. But after the 40 came the promise! - A beautiful rainbow and the promise land. We KNOW this will be a year full of promises coming to pass in Lance's life and we are so excited to see how God does it as it will be all HIM!! :) HAPPY BIRTHDAY LANCE!
Lance went to visit his brother and sister in Edmonton back in October for a weekend. I took this opportunity to meet with my family to make the plans into action and have their help to pull it off as when I'm not at work, Lance is around which makes it hard to do anything for a big party. With every one's help we did invitations, slide show, a song about Lance, a hallway of pics from his life, menu planning, music, and the best surprise - His brother was coming from Edmonton!! I have never told so many 'fibs' in my life to pull it off but it was SO worth it!! Just to see his expression on his face when we arrived at my parents place was AWESOME and then his eyes POPPED when his brother came around the corner! What a great moment!! :)
There were about 25 people in attendance (plus kids) and the evening was so much fun! Old friends, new friends, family & kids made the party a huge success.
My sister-in-law was the 1 person that worked and worked and WORKED to make it all happen. For her to do everything she did for this party, let alone be a Mom to 2 boys, was amazing. A HUGE THANK YOU to Sarah!!!! This party would NOT have happened without you!! The hours she spent on Lance's cake did not go unnoticed as that is all everyone talked about.
Overall it was a big success and Lance walked away feeling loved, valued and excited for the next 40 years! We know God has BIG things in store for this significant year in his life. There is something biblical with the #40. 40 days & nights it rained and flooded the earth. 40 years the Israelites wandered in the dessert. But after the 40 came the promise! - A beautiful rainbow and the promise land. We KNOW this will be a year full of promises coming to pass in Lance's life and we are so excited to see how God does it as it will be all HIM!! :) HAPPY BIRTHDAY LANCE!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Tis the season - for busyness!
Only 14 days left to Christmas and yes we have been busy, Busy, BUSY!! I must admit, last night was the first evening I had at home to relax (while multitasking of prep for my Piano Christmas Party) and thought to myself, "This is how December is supposed to be". We are enjoying every day but WOW, talk about a busy season.
Last weekend we spent taking care of my 4 nieces. This was a lot of fun but full of activity. . . as it usually is with 4 kids. :) The 2 older ones are involved in our churches Christmas production (That we are going to see this evening) and so there was a rehearsal each day for them. Then there were swimming lessons, a birthday party and Piano lessons all thrown into the mix. We also took them to the "Spirit of Christmas' at Trinity University. That was a lot of fun.
The other activity I was able to do this year was my annual date with Daddy. My Dad and I every year go for dinner and then Christmas shop for my Mom. This year went so well as we found EVERYTHING in 1 evening for her and I always enjoy the one on one time with my Dad. :)
Let's see,what else -
- Christmas shopping is almost complete - 1 more gift to buy which hopefully we can find tonight.
- Christmas cards are done, just needing the Christmas picture to be printed tonight, then stuff the cards and mail.
- House is decorated
- Christmas baking I haven't started but I hope to bake this weekend.
- I haven't started any wrapping yet but that is what Christmas Eve is for. :)
What is coming up? -
- Lance's birthday is this weekend - so I'll share more later on another post.
- My Piano students Christmas party is next week. - Always so much fun.
- Lance's staff Christmas party is also next week which should be good as well.
- Then there is the Lang Christmas party next weekend and then OH YA, CHRISTMAS!!
Tis the season for busyness :)
In the midst of it all though I have had so many moments of enjoying God's presence and being so thankful for His ultimate gift of sending Jesus to this world. I have been listening to Mercy Me Christmas CD in the car (the newest place for God time) and as tears run down my face I've been able to worship the Lord for having life through him. I can't imagine doing this life without Him and to really think upon that you truly get overwhelmed with what Christmas is all about. For Jesus to come to such a broken world that He created, how it must grieve Him to see His kids suffer - yet He provided a way - humbled Himself and came to this world to let us have eternity with Him. WOW!
Make sure to take a moment - put on some worship / Christmas music and dwell upon what Christ did in coming to this earth for us. It will make this month "How December is supposed to be."
Last weekend we spent taking care of my 4 nieces. This was a lot of fun but full of activity. . . as it usually is with 4 kids. :) The 2 older ones are involved in our churches Christmas production (That we are going to see this evening) and so there was a rehearsal each day for them. Then there were swimming lessons, a birthday party and Piano lessons all thrown into the mix. We also took them to the "Spirit of Christmas' at Trinity University. That was a lot of fun.
The other activity I was able to do this year was my annual date with Daddy. My Dad and I every year go for dinner and then Christmas shop for my Mom. This year went so well as we found EVERYTHING in 1 evening for her and I always enjoy the one on one time with my Dad. :)
Let's see,what else -
- Christmas shopping is almost complete - 1 more gift to buy which hopefully we can find tonight.
- Christmas cards are done, just needing the Christmas picture to be printed tonight, then stuff the cards and mail.
- House is decorated
- Christmas baking I haven't started but I hope to bake this weekend.
- I haven't started any wrapping yet but that is what Christmas Eve is for. :)
What is coming up? -
- Lance's birthday is this weekend - so I'll share more later on another post.
- My Piano students Christmas party is next week. - Always so much fun.
- Lance's staff Christmas party is also next week which should be good as well.
- Then there is the Lang Christmas party next weekend and then OH YA, CHRISTMAS!!
Tis the season for busyness :)
In the midst of it all though I have had so many moments of enjoying God's presence and being so thankful for His ultimate gift of sending Jesus to this world. I have been listening to Mercy Me Christmas CD in the car (the newest place for God time) and as tears run down my face I've been able to worship the Lord for having life through him. I can't imagine doing this life without Him and to really think upon that you truly get overwhelmed with what Christmas is all about. For Jesus to come to such a broken world that He created, how it must grieve Him to see His kids suffer - yet He provided a way - humbled Himself and came to this world to let us have eternity with Him. WOW!
Make sure to take a moment - put on some worship / Christmas music and dwell upon what Christ did in coming to this earth for us. It will make this month "How December is supposed to be."
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Christmas season has begun
Yes, in our house Christmas season has begun. It seems to hit mid November around here and sure enough this year has been no different. Christmas music is on, shopping has begun, cards are bought, and decor is calling our names from the storage room . . . but we are holding off on that till the beginning of December. :) We have been taking every Friday evening as a 'date' night as well as Christmas shopping. It is a great night to shop as the stores aren't busy and you avoid the crowds of the weekend. We are starting to get excited for the up coming functions of the Christmas season.
This Saturday I'm going to the 'Lang cousin movie night'. This is my Mom's side of the family and all of the cousins are in the same age span of 12 yrs. Us girl cousins will be watching White Christmas and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers . . .movies our husbands aren't really into. :) Our Grandma LOVED these classic films and we have all grown up loving them too. It will be such fun and I hope this becomes a new 'tradition' with the Lang girls.
This past month has flown by with 'doing life'. Funny how that happens. We have had the chance to catch up with quite a few friends we haven't seen in a while over the past month - from one visiting from out of town, to friendships built over the years, to coffee time with friends from back in my youth. I have come to realize once again how blessed we are by God surrounding us with such quality friends. I have had days of just thanksgiving to the Lord for His richness we seem to walk in surrounding us with friends. He is so good!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
2 years of Marriage bliss :)
"I'm getting married today" were the first words out of my mouth, as I woke up 2 years ago today. It was a crisp, fall day with the sun peaking through the clouds and the peacefulness of
the morning clung in the air. All the months and months of planning had finally come to the day that would turn our lives into the next chapter. It was a day that a dream became reality for us both. A day God smiled upon His kids and said, "This is good for it is my plan." The entire day went so smoothly and as Lance and I took mental snapshots all throughout the day we praised God for His goodness and love. 
2 years have passed and while this year has been FULL of many trials, our Marriage, love for each other, as well as trust and care have grown in leaps and bounds. We are blessed beyond measure to not only have each other but to have God's love and purpose for our lives.
Today we celebrate and reflect back but more importantly dream forward!
"The Lord is faithful to all His promises, and loving toward all He has made."
Friday, October 2, 2009
Promotion
This week has been a whirlwind of great things happening super fast. :) Monday I came into work like I have done every Monday for the past 2 months expecting routine of what my job requires, only to be approached mid-morning by my supervisor offering me a promotion to the Sales department in an estimating role. WOW! I was in shock that they want to move me so quickly as I haven't even finished my probation period yet with this company but what an honour to be asked. I drilled her with questions and throughout the day had them answered with management that knew more about the position.
I had the evening to think it over, chat with Lance and take it to prayer. They wanted an answer by the next day. The nice thing was they said if I didn't like the position or it didn't seem like the right 'fit' in 6 weeks time I could always come back to reception. So what did I have to loose? I would receive SO much training and insight into this company that I couldn't refuse. Tuesday morning I gave my answer as 'yes, I would give it a try' and I started the next day.
So what is this position exactly? Basically I am support to all the Sales reps to do up quotes of the orders the clients have requested. I have a LOT to learn regarding glass 'terminology' but it is a new challenge that I'm up for. I'm thankful for the favour God has placed on me to be able to receive such an opportunity to advance in this company so quickly.
Pretty exciting stuff, eh? God is so faithful to continue leading us in every aspect of our lives and we are very thankful. Even in times we don't understand why we are walking through things, God continues to lead and as we continue to trust Him, He reveals amazing things along the way of the journey.
I had the evening to think it over, chat with Lance and take it to prayer. They wanted an answer by the next day. The nice thing was they said if I didn't like the position or it didn't seem like the right 'fit' in 6 weeks time I could always come back to reception. So what did I have to loose? I would receive SO much training and insight into this company that I couldn't refuse. Tuesday morning I gave my answer as 'yes, I would give it a try' and I started the next day.
So what is this position exactly? Basically I am support to all the Sales reps to do up quotes of the orders the clients have requested. I have a LOT to learn regarding glass 'terminology' but it is a new challenge that I'm up for. I'm thankful for the favour God has placed on me to be able to receive such an opportunity to advance in this company so quickly.
Pretty exciting stuff, eh? God is so faithful to continue leading us in every aspect of our lives and we are very thankful. Even in times we don't understand why we are walking through things, God continues to lead and as we continue to trust Him, He reveals amazing things along the way of the journey.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Glass windows
I've been pondering on this today and realized how thankful I am for windows . . . or should I say glass windows. Since working for a company that deals with glass fabrication, I realize how great of a product it is! Whoever invented it was on to something. :)
Where my offi
ce is I look out through glass doors, glass walls, glass corners to the beauty of nature outside. Not only do I get to see outside but the glass protects me from the temperature outside, the noise, and the smells. Think about it. It is a see through wall! WOW! Such a great thing on fall days like today where the sun is shining with a slight breeze swaying the trees that are starting to change colour. Just perfect.
There is that saying (or is it a scripture) that says, 'a persons eyes are the window into their soul'. Do we take time to look into those windows? Do we see the beauty on the other side? Do we see the potential, the good that God sees in every person? It has made me realize that I need to take time to look into those windows and let God touch the hearts behind those eyes. To let God speak to my heart as I see through the window, into all of His creation.
Take a moment today and look through a window. What do you see?
Where my offi
ce is I look out through glass doors, glass walls, glass corners to the beauty of nature outside. Not only do I get to see outside but the glass protects me from the temperature outside, the noise, and the smells. Think about it. It is a see through wall! WOW! Such a great thing on fall days like today where the sun is shining with a slight breeze swaying the trees that are starting to change colour. Just perfect.
There is that saying (or is it a scripture) that says, 'a persons eyes are the window into their soul'. Do we take time to look into those windows? Do we see the beauty on the other side? Do we see the potential, the good that God sees in every person? It has made me realize that I need to take time to look into those windows and let God touch the hearts behind those eyes. To let God speak to my heart as I see through the window, into all of His creation.
Take a moment today and look through a window. What do you see?
Monday, August 31, 2009
Tourist in our own town
One of the things we have tried to do each weekend this summer, is go somewhere local that one of us have never been before and enjoy our beautiful province that we live in. This past weekend we ventured out to Harrison. On the way we stopped in Abbotsford for a "Lang" breakfast. (My Mom's side of the family) Grandpa was down for a visit from Osoyoos and it was so great to see him along with all the other extended family that were able to make it. We truly treasure our time we get to see Grandpa as each day is a gift.
Here is a pic of him holding his newest Great Grandson - Abraham (my nephew). Grandpa has 16 great grandchildren with 1 more on the way. What a blessing he has had the privilege of seeing in his lifetime. After that we kept driving out to Harrison. I've been there on day trips before but Lance had never seen this peaceful place tucked away in between the glorious mountains. It truly is such a picture, perfect place. We had a great time exploring the place and walking through the Harrison Hot Springs Hotel pretending we were royalty. :) It was great to spend the day enjoying 1 more place that God's wonder and creativity is every where you look.
If you live in this area and have never been, we encourage you to go. It is a beautiful spot to walk, sit, bike, camp, swim, and enjoy a 'get-a-way' that is only an hour away. Enjoy the long weekend - the official last one of the summer.
Friday, August 21, 2009
so far so good
Just a quick update about the new receptionist / administration job. 
So far so good. I've had the usual new place adjustments but everyday I'm getting more comfortable. The job itself is low challenge compared to what I did before but it is kind of nice not having the added stress. I can't believe I've been there 3 weeks already. God is already opening doors and each day I'm able to shine light to each employee and customer that crosses my path.
Other than that things in the Rourke household are going well. This week we had my cousins that are like brothers drive into town from Alberta and we had the chance to spend time with them. Every time we get to see them I'm reminded at how blessed I am with so much family - Immediate, in laws, and extended, whether far away or close, they are all amazing people that I treasure. :)
It is hard to believe summer is coming to a close. Only 2 more weeks and full schedules kick in, school begins and fall arrives. There is something exciting about the beginning of fall - like the beginning of a new year. We are looking forward to great things for the rest of this year as we continue to seek God's will and plan for everyday.
Hope you are all doing well and enjoying today :)
So far so good. I've had the usual new place adjustments but everyday I'm getting more comfortable. The job itself is low challenge compared to what I did before but it is kind of nice not having the added stress. I can't believe I've been there 3 weeks already. God is already opening doors and each day I'm able to shine light to each employee and customer that crosses my path.Other than that things in the Rourke household are going well. This week we had my cousins that are like brothers drive into town from Alberta and we had the chance to spend time with them. Every time we get to see them I'm reminded at how blessed I am with so much family - Immediate, in laws, and extended, whether far away or close, they are all amazing people that I treasure. :)
It is hard to believe summer is coming to a close. Only 2 more weeks and full schedules kick in, school begins and fall arrives. There is something exciting about the beginning of fall - like the beginning of a new year. We are looking forward to great things for the rest of this year as we continue to seek God's will and plan for everyday.
Hope you are all doing well and enjoying today :)
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Great News!
I'm so happy to announce I'm officially EMPLOYED once again!! :) God is so good! I start on August 4th with Vitrum Industries (A glass fabrication company known all over the lower mainland) starting out as their full time receptionist with HUGE room to advance within the company. I'm looking forward to working for a new place with such great people. I must admit I'm a little nervous but who isn't for their first day at a new job. I think I'm more excited than anything to start.
It has been quite the journey for the past 5 months but I'm thankful that the time has come for where God wants to place me in this new chapter in my working career. Thank you to everyone who has been so faithful in praying for us as we have continued to keep knocking on each door waiting for the right one to open. We serve such a great God who consistently loves us unconditionally and brings us through hard times to His promise land set apart for us.
It has been quite the journey for the past 5 months but I'm thankful that the time has come for where God wants to place me in this new chapter in my working career. Thank you to everyone who has been so faithful in praying for us as we have continued to keep knocking on each door waiting for the right one to open. We serve such a great God who consistently loves us unconditionally and brings us through hard times to His promise land set apart for us.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Fun times in Edmonton
We had a wonderful week with Mom & Dad Rourke in mid June. They came for a week and we enjoyed everyday. Unfortunately I didn't pull my camera out once. Silly me.
At the end of the week we all headed out to Edmonton to spend time with the rest of the family. This was a very special time as the family hasn't all been together in 12 years. We enjoyed staying at Lance's sisters place, celebrating our niece's 10th birthday and being together on Father's day for Dad. It was Lance's brother's wish for us to have some family photos done to mark this great moment so on Father's day the adults did just that. We had great weather the whole time and it was sad to have to say goodbye.
Our trip up driving through BC
A few pics of family time
Lance with all his nephews and niece
Rourke Family Photo
Rourke siblings
From Edmonton we had planned on having a mini vacation in Whistler to join my sister & family along with my parents. The adventure turned to being stranded in Lillooet due to a rock slide that our car got damaged in. It was quite the trip and 3 days we will never get back :)
Once we got home I have been enjoying time in the sun with family and friends. We live in such a beautiful province with lakes and the ocean so close. Here are a few pics of times at these beaches.
At the end of the week we all headed out to Edmonton to spend time with the rest of the family. This was a very special time as the family hasn't all been together in 12 years. We enjoyed staying at Lance's sisters place, celebrating our niece's 10th birthday and being together on Father's day for Dad. It was Lance's brother's wish for us to have some family photos done to mark this great moment so on Father's day the adults did just that. We had great weather the whole time and it was sad to have to say goodbye.
Our trip up driving through BC
A few pics of family time
Lance with all his nephews and niece
Rourke Family Photo
Rourke siblings
From Edmonton we had planned on having a mini vacation in Whistler to join my sister & family along with my parents. The adventure turned to being stranded in Lillooet due to a rock slide that our car got damaged in. It was quite the trip and 3 days we will never get back :)
Once we got home I have been enjoying time in the sun with family and friends. We live in such a beautiful province with lakes and the ocean so close. Here are a few pics of times at these beaches.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Summer in the way of blogging
I can't believe how behind I am in not only updating this blog but also in readin
g my friends blogs. Reason? . . .the best . . . . enjoying summer days. 'Sigh', what could be better :)
I'm going to try and update this blog soon so stay tuned. I have so many photos to download as well and share what we have been up too. God is so good to continue to provide, bring purpose to each day and walk through life loving and serving Him.
g my friends blogs. Reason? . . .the best . . . . enjoying summer days. 'Sigh', what could be better :) I'm going to try and update this blog soon so stay tuned. I have so many photos to download as well and share what we have been up too. God is so good to continue to provide, bring purpose to each day and walk through life loving and serving Him.
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