{Rambling Man by Laura Marling}

Joni Mitchell + Nu-Folk = Laura Marling. Great way to start the New Year.

{Husband's Dirty 30!}

Our little surprise road trip to Broken Bow went off without a hitch! Tim woke up on his birthday to breakfast in bed (complete with McGonigle's bacon thanks to my Papa), presents from family, and instructions to pack for a two day road trip. Of course, it wasn't long before he managed to squeeze every little detail out of me ... Tim's always had a love-hate relationship when it comes to surprises.


While on our way to Oklahoma we stopped in Commerce so we could say Hi to some of Husband's friends at the clinic from last month's rotation. I even got to meet Barb, the sweet lady who sent him home with homemade salsa on his last day.


We also stopped at a couple of flea markets in Paris, TX. I fell in love with these vintage crocheted ornaments ... a steal at only $1.50!

While at the cabin it rained non-stop, but we still had a blast grilling steaks, reading, playing games, taking naps, and roasting s'mores. We also had some memorable conversations as we spent time setting personal, spiritual, and relational goals for the New Year. On our way out of town we passed by one of Broken Bow's historical landmarks, the End of Trail Motel. Can you say M-A-G-I-C-A-L? If only they would have let us trade them some leftover steak & Merlot for their sign. Overall, we had a wonderful time and look forward to celebrating New Year's Eve with a pizza and a movie at home. What are your plans for tomorrow night? Someone please tell me you're wearing a bedazzled do-me dress and heels so I can live vicariously through you. XOXO PS, You can find out more information about the cabin we stayed at HERE!

{Our Happy Little Christmas}

Tim and I had a wonderful time celebrating Christmas this year! Twinner was in town for 4 days (not long enough in my opinion) but we still managed to stop by The Pearl Cup for dirty chai's, visit our friends at We Are 1976, see 127 Hours, get our thrift on at Lula B's, and stuff our boca's with Cecina at Veracruz Cafe. We also had lots of good late night conversations, restful afternoons, and slow mornings. It was perfect.


One thing my family has always been good at is gift giving. Often times our gifts are homemade, found at flea markets, or even flawed (like the year my Papa gave me a shiny 1930's Big Ben clock that he couldn't get to work). Regardless, they always have meaning. That's why when my buddy Juder gave me an apple seed stuck inside a monogrammed pouch, my heart melted. Pretty sure I'm crushing this 5 year old BIG TIME.


Overall, my favorite gift this year had to be from Twinner. She had two stamps made, one with a typewriter & our blog slogan, the other with our address, website, and email address. She even included a set of business cards that she made, as well as 4 different colors of ink pads. Can you say FREAKIN AWESOME??

One of Tim's favorite gifts was a pound of espresso from Sight Glass and a mug with a coffee journal from Remedy. (Insert Husband's happy place here). Another one of my favorite gifts was this book from Naomi & Josh over at Rockstar Diaries. It's all about photography and I can't wait to get lost in it while curled up on the couch in my jammers. In sticking with Tim's love for all things coffee, his favorite gift this year was the Hario V60 Dripper and coffee mill he received from Twinner. If you haven't heard, these drippers are all the rage in 3rd wave coffee. The Hario has a larger drip hole than a Melitta and is known to produce an even better extraction than a french press. BAM!

This made Mr. Loerke's morning coffee experience rock the hizzy.



Lastly, one of our favorite gifts arrived from our dear friends in Cali, Michelle & Chad over at Funk Off! Pretty sure they had us at homemade sugar cookies and gnomes. Be still my heart!

This year I gave Twinner this t-shirt, an old Kodak pitcher I found at my favorite thrift store in Kansas City, and a homemade ornament for her soon-to-be dog, Mailbox. Tim received 2 books from me; this one and this one, along with a Left Hand Milk Stout glass for his favorite beer. Tim gave me date night coupons, a wallet for my monies, and a new journal since our other one is almost filled! I love how gifts don't have to be expensive to express how much you know or love someone.

What was one of your favorite gifts? We'd love to hear about it! Also, Tim and I will be celebrating the Mr's birthday at a cabin in Broken Bow, OK for a couple of days. We'll check back soon with photos of our time there!

Much Love,
Em

{Today's Letters Got Botox!}

Do you like our new facelift? We hope you enjoy all the changes we've made! The new layout should be much more fun and easier to navigate. Go explore and let us know what you think! We find your thoughts and suggestions to be more inspirational than Chunk's truffle shuffle.

By the way, Mr. Loerke turns the big 3-0 in the morning ... it's starting to feel like Christmas all over again! I can't wait to share with you all the surprises I have up my sleeve. I also can't wait to share some of our holiday photos with you. Check back soon for a recap on some of our favorite memories and the thoughtful gifts we received. Until then, know that our normal letters will resume on January 3rd!

XOXO,
Em & Tim

{Merry Christmas, Homies!}

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS TREE?
ALL CHRISTMAS TREES ARE PERFECT!

CHARLIE BROWN: Is there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?

LINUS: Sure, Charlie Brown. I can tell you what Christmas is all about.
[moves towards the center of the stage]

LINUS: Lights, please.
[a spotlight shines on Linus]

LINUS: And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were so afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will toward men.

[Linus picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown]

LINUS: That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

{Top Blog 2010}

THANKS TO YOU, WE'VE MADE IT INTO THE FINALS!
(if only we had enough Benjamin's to thank each of you with a pair of Aunt Clara's rabbit pajamas)

YOUR COMMENTS THESE PAST FEW WEEKS HAVE BEEN SUCH AN ENCOURAGEMENT.
WE COULDN'T BE MORE EXCITED TO HAVE SUCH A FAITHFUL GROUP OF READERS!

THE LAST ROUND OF VOTING WILL BEGIN MONDAY, JANUARY 3rd.

UNTIL THEN, GO GETCHO FRUITCAKE ON!

XOXO,
Em & Tim

{Fist Pump Friday!}

Just in case you haven't heard, Twinner's in town! Being together again has been M-A-G-I-C-A-L. Even better than receiving a secret decoder pin from Little Orphan Annie or singing, "Deck the harrs with boughs of horry" while eating Chinese turkey with the Parker's. It. just. doesn't. get. much. better. Two fist pumps for reunions with loved ones, three leg kicks for dern good coffee at The Pearl Cup!


Our next photo is of some of my some my favorite Dallas mama's and their precious bambinos. Two years ago Julia, Julie, Trisha, Amy, Lori, Sara, Shelby, Heather, Rachel, Jenny, Kristin, Pam, Veronica, and Jackie started a mom's playgroup and have since had 24 kiddos between them. TWENTY FOUR! Pretty sure each of these hardworking mom's deserve a raise (not to mention an all-expense paid vacation to Tahiti).


Our last photo is of sweet Mayia from Michigan who shares a birthday with Mr. Loerke (12/28). I'm convinced she's the cutest 8 year old I've ever seen throwing fist pumps and leg kicks while rocking monkey pajamas. Happy (almost) Birthday Mayia!

A special thanks to those of you who sent in photos for today's post. We love getting to know our readers!

To participate, send a picture of you and your Homies throwing fist pumps and leg kicks to em{at}todaysletters{dot}com ... it's just that simple.

And get ready for an early release of our new blog layout ... I'm almost as excited about it as this kid when he receives a very unexpected Christmas gift.

{Our Favorite Voter Comments: Part Deux}

WE THINK ALL OF YOU DESERVE A PONY & A LIFETIME SUPPLY OF TIM TAM'S FOR THE COMMENTS YOU'VE BEEN LEAVING US.

WHERE DO YOU COME UP WITH THIS STUFF??

Steph said ... Today's Letters are a daily encouragement to me! They remind me to be thankful and to never be afraid to ask for forgiveness. (They also give helpful hints, like how to slip sideways out of the biscuit so you don't have to make it).

David said ... Today's Letters because of Timbo's hat!!!

Michaela said ... Today's Letter's is the BOMB-DiGGITY of all blogs. There has never been such a blog that has (a) introduced me to rockin' tunes - love me some Mumford & Sons (thanks, Em!), (b) inspired me to reach for more within my life relationships and (c) made me smile on a daily basis and leave me thinking- boy, if I lived in Texas, I would SO want to be their friends.

Thatcher Allen said ... my wife instructed me that if I didn't vote for Today's Letters that I was never allowed to drink beer again. Or see her naked. Or watch football. Or eat string cheese in a tree. And these things are far too important to me. Therefore, I vote for Today's Letters. From all the way in Florida. Please don't screw up my vote. We Floridians already had that happen once.

Resting in the Wings of Grace said ... Today's Letters has inspired fort building. And let's face not many people inspire me to be 6 again.

Cat said ... Today's Letters! They are the wind beneath my wings. The snow on my cone. The jam on my bread. the cookie in my dough. the shiz in my hiz. The cream in my crop. the "O" in my Oreo. the double in my stuff.

Katie M said ... I vote for Today's Letters because Tim and Em have taught me to appreciate my natural inclination to fist pump, and leg kick, not to mention the people (known or to be known) in my life. When I've forgotten it, Today's Letters reminds me of the joys in my life. And, it is through Tim and Em's captivation for each other and life itself that I hope to become a better person (Woobie cape and all).

RD said ... I vote for Today's Letters. Though I sometimes feel a bit silly for being a faithful reader since I am a random stranger from Atlanta, Em and Tim make me excited to one day meet someone who will be as pumped as I am to put in the fun & satisfying work it takes to turn a good marriage into a great one. I hope you both have a wonderful Christmas!

If you haven't voted, you still have until Christmas Eve at 8pm CST to do so!
Don't forget, YOU MUST LEAVE A NON-ANONYMOUS COMMENT SAYING WHO YOU'RE VOTING FOR.
{all anonymous votes DO NOT count!}

Happy {almost} Christmas!

In honor of picking up Twinner from the airport at 5am tomorrow I thought I'd post some of my favorite Christmas photos (ages 1, 2, 3, & 4). Ten points if you can spot A) two Winnie the Pooh's B) a Woobie cape and C) the creative way my parents used to tell us apart.

PS, be sure and check back tomorrow to read {Our Favorite Voter Comments: Part Deux!}

{Temple Grandin Movie Trailer}

There were two girls I remember wanting to be like in high school: Joey Potter and Claire Danes. (Dawson's Creek? My So-Called Life? Anyone?). This trailer reminds me why I STILL have a girl crush on Claire Danes. Her talent is off the hook!

PS, THIS is another fantastic movie about autism. What beautiful, beautiful minds.

{Today's Letters}

Today's Letters: Dear Mr. Loerke, yesterday was the first day of winter. So in honor of it being a balmy 84° in Dallas we decided to watch The Santa Clause 2, drink hot chocolate, and listen to our favorite Christmas album while wrapping presents. Still hoping for another white Christmas this year. Dear Homies, Eeek! Do I really have to wait until January 1st to show you our new blog layout? It looks better than a gigantic glass of Ralphie's Ovaltine! Dear Ben & Jerry's, your NEW holiday ice cream has convinced me to brave Whole Paycheck today. With a name like "Mission to Marzipan" it's sure to make even Uncle Eddie feel AWESOME. Dear Husband, whenever you rock a beard and bake pumpkin pies it makes me wanna make out. Just sayin.

What's your favorite Ben & Jerry's ice cream? Team Loerke throws fist pumps for Coffee Heath Bar Crunch, Half Baked Froyo, Dublin Mudslide, and Phish Food.

{Dallas Meet-Up Photos}

We had the BEST time meeting some of our readers last night! We slammed Tim Tam's, drank dirty chai's, and asked Today's Letter Trivia Questions in exchange for Woobie capes, homemade applesauce, and Izze soda.

A special thanks to David, Julia, Ava, Abby, McKeaigg, Steph, Tyroch, Mel, Josh, Julie, Cody, Don, Beth, Connor, Mandi, Corey, Katie, Victoria, Kylie, Bianca, Susannah, Drake, Megan, and Patrick for joining us at The Pearl Cup! We loved getting to know you better!

Fist Pumps & Leg Kicks,
Em & Tim

{Our Favorite Voter Comments: Part 1}

Thanks to all of you who have already voted!
You are the wind beneath our wings.

If you haven't voted yet, you have until Christmas Eve at 8pm CST to do so.
Don't forget, YOU MUST LEAVE A NON-ANONYMOUS COMMENT SAYING WHO YOU'RE VOTING FOR.
{all anonymous votes DO NOT count!}

Here are some of our favorite comments so far ...

Pops said... Today's Letters as they have changed our lives, made us better in our marriage, and increased our commitment to each other.

Rachael Leminns said ... sometimes when I go to bed I dream I'm as awesome as Today's Letters.

Sheila said... Today's Letters is the Shiz! Kinda ironic that I am addicted to the blog considering that it is about a hetero married couple and their lives together... I am in a committed a lesbian relationship & have been for 12 years, I love to cook, my honey loves to eat what I cook, we like to sleep late in our big cozy biscuit, and just like Em & Tim we know that you have ask for forgiveness and work at a great relationship each and every day!

Megan said... I vote Today's Letters. It changed my marriage and my life.

Kym & Dustin said... TODAY'S LETTERS! None of the other blogs sent me coffee when I lived on a glacier.

Amelia Toombs said... Today's Letters is more magical than eating Lucky Charms on the moon. With a unicorn.

Mack Grubb said ... Today's Letters all the way across the sky! What does this mean?

Steve Klipp said ... the Klipptastic! votes for Today's Letters because it's smart, sleek, sexy, seductive, superfluous, samsonite, secretly superman, stealthy, shored up, shored down, stink-free, slinky, a sure-thing, slamma-lamma ding dong, sangria sipping, stupendous, serendipitous, slammin', santa claus, sweet and spicy, starry-eyed, sandwich worthy, AND sopping with goodness. And those are just the s reasons. Don't make me bust out the v's.

KEEP 'EM COMING!

{Today's Letters}

Today's Letters: Dear Mr. Loerke, last night I woke you up so you could see the lunar eclipse. When you asked if the moon looked like a gigantic orange fireball and I said "no," you rolled over and went back to sleep. #dernfog. Dear Papa, pretty sure Husband's going crazy after having been instructed not to open the freezer or look under the bed until after his birthday. Your packages always make him feel so known and loved. Dear Twinner, sometimes waiting to develop my lomography film is like getting an early Christmas present. Beyond thankful for our time together in Maui, but even more excited to see you in 48 hours! Dear Husband, this is your 2nd day of shadowing pediatric heart surgeries. I don't know how you do it, but you are still most definitely the bravest man I know! Over and out.

Did you stay up last night to watch the eclipse? How was it?

Be sure and check back later today for photos from last night's meet-up as well as read some of our favorite voter comments for Top Blog!

{A Year-End Review, The Best of 2010}

Just when we thought 2009 couldn't be beat we experienced our favorite year yet! In 2010 Tim and I were beyond blessed by all the places we got to visit, friends we made, and growth that took place in our marriage. Thanks to all of you who faithfully read the blog and for often reminding us of the things that matter most!

So here are some 2010 highlights in no particular order:
1. Learning how to rewire my first lamp
2. Sponsoring 8 yr old Odama Moses in Uganda
3. Experiencing 12.5" of snow in Dallas during February's Snowpocalypse
4. Making Julia's Beef Bourguignon & Queen of Sheba Cake for Valentine's Day
5. Tim starting his rotations
6. Tag-teaming the Tyroch's pre-marrital counseling with the Kedersha's
7. Celebrating National Pie Day
8. Tim's Appalachian Trail Backpacking Trip
9. Hosting our first annual Movie Watching Party
10. Re-joining the Urban Acres Food Co-op
11. Participating in The Warrior Dash
12. Starting the blog!
13. Becoming an avid flosser & experiencing another cavity free year
14. Snorkeling the north shores of Maui with Twinner
15. Celebrating my Dirty 30
16. Playing Frisbee with Tim at Gas Works Park in Seattle
17. Kayaking the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska
18. Canning homemade jam and applesauce
19. Buying my first pair of sh%t kickers
20. Celebrating our 5 year anniversary
21. Learning how to make Homemade Magic Shell
22. Visiting Mrs. Blackwell's Thrift Shop, touring the Boulevard Brewery, and going to the Kansas City Farmer's Market with my Papa over Labor Day Weekend
23. Riding 54 miles in the Tour de Goatneck with WMBM
24. Buying mascara!
25. Camping with Husband at Turner Falls
26. Celebrating my brother's 40th birthday in Ft. Lauderdale
27. Concerts, Concerts, Concerts (see below)
28. Winning one of Rockstar Diaries' giveaways
29. Leading a Foundation Group for newly married couples
30. And in sticking with tradition, the best memory of 2010 is yet to come! This maybe might have something to do with celebrating the Mr.'s 30th Birthday on December 28th. Maybe.

Blog Highlights:
1. Reading every comment left on the blog. I'm convinced some of you were born with an extra funny bone.
2. Receiving an 8ft teepee from one of our blog sponsors.
3. Having readers in all 50 states and in over 115 different countries.
4. Meeting the couple who found our hidden letter in the Seattle Public Library.
5. Being featured on Sfgirlbybay, Smile & Wave, Big Mama, Apartment Therapy, and Fly Through Our Window.
6. Making new blog friends, especially Andy & Brett in Ashland, OR.
7. Writing {Our Story} and {10 Things} That Have Made All the Difference
8. Responding to countless emails, phone calls, and letters about marriage, faith, and forgiveness.
9. Being nominated for Top Blog 2010.
10. Lastly, I already know that tonight's Reader Meet-Up is going to be one of my favorite blog highlights of the year!

Favorite Songs (in no particular order)
1. Dance, Dance, Dance - Bon Iver & Lykke Li(Special Edition)
2. I Can See Your Tracks - Julie Veirs
3. Swing - Zero7
4. Silver Spring - Jeremy Larson & Stacy DuPree
5. Kaufman's Ballad - Megafaun
6. Year In the Kingdom - J. Tillman
7. Hazeltons - Justin Vernon
8. Lost Things - A Fine Frenzy
9. The Great Escape - Patrick Watson
10. Naive - Sleeping At Last
11. Saro - Sam Amidon
12. Lack of Height - Caroline Smith And The Good Night Sleeps
13. World News - The Local Natives
14. Stella Seed - Sean Hayes
15. When We Fall In - Sean Hayes
16. The Darkest Side - The Middle East
17. Generator (First Floor) - Freelance Whales
18. Timshel - Mumford & Sons
19. To Build a Home - The Cinematic Orchestra
20. Animal Arithmetic - Jonsi

Best Albums of the Year:
1. Sigh No More - Mumford & Sons
2. I and Love and You - The Avett Brothers
3. All We Grow - S. Carey
4. God Willin' & the Creek Don't Rise - Ray LaMontagne & The Pariah Dogs
5. In Memory of Loss - Nathaniel Rateliff

Favorite Concerts:
1. Mumford & Sons with Sir Charles & Cadillac Sky (HOB, Dallas)
2. Mumford & Sons with The Middle East (HOB, Dallas)
3. Nathaniel Rateliff & The Wheel (The Loft, Dallas)
4. Ray LaMontagne & The Pariah Dogs (Nokia, Dallas)
5. Sleeping at Last with Jeremy Larson (The Prophet Bar, Dallas)
6. Sufjan Stevens (SMU, Dallas)
7. The Freelance Whales (The Loft, Dallas)
8. Patty Griffin (HOB, Dallas)

Favorite Movies:
1. Eat, Pray, Love
2. 127 Hours
3. The Chorus
4. Toy Story 3
5. Adam
6. The Social Network
7. I Am Love
8. Bright Star

Favorite Books:
1. Life of Pi, Yann Martel
2. When We Were Romans, Matthew Kneale
3. When Sinners Say I Do, Dave Harvey

Favorite YouTube Links:
1. Antoine Dodson says, "Hide 'yo kids, hide 'yo wife."
2. Jessica's, "Daily affirmation" video.
3. Paul "Yosemite Bear" Vaszquez's, "Double Rainbow ... what does it mean?!"
4. OK Go's, "This too Shall Pass" music video.
5. 3 year old Cody cries over Justin Bieber.

Favorite Eats:
1. Oklahoma Joe's Zman with Fries (Kansas City)
2. Tillman's Homemade S'mores (Dallas)
3. Off the Bone's Smoked Brisket (Forest Hills, TX)
4. PacificO's Yuzu Divers (Maui)
5. Torchy's Baja Shrimp Tacos (Dallas)
6. Pike's Place Market's Alderwood Smoked Salmon (Seattle)
7. Dude, Sweet Chocolate's Guava Mint Popsicle (Dallas)
8. The Pearl Cup's Dirty Chai (Dallas)
9. Cafe Brazil's Chocolate Indulgence Cake (Dallas)
10. Meddlesome Moth's Sweet Corn (Dallas)

Favorite New Websites:
1. A Beautiful Mess
2. Fly Through Our Window
3. Smile & Wave
4. We Are 1976
5. The Anderson Crew

Favorite Bargains:
1. Leaf Belt Buckle ($4 Lula B's, Dallas)
2. Kodak Darkroom Pitcher ($12 Mrs. Blackwells, Kansas City)
3. 1960's Manfrotto Tripod ($20 Lula B's, Dallas)
4. Vintage Glass Canning Funnel ($4 Antique Land, Dallas)
5. Vintage Sh$t Kickers ($18 Lula B's, Dallas)

Looking forward to 2011 Because ...
1. Tim graduates from PA school!
2. Experiencing my first Triathlon
3. Speaking at ReEngage in January
4. Celebrating our 6th anniversary!
5. Celebrating the blog's 1 year anniversary!
6. Writing my last check to Sallie Mae (adios college debt!)
7. Repainting our guest bathroom
8. Traveling
9. Getting tattoo #2
10. Writing more letters to my Beloved (bet you didn't see that one coming)

2011, come out and show yourself. We're ready.
Em & Tim

{Today's Letters}

Today's Letters: Dear Mr. Loerke, Saturday night we saw reindeer, shared a piece of Cafe Brazil's Chocolate Indulgence Cake, and drank hot chocolate served with a side of two straws. I loved this. Dear Fellas, since returning home from his first hunting trip Tim has A) asked to buy a shot gun B) thinks we should spend our January clothing allowance at Cabela's C) requested a duck call in his stocking for Christmas or D) all of the above. Dear Homemade Salt Dough Ornaments, three points for being easy to make, four points for bedazzling our leaning tower of tree-za with childhood memories. Dear Timothy James, rumor has it that some will leave tonight's festivities wearing Woobie capes. Can't wait!

What's your favorite Christmas tree ornament? In preschool Twinner and I made bells out of medicine cups, pipe cleaners, and glitter. To this day they are still hung proudly at the top of our tree.

HAPPY FREAKIN MONDAY, HOMIES!

SOME WEEKEND POSTS YOU MAY HAVE MISSED:
Husband's Letters
Friday Fist Pump Photos
We Made it into the top 5! (and new instructions on how to vote)
A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words

BE SURE AND CHECK BACK LATER TODAY FOR OUR 2010 YEAR-END REVIEW!

{Blog Stats: 2010}

In honor of tomorrow's annual Year-End Review" post I thought I'd put together some fun blog stats. Ever wonder where our readers come from?

Our first month (April 2010) we received 16,253 pageviews. By November we were averaging 120,000+ pageviews per month and had readers in over 115 different countries.

TOP 5 VISITING COUNTRIES:
1. United States
2. Canada
3. Australia
4. United Kingdom
5. Austria

TOP 5 VISITING STATES:
1. Texas
2. California
3. Oklahoma
4. Alabama
5. Georgia

TOP 5 VISITING CITIES:
1. Dallas
2. San Francisco
3. Oklahoma City
4. Birmingham
5. Atlanta

TOP 5 REFERRING BLOGS & WEBSITES:
1. Big Mama
2. SFGirlbyBay
3. Smile & Wave
4. Fly Through Our Window
5. Apartment Therapy

TOP 5 MOST READ POSTS THIS YEAR: 1. Weekly Questions 2. {10 Things} That Have Made All the Difference 3. Our Favorite Letters 4. Campfire Orange Cake Recipe 5. {Our Story} THANKS FOR HELPING MAKE 2010 OUR FAVORITE YEAR YET! XOXO

{Fist Pump Friday!}

Finally, some Vandy love! Meet suitemates Grace, Chelsea, Hannah, Kelly, Katherine, Alex, and Elroy the flamingo. I'm giving these seniors bonus points for rockin flannel jammers and for standing on a fold-out biscuit.


This weekend is a memorable one for Krista and Rhett. Not only do they graduate from A&M TODAY, they're also getting married on SUNDAY! Three Loerke fist pumps for experiencing two of life's greatest gifts all within 48 hours of each other.

Our next photo comes all the way from Happy Valley, Oregon where elementary school teachers Meghan and Tess taught their 1st grade cuties how to throw fist pumps and leg kicks on Pajama Day. Um, pretty sure I want to adopt you both.


After playing soccer for 18 years I can empathize with anyone who has to endure ACL surgery. Meet Shea from Birmingham who threw fist pumps and a leg kick after only day 3 of post op! (Insert new hero here).


There's only one other person who could possibly be more proud of the above photo besides me: CINDY FREAKIN LAUPER. Meet Aggie's Susannah, Hallie, Bianca, and Jodi who recently attended their Vintage Glam formal for ASC. Can't wait to meet some of these chickies at The Pearl Cup on Monday!

Remember my childhood BFF Ashley? She's the one I used to walk to Brookside with for a Topsy's limeade and a pack of candy cigarettes. Gotta love being 10 ... This week she sent me one of the best photos a friend can EVER receive; a sonogram of fist pumping baby #2! Loved seeing this more than walking across the Dime Store's creaky hardwoods.



Lastly, meet one of our SOUPLOVE giveaway winners Ashley and her husband Jonathan! Major bonus points for creative use of stockings and for having already completed much of their Christmas shopping. Holla.

Thanks to all of you who sent in photos! We absolutely love getting to know our readers. Next Friday is Christmas Eve, but we will STILL POST FRIDAY FIST PUMP PHOTOS so send 'em in!

To participate, send a picture of you and your Homies throwing fist pumps and leg kicks to em{at}todaysletters{dot}com ... it's just that simple.

{Husband's Letters}

Husband's Letters: Dear Mrs. Loerke, sometimes you love me by washing my French press late at night so I don't have to worry about cleaning it in the morning. Thank you for thinking of the little things. Dear Christmas Shopping, even though I have 365 days to find that perfect gift I tend to wait until the last minute to make my purchases. One of these years I'm gonna complete you in October. Dear December 20th, I can't wait to meet the local readers of Today's Letters! It doesn't get much better than sipping coffee at The Pearl Cup with new friends. Dear Little (who always gets two letters), did you know that my favorite Christmas memory with you was when we bought our first tree? I am filled with joy knowing this is our 9th Christmas together!

Love,
Husband

The Mr. asks: Are you a last minute shopper or do you buy gifts months before like Em?

HAPPY FREAKIN WEEKEND!

Be sure and check back later today for our FIST PUMP FRIDAY photos!

{Today's Letters}

Today's Letters: Dear Timothy James PA-S III, yesterday you were sent home with a dozen cupcakes, 2 quarts of sweet Barb's homemade salsa, and a book about the history of medicine. Pretty sure small town America fell in love with you this rotation. Dear Homies, today marks the beginning of our two week staycation. TWO WEEKS! Can I get a shimmy? How bout a little shake? I think YES. Dear College Students, you know Christmas break has begun when your blog hits in Nashville, Birmingham, and College Station drop from 500+ a day to 6. Congratulations on finishing another semester! Dear Husband, I'm posting this photo as proof that I married the right man. Over and out.

What's one thing you're looking forward to this Christmas break? I can't wait to fall asleep on the couch after watching 78 hours of the Food Network's Extreme Gingerbread House Competition. Werd.

PS, tomorrow's the last day to vote in round 4! Just sayin.

{Dallas Meet Up!}

WE CAN'T WAIT TO MEET ALL OF YOU NEXT MONDAY NIGHT AT
THE PEARL CUP!

SEVERAL OF YOU HAVE ALREADY RSVP'D, BUT IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY DONE SO, SHOOT US AN EMAIL OR LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOU'RE COMING!

WE WANT TO MAKE SURE WE HAVE ENOUGH BARISTAS ON HAND TO SERVE YOU DIRTY CHAI'S & LATTES 'TIL YOUR HEART'S CONTENT.
XOXO

{Live from the Artists Den}

A barn in Boerne, TX + Ray LaMontagne = MAGICAL.

{Today's Letters & Reason #984}

Today's Letters: Dear Mr. Loerke, after making house calls to the elderly yesterday you asked if we could start volunteering at a nursing home. Aaaaand that's gonna be reason #984 why I love Thee. Dear Santa, 23 years ago I left you this note. Pretty sure there's nothing better than getting a Cabbeb Patch Dall and a pad of paper for Christmas. Can I get a wut wut? Dear WMBM, last night you brought over first fruits from your garden. Two fist pumps and a leg kick for getting us to chop brocco-lay like Dana Carvey. Dear Husband, sometimes when you dry off your face cotton gets stuck in your mustache. This is when I start calling you Old Man Loerke and pretend to talk without teeth. Can't wait to grow old with you.

What sort of things make you cry? Nothing quite gets me like the elderly and music.

Ps, someone emailed yesterday asking where to purchase a Meatbagz Bee Satchel. Somehow your email disappeared into cyberspace but you can buy one right HURR!

{Today's Letters}

Today's Letters: Dear Mr. Loerke, before going to bed we like to talk about where we'll meet in our sleep. A couple of nights ago it was an igloo in Alaska, then a cabin in Colorado, and last night the teepee in our living room. I love being your wife. Dear Winter Hat & Scarf, 3 points for making me feel like Marge Simpson, 4 points for having a secret compartment for Mikey's marble bag. Dear Sister-in-Love, yesterday the Pony Express delivered the most unexpected and amazing package. Who knew pickles could make a girl so happy? Beyond blessed by your thoughtfulness. Dear Husband, only 2 more days until you get a break from rotations. Pretty sure this calls for celebratory cupcakes from our favorite bakery. BAM!

Receiving gifts is wonderful, but often times giving them is way more fun. What gift(s) are you most excited about giving this Christmas?

{We Wanna Meet You!}

{HAPPY CHRISTMAS, LITTLES!}

Please join us and some of our closest friends
MONDAY, DECEMBER 20th, from 7pm-9pm at THE PEARL CUP.
We'd love to personally THANK EACH ONE OF YOU for helping make 2010 such a memorable year!

PS, get ready for the best dirty chai you've ever tasted. Just sayin.
XOXO

{Today's Letters}

Today's Letters: Dear Mr. Loerke, this weekend we slept in, had a hot lunch date at Chick-Fil-A, attended one of the greatest Staff Christmas Parties of all time, baked cookies, lost our car keys, watched A Charlie Brown Christmas with the Grubb's, went on a run, and took a long Sunday afternoon nap. Loved this weekend. Dear Aunt Bill, thanks for being the reason behind our recent candy thermometer purchase. We think your praline fudge is the shiz. Dear Homies, since buying a new pair of jeans Husband has A) encouraged me to try them on to see how comfortable they are B) asked me to check out his ace during yesterday's church service C) told me I could wear them to bed if I was cold or D) all of the above. Dear Timothy James, sometimes when running errands I find things on my list that remind me all is well with the world. Love you more than trampoline's and weight sets.

HAPPY FREAKIN MONDAY, HOMIES!

What are you most looking forward to this week?

SOME POSTS YOU MAY HAVE MISSED:
A Video that Makes Me Wanna Celebrate
Husband's Letters
Fist Pump Friday Photos
We Made it to Round 4! Have You Voted?
Tim Tam Slam "How To"
My New Favorite Holiday Recipe
A Movie We Want to See

{127 Hours Movie Trailer}

I first remember hearing about Aron Ralston's story back in 2003 when Tim and I worked at Mountain Hideout. It haunted me then and still does to this day. Nonetheless, we both still can't wait to see this movie.

{Poor Man's Toffee}

Ever since a dear friend introduced me to this recipe a few weeks ago I've never been the same. It's embarrassingly simple to make and guaranteed to be a holiday favorite! (Just ask Uncle Eddie & Aunt Bethany).

Ingredients:
1 box of Saltine Crackers (about 1.5 sleeves)
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips
*1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°.
2. Line a cookie sheet with foil.
3. Cover tray with Saltine crackers.
4. Combine butter and brown sugar into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Let boil for 3 minutes or until mixture forms a deep caramel color.
5. Immediately pour mixture over Saltines and spread to cover crackers completely. Put in oven for 5-6 minutes (it will start to bubble).
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Let sit for a minute until they start to melt and then spread them out using a spatula.
7. Refrigerated for 10 minutes and then break into pieces and eat!

How To {Tim Tam Slam}

It's that time of year again when Casa de Loerke starts slammin Tim Tams after every meal. Here's a "how to" courtesy of Mr. Tim Tam himself.

1. Purchase: Buy some hot chocolate (or coffee) and a package of Pepperidge Farm Tim Tam's (available at Target for $2.50). 2. Prepare: Make your hot chocolate or coffee in your favorite mug, then bite off each end of your Tim Tam biscuit. 3. Pound: Using your biscuit, suck your desired beverage through it like a straw. Then wait for it ... wait for it ... as soon as it begins to melt, SLAM IT! Your belly will have never been happier. 4. Repeat steps 1-3.

{Fist Pump Friday!}

Meet design majors Caroline and Amanda Claire from Auburn University. (WAR EAGLE!). They just finished taking a ceramics class where they learned the gift of drinking coffee from handmade mugs. Team Swayze gives these girls 5 Demi Moore leg shimmies and 3 dittos.


Pretty sure Mr. Loerke and Madelyn Grace from Nashville, TN would be like two peas in a pod. They both throw fist pumps for marshmallows!



Last weekend Corie (one of our NOV BLOG SPONSORS), her twin sister Kelley, and their friend Jenna went to Las Vegas to participate in the 6th Annual Santa 5K. They ran alongside 13,000 other people dressed like St. Nick. And all the elves said, "Ho, Ho, Holy AWESOMENESS, Rudolf!"

If only I could look this cute in pink polka dots. Meet Erin's 2 month old daughter, Wynne from South Carolina. Bonus points for having a Twinner mom and for throwing the tiniest fist pumps and leg kicks I've ever seen!

To participate, send a picture of you and your Homies throwing fist pumps and leg kicks to em{at}todaysletters{dot}com ... it's just that simple.