Joel & Tessi News

15th All American Council in Pittsburgh

2008-11-15T09:19:00.004-06:00

We all just got back from the 15th AAC in Pittsburgh on Thursday night. It was a much more tiring trip than we anticipated (still getting used to having the third member in our family), and poor Mara ended up getting sick on Wednesday. But the level of tired didn't come close to comparing to the level of hope and joy we received from the Council. Many people have described the events that took place as "shocking." We were all taken by surprise at the election of (now Metropolitan) +Jonah. Last year we heard recordings of Fr. Jonah speaking on several topics, including prayer of the heart. But hearing the way he spoke at the Council confirmed for everyone who the next leader of the OCA would be. Fr. David Rucker liked to say something along the lines of, "the Church doesn't make priests, it just manifests and blesses what they already are." After hearing the talk that (then Bishop) +Jonah gave on Tuesday night before the election (on Wed), the Church definitely manifested and blessed the one who already was the leader of our Church. We are so joyful walking away from this Council. The OCA, abused and broken, now has a path and possibility of healing laid out before us. Even more than that, we have a leader who is engaged, who understands authority not as power but as responsibility, who wants to teach in a way that we can understand, and above all, urges us to love God with our whole heart and our neighbor as ourself. Glory to God!! Here is a link to articles and talks given by Metropolitan Jonah throughout the years for your reading and listening pleasure.

Our First Harvest

2008-08-31T16:00:00.002-05:00

So, one thing about our new place is that it came with its own grape vine. Well, today was the day that we saw the birds out there starting to pick 'em off, so we got our plastic bags and started harvesting. (Interestingly enough, Tessi's name "Theressa" means "harvester.") We've kind of always had this dream of owning a vineyard someday, so this was really fun for us. These are Concord grapes and, though they aren't very good for winemaking, we figured we'd give it a shot anyway. We found out there's a class in Indianapolis at a place called "Great Fermentations" on September 21st where we can learn how to make wine at home. Should be fun! Here's a shot from yesterday (pre-harvest): And here's a few shots from today before and after we got them: Can you find Tessi? The people who own this home (our landlords) just HAPPENED to have an old wine barrel in the garage. We hauled it in and it fits nicely with the icon of the Wedding at Cana!

We're In!

2008-08-22T10:24:00.001-05:00

Well it's been a long time coming, but we're finally settled in (with Internet installed)! For those of you who don't already know, we decided to move to Indiana in mid June to be closer to the Wilson family, and to move us one step closer toward seminary (most likely in NY). God has been so good to us, as well as our family and friends during this time of transition. We found a house to rent only a few miles from Mom and Dad Wilson's, and we're loving having a little more room than our apartment down south. We've got a lot of photos to upload, so check back soon to see more!

A Mother's Day Study

2008-05-14T09:58:00.002-05:00

What a Mom is worth in today's fast-paced world. Just thought this article was worth sharing for all you Mothers out there. Thanks for all you do. :)

Our First Year

2008-04-29T10:51:00.004-05:00

Today we have officially been married for one year! Looking back on our time together, it seems like it's flown by, and so much has happened - Mara will already be 3 months old on Thursday! We are so blessed to have each other, and want to thank all of our family and friends for the kindness and generosity shown. It makes it easier when others before us have set such a good example. We also had someone who was kind enough to send us footage they shot at our wedding! So here's a short and sweet version of our wedding in commemoration of our one-year anniversary. P.S. Christ is Risen!

Pascha!

2008-04-27T21:54:00.003-05:00

"This is the day of Resurrection; let us be illumined by the Feast, let us embrace each other! Let us call "brother" even those who hate us, and forgive all by the Resurrection. And so let us cry:" Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life! Death is overthrown and Life reigns! All things are new again in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What an awesome and loving God we have.

Great & Holy Saturday

2008-04-26T16:33:00.003-05:00

These were just a few verses that we sang in church last night and this morning that really kind of blew my mind (bold emphasis my own): From the Canon of Great & Holy Saturday: "The Life of All accepts burial in the tomb, And the tomb becomes the source of resurrection Unto the salvation of us who sing: Blessed are you, O God, our redeemer!" This verse hit me because, not only did Christ defeat death by His death (paradoxical enough), He made it His slave (essentially) by wielding it to be a new source of life. That even though we all die, we're no longer held captive by death. Whoa! From the Liturgy on Great & Holy Saturday: "Today hell cries out groaning: I should not have accepted the Man born of Mary. He came and destroyed my power. He shattered the gates of brass. As God, He raised the souls that I had held captive. Glory to Thy cross and resurrection, O Lord. "Today, hell cries out groaning: My dominion has been shattered. I received a dead man as one of the dead, but against Him I could not prevail. From eternity I had ruled the dead, but behold, He raises all. Because of Him do I perish. Glory to Thy cross and resurrection, O Lord." Fr. Alexander Schmemman of blessed memory describes Christ's time in hell as an "active repose." Interesting contrast. Have a wonderful Pascha!

St. George Choir on Good Friday

2008-04-25T23:22:00.001-05:00

Tonight is Orthodox Good Friday, so we got a little video snippet of the choir during one of the songs at church. What a beautiful service it is! This is the night when Christ's death is recounted and brought to the forefront of our minds. An icon of Christ in the form of a shroud is brought out and placed in the "tomb". At the end of the service it is processed around the Church with all of us following and singing with candles lit. We then reenter the Church underneath the shroud as it is held above us. The songs, scriptures, readings that are done . . . they all make you feel like you are in the moment when Christ was actually crucified and buried. You can see a brief moment of Joel, Mara and I as we sing in the choir too. Mara will be a great choir member some day! :)

Please Pray for Father Antonio

2008-04-24T12:54:00.002-05:00

This week is Holy Week that leads up to Pascha (Easter) for those of us in the Orthodox Church. It is packed full with beautiful services each day to help us draw near to God, recounting so much about His death and resurrection. However, this Tuesday our priest, Fr. Antonio, was diagnosed with pneumonia! The doctor wanted him to go the hospital, but Fr. and Matushka Elizabeth told him about all the services he has to do this week for Holy Week, so they just gave him shots of antibiotics to allow him to go home. Out of the whole year, this is the most inopportune time to get sick for Fr. Antonio. He must feel so burdened wanting to perform the services for the sake of his flock, not being able to rest fully because of it. The church is trying to do as many parts of the services as we can without him having to be there to allow him to rest. Please pray for him, that he would recover and would not be too overwhelmed by it all. It seems that SOMEONE did not want us to participate in Holy Week this year, but God is still using the efforts of his faithful that are picking up the slack to work in the lives of those in our church. God will always prevail and can use all things to draw us closer to Him. May He be glorified this Paschal season!!!

Mara's New Bonnet

2008-04-11T22:01:00.000-05:00

We're on our way to San Anton this weekend and Tess just finished
knitting this at our first stop along the way. Thought you'd enjoy. :)

Please Pray for Grandpa Wilson

2008-03-27T11:19:00.002-05:00

Grandpa is currently in surgery having cancer removed from around his pancreas. The doctors are having to remove parts of several other vital organs as well, and will make for a long recovery. Please remember him in your prayers today. UPDATE: Grandpa had a successful surgery (or so we're told) and the doctor is saying he's four to five days ahead of schedule in his recovery. Thank you so much for your prayers! Once he gets home it will be a long six or so weeks to get back to normal physical shape, but at this rate, maybe only two or three!

Please Pray for Renee

2008-03-26T11:14:00.004-05:00

Renee is 34 weeks pregnant and went into the hospital at 4:00 this morning after going into premature active labor. They've given her magnesium to try and slow the labor down, and apparently it's working so far. Once they get her contractions to stop they will be transferring her to Abiline where there is a Neonatal ICU. They're hoping to keep her for another two weeks. For those of you who don't know, 36 weeks is considered "safe" to deliver the baby, but not too much before that. Please remember her and Joel and the baby (and Calvin and Donny) in your prayers today. UPDATE (10:15 P.M.) : Renee was able get the contractions stopped long enough to be transferred to Abilene. Once she got there the labor started up again and progressed entirely. Little Josephine was born around 10:00 tonight! They don't know much about her yet, as she was whisked away to the Neonatal ICU, but we know that she's doing well at this point. We're hoping to go up this weekend to see them all. Thank you everyone for your prayers - please continue them for the Duffield family these next few days.

Smilin' Mara

2008-03-08T11:04:00.003-06:00

(Click for more)

St. Tarasius • Archbishop of Constantinople

2008-02-25T08:39:00.002-06:00

Today is Tessi's namesday! Upon her Chrismation into the Orthodox Church, she chose St. Tarasius as her patron saint because of his significance in the Seventh Ecumenical Council in dealing with the heresy of iconoclasm. Today is the first time for her to be able to celebrate her namesday as a newly illumined Orthodox Christian. Here is the icon and story of St. Tarasius' life:

Saint Tarasius, Patriarch of Constantinople was of illustrious lineage. He was born and raised in Constantinople, where he received a fine education. He was rapidly promoted at the court of the emperor Constantine VI Porphyrogenitos (780-797) and Constantine's mother, the holy Empress Irene (August 7), and the saint attained the rank of senator. During these times the Church was agitated by the turmoil of the Iconoclast disturbances. The holy Patriarch Paul (August 30) although he had formerly supported Iconoclasm, later repented and resigned his office. He withdrew to a monastery, where he took the schema. When the holy Empress Irene and her son the emperor came to him, St Paul told them that the most worthy successor to him would be St Tarasius (who at this time was still a layman). Tarasius refused for a long time, not considering himself worthy of such high office, but he then gave in to the common accord on the condition, that an Ecumenical Council be convened to address the Iconoclast heresy. Proceeding through all the clerical ranks in a short while, St Tarasius was elevated to the patriarchal throne in the year 784. In the year 787 the Seventh Ecumenical Council was convened in the city of Nicea, with Patriarch Tarasius presiding, and 367 bishops attending. The veneration of holy icons was confirmed at the council. Those bishops who repented of their iconoclasm, were again received by the Church. St Tarasius wisely governed the Church for twenty-two years. He led a strict ascetic life. He spent all his money on God-pleasing ends, feeding and giving comfort to the aged, to the impoverished, to widows and orphans, and on Holy Pascha he set out a meal for them, and he served them himself. The holy Patriarch fearlessly denounced the emperor Constantine Porphyrigenitos when he slandered his spouse, the empress Maria, the granddaughter of St Philaretos the Merciful (December 1), so that he could send Maria to a monastery, thus freeing him to marry his own kinswoman. St Tarasius resolutely refused to dissolve the marriage of the emperor, for which the saint fell into disgrace. Soon, however, Constantine was deposed by his own mother, the Empress Irene. St Tarasius died in the year 806. Before his death, devils examined his life from the time of his youth, and they tried to get the saint to admit to sins that he had not committed. "I am innocent of that of which you accuse me," replied the saint, "and you falsely slander me. You have no power over me at all." Mourned by the Church, the saint was buried in a monastery he built on the Bosphorus. Many miracles took place at his tomb.

Finally, More Pictures!

2008-02-03T19:43:00.000-06:00

We're thrilled (albeit tired) and grateful to God for such an incredible blessing. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we nurse this little one through the fragile initiations of life. Click the photo below for about 20 photos of lil' Mara. (Click for more) Thank you to everyone for your congratulations and prayers. This world would be a very difficult place to bring a new life into without the love of God expressed through all of you. Thank you!

Mara Breigh Wilson

2008-02-01T15:21:00.000-06:00

8 lbs, 5 oz. 19.5 in. Born on Jan. 31st, 10:35pm. These are all the shots we can post for now. Mommy and Daddy are tired. First hair rinse. Getting her hair combed. A tired team. Thank you for your prayers, and thank you Lord Jesus Christ, for a healthy baby.

Ask the Readers: Best Objective News Source?

2008-01-10T16:51:00.000-06:00

So acting in line with our new year's resolution, I thought I'd post a more conversational topic to you, our readers. It's not uncommon for someone to tell you to quit listening to main-stream media and to "get the facts." But where exactly are these "facts" found? I've got my opinions, but do you have any news sources you've found that you think are truthful and objective? Do you think they exist? Leave a comment and let us know!

Blessing of the Waters - Theophany 2008

2008-01-07T12:35:00.000-06:00

St. George had its Blessing of the Waters service at a lake in Edinburg yesterday. It was really windy, but beautiful. Theophany always has a bit of a childish nature to it for some reason. Getting sprinkled with water never fails to make you smile!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T11:13:00.001-06:00

It's absolutely incredible that another year is already here. We sent our New Year Letter out late last night. If you didn't get one then either we don't have your email address or we had an old one. So if you're achin for a recap of 2007 with the Wilsons, leave us a comment or shoot us an email and we'll get one out to you right quick! May God bless this new year for you, and help you take advantage of new beginnings!

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

2007-12-25T19:24:00.000-06:00

Nativity Homily by St. John Chrysostom: "I behold a new and wondrous mystery! My ears resound to the Shepherd's song, piping no soft melody, but chanting full forth a heavenly hymn. "The Angels sing! The Archangels blend their voices in harmony! The Cherubim hymn their joyful praise! The Seraphim exalt His glory! "All join to praise this holy feast, beholding the Godhead here on earth, and man in heaven. He who is above, now for our redemption dwells here below; and he that was lowly is by divine mercy raised. "Bethlehem this day resembles heaven; hearing from the stars the singing of angelic voices; and in place of the sun, enfolds within itself on every side the Sun of Justice. "And ask not how: for where God wills, the order of nature yields. For He willed, he had the power, He descended, He redeemed; all things move in obedience to God. "This day He Who Is, is Born; and He Who Is becomes what He was not. For when He was God, He became man; yet not departing from the Godhead that is His. Nor yet by any loss of divinity became He man, nor through increase became he God from man; but being the Word He became flesh, His nature, because of impassibility, remaining unchanged. "And so the kings have come, and they have seen the heavenly King that has come upon the earth, not bringing with Him Angels, nor Archangels, nor Thrones, nor Dominations, nor Powers, nor Principalities, but, treading a new and solitary path, He has come forth from a spotless womb. "Yet He has not forsaken His angels, nor left them deprived of His care, nor because of His Incarnation has he departed from the Godhead. "And behold, Kings have come, that they might adore the heavenly King of glory; Soldiers, that they might serve the Leader of the Hosts of Heaven; Women, that they might adore Him Who was born of a woman so that He might change the pains of child-birth into joy; Virgins, to the Son of the Virgin, beholding with joy, that He Who is the Giver of milk, Who has decreed that the fountains of the breast pour forth in ready streams, receives from a Virgin Mother the food of infancy; Infants, that they may adore Him Who became a little child, so that out of the mouth of infants and sucklings, He might perfect praise; Children, to the Child Who raised up martyrs through the rage of Herod; Men, to Him Who became man, that He might heal the miseries of His servants; Shepherds, to the Good Shepherd Who has laid down His life for His sheep; Priests, to Him Who has become a High Priest according to the order of Melchisedech; Servants, to Him Who took upon Himself the form of a servant that He might bless our servitude with the reward of freedom; Fishermen, to Him Who from amongst fishermen chose catchers of men; Publicans, to Him Who from amongst them named a chosen Evangelist; Sinful women, to Him Who exposed His feet to the tears of the repentant; "And that I may embrace them all together, all sinners have come, that they may look upon the Lamb of God Who taketh away the sins of the world. "Since therefore all rejoice, I too desire to rejoice. I too wish to share the choral dance, to celebrate the festival. But I take my part, not plucking the harp, not shaking the Thyrsian staff, not with the music of pipes, nor holding a torch, but holding in my arms the cradle of Christ. For this is all my hope, this my life, this my salvation, this my pipe, my harp. And bearing it I come, and having from its power received the gift of speech, I too, with the angels, sing: Glory to God in the Highest; and with the shepherds: and on earth peace to men of good will." Fr. Antonio read this for the homily at this morning's liturgy. It's so beautiful, and it does such an excellent job of tying everything in. Christ is born! Glorify Him!

Pregnancy Belly

2007-12-21T17:40:00.001-06:00

Here's a recent pregnancy picture to show our baby's growth progress. And to think, we still have at least six more weeks of growth to go! Ahhhh!

Merry Christmas

2007-12-21T13:12:00.000-06:00

Christ is born! Glorify Him! We want to wish everyone a very merry Christmas. It's definitely been an exciting year for us, lots of life changes. Thank you for your prayers and encouragements throughout this year. Our resolution for the new year? Post more frequently!

Fall In the Valley

2007-10-22T17:23:00.000-05:00

We had a great time over at Russ and Manda's last night carving pumpkins (Tess painted the one below), eating chili and pumpkin pie (not together) , and enjoying some nice Octoberfest and Pumpkin ales. The only thing missing was the cold weather... ...until today, that is. Yesterday it was 95 degrees as Tess and I were doing some work outside. I got some nasty mosquito bites and just about ruined my nice pants from sweat. But today, within two hours, the temperature dropped to a WONDERFUL 65 degrees. Thank the Lord! It feels like Fall now.

An Introduction to Orthodox Christianity

2007-10-19T13:10:00.000-05:00

I was perusing the Midwest Diocese's site today and ran across a great presentation to be used within the Church for inquirers of Orthodox Christianity. Though it doesn't go into great detail, it provides an excellent resource and outline to begin with. It's available for download (from the source) in three different forms: Powerpoint (Editable) • Powerpoint Slideshow • PDF

Tummy at 25 Weeks

2007-10-17T23:42:00.001-05:00

Just 3 1/2 months to go!! Oh and one more thing... Our beautiful baby girl! We plan to call her Mara Breigh.

"Prayer of an Expectant Mother"

2007-10-01T15:38:00.001-05:00

A painting by Dimitri Petrovthe Today I found that my mind could not stop reflecting on the fate of so many babies that have been lost in our culture, both wittingly and unwittingly. I couldn't stop my heart from being saddened by the situation our culture is in, where life is so flippant and only given a chance when it's convenient to those being affected by it. I kept thinking of so many babies that had been thrown away, little ones that started just like Mara, before they were even acknowledged for having existed. It grieved my soul to think of how this apathy has wormed its way into the very heart of the Church, those in the body of Christ who have been deceived by this culture in which we live. But then something struck me. As I was mourning the havoc reaped by so many others' choices that I wished I could change, and as I was wishing I could inform people so that they would not be ignorant of what they were doing, I then began to reflect on my own heart. . . . God has granted we mothers such a mystery of a gift. The first level of the mystery is the amazing miracle of a life inside of us. Just as Mary, who carried the very life of God within her, pondered these things in her heart, we also, in a similar sense, ponder the miracle that is taking place within us. Each step of the process we cherish in our hearts because we have been given a chance to participate in the beginning of life. Even the most uncomfortable, inconvenient and downright painful parts we cherish in a sense because it all is part of our opportunity to give life. Each sleepless night from too much kicking we secretly smile about endearingly, each level of physical pain we willingly undertake because of the beauty of what is really taking place. We give up governance of our very bodies to be able to have a part in God's mysterious giving of life. When it is all over and done, most of us even ask for more chances to feel a new life within us, not shying away from all of the inconveniences because we are in awe of what has taken place in the ultimate reality, the creation of an eternal being. In light of this mystery that has been granted to us women, I began to think of the second level of the gift God has given us in bearing children. He has given us a window to see into even greater things. This approach of willingly taking on pain and suffering for the sake of a human life is the same thing that takes place within the spiritual world on all levels. No life can ever be brought to fruition, except through sacrifice and suffering. Christ Himself showed us this truth by offering Himself. Then He called us to follow in His ways, denying ourselves and taking up our own cross. But how many times do we look on these daily, commonplace sacrifices in disdain, dreading or begrudging them. Each moment we have a chance to lay ourselves down for another we are again given a chance to participate in God's mystery of giving life. But that life is not just the creation of another new person, but of the very life of God, His Love, His Light within another person. What a mystery to be given a chance to take part in God's creation of life! We willingly take on the challenge when it means a child within our womb because we can so easily see its mystery. But we have been given a window to see the mystery in all of our suffering in life. Even when we are having to persevere through tribulations that are not directly for someone else, they still bring character in ourselves, the Character of Christ Himself within us. I was blown away by the gift God has given us women to be able to take any pain or struggle we encounter and see it in its true light - an opportunity to create life in this world around us. Then, as I considered this, I realized how many times I had fallen short of this noble thought, how many times I had not only begrudged an opportunity to lay myself down, but had flat-out refused it. How much life have I refused? How much of God's amazing Love and Light have I prevented from being a part of this world we are in? How many times has my own selfishness kept others from truly living, not just their physical bodies, but in an even greater sense, how many times have I blocked them from being in communion with God? I discovered I may not have been as "Pro-Life" as I imagined myself to be. May God, who is Love Itself, grant us all the mercy and grace to be able to say "yes" to the chance He has given us to give life to all around us instead of taking it simply for ourselves.

Babysittin' the Twins

2007-09-09T21:51:00.000-05:00

Had our first chance to babysit the new twins tonight. :)

McAllen Artwalk Exhibit

2007-09-05T13:47:00.001-05:00

I get another chance to exhibit some pieces this Friday at the McAllen
Artwalk. For those of you that are local, you should come on by to
Jaclyn's Florist Shop to visit, see lots of artists stuff, and eat
yummy snacks. :) I'm excited to be exhibiting this first icon that I
wrote this summer in the icon workshop. I hope to have information on
all of the symbols and meanings behind each part there for people to
learn about as well. If any of you haven't been able to see the
website Joel made for me, go to www.artwithtess.com. There is a
gallery where you can view some other artworks too. :)

Exciting Birth Plans

2007-08-27T13:09:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone! Here's the latest tummy growth pic and, no, I'm not pushing out. :)

Joel and I were pretty bummed out trying to find a new doctor after
Holy Family closed, but we recently found out our insurance will pay
the same for a midwife as it will for any doctor. We have found a
midwife out of Corpus Christi who will give us our prenatal care and
we will be having a home birth with a possible water birth option. We
are so relieved and excited! If any complications do arise, a hospital
is just minutes away to transfer to. I can't wait to meet our new
midwife in a couple of weeks. Here is her website if any of you want
to see what she's like.
http://texas-midwife.com/

Welcome to the Family

2007-08-14T15:09:00.000-05:00

Addison Steele - 5lb, 13oz - 19in Isabelle Steele - 5lb, 13oz - 19in Congratulations Russ & Amanda! We will hopefully have more pictures up soon, as they'll be coming home tonight. They are twins, but aren't identical so far as we can tell. Identical or not, they're both beautiful, and we are all incredibly thankful to God for their ability to enter the world naturally and healthily. Tess is still doing well - we had a slight scare back in July but all seems to be okay now at nearly 4 mos. Please remember us in your prayers! UPDATE: Click here for more photos of the twins!

Hoosier Reception

2007-06-22T17:22:00.000-05:00

Update: Click here for photos of the reception

What: A Reception at the Wilson's When: Saturday July 7th, 2007, 5-10pm Where: 2686 W 300 S, Crawfordsville, IN 47933

We're dying to see everyone back in the Midwest, and would be honored if you were able to come! Please don't worry about bringing gifts as we won't really have room on the plane to take them back with us.

8 Weeks

2007-06-21T11:01:00.000-05:00

Renee sent this to us this morning. How can it not blow your mind when thinking about the stages of a human person being formed? To watch God literally create and shape a new body and soul day by day... it's just awesome.

The unborn child, called a fetus at this stage, is about three quarters of an inch from crown to rump. The tiny person is protected by the amniotic sac, filled with fluid. Inside, the child swims and moves gracefully. The arms and legs have lengthened, and fingers can be seen. The toes will develop in the next few days. Brain waves can be measured.

Thanks Renee. Lord, have mercy. P.S. And for those math geniuses out there, no, we haven't even been married for 8 weeks yet, but the above method of calculating fetal age doesn't go from the date of conception. If that were the case, he/she would only be 6 weeks old today. :)

The Cat's Out of the Bag

2007-06-19T15:27:00.000-05:00

Well, we were going to make it a surprise for the reception back in Indiana this July, but quite a few people know now and have told others, who have in turn told others, and well, we figured we'd go ahead and just make it public. Both of us having come from large families, we figured we'd better get crackin' if we wanted to be young enough to handle 'em all. Not sure how many we'll get, but we're trying to open our arms and hearts as wide as God will allow. We couldn't be more thankful for His incredible blessings. Please, please keep us in your prayers, that God will prepare our hearts for this incredible and mysterious miracle.

A Musical Attraction

2007-05-11T12:57:00.000-05:00

For those of you at the wedding who received one of our CD's for your drive from the ceremony to the reception, here are the artists and the reasons we chose these songs! (If you didn't receive one but still want it, we have some left over we'd be willing to mail out!) We received several compliments on them - looks like y'all have good taste in music! Enjoy. The track name links are to iTunes or Amazon. 1. These Are the Days by Jamie Cullum | This was just a fun song by a very talented, fairly new jazz artist from Australia. The title of the track and lyrics in the song are good for remembering the here and now. Joel suggested this artist to Tessi when they were emailing. 2. Wish I Could by Norah Jones | A favorite artist of both of ours, Joel bought this new album of Norah's for Tessi on her birthday after it was released this past January. A great relaxing song. 3. White Daisy Passing by Rocky Votoloto | This was a song that Joel sent to Tessi that reinforced their already similar musical tastes. It was one of Tessi's favorites. 4. Kathy's Song by Eva Cassidy | Originally done by Simon and Garfunkle, Tessi suggested this song to Joel, who hadn't heard much of Eva. Beautifully done. 5. Long Time Traveller by The Wailin' Jennys | When Tessi came up to Tennessee with her family, Joel found this song on iTunes and they fell in love with it together in Tennessee. An incredible group, with harmonies reminiscent of Tessi and her sisters. 6. From the Bottom of My Heart by The Wallflowers | This was a song from The Wallflowers latest album that Joel sent to Tessi as kind of a test of her depth of heart. "Coming up from the depths, to the rays of the sun" are lyrics that Joel really identified with after God allowed him to experience the pain and healing of a broken heart. A song about a phoenix type of resurrection, with a promising and hopeful message. 7. Tomorrow Is A Long Time by Nickel Creek | Joel and Tessi both love Nickel Creek. To show how much he liked them, Joel sent photos of himself posing with the band at a concert in Cincinnati. Tessi then sent a reply with herself posing with the band at a concert in Texas! This song is about the wait, and the longing for "the one." 8. I Can't Get You Out of My Mind by Sonya Kitchell | Just a DANG good blues song that you can't keep from swaying to! MMMMMM!! 9. So Are You To Me by Eastmountainsouth | This is a song by a group that hardly anyone has heard of. But Joel just so happened to find Eastmountainsouth in his musical perusings before meeting Tessi. Tessi and her family were big fans of the group already, and when they found out that Joel knew of and liked them, Tessi's dad told her to "marry that man!" Joel absolutely fell head over heels for Tessi when she started playing and singing this song for him over the phone during their late night talks. Tessi also recorded this song during her visit to Indiana in the Summer of 2006. Click play below to hear it. 10. Moments with Oliver by Rachael Yamagata | For those with the heart and soul to experience it. 11. Gravity by John Mayer | Not sure if it gets better than this. John Mayer at his best from his latest album Continuum. 12. Prayer of St. Francis by Sarah Mclachlan | One of Joel's favorite prayers, sung as a beautiful hymn 13. Slumber My Darling by Yo Yo Ma with Alison Krauss | Tessi sent this song to Joel as the background music of a presentation she made for him displaying photos of all her artwork, talking about the beauty of womanhood. Joel could barely bring himself to watch the presentation because she all of a sudden seemed too wonderfully perfect for him. 14. Tennessee by Mindy Smith | Tessi absolutely loves this song. She used to live in Tennessee for awhile, and says that the inflections of this song fits perfectly with the beauty and terrain of Tennessee. A hauntingly good song. 15. Let's Go Dancing by Teitur | Another song that Joel sent to Tessi that quickly became one of their favorites. 16. At Last by Etta James | Was there every any question as to whether this song would be on here? Well, if there was, then it's because we're both in our mid-twenties and are just now finding each other. 17. Sweet Scented Figure by Scott Matthews | A nice funky, bluesy song that's just fun to drive to. 18. Godspeed (Sweet Dreams) by The Dixie Chicks | Tessi loves this song because she imagines herself singing this to her own little boy someday. 19. Morning Stars by KT Tunstall | This was the first song that Joel sent to Tessi. She loved it and sent a favorite song of hers back, and well, that's how you're listening to all these songs now. 20. You Don't Know Me by Ray Charles | Because you just gotta have some Ray! 21. October by Rosie Thomas | Another song that Tessi sang to Joel that made his heart melt. Just beautiful. Click play below to hear Tessi sing this song. 22. One Moment More by Mindy Smith | Another Mindy Smith song that Tessi played and sang for Joel. 23. The Sweetest Gift by Sade | Calm, soothing. Winding down the album. Can any romantic CD be good without Sade? 24. Troparia, Tone 8 (Among the Saints) by Fr. Apostolos Hill | A durge sung in the festal eighth tone at funerals in the Orthodox Church. Four days after Joel moved to Texas, his Grandfather passed away and he had to fly back up to Indiana for the funeral. The Orthodox Church has wonderful resources for grieving the loss of a loved one, and this troparion helped tremendously.

We're back! And still settling in.

2007-05-08T10:38:00.000-05:00

Hello all you loved ones out there. First and foremost, we can't express deeply enough how grateful we are for all your thoughts, prayers, and incredible generosity throughout these past couple of months. The sacrament of marriage is more than enough to bless and enrich our lives, but to be supported so strongly by our family and friends illustrated for us very clearly the Body of Christ working together for the good of the Church. Thank you!! As mentioned already, we are still settling in after our week of honeymoon bliss. We're waiting on a computer monitor to come in this week so we can upload all our photos from home for everyone to see. So much to do, but now it's just fun! Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we embark on this journey together. Yours in Christ, Joel & Tessi

And here are the photos from the honeymoon!

Getting Close!

2007-04-19T11:33:00.000-05:00

Well, the site says there are only 9 days left, and we're feeling it! There's been so much going on lately it's hard to keep track of everything. Tessi and I have been laughing about how we keep creating more lists for everything still left to do before the wedding. We continue to find gifts on her parent's doorstep from you all, and are just overwhelmed with your generosity and love. Thank you! We can't wait to see everyone at the wedding, and we're trying to find a good date to have the reception back in Indiana (July 4th weekend sound good?). Last weekend we made yet another trip up to George & Freda's to plant some flowers, hang some lights, and do lots of other semi-final preparations. This picture was taken back in October of last year. Since then they've been putting in hardwood floors and landscaping; it's looking incredible. Archbishop JOB returned our call on Saturday to confirm that he will be giving a homily at the wedding between the Betrothal and the Crowning. We're very honored that he is taking the time out of his extremely busy schedule to make it down here. We're also very honored that Fr. Antonio Perdomo and Fr. Leo Poore have given their blessing and are celebrating the services. Monday night we went and picked out our wedding bands, and tonight we go to pick up Tessi's that's being soldered to her engagement ring. Then off to sign a 12-month lease for our new apartment, and will be moving in tomorrow night and all day Saturday. We've got most of the utilities hooked up and ready to go (Internet? Check! Anything else?) I've rented a moving truck for picking up our new bed, sofa, and loveseat from the furniture store. Dad, Mom, Sam, Gabe, and Micah all get in this Sunday evening to help with the final preparations (and hopefully we'll get some time to sneak across the border for dinner one evening). Then next Friday Caleb and Suzi fly in, we'll all be heading up to meet them in San Anton for the final reception preparations. (Seriously, this party's gonna rock!) Personally, I am dying to see all y'all from back home that are coming in for the wedding. It's hard being away from everyone you've grown up with. RSVP's are still coming in, so if you haven't made yours yet, please be sure to. It's really just for our own head count, but also helps us keep our address book up to date with your latest information! I've been told by several Valley natives that RSVP's are pretty much out of the question; if you invite them, plan on them showing up. So that's what we're doing! Hope you can make it. Write us or leave a comment and let us know how you're doing!

Congratulations Jillian!

2007-04-11T20:56:00.000-05:00

Jillian - the one between us in the photo at the top, and the one responsible for all of this marriage stuff - was chrismated at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Fort Wayne, IN alongside her four children, Samuel, Lucas, Levi, and Solome. It's been a long time in the making and a difficult struggle (not to be subjective, but Orthodox conversion stories are nearly always miraculous), and she'll be the first one to tell you that she is finally Home. We just wanted to say a public congratulations to our very dear friend and matchmaker. We love you Jillian! God grant you many years!

Dearest Theressa (Tarasia),

2007-04-08T12:37:00.000-05:00

Click for more photos of
Tessi's Chrismation

My love, thank you. Thank you for allowing me to be a participant in your entrance into God's Holy Church. Your tender heart, your spiritual vigor, your humble preparation, your tears of joy streaming into the fragrant Chrism on your cheeks, and (at last!) your genuine joy of the receiving of "the Pearl of Great Price." This single event, this complete offering of yourself and your life is more precious to God than anything else you will ever do or achieve. I am honored, energized, and inspired by your love for Jesus Christ. I pray (and will soon pray kneeling next to you in our home!) that we can make this a daily, hourly, constant dedication of our life to the Giver of Life. I love you, and will willingly spend every day of the rest of my life learning what it looks like to love you "just as Christ loves the Church." May God allow us to understand fully, and make us worthy of the Crowns of Martyrdom in His Kingdom. Congratulations, my dear, and may God grant you many, many years! With all my love, Joel

Paschal Homily of St. John Chrysostom

2007-04-08T12:28:00.000-05:00

Experiences in life from year to year allow me to receive and understand these words of hope and victory just a little bit more. The battle is won, life is victorious and death is overthrown. Glory to Thy resurrection O Christ! (Push the play button below for some mood music.) - - - - - - - - - - - + + + - - - - - - - - - - -

"If any man be devout and loves God, let him enjoy this fair and radiant triumphal feast. If any man be a wise servant, let him rejoicing enter into the joy of his Lord. If any have labored long in fasting, let him now receive his recompense. If any have wrought from the first hour let him today receive his just reward. If any have come at the third hour, let him with thankfulness keep the feast. If any have arrived at the sixth hour, let him have no misgivings; because he shall nowise be deprived therefore. If any have delayed until the ninth hour, let him draw near, fearing nothing. If any have tarried even until the eleventh hour, let him, also, be not alarmed at his tardiness; for the Lord, who is jealous of His honor, will accept the last even as the first; he gives rest unto him who comes at the eleventh hour, even as unto him who has wrought from the first hour. And he shows mercy on the last and cares for the first; and to the one he gives and upon the other he bestows gifts. And he both accepts the deeds, and welcomes the intention, and honors the acts, and praises the offering. Wherefore, enter all into the joy of your Lord; and receive your reward, both the first and likewise the second. You rich and poor together, hold high festival. You sober and you heedless, honor the day. Rejoice today, both you who have fasted and you who have disregarded the fast. The table is full-laden; feast sumptuously! The calf is fatted; let no one go away hungry. Enjoy all the feast of faith: receive all the riches of loving-kindness. Let no one bewail his poverty, for the universal kingdom has been revealed. Let no one weep his iniquities, for pardon has shone forth from the grave. Let no one fear death, for the Savior's death has set us free. He that was held prisoner of it has annihilated it. By descending into Hell, he made Hell captive. He embittered it when it tasted of His flesh. And Isaiah, foretelling this did cry: Hell, said he, was embittered, when it encountered Thee in the depths. It was embittered, for it was abolished. It was embittered, for it was mocked. It was embittered, for it was slain. It was embittered, for it was overthrown. It was embittered, for it was fettered in chains. It took a body, and met God face to face. It took earth and encountered Heaven. It took that which was seen, and fell upon the unseen. O Death where is thy sting? O Hell where is thy victory? Christ is risen, and thou art overthrown. Christ is risen, and the demons are fallen. Christ is risen, and the angels rejoice. Christ is risen, and life reigns. Christ is risen, and not one dead remains in the grave. For Christ, being risen from the dead, is become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. To Him be glory and dominion unto ages of ages. Amen!"

- - - - - - - - - - - + + + - - - - - - - - - - - Couldn't help adding the bold for emphasis on what really struck me! Christ is risen!! Indeed, He is risen!

An Evening In the Life

2007-02-23T16:20:00.000-06:00

Our sponsors, Stephen and Sonia had us over to their parents house for dinner last night. It was a really good time, and we got some Appalachian jamming in for a bit. Just thought you might enjoy. P.S. If you're having trouble viewing it, you'll need the latest version of Quicktime installed.

Blessing of Iconostasis in San Antonio

2007-02-16T16:22:00.000-06:00

We travelled to St. Anthony Orthodox Church in San Antonio this past weekend for the blessing of their new iconostas with Archbishop Dmitri. It was wonderful to be with Vladyka, as well as get to see the new iconostas up close and personal! This is the church we will be married in, and the new iconostas is beautiful! Enjoy the slideshow.

On Marriage & Family Life

2007-02-13T22:31:00.000-06:00

To balance out the Fr. Josiah Trenham talks, we're reading a book on Marriage and Family Life by St. John Chrysostom. Well, not by him, but a composition of some homilies of his on the topic. What we've read so far is very good, and surprisingly relevant for how ancient it is. Online homilies of his are available on a Roman Catholic site here, and here. Interesting side note: Because St. John Chrysostom was around before the Great Schism, the Roman Catholic church also lays claim to him as a Church Father.

Happy Birthday Joel!

2007-02-07T09:12:00.000-06:00

Joel's 25th birthday was yesterday, but I didn't get a chance to put these up! These were a few that his mom scanned and put captions to, as you can see. "Life is good." "Well, she's about this tall and..." "Congo Man"

Happy Birthday Tessi!

2007-01-30T09:41:00.000-06:00

Today is Tessi's 24th Birthday. I thought I'd throw a couple baby photos of her on here just for fun. May God grant you many years, my love.

The Christian Marriage & Family

2007-01-28T16:30:00.000-06:00

Tessi and I were recently inspired and encouraged by a series of lectures given and available for download by Fr. Josiah Trenham of California. He speaks very well about what an Orthodox Christian marriage looks like, and how God intended it to be from the very beginning. It has made us aware of our shortcomings, misguided expectations, and is helping us to prepare ourselves for the sacrament of marriage. Just thought we'd share it with all of you! Please keep us in your prayers. Click here for the four audio lectures available for download.

Christmas Photos from Indiana

2007-01-02T18:28:00.000-06:00

Indiana Christmas

All Official Like

2007-01-02T16:32:00.000-06:00

We had a great Nativity and new year in Indiana with the family. We had some time to pose for a good picture of us together as well. Enjoy!

And the Verdict Is...

2006-11-27T18:11:00.000-06:00

After much deliberation, prayer, and communication with friends and family, we've decided on April 29th, 2007 for the wedding date! More updates to follow shortly!

The Ring

2006-11-18T17:16:00.000-06:00

How He Did It

2006-11-18T15:31:00.001-06:00

The evening began with a nice dinner in Progreso, Mexico, right across the border, at what is turning out to be one of our regular restaurants, Angel's. After having a fun time eating, we spent the drive back home talking. Along the way, Joel said he felt led to stop by the church and spend some time in prayer together. So, before going home, we went to the church, just the two of us, and knelt before the cross toward the back of the church where candles were already lit from the service that had taken place that evening. After a time of prayer, we sat quietly for a moment, soaking in the peace that surrounded us. Then, Joel said that his feet were starting to hurt, so I stood up to go. While Joel was still on his knees, he looked up at me and said, "Well, while you're up there..." and then proceeded to ask me to marry him in the most beautiful and perfect way. Of course, I began to cry, and said "yes." The End. :)

Okay Okay, NOW It's Official

2006-11-17T23:16:00.000-06:00

First off, welcome to our site. Because I am what I am and I do what I do, and Tessi is fully supportive of me in who I am and what I do, I thought I'd build a site to keep everyone close to us updated on what's going on. This is our blog, and is a good place for you to keep tabs on what's happenin' with us! First things first... Yes, yes, the deed is done. Tessi will have to tell you about the details, and if you want to see the ring, well, you'll just have to make sure you see us when we're nearby! More to come!