I just love this...

GREATNESS! Sarah and I being ourselves. :)

Never boring...

Sarah is the greatest! One of many pics that we shot the other night when we were bored. I can't believe she goes home in one week. It's been great spending so much time with her. We truly are inseperable. Well...except when she lets a stinky and then I am definitely separating from her! Haha. Love you Sar Bear.

Cloudy is turning clear

A new perspective is growing.

I am bridging a gap that once was scary. A crack and I might fall through, but I haven't and won't. There is a Savior that bridges that gap better than anything/anyone else in the world.

I have hope that Jesus is showing me more than what I even realize. This season and break can reveal to me whatever I need to know. I am just a sponge- waiting to soak up good wisdom and thought.

For now, my chin is up and the crisp morning runs are exhilerating.

Sweet Love

One of my favorite pictures this Christmas. This is Baby Will and his mommy, Shanda. I took this at the Christmas party. He was a real trooper to stay up for the whole party. A doll face, truly.

A Christmas Wish

Christmas time is meant to be with friends and family. This holiday season has began as a great one. Here is a pic of Jamie and I at our college Christmas party at church. Tis the season to be happy and joyful. This Christmas, I asked for peace. A peace that I have never known before. I pray that God may give you peace as well. His Word says, that if we ask anything in His name, we shall receive. My family and friends have laughed at my wish this year. Mocking me like the models on Miss Congeniality "World Peace" and such, but this year I am happy to say that peace will come when I seek it with all my heart.

alwAys Desperate for cHange

Things change. So fast. A blur. Where am I going? What am I doing right, what am I doing wrong?

Shifting gears at full speed can be thrilling and dangerous at the same time.

I know I didn't do everything right. Timing and words aren't always my thing. I act quickly. Too quickly, I don't know? I went with my heart this time. Those words "I don't know"-the stinger. Ouch. Sorry.

For now, I pray. That's all I can do. Pray that my heart made the correct choice. I've never just stepped off the clif without checking for someone at the bottom, but this time, I don't need to see that GOD is there. Test him and he will prove it. Test him twice and then a third time and his calling is clearer.

Thank you Lord for not letting me control my heart when youhave a different direction for me. I don't know where I am heading, but I trust that you do. I made a blind choice- but to you the view is different. Very different.

Soon we will see...

A little scruffy delight. I miss you so much.

A couple of my faves...

My favorite guest! Katey is my dear friend who lives in CT, but loves Jesus, art, nutrition, and kids...oh and did I mention coffee?


Katey and Cristina sitting in the corner at my house...I had to go give them some company. Then we talked the rest of the night!

Truly great times!

Today I realized....

I love making people happy. I enjoy being the presence of people who laugh and love to enjoy life. Not arrogant styles or those who try to make you laugh, but genuine laughs. I am so happy right now.

Finals begin in just a few days, but I have no fear that things will go well and that I will be pleased. God is such an amazing person. He's God. I am going on a mission trip one week from today and I am thrilled. Inner-city missions. I've done only one other trip of its kind, so I am excited to see what's around the corner.

Happy things about today:
1. I met an exec chef that I will be working for in the spring.
2. The partay was a blast.
3. Rach's race is in 3 days.
4. My room is clean.
5. I ran 9.3 miles this am with Maddie. I felt so successful.
6. I get to see Sarah in a couple of weeks.
7. My boyfriend is sweet.
8. My mom surprised me at my Christmas party tonight. :)

Soon, the days will change. I will have different goals and new sights in mind. For now, I need to study... I'll go now because my coffee is slowly starting to wear off.

Lord, give Rachel the strength she needs to run the race of her life. Give my friends the patience and diligence to work, the sleep to manage their work, and the brain juice to make it through finals week. I am asking this with all my heart. Love you Lord. Amen.

A day, a week, a month flies by...and I'm ready for changes.

I prepare myself for new things coming soon.

a. a rearranged living room.
b. the holiday season.
c. finals and new classes.
d. holiday job shifting.
e. love.
f. life.
g. habits.
h. friends.
i. the ways that i care for people.
j. internships.
k. ...a life outside of studying (this comes "post study hard")
l. a new month. yea. i get to write twelve instead of eleven now.

I live in waiting for God to provide. He has provided me with life thusfar that I would never change. People have come and gone each year. Friends have stayed, gone, and are in all different places in life now, but for me...I hold on. Lately (yesterday as a matter of fact) I have thought of how much I love God and how He is constantly in the center of my being. The heart. It pumps life into me each and every day. So, today I give freely, again, like a fresh start my life pumping organ to the God of the universe and throw off all that hinders/has been hindering me.

I pray this in His name. Amen.

#2 and camofied

Josh shot number 2 today. A ten point buck. I am so proud of him....I am not so sure if my proudness comes from the fact that he killed it or the expression he has when he talks about it. I know that as a girl with no hunting experience whatsoever...I am not compelling enough for him, but I am proud of him and hope that it makes his weekend even better.

On to more things...
nursing homes really aren't my thing. I've tried to get into them, but the smell of urine just makes me a little nauseous. I love the elderly, though, and the stories they tell. The things that they make up, the things that they want to give me (money for candy), and the fact that they don't hold anything back (gas, and crazy stories). Luckily tomorrow is my last day and then I will be on to more things. I love older people. It's just very hard to work in some of the environments that I've been in lately.

On to things about God. Woohoo. These things I wish I could talk about all the time. I overheard a pastor and college student at Panera this morning when I was studying for my experimental foods exam. They were talking about the bliss of talking about God- how reservation is ok, but it is such a delight to share your heart, your spirit and connect with others.

I did just this last night. I was a friend to someone that I know pretty well, but I want to know even more. Being real with people is how you show them God's love. Just love them.

That's all we're called to do. Love Him first, and He will help us love them.

In the days off....

A day off and many things done! woohoo. I even ate a delicious lunch. I say this, because I usually eat yogurt fruit, and toss in some fiber cereal or something, and I was actually at home today to make an egg white omelet with veggies. (just no one to taste it, but me). It was delicious, though.

I miss my roomies. They are off having fun in OK and CA. The sweet boyfriend is in OK, AR, and TX tomorrow, but I miss him too.

I can't wait to babysit tonight. It will keep my mind busy. I am just glad for the break, though. It's been great to get things done around the house and wash my sheets! I love clean, fresh sheets.

My neck is back in order, thanks to Dr. Chatfield doing some adjusting. It was a killer yesterday to do anything. Heat was the only time that it felt good. I've been debating whether I should ever tube again, thanks to the rebellious actions I did this summer, and got thrown off.

Today I am thankful for God. For His glory and power. That even when I don't know where my future is headed...He does. I don't know where I will be at Christmas, or the New Year, or after graduation. I just know that He holds the key to my life and all that I am capable of doing, and for now that is the best encouragement that I need. For in His hands, we all fall to rest. He is our strongest pillar. The lighthouse that never is clouded or fogged over. His light shines for all to see and for all to be directed by. Oh how great His name is! Hallelujah!

newness and joy

Today I met Ethan Maddy. 7#5oz in Jones. It was a delight to see such a joyful baby being brought into the world. He is my cousin Darcee's son and he was delivered last night. I held him today and realized how great tiny babies are. I cannot wait to have one for myself...until then, I have some other issues in life. :)

So far, clinicals are going great. I have my fun days and my get-me-home asap days, but I am just soaking up everything and enjoying life to its fullest. God has blessed me with an amazing family, a fantastic sister that is moving right along in college, a strong and dedicated boyfriend, great roomies, and a schedule that is finally under control (somewhat), a job at B & N, and this week some babysitting jobs...praise Him because He is faithful in every way.

5 Happy Things about Today:
1. I made a poster for our career fair at Harris tomorrow, and the entire staff loved what I put together.

2. I got to see Ethan and Darcee, and Darcee was so happy!

3. I get to babysit the sweetest kiddos tomorrow night and Friday night!

4. Less than two weeks until I visit Nac!

5. Maddie's chocolate chip cookies are delicious!

as the days fly by

As time just keeps going by (hello...it's Friday!), I soak up the blessings that God has given me.
I finished my cancer/HIV rotation at Harris, and now I am moving on to Nutrition Support (Tube feeds, Parenteral and Enteral support, etc.). I'm growing closer than I thought to the patients and staff at the hospital...which is great news. My heart is there. Finally.

I got to tell one of the diet techs yesterday (as she mentioned that I didn't have to pay attn in the staff mtg) about what Lynn (a TCU friend) told me a couple of years ago: "when you go somewhere, be all there. otherwise, you should have never shown up." I've taken this and run with it. It makes me excited when I get to share it with others, too. I think too many times we go and do go and do, and never realize what we're going and doing. If we'd just slow down and realize the steps that we take each day, I bet we'd live richer more plentiful lives.

Speaking of plentiful lives...I was asked on my post test yesterday what I thought a quality of life meant. I was given a case study where a pt had decided to go on Hospice due to her incurable dx and her multiple poor rxns to trxs. She felt the need to continue pain meds but terminate her chemo and radiation trxs to try and live the rest of her life comfortably instead of going through sickness and alt rxns. Here's what I wrote:

A quality of life is truly a choice by the person undergoing trxs (esp chemo for CA pts). In my opinion, we all choose the quality of life that we live and although this lady has chosen hospice, she can still live each day to the best that she can. Trxs and sickness would be a burden to her and her family, but sometimes we have to make decisions like refusing radiation and chemo to move on with our lives and live the best we can with what we have. We all will die from something one day, but it's not how we die, but how we live that truly matters.

After the day was over, and I was about to go home. My preceptor read my post test and told me that the last case study was her mother. Sometimes we are just blessed.

those special blessings

Today was a great day. I was a little stressed about things. Anxiousness gets to me a little bit, but thanks to the greatest boy in my life...I'm 'shaking it off.' The reminders...these little tips always mean the most to me.

Now, I am going to be productive... or try to at least.

This weekend will be filled with steaming lots of milk, making mocha creations, driving to the country, and spending time with people that I love being around.

15 Happy Thoughts: (because I haven't posted in a while)
1. Helium balloons are SO much fun.

2. God always knows the time and place for discussion...and often times the absent discussions that are meant to be post-poned.

3. Shea: "Man, guys, I am so hungry. I didn't eat breakfast. Now I am going to go eat breakfast and lunch."

4. Me: "Maddie did you figure out your email problem?"
Maddie: "Yes, on my own. No thanks to that guy in Palestani."

5. Weights always bring out the endorphines.

6. Maddie made a simple dinner tonight of pasta and chicken, but it hit the spot and was delicious.

7. Josh is going to the country!

8. Sarah loves her roomie and EU! Can't wait till Homecoming! woohoo.

9. Dad is my hero. Especially when I have life-questions. A great listener and thinker.

10. Mom's response when I told her I was going out of town this weekend- "Did you get someone to cover the cart?"
Me: "What?"
Mom: "The golf cart- on Sunday. Did you find someone to cover?"
Me: "Mom, that was the last thing on my mind."

11. Being done with the most stressful week of the year.

12. My wonderful roomie convos & hugs.

13. Clean clothes.

14. I turned in UNIT 1!

15. Dr. Hill's understanding, and a support group, like my CP girlies. Thanks SS, KB, SS, and LP.

don't know why

Why He died for me, I'll one day know.
For now, I try to seek Him each day.
I question life.
And realize then...
That no matter what I go through tomorrow,
I am already in His mighty hands.
I was created there.
Because I know Him,
I am rest assured that my life will be a great success.
The road, it seems, will never turn in the right direction.
I often wonder the very way that I am going.
Was I wrong today?
Did I make a mistake?
Yes, I turned many wrong ways, but I turn back to Him.
The only compass I have. The only direction I need.
How great and mighty is He.
He who created me.
I praise you Lord, for making me strong.
For giving me answers.
For consoling my fears.
For dancing in my dreams and teaching me how much I am worth...and my life's pure value.

Let me not be distracted by busyness or stress.
Please take away these things. For the weight that you have given me, is intended to fall on you and you tell me to take the light load.
In all my ways, I want to acknowledge you.
I praise you Lord, Amen.

favorite things:
1. Jesus
2. having a family that loves me as ME
3. friends who give you their full attention
4. reminiscing old times and seeing how far you've come
5. fresh blueberries
6. running when the sun comes up at dawn
7. the sound of children laughing
8. being comfortable
9. forgiveness
10. cinnamon
11. fresh flowers in the house
12. bubble baths
13. passionate people living their passions out LIVE

hazelnut cafe & a cinnamon crunch bagel

Sometimes days come around where I just want to freeze moments. I thank God for these times. They are rare, but I tend to search and find them more each day this year. Maybe it's knowing that I am passing through many "lasts." Maybe it's me just realizing more and more each day how miraculous and powerful our Heavenly Father is. Greatness! An awesome creator. I pray that I am in His image every day.

5 + 2 Happy Thoughts For Today:
1. Coffee and bagels are a perfect pair with someone special to share them with. I especially enjoy them over laughs.

2. A short CP mtg this afternoon gives me time to blog and catch up on things. :) yippee.

3. Sarah, Mom, and Dad are doing well. Were driving the last time I checked. Pray for Sarah and the family's new adjustments....:)

4. Maddie and Rach are two of the neatest people and I realize each day how much I have to be grateful for.

5. I am happy that I don't have food allergies.

6. I read Sarah's farewell note without crying. Thank goodness she made it funny. **

7. I get to work tonight. That means serving coffee to people who love books and/or time spent with friends & loved ones. If only I could live in a cafe with a cute apron on my waist serving people all day long and not grow sad or tired at any time. It would truly be greatness. :) Maybe I'll start tonight...

crazy tired...but extremely excited

Tonight I had to send Sarah off. She, Mom, Dad, and her Josh are driving 400 something miles to go to Evangel tomorrow. I am going to miss her so so so so much. But I am so happy for her and who she is going to become when she is there.

About some other things:
First day at HMFW. Crazy day, but I am already learning a lot. I am excited to be working with so many educated people, but it gets a little intimidating when I am doing things that I have no clue about. Grr. Don't like those times. However, there is never a dull moment at HMFW. Always something happening on some floor or other. Code Blue, grumpy people who don't like their food, nurses that get annoyed with RDs and DTRs and crazy weird people that just look at me like I should be in middle school and not in the hospital. I don't care though. As I am reminded, God has me placed in this very hospital with these very people for a reason. I'll admit I cried last night like a little girl, because I was so nervous about today. I literally felt like a kindergartner going to school for the first time...time AWAY from Mommy. However, I survived, managed to park in the correct parking garage, met tons of people, got an official badge, and got to wear my lab coat that makes me look like a physician. :)

Now on to 5 Happy Thoughts for the Day:
1. I get to eat breakfast with my favorite boy in the am. Special friends forever.

2. My family, the Teubers, and McLaurins shared a wonderful send off dinner tonight. It was delicious, and we laughed and shared so many "Sarah memories" together.

3. Dad caught the Jeep's brake problems BEFORE going out tomorrow for MO.

4. The way dietitians eat cracks me up! Come on ladies, get real. I know after you ate those 5 bites for lunch, you went home and had a glass of wine and brownie after dinner. Why are you trying to "look" skinny and healthy at the lunch table? Really, come on. I'm about to me a real one, and I don't eat like that.

5. Joking with Steph and Kacie yesterday about "maintaining a thermal layer" regarding why Steph ate part of a cinnamon roll at breakfast. :) Love you girls. You are hilarious.

sometimes days just turn out good

So today was day #2! My favorite number, although, I wish it were Friday instead of Tuesday. This really has been a whipping to start on a Monday. I am exhausted already. Boo, and I don't like being tired...which I will get on a tangent about for a sec. Do you have friends that are always tired...or always yawning? Yes. I do. I bet you all do too. (If anyone is actually reading this.) It perturbs me when people complain of being tired. I'll be the first to admit that I blame my attitude on being tired occassionally, but I really don't like to. Ok, now I am finished. I just hate the state of tiredness.

Now...why the day turned out good. My run tonight made me feel so good. It seemed like I kept running and running. I had so much energy. Good...considering the CP girls and I had to sit in a mtg from 9-4 with a 30 minute lunch break. Oh well, it's over now, and I am really excited about tomorrow...I get to see Sarah for the last church night for her, and then Thursday we are having the last family meal together at the Teuber's house. Sad, but happy all at the same time.

I had a great time with Steph and Kacie this afternoon. We rode together to Ben E. Keith to go to the FWDA mtg. It was over Blue Bell icecream believe it or not. We even got to sample some. :) I love laughing with these girls and all the stories we have together....we pretty much don't hesitate to say anything.

So for this to only be the second day of classes...and for my arm to be stinging from accidently spraying pepper spray on it (before I went for a run), I guess the day turned out to be a good one.

5 Happy Thoughts About Today:
1. Josh may be coming in to town this weekend! woohoo.

2. Sarah leaves for college in 3 days (not that I want her to leave me, but I am excited for her)!

3. I had someone remind me the other day about how special I truly am to my family, friends, and God. Reminders are always great. Those who give them are even better. Thank you.

4. Maddie is going to do great on her test tomorrow.

5. I am going to do well, too. :) I love MNT! woop.

last first day

So it was the big day. The last first day of my college years here at TCU. Pretty slow at times because not many of the teachers had much to say. We started no material and I guess that's the good news of the day, however, I know the rush of everything is about to take wave...a big one.

Things that I miss:
1. Not being on a strict schedule. I never thought that I would say this. I am a very organized schedule sort of gal, but today threw me off -BIG TIME>
2. Naps at whatever time of day.
3. Talking on the phone during the middle of the day. Now I am in the listening to voicemails and calling people back mode. Bummer. Sorry friends. I will try to answer when at all possible.
4. Going to bed earlier than mid-night because my runs/workouts have to be in the am. A slight shift in schedule...I was just way too used to working out at any and all times of the day.

5 Happy Thoughts of The Day:
1. A happy lunch phone call from Josh. Sweet.

2. Lunch with the gals at Kacie's place.

3. Laughing with Kacie and Steph over the fact that Steph can't handle any blood and guts...whatsoever...and Kacie likes the idea of tube feeds. haha.

4. I am finally finished with the academic part of my day and can relax.

5. The ride home from Linds after school after walking all day.

Now on to my afternoon nap. Hasta.

Welcome back dinner with the gals

Welcome back dinner with the gals
Originally uploaded by simplegiving

A great day concluded with dinner with my roomies. An absolutely delicious dinner with chickem, whole wheat fettucini, veggies and sun-dries tomato bread.

Thanks to Maddie for being such a great cook & roomie. I am so happy that they are both back in the Fort and that we will share so many memories this year together. Love you gals.

learning before the learning begins

Sunday school was fabulous this am. PD talked about what it means to evangelize in this day and age. The typical idea is to build relationships with people, bring them to an event or take them out to eat and get to know them before ever talking to them about religious ideas or thoughts...or even scripture, however, in Romans, when Philip is walking down the road (because he was being obedient to God) he met the eunich and led him to God right then and there. He also baptized the man...and the man went off glorifying and praising God (meanwhile Philip disappeared). What is in all of this? There are opportunities around us all the time to reach people. When was the last time that we listened to the Holy Spirit and obeyed? When was the last time that we paused to talk to someone we weren't familiar with, but felt led to? I'm not sure how you feel about all of these things, but I know that I need to work harder at relational appointments. I need to listen more closely to what the Lord is calling me to do. We are living vessels that the Lord has chosen to use. Chosen- He doesn't have to- but He CHOSE us to witness to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth. This meaning Fort Worth, Texas as well.

I can't wait for tomorrow to begin. The newness is going to be change, but I believe that the refreshing feeling of senior year, and all that life can offer me in this last leg of the race can really change my life and heart. My prayer for this year is that I be made even more Christ-like. I resemble the Lord in Spirit and truth. I pray that those I encounter would be blessed not by my human hands (that so often make mistakes) but would be blessed by the God of the Universe. Lord, work your ways in me because I so long to live & love the way that your Son did. Amen.

5 Happy Thoughts for Today:
1. My run was very worthwhile & stress-relieving.

2. I get to teach two wonderful girls tonight at Friends.

3. God's artistic abilities NEVER fail to amaze me. The way the flowers grow, the bees that pollenate them, and the people who gaze upon them...ahhhh.

4. The roomie dinner tonight.

5. I begin my senior year at TCU tomorrow.

Caesar salad, a special boy, & yellowness

Chicken caesar salad made with Josh's chicken.

The ride to Cabela's to sale the 4-wheeler.

Sar Bear at an antique store. She loves yellow!

A long awaited post. I have missed posting for the past couple of days because of spending time with friends and family and...because my silly wireless has chosen to not connect. grr. But all is well now, and I am up and running.

My run today was great. As I ran to the Rec to run inside, I saw tons of parents with the new fishies. It was a flashback to what I did three years ago. Man! How time flies!!! I have this anxious feeling about school starting, but am truly excited about seeing all of the CP girls and hearing about the summers and getting back in the mode of learning and practicing the wonderful world of NUTRITION. I haven't read much in the past couple of days, but I have had some great convos with friends and such. It is amazing how God can move through conversations with people when you let Him. (Hint: Let Him.) You never know what will happen.

As I sit here typing, I smell Miss Madeline's perfume on me. She borrowed my phone this afternoon and now I smell like her sweetness. :) Hehe.

I am awaiting the arrival of my other roomie from East Texas tomorrow. Then the house will be at full capacity and we get to share our latest summer memories together over dinner. Yippee.

Captivating thought of the day: I remember so clearly the days in elementary, middle, and high school. Going to school on the first day with new clothes that I had been saving for a week or so just to show off the first day. Always the pictures before school and the tummy butterflies that entered the moment after I ate my breakfast. Ahhh. Those moments will never leave.

5 Happy Thoughts For Today:

1. I got my first B & N discount at the bookstore! woohoo.

2. My internet finally works.

3. I had a lovely evening with the Grahams last night. I even got to outline 16 kiddos' coloring sheets for Ms. Laura's class.

4. My Sar Bear leaves for Big School in 6 days.

5. I got to spend the am with Maddie's sister, Becca. :) sweet girl.

Trying to brave the heart ache

WoW! Sarah is growing up SOOOO fast. We spent a little while together this am, so I thought I'd post the pic. I am happy that she is going to school, but upset that I won't see her every week.

Guess we gotta get growed up sometime. :)

WoW! Barista-ing is a blast. I think I made probably 30+ drinks today...and for people...not myself. I, myself, tried a nf white choc mocha. It was delicious. But for real drinks, I drank half of an sf vanilla americano & had to put it down due to the amount of espresso that I was drinking vs the amount (none) of food in my stomach. I think it's the acidity that triggers my tummy aches.

So, school is only 4 days away, and I have yet to buy my books and car tag. I am contemplating whether to buy a sticker or not for my car. I really want to get into the habit of walking and/or riding to class (rain or shine) this semester and save my driving for long distances. I really want to take the bus to the hospital too. I think it will be an interesting experience.

5 Happy Things About Today:

1. I am now a barista making many frappucinos, iced teas, and the happy heater of broccoli & cheese, artichoke, and Italian strattas.

2. I now am serving people in a public place more than I ever have before...and I love it!

3. My dad is my hero. (once again he came to my rescue)

4. My mom wore a cowboy shirt today with a pair of boots on it and her giant turquoise jewelry. She was precious!

5. I was reminded, once again, that I must take up my cross DAILY to follow him. There is no way for us to live holy lives w/o being connecting with Him...and this ONLY happens at Calvary.

It's funny how things change day to day. Some days are happy. Some are okay. Some are exciting. Some are just dreams. I had one of those yesterday. One of those days where a lot happens, but you're not sure where living your life and just going through life separated. I just don't know. It sounds depressing but it wasn't. Parts I don't want to relive...like waiting in line at the dr's office just to get a TB skin test- which bled (never having happened before). I got two new nurses to practice on me. Now I know what it must be like for nurses to go into rooms and prep them for the MD or PA. I think these nursing students were more nervous than me and I was one getting pumped full of air. haha. Anyway, I think things will be fine.

My run was purposeful today. So many things on my mind from yesterday were beaten out on the hot pavement. It really is cool how the beat of the street and how your heart works, that you can get things out of your head without even having to write them down. However, me (being aware of my surroundings), am annoyed at the obvious turn-arounds that people---let's say "MEN" make when I go for runs sometimes. I saw one black f150 stop on the side of the road today, acting like he was doing something on his phone, but the instant I turned back around he was gone. It flashed through my head that these days phones have cameras and video on them and I freaked myself out and picked up my pace the rest of the way home. Lord, forgive them if they have the wrong intentions, and protect me from those creepos. Let them see Jesus in me and nothing else. Amen.

And so now, I am estinky and need a shower and need to take the Food Handler's Certification Online, yet I have yet to have the desire. Maybe it will come to me soon.

And so I guess since I didn't write a post yesterday, I make up with 10 Happy Things Today:
1. The fact that Sarah leaves for school in less than two weeks is sad, but I am so happy for her.

2. My senior year begins in exactly one week from yesterday.

3. Godly examples to keep me accountable.

4. Evening walks to relax and learn tree names.

5. A clean kitchen and clean clothes before the week gets too crazy.

6. Once again, my rain CD. I fell asleep to it again last night, and the thunder didn't wake me up this time.

7. My mom.

8. The chance to laugh at things that should make me angry. LIke the lady that stole my spot in line at the gas station yesterday and realized to herself that she pulled in the wrong direction.

9. Forgiveness.

10. God's unconditional love for me even though I always fall down...he's there to help me take baby steps again.

That old mug

Yesterday, Sarah, Mom and I went to a couple of antique stores looking for Sar Bear an old chair to recover for her dorm room. I was kind of not looking forward to walking around the stores. The smells are gross sometimes, but I began to enjoy it when I thought about the stories behind each of the items on the shelves. I know. I know. I am a dork, but it's true. If you were in an antique store, in one of those booths, or tables, or shelves, what would you be & what stories would you have?

I would be an old coffee mug. Maybe I say this because that is something that I was looking for yesterday, maybe because (as a coffee-lover myself) I know that a cup of coffee is often times the thing that brings people together or gets your day started off right...or let's you slow down at a rushing point in your day. Whether black, taken with cream and sugar, or just a pkt of Splenda + sprinkle of cinnamon (like me)...an old coffee mug would be a timeless piece. I would be that one that is a little chipped because I would have been enjoyed each morning. But the chips and hairline cracks would show how valuable I am.

That's me.

5+1 Happy Things about Today:
1. Shanda had WILL yesterday!

2. Church was amazing and I got to enjoy lunch with Sarah, JP, Mom, and Dad.

3. My unintentional nap on Mom's bed. Amazing!

4. My afternoon spent drawing and talking at Starbuck's with Josh.

5. People that pick off tomatoes off their salads....and onions. yuck.

6. Knowing that you are right where God wants you to be.

Sarah and Josh sailing the day away.

Early mornings at the lake. Start the day right with country tunes and friends...

On the lake for a beautiful day. True, we didn't want me driving all day, but he had to take the pick of me driving for a bit. Watch out TX fishermen...there's a new girl in town. Don't worry, though, she doesn't catch anything...she just likes the water.

Tell Tails at Sea

Today Sarah, me and the Joshes went to the lake and went sailing. Absolute blast! Swimming, fishing, and sailing...not a better summer day. I must post the pics later.

Other than having a wonderful day...here are some funny things that Sarah said while in the boat.
1. Is that from Josh's bike? (Pointing to the boat motor handle- clearly NOT from a bike.)
2. Hannah, I am going to give you a booty boost.
3. What's the pH of the water out here?
Josh G- I don't know.
Well, it's about to change.

There were tons of thers, but I can't recall them now.
Off to two-step now. Giddy up.

5 Happy Things:
1. The dinner serving fork that Fernando was eating with at dinner last night.

2. A beautiful morning on the water started the day off great.

3. I got sunburned, but maybe my face will look a little tan now.

4. I am at home for the weekend.

5. I have a JOB! woohoo.

Captivating Titles

Oh my goodness. So I discovered another interest of mine as I traveled through B&N today. It is so much fun to walk down the aisles and read book titles. Titles of anything are fun, but especially books. Sometimes they make me just want to curl up in the aisle and draw in my sketchbook. It is so stimulating....:) Me and inspiration. I guess that I am a weirdo. I want to go back now and just think of the first things that come to mnd as I glance down the aisles. hehe fun.

5 Happy Things About Today:
1. I worked for the first time at B&N. Not anything special, but I got to log my hours for training. Woohoo.

2. I met several new people at the store. Another goal of mine for the fall. ***NOTICE- I must meet at least one new person each day. If I don't meet this requirement, I must meet at least 5 in one week. I will record this and give my first impressions of them. It's always fun to look back at these kinds of things.

3. I get to go home for the weekend. I love home.

4. I found a wonderful artist/author/creative genuis on flickr. I bought one of her books last summer, but now I see her work on flickr too. Keri Smith is a very talented girl. Check out her website and see some of the fun, creative things she thinks of.

5. I ran at sunrise today! Running the last stretch down the Berry/Belaire hill towards the east. The wind and sun were directly ahead of me and it was glorious! Thank you Lord, for memories like this one.

A movie with good motives

I saw Bourne Ultimatum tonight. It was on the edge of my seat exciting. Definitely worth a ticket. Take a friend. You may need for them to remind you to breathe in some of the action scenes.

Tomorrow is training day at the bookstore. I can't wait to meet more people and see how everything works.

It's been quite the day, but a great one!

5+1 Happy Things About Today:
1. I love my dad so much that I woke up at 5am to drive to Hurst and paint the house before it got too hot. (let's just say it wasn't enough time!)

2. Josh is finally in FW! The times we have are always exciting. Never a dull moment...never.

3. Sarah and I actually got to ride to church together tonight. I always love the company...and who better than Sarah to share the 25 minute drive with?! No one. :)

4. Ana and I got to talk at church tonight about life and coffee, working, and more life....

5. Jamie and I were partners for Lean on Me. By the time the song was over, we were really leaning on one another. Thanks girl for sharing such a moment as that. Haha.

6. Tomorrow night is another chance that I get to share happy times with the crew at FCCC. I secretly wish that Shanda has her baby tomorrow so that we can go to the hospital instead of watch the football game. Haha boyz.

Because sometimes we have that miracle called grace

Short story:

I read bits & pieces of my Mimi's Still Higher For His Highest each time that I go to her house. I came across a journal entry of mine from November 23rd (two years ago); note all of this is from Oswald Chambers, not myself.

There is nothing Higher than Jesus Christ.
"If there is a breath of confidence anywhere else, there will be disaster, and it is by the mercy of God that you are allowed to stumble, or to be pain-smitten, until you learn that He does it all- He keeps you from stumbling, He raises you up and keeps you up, He sends from above and delivers you."

Whenever there is a complication in your cirumstances, do NOTHING until you see the Highest- not sometimes, but ALL the time.

I looked and looked for this online to post it, but only My Utmost is online, but it's great too. Just not what I was looking for. I know for everyone, there are complications in life, but how many times do we really stop everything and type in "help me" to the Creator of the Universe? and not the nearest computer or furthermore, person (sometimes dealing with completely different issues)?

A captivating thought for today: Take captive of every thought today, and give it to the Creator of the Universe. If that thought is negative, I pray that He change the situation and/or the thinker's heart to solve the situation. If the thought is positive, than praise be to Him who gave you the thought in the first place. All that is good comes from Him who is good. Be blessed today that you were given another day to do something for the Savior.

Blazing Saddles! (hey we live in TX, right?)

Drink some of this today,

all of the heat will go away

NO it isn't alcohol...

It's PINK lemonade!

This post comes at the beginning of what is expected to be...a blazing day. High 100. Humidity = too hot to handle. Stay in doors and drink some lemonade friends, because Texas heat is here and we are all going to feel it. Laugh if you get cranky, and take a nap if you can't laugh. :) (That's just my advice.)

Earlier this year, we had a snow-covered ground & sweet man named Roger who lived by us.

Several (5+3) Happy Things Today:

1. We received a street notification that it is getting repaved. (again.) For those unaware, we received one of these notifications back in May during finals (also the reason my car flooded), and it is now August and we are still roadless. For runners, this is misery. For livers (haha that's a funny word), it is difficult to see with all the dust flying everywhere, and for others, it is also a clean-car-person NIGHTMARE. Rach, dear, I am sorry. Your blueberry in the driveway kind of looks like a sugar-dusted fruit these days. Just imagine it as a blueberry cake donut. haha. Not long (hopefully), until that pearl shines again. :)

2. Today, one of my greatest friends on earth is coming home. I can't wait to laugh with him again.

3. Thursday night is the Refuge party at The Palm's. {AKA Carl, Shanda, and Will's house.} We are having BBQ (not the girl fave, but mostly a f-ball thing among the boyz), and soaking the fellowship up with lemonade and sweet tea.

4. Friday is lake day. Hopefully. Considering the high prediction that day is 102. What's good about 102? Well it ends in a 2; my fave #, and 100 was once the high grade that smarty pants' received in HS.

5. School starts in...13 days. Ouch & Yea. All at the same time. Senior year. Another one, yet I bet this one is a little harder than the last....and hopefully more rewarding. (I'll have a degree this time!)

6. Yesterday was a happy day for me...more details to come. GOD is soooo good. (In the sound of Kelly Droke's voice.)

7. I got mail yesterday. A precious card from a friend that was handmade. I love handmade things. Especially when they are surprises, too. Oh, how sweet it is to receive mail. I think I need to go write my Mimi now. :)

8. Because I have to end on an even number...I got a new CD yesterday from Wally World. Dreamstorm. All of you fans that enjoy listening to rain. I highly suggest it. Anyone who doesn't, don't make fun. Someday you'll enjoy nature at its finest. :)

The Finer Things in Life

Riding with the best sister in the world never gets old.

So, the interview(s) are underway and I hope and pray that today's goes well at B & N. Imagine that...a walk in and interview for the cafe in the same day! Well, it happened, so ready or not here I come. Other things about today, I have cleaned my room (well almost totally), vacuumed out my car (including the nasty glove box), and now I am about to shower and spif up before the interview.

A captivating thought that ran across my mind today: what does it really mean to live with the finer things in life? Most of the US would think having a nice car, house, a couple of kids, maybe a dog, cat, and goldfish. The house would always be kept clean, the cars as well with the boat out back that was cherry red. Church on Sundays and Wednesdays, school during the week, and various practices/sports/events throughout the week.

Well...as a college student none of these apply and I realized this afternoon (when I was vacuuming out my 14 year old Honda) that I am happy with my life. This morning I was bummed at not having a job, the great Senior year about to begin, not having a significant other, and wondering how in the world I will manage after May comes.... But rest assured, I have so many things that make my life much finer than ever imagined before. I have a family. Two parents (still married- 25 years, in fact) and a sister whom is my best friend. I have a church body, a way to go to college, and I live in a house with two wonderful roommates that love the Lord and keep me company even when I do act like a crazy girl.

I believe that the finer things in life might go like this (for me; everyone else has his/her own):

1. Being able to rise in the am with a breath that only God himself gave me.

2. Feeling the wind blow in my face as I run down the street.

3. Watching the sun rise without a cloud in the sky.

4. The access to water to shower.

5. Being able to choose out my clothes for the day (yes, actually getting to choose and not wearing something dirty, old, or torn).

6. Having a car to drive and a phone to reach people with.

7. Being able to search for a job and people take an interest in my skills and talents.

8. Lastly, having people that care so much for me that they would tell me how I have made an impact in his/her life.

These truly are finer things to life. Forget the new, fancy car and all the things that make you smell good, look good, feel good....all of these things are TEMPORARY. Heaven is eternal. Therefore, my gifts and talents go to storage in heaven, so that one day I will hear those longed words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

Thinking today...

Many words/phrases came up in service this am that are worth repeating on my blog. One of which was "Teach a man to fish, and he'll never go hungry." As I plan for theupcoming semester, I pray that I can keep this in mind when speaking to my friends and other fellow students, nurses, dr's, etc at the hospital and around campus. I pray that this semester would be filled with all kinds of miracles and stories. This statement stuck with me for several reasons: a) I just recenting learned how to fish (and it's incredible), b) many men in our world have forgotten what it means to teach a man to fish (it's straight discipleship and loving on them), c) the verse, "Man cannot live on bread alone, but on the Word of God."(it's so important that we teach the Word and not the everyday blah blah blah that is heard on the radio, TV, and now...grr the Internet.

I read Thoreau's, "Life Without Principle" this weekend and it is definitely worth sharing with you who may (I say this because I have no idea who reads this) read this. READ IT ALL. The language can be difficult, but sift through it, I assure you it will make you come away with something to tell others about or question your own self.

"It is so hard to forget what it is worse than useless to remember! If I am to be a thoroughfare, I prefer that it be of the mountain brooks, the Parnassian (13) streams, and not the town sewers." {Paragraph #13}

Captivating, isnt it? To be reminded that heaven is so close to each of our hearts and we continue crowding it with junk.

5 Happy Thoughts:
1. The pasta salad that Mom and I made for lunch was delicioso.

2. I found out of 2 mission trips coming up in my near future that I can't wait to be a part of.

3. My run at 5:50 am was exhilerating, hot, and really really sweaty. (but it happened!)

4. The Fray CD is one of my new faves.

5. This week will be a great one! Full of fun, people I love, and well...it's still summer, so I cant wait. :) Happy Sunday.

Just a walk in nature...take one.

What I truly love...

Last night I visited one of my favorite places; The Nature Center. It is most beautiful at sunrise and sunset, but I enjoy jogging through every time that I am out.

My Captivating Thought: God's creativity is far past anything any man could ever design.

Chances are that my run comes to a screeching stop as soon as I step foot onto the trails, but last night, it was just me, my iPod, and my camera. I know, bringing my iPod sounds out of sorts, but I had it on one of my fave songs from the soundtrack Rent, and that made it worth it.

I'm about to head to the outdoors again...not to view nature but paint in it (which I am sure that I will get pics today as well of more happy, God given things). So for now...

5 Happy Things...
1. The sun is out and going to be a hot but BEAUTIFUL day.

2. Joshua Bell's violin work is magnificent!

3. Two new tanks are painted and ready for their wearers. I can't wait to deliver them.

4. Cinnamon oatmeal with pecans = fulfilling and delicious breakfast.

5. It's Saturday! This means great things...a friend home in 3 days, tomorrow is Church, and today is family-work-on-the-house day!

Breathe

Why is it that I love to exercise, but it is so hard for me to get out there in the am's? This summer especially. I could blame it on the humidity, rain in June, babysitting, work, camp, school, WOW there are a lot of things to blame...but when it comes down to it and I get out there with my mind on God's creation and the little things...like jumping through the sprinklers when I get hot that make me want to stay outside and run, walk, skip, leap forever. It was a good morning needless to say and after a good 45 minute one, that refreshing shower felt worth it.

Changing gears... I found a couple of great sites this am when I was 'blogging.' If you are reading this and are an artist, writer, creative master, lover of design, or want to be any of these in the future and want a little project check out liberty post's The People's Princess Memorial. Princess Di died 10 years ago on August 31, and liberty post will post all of the things submitted by bloggers from now until then on that day.

Other things...
I think, in Texas, it is finally summer. All of these teasing temperatures outside fooled me. Today the high is 96 with it feeling like the low 100s. Great. Just in time to walk/ride to school in 17 days. Why oh why must it feel this way?!

Now on to my 5 Happy Things...
1. I get to hang out with some of the coolest friends today...Sarah, Tori, and Austin. We'll probably quote Nacho and Pink Panther quotes all day, and watch another movie and quote that one too. Grand times.

2. I think that Sarah and I and two of our friends are going to the lake next weekend to go sailing. I've never been, but I keep thinking about Bob (What About Bob?) on the sailboat saying, "Look Dr. I'm sailing." (as he is tied to the boat)

3. My roomie changed her major to Advanced Nursing and will graduate next August instead of next December. Woo hoo for her.

4. The quote from The Wedding Planner: "What if what you think is great, is great, but it's not as great as something greater."

5. The flowers that I saw growing from a bush this am, made me smile and breathe. Maybe I'll go take a pic of them.

Cleaning up, but still so dirty

Today was all painting. Two colors...cream and brown. The house is progressing, but I am as dirty as a street rat. I kept kinda hoping that it would rain so that I could go inside, but secretly God knew that He wanted me to get a lot further and impress Dad.

Yesterday and the day before have both been OFF days for me. I haven't really enjoyed them. I need to learn the art of relaxing...or at least slowing down. Maybe I will read a book or talk to someone about it.

I need to go exercise, but the gloomy clouds are screaming rain at any second. Maybe I'll just go take a nap instead and walk later.

I need a new sport. I've been saying this for a while now, but after yesterday;s 5.25 mile run, my knee is not doing so hot, and I think something less stressful and relaxing would benefit me more. Any suggestions?

Anyway...5 Happy things for today...
1. I am due to get mail from a friend in 2 days.

2. I am going to the Modern with Rach tomorrow and I can't wait.

3. I enjoyed a turkey sandwich with Mom today at lunch.

4. School officially starts in 18 days. It will be the last first day of school...weird.

5. I got to use the massage table at the chiro this am instead of the flat bed. (it's the little things in life that make this girl happy)

Think about such things.

A reminder that He does love me.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable...if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.

Philippians 4:8

This verse sums up how I (we) should be thinking.

True- the only certain truth is the Word of God and who Christ is

Noble- possessing outstanding qualities (in the Bible this referred to outward and inward characteristics)

Right- pretty sure that the Ten Commandments list the do's in life

Pure- "unmixed with any other matter," "free from dust, dirt, or taint" (both from Websters)Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8

Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure. 1 John 3:3

Lovely- delightful for beauty, harmony, or grace

Most of the verses I find have to deal with outward beauty, but a few speak of the Lord's beauty ie. How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord, Almighty. Psalm 84:1

Admirable- deserving the highest esteem

Excellent- eminently good, superior

Praiseworthy- commendable

Writing these out makes me really think about what I am doing WRONG. I know that none of us are perfect, but there are so many opportunities to show Jesus to the world, that we need to be thinking in these terms rather than justifying/lying to ourselves why we are 'better' than the world and why our circumstances are different. (all excuses from finishing the tasks that He so richly blessed us with)

Happy Things...

Being that my mother's name is Joy and she stands at 6 feet,

running with her stride will always be my joy.

So I had a thought, idea, brain-thing. It probably came from something I read or saw, just like everything else, but here it goes- I'm making lists each day of 5 things that make me happy. These can be simple or complex. Just reminders of why I am alive and things that make me see Jesus a little more in each thing He does for me.

Today is just beginning, but I already have some.
1. The moon this morning at 5:50 am (before the clouds rolled in to cover it).

2. The feeling after a run (my sweaty and tired body makes me feel accomplished).

3. Driving to work with Mom (including the turbin towel that I had on my head).

4. Hot, hot coffee (so hot that the top wouldn't stay suctioned to the mug- my kind of bliss-- however, not Mikey's- he's still recovering from our first coffee talk).

5. The sun just peaked out and I am on my way to another adjustment to make my neck feel better.

At last the day is winding down, and all I can think of is sleep and how yucky I feel after eating a not so great dinner of yet another turkey and ham sandwich, some rice flour mustard chip things (b/c the family has become gluten free from Victoria's allergies), and a cup of coffee at 6 pm...that now has me wired. Oh, and I also ate 4 mini gluten free cookies that are actually really delicious, but now...I'm restless, tired, and need a back rub. Mikey dx me just a second ago by calling himself that.

Call this day...Debbie Downer's Day. I'm glad now that I wrote my happy things at the beginning, but to end the day's post on a good note

...here are five more happy thoughts:

1. I am back in FW and got mail while I was away for a week. (imagine that)

2. Tomorrow I have a pretty free schedule- this means a run and bike ride, if the weather permits...if not, a run and weights. Exercising gives endorphines...and endorphines make you happy.

3. Tomorrow night is Bible study and I can't wait to see what Pastor talks on.

4. Only 7 more days (or so) until one of my greatest friends comes back to FW.

5. I am job-hunting tomorrow.

Some days ya gotta dance

and give it up when you get the chance. ...I know, I know. Corny Dixie Chicks, but this is what I want to say to the little things that pester me each day. As I sit here and type, enjoying a coffee at home, with my wonderful sister, two dogs, and rested from a two hour nap. Aahh. The bliss of summer will only last so long, and I am trying to enjoy it while I can.

There's only so much that I can put up with in one day: boss' that don't keep their words, mosquitoes that suck my sweet blood, and being woken up when first falling asleep by the cell phone being on level 7. I'm rested now, so these things that once bothered me today are HISTORY. According to my mom, "I've put them in a bubble and blown them away." :) Quoted from the beloved, Dharma and Greg.

I've thoroughly enjoyed spending time with my family the past couple of days. It's great when you are away for a while and come home to a laid back and relaxed atmosphere with people to talk to and trust me. :) It's also been great to go out shopping for Sarah's dorm room. It's a flashback to just three years ago. The bright colored towels, storage 'equipment', and the nervous/anxious mood of a new atmosphere. Sarah was so sweet today..."I'm ready to move in tomorrow. I have all of these things. I just want to unload them and get organized." This was quoted while driving in the car today, in between the Nacho and Pink Panther quotes, that she and Mom were quoting. (Mom= trying).

It's been a good day. Only other place on earth that I'd rather be, would be on a lake or at the beach, watching the sun set and listening to the summer night crickets and frogs outside.

Enjoy the summer days.

Two for the day

New camera, new heart, new life...
The sunset over Lake Nac. One of the best pics on my new camera, followed by the end of the best day.




Mac and me at Panera for lunch. This girl is crazy cool. Thanks for always making me smile.
Mrs. Davis: (vocabulary quiz) What is illegal?
Mac: A sick bird.

Greatness.



Just a spoiled kid on a trip home from youth camp.

This would be my delicious PB & GJ (grape jelly).