House Hunting

Last week, we had the opportunity to sit down with a mortgage broker and talk shop. We talked through all things fiscal, financial and frightening. We are still waiting on a pre-approval, and are hopeful to start looking sometime this fall. We were slightly overwhelmed, but definitely excited to take this next step!

As neither of us have purchased anything bigger than a used car, we are a little apprehensive about diving into home owners debt. We would appreciate your prayers as we begin this journey toward home ownership. We want to be sure and follow the Lord's leading through all of this, evey step surrendered to Him.

We will keep you updated as we continue on in the fun!

Tim's 28th Birthday!!!

on July 2nd, Tim celebrated his 28th birthday!! I sent him to work with chocolate cupcakes for his co-workers @ Cascade (who eats a cupcake @ 9 am?? Should've made muffins....) Then, I made him a special birthday lunch (all his faves) and he opened his presents. He got a few new shirts and a sweet card from Aunt Sharon and Uncle Bruce. After lunch, we wandered down to Peet's on Hawthorne to do a little reading. Then it was off to Than Thai for dinner.

After dinner, we headed out to McMenamins Edgefield in Gresham for a birthday party with the other birthday boy, Brian Cheney. A lot of friends came out to celebrate and join in on a pint or two. I had made cakes for each of the guys, which created quite the plume of smoke once they were blown out! These guys are gettin old!

After pints and tots, we headed home. I'd say it was a pretty special day! Happy Birthday, Tim!

Reading and studying

So, our lates "date time" activity has been studying/reading in coffee shops. This is a most favorite pastime of Tim's, one which he has been missing as of late. So, when we have the morning or afternoon off together, we pack up our backpacks (don't worry, they're not matching) and drive to a coffee shop.

This has been a great way to get to know our neighborhood a little better and to branch out from Peet's & Starbucks. This is the Daily Cafe, famous for their child friendly atmosphere and great Stumptown brew.

We try not to spend all of our time loafing around on couches and chairs, but are finding this to be a great way for Tim to read and for me to study. Studying can sometimes be a little tough in a place with a louder atmosphere (note the face of struggle below). But, it provides us with an opportunity to grow in both book knowledge and a deeper understanding of each other.