Beautifully Broken

Joy.

2011-01-13T20:29:00.002-05:00

Do you ever just think about God and His goodness and can't stop smiling? Well, that's me right now. There is to much hope in Christ. Oh how I love the joy that is only found it Christ.

Tell me something that brings you joy =)

Thank You Lord.

2010-11-20T23:24:00.004-05:00

An amazingly overwhelming desire to grow has grown in me. God has ignited in me an incredible passion for growing in character. I don't think I have ever desired to grow in character more than I do now. I don't think I have ever been so excited about killing sin. I have never had such excitement and pleasure in the idea that, while relying on God's strength, I can grow to be more like Him. Just thinking of all of the ways I can be serving Him if I grow, challenges me. Serving Him is so lovely.My friends, God is so attractive and lovely. He is the most beautiful thing that exists. Aspiring to grow to be more like Him not only blesses you and challenges others, but it glorifies His name greatly.

As a girl, I know it can be a temptation to put a focus on the outer appearance. It's so vain and I know I could put way too much of a focus on it. But never have I cared so little about it than I do now. The only way I desire to be beautiful is by God shining in me. I know I have much room for growth, but God gives much grace and He is so patient with me.

I am tired of my sin. I hate it. The idea of overcoming weaknesses and growing in character for the glory of God is so appealing to me. Ah, dear God please keep this passion ignited in me and don't let it fade. Also, please help me to rely on your strength so that I can make progress, rather than fail. I am so weak. So, so weak. I am helpless without you Lord.

I just needed to say that. I'm too passionate about it to keep it to myself. Sorry for the little rave, haha.

Obsession

2010-11-20T22:57:00.000-05:00

"Obsession"

By: Starfield

I am fixed on You
As the world flies by
I have lost myself
In Your blinding light

This obsession is my call
Owning body mind and soul
All I live for is to know You and be known

This obsession makes me whole
I give in to its control
It consumes me like a fire within my bones

I am not my own
I have been erased
Like a canvas washed by the stokes of grace

You're my obsession
You're all I ever need
I'm Your posession

I Will Love You.

2010-11-16T12:53:00.001-05:00

I think I would consider this my life motto or prayer or whatever you want to call it. I love this song a whole lot:

When I think of all You are, in my life and in my heart; no words can say what I feel. Cause if anything is true, it's what I have found in You. Lord, to me, there's nothing so real. And though there is no way I can repay You, I'll give You whatever You want. I'll live a life that says You give me every song. With my every breath I'll make Your mercy known. With every soul on earth or all alone; I will love You, I will love You.

Angels see You face to face. If I could I'd take their place, and poor out my heart to You. But what they don't understand, is to know Your grace first hand and how it feels to love like I do. You bring me to my knees with Your kindness. Lord, there's nothing I can hold back. I'll live a life that says You give me every song. With my every breath I'll make Your mercy known. With every soul on earth or all alone; I will love You, I will love You.

With everything I am and everything I have, I dedicate myself to doing one thing well. I will love You.

ahh!

2010-10-21T09:03:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, I'm taking the ACT. My score will be sent to all of the nursing programs that I am applying to. Nursing school is super hard to get in to and unfortunately, all that the schools care about are my numbers. My score could make or break my opportunity to get into nursing school. I really feel the pressure. Dear God, please help me.

Waiting

2010-10-04T15:13:00.003-04:00

Right now, my life is filled with a lot of waiting. Waiting can be so hard. But another thing that can be even harder is be an active waiter. God wants us to use every second of our lives for His glory. I think that when we think we are waiting for something, we can forget to make sure to utilize these in-between times. I think we sometimes forget that these times are just as important as any other time. No moment is any less important or critical, when thinking of it spiritually.

In church yesterday, one thing stood out to me during the message. "It's the day to day mundane things that ultimately glorifies Christ."

I am reminded of a song that I want to define me...especially during this season:

While I'm Waiting
By John Waller

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

Hey!

2010-08-22T19:23:00.002-04:00

So, I would like to revive this blog....I like blogging....even though not many people do it any more.

School is starting tomorrow and with that comes routine. I like routine. I also like spontaneity. But really, routine makes for a more disciplined Emily, which is good. haha. I over-analyze everything. But you love me for it, right? :)

Alrighty, a real bloggity post will hopefully follow soon :)

thinkin'

2010-06-23T12:34:00.001-04:00

[this is a rambling-type blog post...beware]

I'm the type that is always pondering things and sometimes when things keep me from pondering things clearly, I start to ponder why these things get in my way and when I start to analyze myself, I completely confuse myself. It's complicated. Not sure if that makes any sense. But that is what is on my mind. I seriously wonder sometimes if my inability to stay focused on something is some sort of disorder like ADD or if it's my laziness and weakness that just needs to be reversed....

I've been thinking about my habits recently. Some of them I like and others I am not to fond of. I feel like some parts of my life need a bit of a make over. But sometimes I can't focus long enough to change them. ugh.

You know what else I think? I think I over-think things a lot. I think often times my motivation is good, but it drives some people crazy. I don't think everyone sees that side of me. Just a few close friends that I talk a lot to about what's on my mind(and bounce things off of them) and those are often times my friends that are also my sanctifiers. Loveee them for it :)

Above I was saying that I analyze myself a lot. And one thing that I've come to realize is that no matter how "levelheaded", rational and logical I am(which would more generally be associated with how guys think), I still think like a girl. Maybe a logical, rational and level-headed girl...but still a girl. I know that sounds like a silly thing for me to realize, but it's true and it's honestly something I didn't use to think. Why did I say this? I don't know. I was just thinking about it. I never want to sound like I don't appreciate thinking like how God made girls to think...but I sure do wish sometimes I could think a little more like my brothers on some things, haha.

Right now you're either: A) sleeping because this was so boring, B) not even reading this right now because it was so boring or C) laughing at me because I am silly and rambling and making very little sense.

Here is a random picture because I felt like posting it. These are some awesome sea gulls I met in San Francisco :)

It's summer?

2010-06-02T21:53:00.004-04:00

Wow, I can't believe summer is basically here. This time next year, I will be graduating high school and getting ready for college. Even though I do have a year, it still seems so close. I think it's because I have so many friends that are a year or two ahead of me and I've been taking college classes for a while not, so I already am getting a taste of what college is like...even if it isn't my /life/ yet. I'm excited about that new, upcoming stage of life....but I'm also content with where I am for now.

Anyhow, school isn't over yet for me, but it is lightening up. I pretty much have no plans for the summer and that is strange. The past few summers have been filled with the making of our movie, so it feels weird to not have my whole summer filled already.

I've been thinking about this summer and what I want to do with it. I think I've decided that I want to get a part time job if I can find one and just spend a lot of time in the Word and reading good Christians books. I want this summer to be filled with books that will help me mature as a Christian and prepare me for my next stage of life. But, I haven't exactly decided what to read. I'm thinking of going through Wayne Grudem's Systematic Theology very slowly, as well as read a couple of other spiritual growth books. One that I think I want to read is Respectable Sins and I'd also like to read a book on Holiness.

I tell you, God is so awesome. He has been so good to challenge me so much recently. Through several friends and just spending time in His word, I have been motivated to really work at killing sin and growing as much as I can. I have such a passionate desire to grow character right now....it's /so/ hard...but it's the best kind of hard ever! Anyhow, it's also very humbling when I fail constantly and see how weak and sinful I am.

All this said, I want to know about /you/! What are your plans for the summer? Is there anything God has been showing you recently? Any suggestions for good books for me to read over the summer? Also, I seem to get a lot of readers whom I do not know. So I am curious, if you do read this, how you found out about me? :)

I have missed this little blog!

2010-03-23T21:21:00.001-04:00

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

I love this verse. My goal in life is for it to define me. It's probably one of my top favorite verses. Ah! Just live by this my friends and you will be greatly be blessed :)

God stuffs...

2010-03-11T14:10:00.002-05:00

Why in the world is God so good to me? I deserve nothing...I deserve less than nothing. But He gives me more than I even need or could ever imagine.

I tell you, at the foot of the cross is the best place to see how small and helpless you really are. And how amazing and huge and good Jesus is. If I am on my knees at the cross always, it will surely help me to see things in the magnitude and from the perspective I should. I will see sin for what it really is and I will see how no sin is small. Why do we think sin is okay? Why do we think that "little sins" exist?

My dear friends, God's love is so incomprehensible. I've been trying to see the character of God's love and oh my, how great it is. It is so believable but also so impossible to understand fully. And even that boggles my mind.

Jesus is the only thing that is ever worth your life and the only thing worth all of your energy. I beg you not to be a fool. If you believe differently, someday you will see the truth and regret not learning it sooner.

What I have learned, etc....

2010-02-11T14:29:00.004-05:00

I'm sorry, but I have had no good ideas for blog posts. Which is why I haven't posted in forever. But now, I suppose I will just post what's been on my mind and what God has been showing me.

Right now, my life feels so full. And, it feels so fast-moving. The fact that I'm graduating next year is kinda surreal. What God's will is for my future has nearly constantly been on my mind. It's a daily prayer request that He would reveal it in His time, and that whatever desires I have that are not apart of His plan for me would be removed from me. So far, His will is appearing to be completely different than what I originally wanted. How exciting! I love an adventure. Especially one written by my God :)

I'm learning lots about myself this year. I'm learning about what I deeply love to do vs. what I just find to be a fun hobby. Sometimes, that is surprisingly hard to figure out.

I am learning what qualities really matter in a friend. I recently have been so blessed by some of my friends. They are such a gift from God and would be very hard to live without. You know, I believe God gives you different friends for different reasons. Some friends are meant to be those fun, lighthearted people that you always have crazy fun with, others are there to challenge and encourage you spiritually, and some are there listen and just to...be there. We need a little of all of that in our lives. But, if one of those are missing or there is too much or two little in our lives, we'll be lopsided. I think I lot of teens are lopsided because they leave all depth and seriousness out of all their relationships.

I'm striving to be a Godly and loving sister and daughter to my family. Next to God, they matter most. And, the things I learn from serving and loving them will only help me the older I get. For that reason, I'm deciding to not be such an overachiever in school by trying to do a gazillion subjects. I'm going to spend the rest of my highschool life more focused on the home. I think I'll benefit.

Speaking of school..... I'm learning that disciple is absolutely necessary the older you get. This semester has been so full....I really am looking forward to finishing it. I've been praying a lot about what to do after I graduate. I think I finally know where God is leading me. I tell you, talking to older and wiser people is so helpful! I'm strongly considering going into nursing and staying local for school. We'll see though...I still have some time.

I love wisdom. Gosh, I really do. I swear it's one of the best qualities a person can have. In my opinion, at least. The Bible speaks so much of how valuable it is. Definitely something to chase after a pursue. I'm learning to love it more every day.

How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver! Proverbs 16:16

Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off. Proverbs 24:14

I've been trying to read as many spiritual growth books as possible recently. I don't have tons of free time, but whenever I find some, I try to read one of these books. Wow, I am loving that and learning lots. These are some books that are most definitely worth your time! Sometime soon, I'll give some book reviews and details ;)

hmmm, I've talked about a lot here. Maybe I should stop now. In the next post, I'll give you an update on general life stuff :)

Emily Joy =)

So it's a new year....

2010-01-01T09:49:00.002-05:00

Wow it's 2010. I think this will be the most interesting year in my life yet. I'm excited for the future....though it's a little confusing right now ;)

Anyhow. I'm not going to make a post saying something to each of my friends. idk why, I just don't feel like it. And, apparently, no one else is doing it either....so.... yeah. But no need to be sad! You will get some happy encouragement in your birthday cards...it's better that way anyhow =P

So. For 2010, I figured I better make a goal. Yes, I always make goals. But i normally make a lot. I'm not saying that's bad...it just is less realistic. So, I'm going to make 2 goals and put all my effort towards these goals....

The first goal is for me to get completely lost in God. Yeah, kinda a weird resolution. But I very good one, I think.

My second resolution is to try to become more disciplined in every area of my life. Spiritually, physically and mentally. Because I think God is more glorified when we are more disciplined and we can serve better because of it.

What are your resolutions?

Merry Christmas :)

2009-12-25T18:01:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has had/is having a wonderful Christmas :)

Thanksgiving and Christmas time

2009-12-09T20:36:00.003-05:00

I love this time of year. I don't like the materialism, though. It makes me sad. Honestly, at one point this season, I wanted to get no gifts for Christmas and instead go on a missions trip. But, that is not realistic this year, unfortunately. Oh well, at least I am blessed to not want much...my God is so good!

However, I would love a puppy. Ever since I lost my dear dog this summer, I have missed having a dog around. I also had to put my cat down recently and my hedgehog died. Each time I have lost a pet, I have seen the awesome faithful love and peace of my Jesus more than ever. It's amazing how He comforts me :) So anyhow, back on topic, I'd like a Newfoundland puppy please. Those puppies are like the cutest things out there. Newfoundlands generally are. May I tempt you?

You must think this is cute. You must. How can you possibly not? =P So yep, my point is that I want a huge fluffy dog that is much larger than myself...a gentle giant ;)

Thanksgiving was good. I forgot to make a 'what I'm thankful for' post. But really, should I even try? How can I express all that I am thankful for? I could say 'Jesus, my family, friends, etc....' But really, that just frustrates me because I am so much more thankful than I can express....

I am pretty excited about how my first semester of dual enrollment has gone in the local community college. I hope the next semester will go just as well :)

Christmas. I love it so much. Yeah, I just do.

My blog posts always seem to jump around a lot. Sorry if it bugs you...that's just how my mind works.

Oh, and so today Liv and Sof and I /tried/ for the second time to get a good picture of us for our Christmas card. I have a strong feeling that if we were all guys, or if /they/ were guys, that this would be a much easier task. But no, we're girls. So that means we're picky about our appearance in these pictures that's we're sending out all over the world =P And, we happen to also be goofy girls that have goofy facial expressions. haha, so it's hard to get a picture where all 3 of us: A) are smiling, B) have our eyes open, C) do not resemble elves or monsters or the like and D) consider ourselves not stupid looking =P lol, yes. We struggle. Oh well. It's life. And I'm glad I'm not a guy. Though guys are great too =P

So I got to go to a vintage Christmas swing dance a little over a week ago. It was such great fun. I. Love. Swing dancing. It is incredibly fun. I swear, everyone must try it at some point in their lives. And you know what made it even more fun than normal swing dancing? We got to get dressed up in formal 50's vintage dress and we danced to a live band ;) Pretty fantastical ;) Maybe I'll post pictures soon....

Alright. So like, I suppose most of this related to Christmas or Thanksgiving in a way. Although, not exactly how I planned it =P Oh well. Goodnight =)

Should I post? Ok, I will.

2009-11-04T22:31:00.003-05:00

Well, today I felt like making a post at like lunch time. But, I couldn't because I was still doing school and didn't want to get online and get distracted. I'm good at that. haha

Anywho. So. I suppose I should talk about something. Since that's generally what you do when you have a blog and make posts. =P

First off, I am crazy. Or at least my mind feels like I am. School takes so stinkin' long. Like for seriously. I started school at 8am and didn't finish until 7pm. And I did not waste time. Yes, that's what it is. School is to blame for making me crazy!!

Also. I am so stinkin' thankful for the friends I have been blessed with. They rock. They make me love my God even more. And right now, I feel like mentioning Sam, my online friend. I want to meet her some day. She's quite awesome herself. =]

So I have been taking a swing dancing class with about 14 other friends. We have had a blast taking the class and i have learned a ton. Swing dancing is probably my favorite 'hobby' or whatever you call it, ever!

I'm not sure what else to talk about. I could always ramble on but, I don't want to waste your time. And my brain is too fried to think of something deep or intelligent to say.

'Night =)

Our Little Adventure!

2009-10-29T22:28:00.003-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I went camping with my family and several other families. On Saturday afternoon, Eric, Brandon, Morgan, Cara and I wanted to go for a little walk. It had been raining on and off all morning, so we just wanted to take a short hike around part of the lake....or so we thought.[insert the DUNDUNDUN here] ;)

Well, after hiking for about 30 or 45 minutes, we decided we *had* to be almost half way around and that we'd just keep going. Well, we kept going farther and farther, and it kept seeming like we were about half way around. We walked by the 'day use area' that had bathrooms and water fountains, so we figured that it wouldn't hurt to take a quick break there. And then we kept walking. Finally, after thinking 'ok, this is a little longer than we thought', we were considering turning around, we thought we just *had* to be half way at that point and turning around would take longer. So we kept walking and yes, we followed trails this whole time.

Then, at one point the trail just seemed to end, but we figured that if we kept walking along the lake that we'd eventually find it again. Well, we didn't exactly. And for a while were in the middle of tall grass and thorns and trees. Let me just add right here that out of all 5 of us who owned cell phones, all of us happened to forget our phones...go figure. Eric decided that we should stop and pray(thanks bro ;)), cuz' we were really starting to get lost and were probably in a little over our heads. Shortly after that, we found a deer trail, that we followed and it led us to a trail that was obviously made by people. At that point, we noticed that we hadn't seen any other humans in quite a while and that even though we /were/ walking on a trail, it wasn't a marked one and we had no idea where it would lead(and we had heard gunshots the day before in these woods).

Anyhow, to make a long story short-er, this trail led us to a road that had no street signs, so we still didn't know where we were. We were considering stopping a car and asking because at this point we had be hiking for nearly 4 hours. But no cars seemed interested in stopping, so we kept walking. We came upon a few houses and decided we needed to go knock on someone's door and at least see what road we were on and maybe ask to borrow a phone. We decided to have me and Brandon go knock and luckily, these people were pretty nice. The lady felt so bad for us and they even offered to drive us back to the campground. Apparently, it would be another 3 or so mile hike back to the campground. So, we took the offer and all jumped into the back of the man's truck, who then brought us back.

Yes, it was an adventure. God was faithful, He lead our way and kept us safe. Praying always pays off. We ending up hiking an estimated 5 or more miles and I have never been more thankful to have guys with me, haha! The 20 minute hike turned into more like 4 hours and the trail that we thought went around the lake was actually non-existent(we checked the map when we got back to the camp site, lol). I don't think any of us will ever forget this, lol.

The end. Yeah, sorry it was this long =P

Hannah!

2009-10-22T12:54:00.001-04:00

Hope you have the most fantastical 17th birthday ever ^_^

Happy Birthdays!!

2009-10-01T13:48:00.002-04:00

Happy birthday to Lindsay and Matt today =D

Lindsay, you are hilariously awesome. We've had so many fun times together and it's always fun when it's with you ;) haha, and I'm still a whole 2 1/2 months older than you =P

Matt, I've enjoyed getting to know you over the past couple of years. I've seen you grow in your walk with the Lord a lot since I first met you and I'm excited to see how He works in the through you this coming year!

Also, late happy birthdays to Hannah, Becca and Nathaniel :) I hope each of you had a very special day :)

Hello there faithful readers!

2009-09-22T13:45:00.007-04:00

Yes, your unfaithful blogger has decided to post again. I'm not really sure what you like to read most. So, I'm just going to post what I feel like talking about and hopefully it isn't too boring...lol

This past month or two has been very interesting for me. I started school 4 weeks ago and I am so busy with it. I have had to work harder than I ever have, and it feels really good :) I have lots of subjects and actually will have enough credits to graduate at the end of this year, but my parents have deemed it wiser for me to do a full 4 years of school and not graduate a year early. I always have wished I could graduate early, but when it actually came up as a possibility this year, reality really struck me. In one way, it's hard to imagine myself as a full time college student next year and entering a whole new season of life. But, I'm going to trust my parent's decision and be content with where God has me now. =)

In addition to life picking up in busyness, it is also hopefully going to be changing again soon because I have decided to apply for a job. I really would like to work at Chickfila where I can work half-way normal hours and get a regular paycheck. I'm going to probably apply this month, so we'll see where I get with that. If it's God's will for me, I know He will work it out :) If/when I do get a job I can't wait to see how God will give be the strength to keep up with work, school and life. It'll be a lot of work, but I know I can do it with His help :)

hmmm, what else? Oh, I have some more baby hedgehogs :) They were born two weeks ago and I wasn't too sure how they'd do, because last time, this same mom killed her litter. Sad, I know, but that is just sometimes how it goes with animals. Anyhow, right now, the babies are doing well and I'll hopefully get to hold them sometime this week and get pictures, which I will be sure to post =D

Random, but: next month, I'm taking swing dance lessons and I'm soooo excited about it. Yay! =D *does a little happy dance*

Fall is officially here. I am excited for the cooler, beautiful weather.....I just love it...jeans, hoodies, baking....all good stuff ^_^

With fall starting to 'show up', we are in a rush to finish filming our movie. We have only two more filming days and then it's just time to get the movie edited. I'm very exicted to be done and see the finished product! And, when we're done filming, everyone will have 'freedom' and a lot more free time on their hands, lol!

Ok, so there is a little(or rather big) update from me. Life is good. God is good.

One more thing. I was reading in Proverbs last night and came across this verse: "As in water, face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man." What a reminder this is. That my heart is going to make me the person I am, or rather, my 'image'(character) and heart are connected... they are either both going to be beautiful or both be very ugly...and you ca't fix one without fixing the other ;) Just a little random thought :)

I feel bad...

2009-08-28T15:53:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't posted a lot recently. I guess I just don't feel like talking about myself or my life. I really want to make some deep, meaningful posts. But, whenever I sit down to make a blog post, I have 'blogger's block' or something =P But let me think for a second here.

God has really spoke to me this week about my future. I have never been worried or stressed about it, but it's kind of cool to actually see God possibly revealing some stuff to me. I have really been unsure as to what career to pursue. I just have always felt like I have so many interests and didn't really feel a really strong calling to one thing. I don't know if I could pick one thing I'm super passionate about, other than God. Well, God has shown me that it's not what I do, but how it serves Him that really matters. I feel like He has shown me that my passions are actions and services, rather than something physical like 'music' or 'animals'. Yes, I do adore those two things, but I don't know if it would be a passion. So anyhow, what I feel like God has shown me is that whatever I do, it'll include: caring, encouraging, helping/serving and challenging. Obviously, there are a lot of forms of all of that. And i don't know what form that'll be for me. I am just excited to see what God has in store :)

Beach!!

2009-08-26T14:02:00.002-04:00

Ok, so this past Saturday we left our home to go stay at Holden beach for a week. Right now, I am sitting in my beach house and thought I should give a little update. The beach has been gorgeous, I have spent a lot of time in the water and on the beach. Some of my cousins are here with us, and we're having an awesome time ^_^ I have also had some awesome times with the Lord. He has revealed himself to me in some amazing ways and it feels so awesome. I might make a more in depth post on that later.

We have went out in the ocean while the sun has been setting the past few nights. That is absolutely breathtaking beautiful. We've found a lot more shells than we normally do. I will be sure to post some pictures when I get back =)

Well, I guess I better go now. I'm going to go build a sandcastle(ohhhh yesss =P). Peace!!

This is what I want[and am trying to] to live by...

2009-08-18T15:55:00.001-04:00

1 Timothy 4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

1 Timothy 6:11- But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.

2 Timothy 2:22- Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18- Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:11- Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Colossians 3:1 and 12
1Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Philippians 4:8- 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 2:3- Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.

2 Corinthians 12:10- That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Mark 10:43-44- Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.

Oh dear God help me...

What have I been up to?

2009-08-17T09:19:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry for not posting a lot recently. Anyhow, let me type a quick update. I got my wisdom teeth out a couple of weeks ago. The recovery was not too bad. Then, there was the youth day. That was really awesome. I had a fun time with friends and some great teaching. I got to see some people that I don't normally get to spend time with, like Stephanie and Aly, so that was nice =) Oh, I got in to my first college class. That starts today.

hmmm, what else? I have just generally been busy with life. We've had a couple of movie meetings, Bible study, Kung Fu Panda with friends, AMP's awesome concert. I know I must be forgetting something. Oh well, I just need to post more regularly ;)

Oh and I finally got a facebook. But I promise, that is not why I haven't posted very much... My life had just been crazy =)

I wanna make a deeper post. Let me think on that and see what I come up with! ;)

random btw, these are my favorite smilies: =) and =P they are the most fun, haha

Ok, since you're probably wondering...

2009-08-17T08:40:00.002-04:00

Alright, I guess I should give an explanation right now about my last post. Thanks to all of you that have been praying for me. Basically, on the 4th, our dog bit my little sister Sophie. It wasn't that bad, however he did break the skin and all. 6th, my parents told us that we had to put our dog, Bentley down. We had to put him down because he apparently had this 'mental disease' that made him get these sudden bouts of rage, even though 99% of the time he is the sweetest dog ever. This was totally hard for me because Bentley was like my little brother and I loved him, so much. Most people might not understand that. But, you see, I have never lost someone I was really close to before. I haven't experienced a grandparent's death, etc. So it was one of the hardest things I had gone through....

Anyhow, by the grace of God, I am doing fine now. Actually even the day that this happened, God really met me and it was awesome.

I guess that's it. Thanks for your concern and prayers for me :)

2009-08-14T23:10:00.002-04:00

explanation coming soon about the last post. Oh, and I promise I haven't abandoned my blog ;)

Please pray....

2009-08-06T14:03:00.002-04:00

I am going through the absolute hardest thing I have ever had to go through in my entire life. I can't even talk about it right now. Just please pray for me and my family.

Jessi

2009-08-03T09:28:00.001-04:00

Happy birthday to Jessi =D

ahhh! Long post......

2009-08-01T18:51:00.006-04:00

I feel like making a super long post. Over the past few days, I have been busy and unable to post. Yet, I've have lots of ideas for posts.

First off, I am so filled with joy today. I feel so incredibly blessed right now..... I'm just so content where God has me in life. And that is an amazing feeling. I read this quote today by John Piper that I really liked: "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him". Ah, what a great reminder for me. Being satisfied in God alone is SO important if we want God to be glorified.

Second... I really want to know this.
-What was the most life changing thing/event that ever happened to you/that you ever expierenced?
-Tell me about who challanges you the most in your life. Also, I want to know what is it about this person that challenges you?
-Who in your life do you look up to the most and want to be the most like?
-Do you have a verse in the Bible that you consider your 'life verse'?

I had more, but I forgot them....

Thirdly, I have really been pondering how I want to grow this year. I am a good multi-tasker in someways, but a terrible one in others. Spiritually, I don't grow very much if I split too many ways, with too many 'focuses'.....because then, I loose a main focus. haha, that might not make sense....but anyways.... I have had these lyrics stuck in my head:

"Love, love at the core
So much more than what we're living for
We want love, we want love, love at the core
So much more of this life that we're reaching for
We want love..."

I want love and purity to be at the core of my life. I can't have this 'life I'm reaching for'(growing to be more like Christ) if I am not striving for purity in everything and love in everything. If my love for God defines everything in my life, then won't God be honored there? If totally pure love was at the core of every Christian, think what an impact that would make!

Fourthly(hehe). I have come to realize that one way I am most challenged spiritually is when someone claims I challenge them spiritually. It's confusing, but true.....

Fifth. Yes, this is going to sound shallow after all of my other ramblings above. But I REALLY want a facebook. I'm not obsessing over the idea.... I just want one. =P

6th! I am so happy it is now August, because that means that caregroup is tomorrow. =D [wow, how can it be August already?]

Seventh. I am almost done =P ;)

8th.....Please be praying for me next week...if you think about it. I am getting my wisdom teeth out this Tuesday(4th). I'm not exactly looking forward to it. =/

Ok, I'm done. If you read this whole post, then maybe I will bake you something with lots of sugar in it. =D Would that make you happy? =P haha...

Good night y'all. haha =P

For some strange reason...

2009-07-28T23:12:00.001-04:00

I just LOVE storms. I love the rain pouring down, the wind, the lightening and the loud thunder. It reminds me of God's powerfulness....

Websites

2009-07-28T21:29:00.004-04:00

I just realized that I don't think I have ever linked to my websites. Anyhow, I thought I would :-)

Here is the movie website: www.remembermethemovie.webs.com

Here is my hedgehog website: www.pricklesnquills.com

For those of you who don't already know, I breed hedgehogs and am co-directing a movie =D

Oh, and although I don't have a ton of good pictures up yet, here is my deviantart: http://justatestforaminute.deviantart.com/

I like to take pictures with my little camera....they're not that good, but I enjoy taking them nonetheless =)

=D I am happy.

2009-07-27T16:35:00.002-04:00

I got my license. Actually, the lady didn't make me do anything but the driving test. I didn't even have to do a sign test. I bet she was just lazy...but I sure wasn't about to remind her, haha!

My mom is trying to talk me into taking my sisters out to the movies tonight. Not sure if that will happen or not, but it does feel nice to be able to do a lot more with out depending on my parents.

I feel like baking something. haha. Ohhhh...key lime pie sounds good =D

Yep: It never gets old

2009-07-26T20:14:00.004-04:00

Like Wesley said: it never gets old. God's amazing goodness never gets old to me. I keep posting on it, so maybe my posting and inability to describe Him gets old....but if only you could feel what I do. Maybe you do. It if you do, maybe you can relate?

I need to spend a long time in my Bible tonight. I hate it when I get 'busy' and it feels like I am unfair to God. Like seriously. My best friend ever[who also SAVED MY LIFE], doesn't ever deserve to be on the back burner. But no matter how unfair or sinful I get, He always stays faithful. I don't think that I could ever get a best friend that could possibly be better than that! Yes, I have many friends that I love dearly, many that are faithful, loyal and that I trust so much, but they are still sinners like myself and they can never be perfect. What a privilege to have the only perfect being in the world that is and wants to be my best and most perfect friend!

I'm excited!!

2009-07-26T16:07:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow I am going to try and get my license. I could have gotten it about a week ago, but with movie camp and all, I didn't really have time. I do hope I pass =/ Other than that, I don't have that much to talk about.... I want to make a nice, deep post soon...when I have time ;)

2009-07-25T22:25:00.002-04:00

I really want to be really challenged by someone right now. I just want one of my friends who tend to challenge me to do so. I'm not sure why.

Just so you know...

2009-07-18T13:42:00.002-04:00

...I greatly enjoyed the drama camp performance. I could not stop laughing. =) Good job everyone =D

Oh my!

2009-07-15T07:14:00.002-04:00

I think yesterday was the best birthday I ever had. It was a simple day and I didn't do all that much...it was the people in my life that made it amazing. I'm so thankful. I stayed up until 1am reading my Bible and praying for each of my friends.

I think I'm going to do a 2 week or 16 day blog series. I want to post a verse everyday focused on what God wants us/me to pursue and focus on in life. Because: 'If you don't have something to stand for, you will fall for everything'. Yes, that came to me at 1am this morning. =) And I want that to be my focus this year.

Anywho...I better get off the computer. I need to leave so I can go babysit and then go do some filming at the Sweigart's house!

I'm 15 for a moment...

2009-07-13T20:59:00.005-04:00

...caught in between 10 and 20
15 there's still time for you
Time to buy and time to lose
15, there's never a wish better than this
When you only got 100 years to live.....

Yes, this is my last day being 15. These lyrics from 100 years by Five For Fighting have always reminded me to be content with where I am in life. They also remind me that while I don't need to be immature, I shouldn't try to grow up too fast....just be content with where God puts me. =)

Oh, and I wanted to share this picture from Cow Appreciation Day last Friday. It isn't not uploading in very good quality for me though...hmm. This is the only picture I got...I wish I would have taken more! But anyhow, it was fun to dress up as cows and get free food with a group of friends =) I'm in the back left...mostly covered up by the rest of the 'herd'. A little boy who was also at Chick-fil-a dressed up as a cow saw our big group and said "Hey mommy! Look, there is a whole herd of cows!" Haha, very funny =)

He even cares about the little things

2009-07-12T20:07:00.002-04:00

You know what I find so incredibly awesome? That the God that created this entire world and the God that sustains life even cares about my little silly prayers. He even listens to those prayers that I think 'don't even matter'. Isn't is incredible that He cares about me that much? It reminds me that no prayer is too small or unimportant to Him!

Frusterated with myself

2009-07-12T15:40:00.002-04:00

I am frustrated with myself. I spent a few hours with friends today(before and after church) and I 'wasted' a lot of time. I seriously was planning on having very intentional conversations with several people, but it just sort of slipped my mind. Instead I spent time talking about things that do not matter. I love it when a friend challenges me in a particular area of my life...I love being challenged to grow my character or in Godliness, etc... But if I want people to do that for me, I need to be doing that for others as well...a relationship takes two people ;-) Bottom line, I should have invested my conversations more wisely. Sitting here now, I think of several times when I could have been encouraging someone, praying for them or challenging them in some way.

And, to think I stand in church and wholeheartedly worship Christ, sit and listen to a fantastic message and then I come out of service and talks about material things or just have some little small talk. And no, what I was talking about was not wrong or sinful, it just wasn't the best and wisest use of my time. It really goes to show how Biblical fellowship is so uplifting and is so worth it. I am gifted to have so many friends that are an amazing example to me. There is so much wisdom and so much for me to learn from, how silly am I sometimes to not pursue these opportunities to grow in what really matters. =\

Oh gosh, I love you people. Don't know what I'd do without you in my life. =) Have a fantastic Sunday afternoon....

I stole this. but it is funny. =)

2009-07-11T10:35:00.001-04:00

1. Start your list with the number 1 and then go from there.
2. Use original and memorable words to describe your list like "key" and "great."
3. Never at any point give in to the creeping fear that your list isn't necessary.
4. Use humor, act witty but if you can't write a short statement which will appear profound.
5. Do it.
6. Save your best, "gotcha" item for last. The second-to-last item can be a throw-away.
7. Never, never do more or less items than you originally promised.
8. Enjoy the process!

My God.

2009-07-09T14:28:00.003-04:00

My God is holding me in His arms and He will never let me go. He will always be faithful...isn't that comforting to know?

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Michael Jackson, wisdom teeth and kindergarten....

2009-07-07T19:24:00.004-04:00

I am sick and tired of hearing all this talk about Michael Jackson's death. He is being treated like some God-like figure and it is disgusting and creepy to me. Seriously, it is scary how many people worship this guy. I really am sorry about his death, but: he's just a man that died. Everyone dies....not anything too uncommon happened here, eh? I don't know...this is just really bugging me. Does anyone else agree with me?

So...I have to get my wisdom teeth out next month. I'm not too scared about it, but I also am not looking forward to it. =/ Today I had to go for a little consultation thingy. I'll be getting them out a few days before the youth day in August...I just hope I feel well enough to go!

Oh, and at the dentist, I happened to run into a guy I went to kindergarten with(and hadn't seen him since then)....oh the memories! I've been wanting to have a kindergarten reunion. I think it would be really neat to see all those people now....like 11 years later. For those of you who don't know, I went to private school for k-2nd grade. ;)

Ok, that's it. I'm having little posting spurt now I guess ^_^ Peace.

This is perplexing to me....

2009-07-06T19:01:00.007-04:00

Regina Spektor has a fantastic voice and musical style, in my opinion. But, unfortunately a lot of her music is not the best(content wise). Josh Harris and his brothers, Alex and Brett, posted about her new single on their blog today. It's very strange to see this song come from a secular artist like her. Not to judge her heart, but I do not believe she is Christian. Josh Harris said:

I listened to Regina Spektor's haunting song "Laughing With" several times today. I don't know Regina's personal religious beliefs, but I think she's written a powerful song. To me the song speaks of the fact that suffering strips away our flippant attitude towards God. We can laugh at God when all is well or when we encounter a caricature of him, but when tragedy strikes we're confronted with the reality that we're helpless. "No one laughs at God in a hospital."

I don't know what I think of this song. I do think it's powerful and Josh Harris's thoughts are interesting. But I'm not sure if I read the song that same way. I do agree with him about how the world reacts to tragedy... though sometimes it seems to be the opposite. Like, it seems like our culture only notices or thinks about God when something bad happens, but when everything is fine and dandy, God never enters their mind. But maybe those thoughts do agree, they just touch different angles of the issue.

I am still perplexed by this song. I haven't decided what I think her purpose is. Does anyone have thoughts to share? Maybe her own song will speak to her? Or maybe God already has and the result is this song? What does she mean in the very last line(we're all laughing with God)? Anyways, here is the video and lyrics:

EDIT: I can't make the embedded video be small enough for my blog, so here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rov3pV9PsRI&eurl=http%3A%2F%2

"Laughing With" Lyrics:

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one's laughing at God when they're starving or freezing or so very poor

No one laughs at God when the doctor calls after some routine tests
No one's laughing at God when it's gotten real late and their kid's not back from that party yet

No one laughs at God when their airplane starts to uncontrollably shake
No one's laughing at God when they see the one they love hand in hand with someone else and they hope that they're mistaken
No one laughs at God when the cops knock on their door and they say "We've got some bad new, sir,"
No one's laughing at God when there's a famine, fire or flood

But God can be funny
At a cocktail party while listening to a good God-themed joke or
Or when the crazies say he hates us and they get so red in the head you think that they're about to choke

God can be funny
When told he'll give you money if you just pray the right way
And when presented like a genie
Who does magic like Houdini
Or grants wishes like Jiminy Cricket and Santa Claus

God can be so hilarious
Ha ha
Ha ha

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one's laughing at God when they've lost all they got and they don't know what for

No one laughs at God on the day they realize that the last sight they'll ever see is a pair of hateful eyes
No one's laughing at God when they're saying their goodbyes

But God can be funny
At a cocktail party while listening to a good God-themed joke or
Or when the crazies say he hates us and they get so red in the head you think that they're about to choke

God can be funny
When told he'll give you money if you just pray the right way
And when presented like a genie
Who does magic like Houdini
Or grants wishes like Jiminy Cricket and Santa Claus

God can be so hilarious

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war

No one's laughing at God in a hospital
No one's laughing at God in a war

No one's laughing at God when they're starving or freezing or so very poor

No one's laughing at God
No one's laughing at God
No one's laughing at God
We're all laughing with God

What has been up with me recently?

2009-07-06T11:19:00.002-04:00

I have had a busy life this past week. Part of the reason I haven't been posting as much is because I've been trying to limit my computer time and spend more time doing more uplifting stuff and trying to make wiser uses of my time. I'm tired of not doing my best in everything I do and I have decided to try and greatly improve that(only by God's grace of course). I want everything I do to be done to my 100%. I know I'm not perfect and I can never be however, I know I could improve a lot in a lot of areas and honor God and bring glory to Him a lot more.

Anyways. I didn't do anything special for July 4th. I worked for 9 hours....and that's about all. On Sunday I worked in Children's ministry and then we had the Herlihys over for lunch and the Bells over for dessert that evening. Both families were great fun to have over!

Samantha, Olivia and I had a hilarious time making some funny videos. Maybe if I edit them and they are half way good, I'll post them. =D

I am almost 16. Woohoo!

That's it. Have a stellar day =P

Phantom of the Opera

2009-07-02T19:49:00.003-04:00

We went to go see Phantom of the Opera in downtown Charlotte today. It was really interesting. The first half of it was fantastic and the second half perplexing. I couldn't figure out the ending of it until I got home and googled the story line, haha. Anyways, I love going to see plays and musicals and such. I think it would be so fun to be in the cast of some big production like that.

Being a world changer.

2009-06-30T20:55:00.003-04:00

So. I want to be a world changer. Yes, I want to impact the world. I want to touch lives and make Christ known all over the world. I want to make a difference. And yes, wherever God sends me, I am willing to go. That could be just in my own town or that could be into the middle of a poverty stricken town in a country far away. For some reason, I really want to go to the latter. I want to go comfort those little children with no hope and hold them in my arms. I want to fill their empty stomachs. I want to nourish their little hearts with God's Word. But that is what I want....I'll have to wait and see what God wants. I could also be a world changer here in NC. Whatever He wants. But, I just want to do something.

God of Justice, Saviour to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served

Jesus, You have called me
Freely I've received
Now freely I will give

I must go live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
I must go
Stepping forward keep me from just singing
Move me into action
I must go

To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in every way
Walking humbly before You God

You have shown me, what You require
Freely I've received
Now freely I will give

Fill me up and send me out
Fill me up and send me out
Fill me up and send me out Lord

Stuffs

2009-06-29T23:05:00.002-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OLIVIA!

Yes, today was her birthday. She is 14 now. She is incredible and is like my bestest friend. haha, oh the fun times we have together.

Tomorrow, my mom is taking her and a few friends to the mountains for a day in a half. they're staying in a cabin and get to go to sliding rock. Unfortunately, I wasn't invited, haha.

Oh, and the concert was good. I have never been to a concert so un-energetic though. Yeah, people sat down for most of the time. And I was like WAAAA? Why would you stil down and do nothing at a concert. But, as the night progressed, it got better. PureNRG was.....well, they were pureNRG, lol. Matthew West was even better than I was anticipating him to be. He is so on fire for God and it shows. Also, he did the neatest thing. He wrote a song especially for this concert. Well, actually, he wrote it as he was singing it and playing it. But it was so funny and special. Natalie grant was good as well. She preformed when it was dark, so she had some neat lighting. And the fire works afterwards were the best I've ever seen. But anyways, the concert was good, but different.....and there were not like any people there that were 'hard core' about concerts like me and Morgan are =D Morgan is my concert buddy =)

One more thing. So, my employer just emailed me today and asked me to work on the 3rd and 4th for a combined total of 24 hours. Yes, that's right folks. She wants me to work 24 hours over a two day period. I will be exhausted. i might end up working a few hours less then that, or who knows maybe her plans will change. But like wow....I just had to share that....a little bit more than I was hoping for O_O

What's been up?

2009-06-27T13:21:00.002-04:00

Sorry I haven't posted a lot =/ Not too much has been going on. Yesterday was our teen Bible study and youth group. Both were great. At the Bible study we did a lot of talk on prayer and I was really challenged by it. I'm so glad to have such great friends to hold me accountable. =) At youth group, we played the couch game and mafia. It was quite fun! I do wish sometimes that people would learn when it's time to talk and when it's time to be quite, haha. It would be so much easier and faster to get a game going! But anyways, it was fun....

Tonight our family is going to a concert being put on by 91.9(the radio station). Matthew West, Natalie Grant and pureNRG will be preforming. I mostly just want to see(and hopefully meet) Matthew West. He has some awesome lyrics and seems like a pretty cool guy!

I, unfortunately have hardly been working at all. I'm really having to work on being patient with my employer. She asks me if I can work on a particular day, then after I say yes, she tells me they 'won't need me this time'. So, I'm lucky to work one or two days a month. Not quite how I was expecting it to be and definitely not a very reliable source of income. I may end up getting another(or a second) job if sometime I like comes along. But for now, I'm going to be thankful for what I have and just hope they start needing me a a more regular basis....

Ok, well I guess that's it. Hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far. Has anyone been doing anything fun this summer yet?

Updates!

2009-06-24T14:04:00.003-04:00

Well, I've made a few updates to by blog. I've updated my playlist and my bloglist. I kept everyone on my bloglist, but just because it was getting so long. I have now made it so only the most recent 10 posters show up[good reason you you all to post more often =P ], but you can click 'show all' to see the whole list. Soon, I'm hoping to change my entire blog template.....

I'm sorry...

2009-06-22T22:47:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't posted a lot recently. I guess it's partially because I'm lazy and don't feel like typing up a post and partially because I feel like I have nothing to talk about. I've literally started making like 5 or 6 posts recently and then didn't post it for one of the reasons above.

Thanks to anyone who was praying for me and my cold, lol. I'm feeling better, though I have a little cough that's lingering.

Oh, and here's a random thing to think on: What if we were liberal in our judgment of others, but conservative in our own life choices? Just a thought I had the other day.

It's funny to me how your mind work when you're young. I've been thinking recently about things I thought on as a little girl(like 8 or 9 and down). It's funny how my view of life then was so different....how things were so bigger than life, in a way, or at least I thought they would be when I reached a particular point. And on the contrary, how my little mind just could not comprehend other things until I was old enough to really understand them.

One of these 'things' is being a teenager. Oh my, that was so huge and almost 'unimaginable' as a child. But now it is so different from what I was expecting. I thought my world would totally change, but it didn't. Part of that is because of my faithful parents who didn't change their expectations for me. But, I think it's a funny, but good example for me today. Things are always as huge as our little minds can make them to be and on the other hand, we can never comprehend the riches God has for us until we get to particular points. I'm sure I'll look back at my life at 30, 60 and 80 years of age and I'll say things quite like I'm saying now. But then, I'll be talking about my teens and twenties and so on. :)

'We're never wiser beyond our years, other than what knowledge God has given us'-Christopher Blackburn

Peace =)

2009-06-17T12:17:00.002-04:00

When will my little mind understand the concept that procrastinating doesn't make the task easier or make it go away?

Is unwise wrong, or just not wise?

2009-06-17T08:54:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I was thinking about something this morning. I know that in some cases, there is more than one right way to do something. One good example is parenting or courting. But here is what I've been thinking about; when someone chooses to do something that one would consider 'unwise', is this person being sinful, or just not wise? I suppose we're not the ones to decide that and God is. And, maybe it's more of a heart condition, rater than totally 'right or wrong'. But anyways, that was just a thought that came to me today.....

Oh, and for those who follow my other blog, Dare 2 Dig Deeper, sorry that I haven't posted on it in a while. I find that a lot of my thoughts seem to be better for this blog, yet, I don't totally want to combine both of the blogs.

2009-06-15T22:50:00.003-04:00

Ugh. I am sick. I have a really bad sore throat. I hope it goes away quickly! Luckily, the doctor says it's not strep throat, so it's probably just a cold or something(but it sure feels worse!). I think I'm going to go to bed now...

But, I am alive and happy nonetheless. I got to see a cute baby today, got to go out to dinner with Bethany and got to go to guitar lessons =) Have a fantastic night y'all =P

Pray.

2009-06-13T14:52:00.004-04:00

I wish I would have had my Bible and notebook with my last night. I can't remember that much about Mr. Connolly's message. But I did remember this:

Pray passionately

Really, that in it's self is so huge. I can't say that I /always/ pray passionately, but that definitely is my desire. Prayer is one thing I'm really trying to grow in. Not only praying with deep passion, but with deep faith and great thankfulness.

God is so good.

2009-06-13T06:09:00.000-04:00

The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Ah =)

Reading and the ACT

2009-06-10T10:47:00.001-04:00

I'm excited about this weekend and also dreading it. I can not wait for the banquet on Friday! It shall be lovely I'm sure :)

But, the next morning I have to take the ACT. I am not looking forward to that at all. I really dislike tests. Especially tests like this one. I know it's just a test and, for this year, my score doesn't really even matter. However, I think what I dread the most is actually being nervous. Nervousness seems almost inevitable. Anyways, I'm praying that some how God will give me amazing peace and that I won't be nervous at all. I know several of my friends are taking it too. I'll be praying for you all!

Thanks to everyone who gave me book suggestions. I have pick several that I would like to read. Right now, I started on Humility by CJ Mahaney. I'm also going to try and read Respectable Sins by Jerry Bridges, Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis, Stepping Heavenward and Crazy Love. I also would like to read some John Piper books. Oh, and the Young Woman after God's Own Heart sounds awesome too. Oh, and I'm going to reread Do Hard Things. I hope I can read them all! We'll see how far I get.

I'm sorry about all my boring updates. Livy says I need to be more random. I guess I'll work on it, lol. Maybe I'll post some more pictures soon =)

Hey, one more thing. Does anyone remember when green ketchup used to be the coolest thing ever? lol. I was just thinking about that.

Making use of the summer

2009-06-04T20:11:00.002-04:00

Recently I have really been thinking of how I can make best use of my summer. I really want to accomplish something this summer. So, after much thought, I think I have come up with something that would really help me grow. I want to read as many theological books as I can to challenge me, strengthen my faith and deepen my knowledge. I also want to focus more and devote more time to studying my Bible.

So, my questions to you all is: Do you have any suggestions for good reads? Do you have any favorite theological books or any favorite authors? Any other suggestions on what I could do this summer that would be challenging and/or create spiritual growth? Does anyone else have plans for the summer? Anyway I can be praying for you and any goals or thing you might have going on this summer?

Thanks guys and girls =)

Lots 'o stuff.

2009-05-31T17:24:00.004-04:00

I've been meaning to post these past few days, but just haven't gotten around to it. So now I have lots of little things to cover in one post.

First: this is my #199th post!! wow. I can't really believe that.

Sophie turned 10 on May 29th. I can't really believe that either. I remember when I turned 10....and it doesn't see too long ago. That was such a 'cool' thing to me to be in the double digits, lol. But yeah, not like Sof is immature or anything, but it just doesn't seem like she could possibly be that old. She has grown up so much. And OHMI she was an adorable little girl. I've posted a few pictures below.

Ok...what else? Oh yeah. On Sof's birthday, we had the Bell's over for dinner. All of us kids did line dancing and a little bit of swing until like midnight. That was so fun and tiring! Boy did we have that music blaring, lol. Maybe I'll post some pictures from Sof's actual birthday soon. She had a fantastic cake. I wanna post a picture of that too. =)

The CrossWay homeschool graduation was yesterday. I did photography for it again this year and it was quite fun. It's weird to have so many friends graduated now. That'll be me in two years. A big part of me wishes I could be graduating next year. But God has perfect timing and is sovereign and that is all that matters, right? :-) Anyways, congrats to all of you graduates =D

Today, I had Children's Ministry again. I always enjoy it a lot. I love the kids. :-) After church, Chad had a graduation party on the church property. I had a good time hanging out with everyone and it was a lovely day.

Ah, and lastly. This is my last week of 'official' school. I'm going to have to do a little bit for part of the summer. but other than that, I'll be done. I do not want to waste this summer. I want it to be purposeful and God honoring. I'm praying about what I should do with my summer. Other than the obvious...working :-)

I'm thinking about changing my blog design....maybe yellow? lol

That's it for now =)

2009-05-26T08:44:00.002-04:00

For memorial day I works for 9 hours. And, I seemed to forget that with the fact I'd be working outside for all those hours that I may have needed some sunscreen. So, as a result of that, I got burnt. Luckily, it doesn't really hurt or anything. But, I'm really surprised that I got burnt....I like never burn....especially when I am sitting in shade all day! It's amazing how fast 9 hours passes by when you're really enjoying what you're doing.

Oh yeah. I was just thinking about how great it is to see parent's involved in their kid's lives. Parents who actually spend quality time with there kids and invest in their lives are kind of getting rarer. It's sad.

^Random I know. But not really.

We made homemade ice cream last night. And OHMI. That stuff is sooooo good. I love it. haha

Today I'm going to really try and get my school done. I have only a week and a half left. And, I'm hoping I won't have that much to do over the summer. Tonight, we're starting a girl/mom study in stead of our caregroup's normal women's accountability and I'm looking forward to that. And, I get to go out to dinner with BJ, so it shall be fun =)

hmmmm. I don't have much else to say.

Joy =)

My mind is full.

2009-05-24T19:27:00.000-04:00

It just really, really is. I have these ideas, these thoughts, these theories. But you know what really gets frustrating? My inability to express these thoughts as well as I'd like. I'm not exactly gifted in eloquency and some time's it's not even that. Sometimes I can just hardly know what I'm thinking and these thoughts that are *so* interesting in my head don't come out on paper or in words how I'd like them to. Does anyone else ever feel like that?

So anyways, it took me a little while to get around to posting this. But Thursday-Saturday afternoon I was at the homeschool conference with my mom and Morgan. I had an amazing time. There was a really great speaker named John Stonestreet. He is really into worldview and apologetics and debate. Yeah, I'm quite fond of that stuff ^_^ He had several sessions which Morgan and I went to. The three that stood out to me were one on Postmodernism and another on God's plan for your life and another on why your worldview really, really matters.

Anyhow, he has really, really got me thinking. I started to type up my thoughts, but then I decided that(like I said above), they aren't going to come out like I want them too. They aren't going to make hardly any sense if I type them out. Plus, I can hardly get my mind around it. So, I'm going to wait until I have a better picture in my head to post about it,lol.

So, back the to conference... One night they had a really big swing/line dance night for the teens. IT WAS SO AWESOME. Like seriously. It's one of my favorite things to do. AHHHHHH ! The teacher was great and had a really good set up for teaching. Morgan and I concluded that we want to take lessons. I really want to be awesome at it,lol ...and, that would be a fun PE credit =D The other night they had a teen game night. It was actually quite fun as well. We ended up playing Pictionary, pencils(spoons played with pencils, lol) and killer. We met one really nice family and then a bunch of kind of annoying girls. But yeah, it wasn't that bad, lol . The only thing I was disappointed about was that I met a lot of really cool people, but I didn't hardly get their name or get to know them. I wish the conference was more like a week long so that you'd have time to make some real friends out of it =/

Actually school wise, I'm really excited about my junior year of highschool. I'm doing like mostly all of my favorites this coming year including: Algebra 2, AP bio, LD debate, worldview and Spanish(hopefully at the CC). That's obviously not all of it, but it's what I'm looking forward too ^_^

So yeah, I'm rambling now. Sorry 'bout that. Conclusion: I had an awesome time at the conference with Morgan =D

busy!

2009-05-20T11:29:00.002-04:00

Alright so this week has been busy and strange feeling so far.

Yesterday we got 3 dogs dropped off that we'll be petsitting for 11 days. That adds a lot of into the mix, lol. Liv and Sof also had their piano recital yesterday. They did a really good job, but it's funny because I get nervous for them, even though I'm only the sister watching. I guess it's because I've had to be in recitals before and I know how I really blew it one time and how nerve racking it was. But, yeah, they were awesome.

Tomorrow my mom and I are goin g to the homeschool confrence in Winston Salem. I'm super excited about it because I get to bring Morgan with me and we'll be gone until Saturday afternoon. I'm positive we'll have an awesome time =D I'll post on it when I get back!

I can't wait until we're done with school for the summer. Only 2 1/2 more weeks!

I better go do more school.....
Peace.

2009-05-18T12:41:00.002-04:00

What's up with this weather? Just a few days ago I was swimming in the pool. Now I'm wearing long sleeves. lol.

hmmm. What to title this?

2009-05-17T16:47:00.003-04:00

So on Saturday morning I woke up with this random rash on my face. I'm thinking it's poison oak, but what I really don't know is how I got it on my face of all places. I haven't even done anything out side in the past few days and much less anything that would include my face touching anything poisonous, lol. My best guess is that my dog got some of the oils in his fur and decided to share it with me. But anyways, it's a little bit annoying, the bit red rash on my face isn't as annoying as how much it itches. ugh. But, as I like to say...I'm alive, so that's happy =)

I'm terrible at decisions. I'm getting another breeding hedgehog from FL and I have to decide between two babies. I got to see pictures of each of them and they are both so cute. I guess I can't go wrong....but still. It's a decision and I'm over thinking it. lol, well, I *think* I have reached a conclusion, but that could change before I'm done with this post.

On Friday, as I said, I was at the church for like 10 1/2 hours. I had a pretty good time, although I was exhausted by the end of the day. The sale went well and I met lots of interesting people.

Saturday evening was the Bible study. I was so excited about it. And it was quite fantastic. God is so good to allow us to have such an awesome time studying His word, worshiping and fellowshiping(is that a word?)!

Lastly, tonight is care group and church was this morning. I just finished baking a coconut cake(one of my favorites!) for snacks tonight. I'm looking forward to eating it! =P

2009-05-15T09:31:00.002-04:00

I'm getting ready to head out the door to go set up for the Crossway Used curriculum sale...we're going to be at the church from about 11:30am to 10pm...so it'll be a long day, but I'm looking forward to it!

Yeah, that's basically all I'm up to. Oh, then tomorrow I am going to be doing a bunch of painting in my room than we have my Bible study that night! I'm really excited about that =D

So yeah. that's it. I just thought I should make a post :)

I feel really bad about something....

2009-05-13T13:19:00.002-04:00

As many of you have probably noticed, I often make special posts for people on their birthdays. I love doing that. I love doing the most I can to make someone feel special and loved on their birthdays. I really love birthdays. And I really love all my friends.

But, in my attempt to do this for most people I know, I realize that I have missed a lot of really awesome people's birthdays. This is because A) I didn't know their birthday[or found out about it after the fact], B) I forgot, C) I already did something special for that person and didn't want to freak them out by being too obsessive[I think I already have managed to do this], or D) a combination of the above, lol.

Anyways, assuming I actually know you, please forgive me if you didn't get a special post on your birthday. About 10 people come to mind right now who I didn't do a special post for.

Maybe this is a silly thing to feel bad about, but I still do feel bad about it either way. Hopefully I'll do better at remembering this next time around =)

Youth group, followers and profoundness!

2009-05-12T21:15:00.004-04:00

I just realized that I have 21 followers. That's like shocking to me. Why would so many people-- several whom I don't even know-- be interested in reading my ramblings? But what I really wonder is who actually reads my blog on a regular basis. I wonder who reads it that I have no idea about. Not like it'll change anything, but...I'm curious. So, if you read my blog even semi-often and just never comment, please do so to satisfy my curiosity, haha.

Anyways. I felt like I should post. I really do want to say something profound, but I don't think that comes natural to me. And I can't think of anything to talk about.It amazes me how some of my friends manage to make such a unique, deep, profound point in nearly every post they make. Not saying there's anything wrong with talking about life...I really like to read about what's going on with everyone. But I'm just saying I also really admire those who have really neat thoughts on stuff and who always challenge me =) Oh yes.

On a different note...The message from youth group Saturday had a really big impact on me and has stuck with me all week.

Some points/quotes that stood out to me:

When we're diligent, we get to move forward.
God wants our all because that's what speaks most highly of Him!
We're never wiser than our current years...other than what God gives us.
Studying is not an option. It's the primary way we learn about the Lord. We will always need to study for the rest of out lives. It never ends.
Excelling is best. Being better than the standard is what God wants for every area of our lives.(He has such a great plan for my life!!)
All work is profitable.
Faithfulness produces blessings.
Our ultimate goal: God's Glory.
God doesn't tolerate laziness.
The church isn't the building, it's the people. We have got to be involved.
What in my life defines me right now? If we don't have a clear mission, we tend to wander.
True happiness: following God.

I guess if I had to summarize what I mainly took from it: I can't afford to be lazy. God strongly dislikes laziness(and so do I!). Being a faithful, hard, diligent worker is what God wants for me and is what will bless me.

Boy am I glad I take notes =)

So yep. That's it!

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T17:01:00.003-04:00

To all you moms out there! You have the hardest , but greatest job in the world and the one that should be most respected. Hope you feel honored and loved today and everyday to come! You deserve it =D

I thought that I would post Proverbs 31:10-31

¹⁰ An excellent wife who can find?
She is far more precious than jewels.
¹¹The heart of her husband trusts in her,
and he will have no lack of gain.
¹²She does him good, and not harm,
all the days of her life.
¹³She seeks wool and flax,
and works with willing hands.
¹⁴She is like the ships of the merchant;
she brings her food from afar.
¹⁵She rises while it is yet night
and provides food for her household
and portions for her maidens.
¹⁶She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
¹⁷She dresses herself with strength
and makes her arms strong.
¹⁸She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.
Her lamp does not go out at night.
¹⁹She puts her hands to the distaff,
and her hands hold the spindle.
²⁰She opens her hand to the poor
and reaches out her hands to the needy.
²¹She is not afraid of snow for her household,
for all her household are clothed in scarlet.
²²She makes bed coverings for herself;
her clothing is fine linen and purple.
²³Her husband is known in the gates
when he sits among the elders of the land.
²⁴She makes linen garments and sells them;
she delivers sashes to the merchant.
²⁵ Strength and dignity are her clothing,
and she laughs at the time to come.
²⁶She opens her mouth with wisdom,
and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
²⁷She looks well to the ways of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
²⁸Her children rise up and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
²⁹"Many women have done excellently,
but you surpass them all."
³⁰^AG)"> Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
³¹Give her of the fruit of her hands,
and let her works praise her in the gates.

Humility

2009-05-10T16:09:00.002-04:00

Well. I'm kinda not having any good ideas for posts. But, I wanted to post these lyrics. It's really bugs me that it's all in slang, but it would take me forever to fix.

I like this song because it's so true. Recently I've been very aware of my pride. Ugh. I want so much to be selfless in everything I do....to be humble and always thinking of others first. But no. I'm far from that. God looks to the humble to find His pleasure. I want to serve God. I want to please Him.

Anyways. This song like totally applies to me. Even though it's rap and even though it's written out like how Lecrae actually pronounces all the words, I still that these lyrics are amazing.

Get Low

Yeah, yeah, humility, humility
Get low boy
Get low girl
Humility, humility

I really shouldnt trust myself cuz without God I'm nothin but dust myself
So full of pride I disgust myself so I stay tryna crucify and crush myself
I ain't tryna say I hate myself but my sin nature got me tryin praise myself
So I get low, prostrate myself
And pray to God that I don't play myself, yeah
Folks actin like Nebuchanezzar
Like they feet don't stink like they got it together
God have to break em down put em back together
Cuz he looks to the humble to find his pleasure
Whether, we missin hub caps or roll on dubs
The Earth is the footstool of God above
Check Isaiah 66 and face it bruh
We only significant because he raised us up
To get low

/Chorus/
Get low, get low, get low, get low, get low get low get low
Dis aint one of dem nasty throws I'm talkin bout humble yaself befo the Lord
Uh, Get low, get low, get low, get low, get low get low get low
You ain't gotta touch the flo, but ya gotta give props to the God who rose
Get low

This easy don't let me get comfortable, so full of myself I'm comfortable
Folks wantin you the radio pumpin you start feelin yourself and now the Lord gotta humble you
Make sure u do a heart check mayn
You trying to rep Christ though you reppin your name
U in it for his glory or you in it for your game
Cuz the Lord know the truth and if u doin it in vain
You think you gon miss yo chance?
You trust in the Lord over circumstance
Cuz God will open the do', for those
Who don't chase, ain't hopin for gold
I pray this song soak in ya dome
So our God won't have to leave you broken to know
That he's searchin your heart and he's bound to know
If you goin for his name or you goin for yo's

/Chorus/

Check, Christ got low for days
He's the God in the flesh we supposed to praise
But he made himself low like the folks he made
And he died so our God had him rose in days, yeah
And that's the way you do that mayn
We submit to the God who can do all thangs
Call him el elyon yeah pursue that name
Not da money not the glory don't pursue that thang, what
In a matter worthy of yo cause
You a Christian, humility, you know that dawg
Yeah i know its kinda hard eva since the fall
Humility hasn't made much since at all
Everybody say it's all about you--but naw
Don't believe in the lies don't trust a dawg
Just trust in the God who can crush us all
But to those that He chose---yeah he loves us all
Get low

Manners for Millions

2009-05-09T21:33:00.004-04:00

Today we discovered a very entertaining book called 'Manners for Millions'. It was written in the 1930's and oh boy was it funny. I wouldn't want to have to live by that 300 page book. I think this is going to be added to my list of favorite books ^_^

I might post quotes from it later =P

=D

2009-05-08T23:27:00.002-04:00

I'm sooooo happy and hyper right now =D Long, fun filming day tomorrow so I better go to bed ;-)

Youth group rocked tonight....worship, the message and the time with friends =D What did everyone think of the message?

Joy!

Systematic Theology

2009-05-07T08:11:00.003-04:00

I was up late because I couldn't put down the book 'Systematic Theology'. Ohmi, like seriously, it's incredibly interesting. I love, love, love theology stuff. I could have easily stayed up all night reading it, but my better judgment told me not to. haha, but now I'm tired and I gotta do school.

But yes, as crazy as it sounds I believe this is one of my favorite books that exist. =D

Thanks Wes....

2009-05-05T22:17:00.002-04:00

...for reminding me of this verse. Even though I don't think you meant to :-) [I know I have posted this before, but I just have to post it again.]

Romans 7:13-8:1

¹³Did that which is good, then, bring death to me? By no means! It was sin, producing death in me through what is good, in order that sin might be shown to be sin, and through the commandment might become sinful beyond measure. ¹⁴For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin. ¹⁵For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. ¹⁶Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. ¹⁷So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. ¹⁸For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. ¹⁹ For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. ²⁰Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.

²¹So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. ²²For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, ²³but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. ²⁴Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? ²⁵Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.

¹There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus!

This verse is like just how I feel/felt. I just love this verse.

I was right. God can make any day a lovely day. He has proven to be awesome and all I ever need yet again. Thank you Lord for breaking me and showing me my sin!

Sin and grace.

2009-05-05T13:55:00.002-04:00

My sin bugs me so much and makes me so sad and frustrates me so much. I am so self centered and greedy. I'm terrible at dieing to my flesh. I'm so prideful and unkind.

So. I don't get like this too often, but right now, I'm really feeling my sin. I guess that's good.

The older I get, the more I realize how immature I am and how much I need older, wiser people in my life. How much I need wiser people directing me, giving me advice and how I am so not ready to be an adult. You'd think it'd be the other way around. But it's not. When I was younger, I really did believe I was mature 'for my age' when people told me that. Now I feel quite the opposite.

Looking back over the recent past, I have seen so many situations that I did not handle correctly. Afterwards I wonder how I always make these dumb mistakes?

Grace. I need it so badly. I'm so often reminded of God's grace. After even the worse day, He can make it lovely. I do think I'm doing better in looking to Him for joy. But I just fail so often.

How thankful I am for God's perfect grace. I'm so glad He always forgives, He always knows and He always is in control. I remind myself of this so, so often. Not to justify my sin, however.

I pray that someway, somehow, God will keep my dear friends in my life. That somehow, He will give them the strength to stand being around me and to find ways to forgive me and my sin.

God, Grace and Joy. I need these things always.

These are a few of my favorite things....

2009-05-04T18:38:00.003-04:00

...I have that song in my head :)

Anyways:

Juliette Harris
A Night at the Museum
grilling meat

haha. I don't have too much to talk about. Oh, but work was good on Saturday. For the record, I worked for 12 1/2 hours and it was awesome. It was actually so much fun....I even got to walk a camel though a mall and freak people out. fun, fun, fun.

Church and care group are a few of my most favorite things as well. We got to watch the little Harris kids today, tomorrow it's Jake and Seth and Wednesday it's Manny and Isaiah. I love little children ^_^

I'm also hoping I get to go to BJ and Brandon's concert tomorrow and I'm really excited about that. Then there is youth group. I'm particularly excited about this youth group ;-)

Then a possible movie meeting on Saturday. Busy, busy =)

I want to talk to someone about the book of Romans. I read something so interesting the other day and it excites me so, lol.

I don't have much else to say....Peace!

ahhhh

2009-05-01T21:42:00.001-04:00

I'm just overwhelmed by God's greatness and faithfulness right now :) He is so incredible!

2009-05-01T16:36:00.003-04:00

I'm working 12 hours tomorrow...at the very least....could be more. I'm going to be outside pretty much all of that time and there is a 40% of rain. I'm really praying it doesn't rain...and that I don't get sunburnt. It'll be a lonnnnng day. =/

I wish it was about 10 on Sunday morning right now. Or 6pm on Sunday. I just want it to get here =)

Ohmi!

2009-05-01T11:05:00.001-04:00

How did it suddenly get to be May? We're almost half way through the year. That's just crazy!! Only one more month of school =D

Something like...a shade of blue.

2009-04-29T17:31:00.003-04:00

....I'm quite fond of them. And yes, I've probably lost most of my sanity.

I look so weird there^

But, no, I didn't get glasses. And if I ever do, I doubt they'll be so...bold. They're just some cheap ones I bought because we needed them to the movie =P

Exciting

2009-04-28T18:44:00.002-04:00

So, I don't really feel like explaining my job. If someone was really interested, I can talk about it and what I do :-) But, for some reason, I don't think that will be very interesting for you all. Anyhow though, related to work, I do want to talk about one thing.

Not long ago, in care group, I was talking about how it's not that I don't try to witness...I just don't really get in many situations that allow me to do so. Being homeschooled, having Christian neighbors, all the classes I take are with Christians, all my friends are from church(mostly), etc. Well, now I can say that I have a good opportunity! I know that the couple I work for is not Christian. Not saying this as though I'm judging their hearts, but she came right out and asked me about my church and all and she told me she doesn't like an 'organized religion' and has met too many hypocrites, so she doesn't really do the 'church thing'. Well, anyways, I'm excited because I'm really hoping I can be a light to them. Or at least I'm hoping God will find a way to use me.

I feel like it's sort of an answer to prayer(as was my job) and a great opportunity to do a 'hard thing'. I think it's awesome how God works!

That's all...I'm just excited about that =D Whether anyone else is...

2009-04-28T15:22:00.002-04:00

I feel like I should post. Because it's been 4 days.

Won't it be awesome to have no perception of time someday? Can you imagine time being nonexistent? Time which never passes and never ends. This time that never ends already has start for all of us. The only difference is that we're still in a world filled with sin and in our worldly bodies. So, physically, yes, time is passing, but in our spirit and soul, time is non-existent. But, time being non-existent can be wonderful for some and awful for others. If you're a Christian, that means literally forever with God. Forever in absolute perfectness. So perfect that we can't comprehend what perfect really is. If you do not know Jesus as your Savior before you die, it will be more terrible than you can every imagine. It will be completely opposite from heaven in every way. Except for the fact that time will go on forever there as well. That means eternity in terrible torture. Sometimes I wonder how is that so hard to choose between?

Time. Think about it.

Why do I find this so interesting?

2009-04-24T08:17:00.002-04:00

So last night I was reading through Romans 6. I noticed that Romans 6 is very straight forward and obvious with it's message/theology. Especially compared to some of the other books in Romans. But of all the verses in the chapter, this one really stood out to me: Romans 6:19 I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness.

It's the very last part that especially stands out. At first I was thinking, that's weird...righteousness and holiness seem to mean the same thing....why would they say that righteousness leads to holiness? But then it occurred to me. That's the process of sanctification! When we follow God and do what's right, we are being righteous...or doing righteous acts. When we continue in that, we grow in holiness or become more holy.....we are shaped into the image of God. But, by being righteous, we aren't automatically holy. It's a process that we have to work at and grow in and the result is holiness! But, it's a never ending process....as we can never be perfectly holy as Jesus is....because we are sinners and 'weak in our natural selves'. That's why we're slaves to righteousness. But how fortunate we are to be slaves to righteousness instead of impurity and wickedness!

I know I elaborated quite a bit on just one little verse. But, for some reason, this was so interesting to me ^_^

I don't really feel like posting anything about my life right now. First, because everything going on in my life seems so insignificant compared to how awesome my God is. And second, I gotta go do school.

Just one thing. YOUTH GROUP!!!!

Happy Birthday Chad!

2009-04-22T21:34:00.002-04:00

I know Chad doesn't read my blog...or at least I don't think he does =P But anyways, Happy Birthday Chad!! You are amazing on the piano and the guitar. And you give me another reason to practice and get better. ;) You're really funny and it will be fun filming the movie with you! I have seen you grow in your walk with the Lord over the past and it really excites me :)

Happy birthday =D

Oh, and just 'cuz I wanna say this: Save the whales!(even though I know nothing about that joke =P)

How am I doing? I need help from all of you!

2009-04-20T14:37:00.004-04:00

Ok, so I hope I'm not posting too much now! I go through these little posting spurts I guess :)

Today I was rereading everyone's new years posts about their resolutions and stuff. Well, I realize that I haven't done all that well in following up with everyone on that and holding them accountable. Yet, I see a lot of growth in you all.

I was thinking about posting an 'update' on how I am doing on all my resolutions, as I know several of you said you'd help me with them and pray for me. Thanks to all of you who have done that, you have no idea how blessed I am by that. But, after looking over my resolutions that I posted, I realized that I'm not really a good judge as to how I've been doing in most areas.... As I know we often don't have a good perception of our sin.

So, I thought I'd ask you all to please tell me how I'm doing. And I'm asking you to be honest. If you see a pattern of sin in my life, I want you to tell me. If you see a place where I'm lacking godliness or could grow, please tell me. And I'm completely serious.

So like either leave a comment on here or talk to me in person sometime about it. And don't be afraid to bring it up, ask me particular questions, etc. I'm also asking this as an on going thing. Not just for right now :)

I'm going to try and do better at holding you all accountable too.

Here is the link to my post with the resolutions. Oh, and while I do want to grow musically and all, I'm asking about more of the serious important things ;) Click here.

Wow! How do I manage to always make such long posts? There's one thing to work on....talking less =P

My favorite parts of one of my favorite songs

2009-04-20T08:10:00.002-04:00

I think I'm going to change this into a prayer for my life...

Ever since the day that I saw Your face
Try as I may, I cannot look away, I cannot look away…
I am captivated by You
May my life be one unbroken gaze
Fixed upon the beauty of Your face
Beholding is becoming, so as You fill my view
Transform me into the likeness of You
This is what I ask, for all my days
That I may, never look away, never look away…
No other could ever be as beautiful
No other could ever steal my heart away
I just can’t look away…

What I have come to realize is that the more I grow in my walk with the Lord, the easier it is to love Him. To me, He just gets more beautiful, more attractive and more awesome(if that's even possible). I agree with Mr. Connelly in a message he had not to long ago. God is the most attractive thing ever. The most lovely thing ever and the most lovely thing to have and see in a friend(their love for God).

Happy Birthday Christianne!

2009-04-19T19:04:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Christianne! Hope your 15th birthday rocks today =D

Spring!

2009-04-19T15:22:00.005-04:00

Here are some random pictures I took a few days ago. I have realized via Olivia's complaints, lol, that I don't post pictures often enough. So, I guess I'm going to try and post more pictures more often.

Spring definitely looks like it's here!

Happy Birthday Anna!

2009-04-18T16:00:00.002-04:00

Hope your day today is so special Anna! You are such a lovely, sweet and awesome person that I'm glad to call my friend =) I love how you are such a hard worker. And how whenever I talk to you, are always positive, joyful and encouraging, while still being very down to earth and 'real'. And of course I love your love for Jesus! Have an amazing birthday Anna!

Where to start?

2009-04-18T13:10:00.004-04:00

Well, these past few days have had so much going on, I don't know where to start!

On Wednesday, we went to IKEA, had lunch there and did some shopping. It was actually quite fun...even for some one like me who's not too fond of shopping excursions. =) The food was good, lol.... A few pictures are below!

A kind of weird sign....or at least I found it weird =PA really cool round bed/mattress!
I liked these polka-dot rugs =)

haha, this HUGE sign made me laugh!(see below as well.)

Can't you just see someone complaining that their 50 cent hot dog wasn't as big as the one on the sign?

Later on in the evening, we had our lovely friends Bethany and Lindsay over. Lindsay spent a few hours showing me all the secrets of facebook(still not sure if I even want one....) and then we went outside and made a little fire, sat around it, played guitar, listened to music and made s'mores. That was quite fun. It reminded me of Brandon and B.J's party around the fire. =) Fun times.

Thursday, we cleaned literally all day, as we had some out of town guests coming to stay the night. They were some of my parents friends(whom I did not even know who they were, lol). And they left Friday morning.

On Friday, I had a computer fast. That was an awesome day. I really think I need to have computer fasts on a regular basis. And I'm really starting to get less....attached...to the computer, which makes me very happy! I spent a lot of the day outside taking pictures(which will be posted soon!). And then of course, we ha the 'family meeting' at church that night. I told Marissa afterwards that I absolutely love having Mr. Connelly as my pastor. How much I respect his wisdom and guidance. =) Yes, I love him....and all the pastors really.

And lastly, for today. Today is 2 very special people's birthdays. 1st, my mom's and 2nd, Anna's! I'm not going to make a post about my mom since she doesn't ever read my blog. But I'll just say right now that she is incredible and such a great example to me. I'm so blessed to have her as a mom. And for Anna, a special post is coming later for her. =)

This morning, we made a special breakfast in bed for my mom and opened gifts shortly after. And later tonight, we'll be taking her out for dinner and have cake and ice cream.

My mom took me in for my first interview this morning as well! And, I'm very thankful and happy to say that I got a job =D I am going to be working with a petting zoo, doing fairs, festivals, parties, educational programs and also doing tons of work caring for and bottle feeding baby animals. I am so excited about this, I really feel like this is totally God's hand that brought this to me! Anyways, maybe a post will come in a week or two after I do my first event!

Sorry this was so long. I'll try to post more regularly so that I don't have to make all my posts so long =/

Thank you.

2009-04-16T13:37:00.004-04:00

Thank you my friends.

Thank you....

to those of you who care about me enough to humble yourselves and confront my sin.
for caring about my character and growth.
for always loving me even when I'm not so lovable.
for you girls who have been like my sisters.
for you guys who have been like my brothers.
for forgiving me the so many times that I've messed up.
for encouraging me.
for making me smile and bring joy into my life.
to those of you who have awesome deep discussions with me.
to those who know when to be serious and when to have a good time.
to those of you who don't care what anyone but God thinks of you...
to those of you that are older than me and wiser....thank you for your wisdom and counsel.
for laughter.
to those of that are striving for holiness and Godliness.
to those who try to honor God in everything you do.
for challenging me.
for Doing Hard Things.
for being down to earth.
for all of you that use you talents to honor God.
for knowing what matters in life.

I could obviously keep going for a while. I love all of you. =) I was just overwhelmed today when I was thinking about all of you today. I thanked God for each of you today. =)

I'm hopefully taking a computer fast tomorrow, so I'll probably post on Saturday...

2009-04-14T19:24:00.002-04:00

I'm posting because Nathan said no one posts enough. I guess I don't post as much because I feel like I have nothing interesting to say. But I guess I'll post...for the sake of it =P

Ok, so this is going to be random, but this has been bugging me and has been on my mind recently.

I hate the word hate. It's really sad to me how frivolously that word is used. I think a lot of people use it with out even thinking of it's intensity. I was talking to some people not too long ago that said they hated several people within like one paragraph.

Definition of hate: To fill intense animosity or hostility toward.
Definition of animosity: Bitter hostility or open enmity. Ill will or resentment.
Definition of hostility: Unfriendly and aggressive feelings or behavior. Act of war.

So, if I hate someone, that means I feel intensely/very strongly that I want to cause harm to them, hurt them and/or create a type of 'war' with them. Do you really mean that when you say hate?

I just feel like it's a very strong word and it shouldn't be a word commonly used when talking about....well everything, but particularly people. Please just think about it.

*stepping off my soapbox now*

Easter was lovely. I loved the sermon on Easter Sunday. It wasn't like your classic Easter message, as it was on Joy, but Mr. Connelly did a good job of connecting it to the gospel and the Cross. And I had a good time laughing afterwards =D Anybody do anything special for Easter?

So, this week is my spring break. It is so nice to not have any school to do and to be about to sleep in a little. I hopefully will get to do a few fun things with friends tomorrow and maybe on Thursday. That should make my spring break even better!

Oh, and my goat keeps trying to bit me. It's weird. He hasn't manage to injure me again though. I hope he gets over this soon, lol!

And now I have nothing else to say. So bye! And if you read this, and you have a blog, then post! ;-)

ouch.

2009-04-10T13:47:00.001-04:00

My goat bit me this morning. It actually was rather painful....and now I have a huge, swollen purple bum on my arm to show for it. Ah...farm life =P

Life and such.

2009-04-09T20:36:00.003-04:00

So, yeah, it's a bit hard to do the 'posting everyday thing'. I've actually had quite an interesting and eventful few days.

Yesterday, we very last minutedly(lol) had the Bell's over. We, as always, had a lovely time with them....which consisted of mainly eating pizza, laughing and watching youtube videos. It's sort of a tradition, lol. And we were able to talk Abby into playing Captivated for us. ^_^

Anddd, for the past several weeks, my dad has been organizing and preparing to basically tear apart his entire bathroom down to the 2x4's and remodel the entire thing. So, almost daily, we've had packages showing up....some are small....other are rather large...like two sinks and a bath tub. haha, but it's pretty exciting. Just a few days ago, he started tearing the wall out. That looks like so much fun to me. I really am hoping he'll let me go in there with a sledge hammer. =D But I guess I'm weird like that.

Oh, but he just cut a pipe on accident and it made a big mess and is apparently a big pain to fix now. I feel bad for him... Now we have our water turned off, until he fixes it...I hope it's fixed soon! We might be living off of bottled water for a little while, haha :-) I'm glad I have a daddy of many talents, lol =P

Um...oh, yeah! I'm applying for my first job. Well, actually two different jobs, with the possibility of one more. But, what really excites me is that they all involve working hands on with animals and should be very enjoyable and a great experience. So, we'll see what happens. I'm not getting my hopes up. I know God's and control and if it's the right job, I'll get it. I only hope that if/when I get a job, that it won't eat up all my time. I don't really want to work all the time...I just want to be able to start saving for college, etc. and have a regular paycheck :-)

I'm so glad youth group is tomorrow. There is no place I'd rather be than at church. Seriously. But yes, I'm looking forward to seeing most of my super friends and hopefully having an awesome time with the Lord.

Then, there's Easter on Sunday. I love Easter! I just wish more people would remember the true meaning of it. =/

Oh, and I've been thinking about something. It's probably going to sound strange though. I want to live as though I'm going to die at any minute. Yep. As much as we all know it could happen, I think we too often forget. Or if we knew that the Lord was coming back on a particular date. I can bet you a lot of us would be living differently if we knew we were going to die soon. You know? I'm not stalking about being Saved....although that's a big part of it for everyone who doesn't know Him. And this guy is a great reminder...for me at least. He's a huge inspiration: http://www.abcchurch.org/clayton/

Hmmm, well, I guess I better go now! Peace.

2009-04-06T21:44:00.001-04:00

Safety isn't the absence of danger, but rather the presence of God.....

Captivated

2009-04-05T15:06:00.004-04:00

Abby did an incredible job last night on this song. She sang beautifully and is amazing on the piano...especially for one who's only been playing for a little over a year! She's truly gifted. [she is going to hate that I posted about her, lol]

Anyhow, since I loved it so much, I decided to post the lyrics and the video of her. I hadn't heard this song ever until last night. But I really love these lyrics. This is my prayer for my life....

Captivated
by: Vicky Beeching

Your laughter it echoes like a joyous thunder
Your whisper it warms me like a summer breeze
Your anger is fiercer than the sun in its splendour
You’re close and yet full of mystery
Ever since the day that I saw Your face
Try as I may, I cannot look away, I cannot look away…

Captivated by You
I am captivated by You
May my life be one unbroken gaze
Fixed upon the beauty of Your face

Beholding is becoming, so as You fill my gaze
I become more like You and my heart is changed
Beholding is becoming, so as You fill my view
Transform me into the likeness of You

This is what I ask, for all my days
That I may, never look away, never look away…
Captivated by You
I am captivated by You
May my life be one unbroken gaze
Fixed upon the beauty of Your face

This is what I ask, for all my days
That I may, never look away, never look away…
No other could ever be as beautiful
No other could ever steal my heart away
I just can’t look away…

Oh my goodness!!!!

2009-04-04T21:52:00.002-04:00

I heard/saw some very talented people tonight! Everyone did soooo good at the arts festival! The bands at the end were super-awesome too. According to Adam, I didn't come across as one who liked it. haha, I guess I'm not all that enthusiastic, because IT WAS SO AMAZING!!!!!!

So there you go, lol.

I'm sad I didn't get to see everyone's performances because I had to wait back stage like half of the time. If anyone got good pictures or videos, please email them to me!

That's all. Peace.

You're fabulous....and a few other notes

2009-04-03T17:23:00.002-04:00

Well, not too long ago, I was honored to be awarded to be picked of one of 5 fabulous blogs by Kimberly.

In order to receive my 'award', I need to do two things: 1. confess five things to which I am addicted, and 2. pass the award on to five other fabulous blogs.

I will list 5 things I love, but I hate to say addicted, as I try to only be addicted to God :-)
1. God!
2. music
3. friends
4. church
5. thinking deeply(weird, I know, but true).

Now, for the very hard part of picking 5 people. Please know that I would list every single one of you if I could...

EDIT: Ok...I'm having a way too hard time choosing just 5 people. So...I've decided not to choose anyone. That's how much I love you all =P Can't pick just 5 =)

Other randomness…. This weekend should be fantastic! Arts Festival is tomorrow….I can’t wait to see everyone’s art and performances. Of course, I’ll probably be really nervous when it’s time for our skit, lol, but all should hopefully go smoothly! I’m really looking forward to church on Sunday, as I’ve missed two weeks now. I had CM both weeks because the fourth week was my week to serve and then I had to go fill in for someone who didn’t show up last week. Then, of course there is care group, which will be especially enjoyable if everyone comes =)

This week has been very full. I can hardly remember what I’ve been up too. We just got a bunch of new furniture for my parent’s room, so we’ve been busy moving out the old stuff and unpacking the new stuff. Um, seems like we’ve done more, but I honestly am drawing a blank at the moment. Oh, I know...I got to spend a few hours with my amazing friend Marissa. She’s so fun!

Oh, and for April Fools, I only played one joke….haha. I’m not good at keeping a straight face, so the only joke I played was via email, lol.

Wow...

2009-04-01T21:57:00.002-04:00

I really want to go on a missions trip right now. I'm struck with awe right now on how people who hardly have enough to live are so thankful.

I want to die to myself to go help those who have nothing. I want to devote my life to whatever God has in plan for me serving Him. Even if that includes giving away all I have and moving to a third world country. That would be really tough, but I would do it.

You know, I would actually love for my family to adopt a child from another country. The most unwanted, un-adoptable child, if possible. I just have such a heart for those poor children. But even God has a plan for them. Isn't that incredible to think about? God sees them and loves them, even if no one else does. Amazing.

hey! I'm a teenager.

2009-03-30T14:30:00.004-04:00

But I have decided to not live as one. I'm not living my life moment to moment. I'm not living my life to have a good time. My life is not about rebelling or clothes or dating. My life is valuable and will not be wasted. I am determined not to look back on my teen years wishing I would have made better use of them. I do not want to look back and regret bad choices I made. I'm not going to give myself away to this culture. I'm not going to conform to it's standards.

I realize I could die at any minute. I realize you could die at any minute. This is why I can't wait. I can not wait until I'm an adult to be serious about life. To be serious about God.

So, if anyone ever asks why. This is why.

My life is not worth wasting. Jesus' blood is not worth wasting.

This is why I'm a Rebelutionary. And this is why I need God.

Off with your.....

2009-03-27T14:49:00.004-04:00

...hair!?! Yep. I cut a little bit more than 4 inches off my hair yesterday. I'm not sure if I wanted to or not, but I had no choice in the matter; because we're filming tomorrow and my hair has grown that much since last time we filmed.

I kept changing my mind on whether I liked it longer or if I wanted it a bit shorter. I think now I like my longer hair, haha! Oh well, change is good I guess. Sooooo, anyways here are before and after pictures:

Before:

After:

Sorry I didn't post yesterday like I said I would. This will probably be my last post for a few days. Tonight we have youth group, all day tomorrow is movie day and then the Bell's for dinner. I'm looking forward to all of that =D

Peace =)